Job Title: Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)
Location: Horley, Surrey
School Type: New SEMH Specialist School
Contract Type: Full-time, Term Time Only
Start Date: September 2025
About the School
We are a brand-new SEMH school opening in Horley, designed to support children and young people with social, emotional, and mental health needs. Our vision is to create a safe, nurturing, and aspirational environment where every learner is empowered to succeed.
As part of our founding team, you will help shape a school culture rooted in empathy, resilience, and therapeutic practice.
Job Purpose
As an ELSA, you will work closely with pupils who need additional support in developing their emotional literacy, self-regulation, and social skills. You will deliver targeted interventions, build trusting relationships, and help pupils overcome barriers to learning.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan and deliver 1:1 and small group ELSA sessions tailored to individual needs.
- Support pupils in developing emotional awareness, self-esteem, social skills, and coping strategies.
- Work collaboratively with teaching staff, SENCO, and external professionals to support pupils’ emotional wellbeing.
- Monitor and record progress, adapting interventions as needed.
- Promote a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment in line with trauma-informed and attachment-aware practices.
- Contribute to whole-school wellbeing initiatives and staff training where appropriate.
Person Specification
Essential:
- ELSA training (or willingness to undertake training).
- Experience working with children or young people with SEMH needs.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Empathy, patience, and a calm, supportive approach.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
Desirable:
- Experience in a specialist or therapeutic education setting.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed practice and emotional regulation strategies.
- First Aid or Mental Health First Aid training.
What We Offer
- A unique opportunity to be part of a new, innovative SEMH provision.
- A supportive and collaborative team environment.
- Ongoing professional development and ELSA supervision.
- A chance to make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable young people.
Important Notice
To apply, you must have the right to work in the UK or hold a valid work visa. At Pink Tile Education, safeguarding is our top priority. All applicants must:
- Provide references for pre-employment checks
- Hold an Enhanced DBS on the update service (or be willing to obtain one)
Pay is inclusive of 12.07% PAYE holiday pay. We aim to respond to all applications within three working days.
