Emotional Literacy Support Assistant

Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) - Northampton
Full-Time Role | ASAP or September 2026 Start | Ideal for Pastoral / SEND Support Backgrounds

Are you passionate about supporting young people's emotional wellbeing and helping them develop the skills they need to succeed in school and beyond? Do you have the patience, empathy, and understanding to make a real difference to students facing social, emotional, or mental health challenges?

Tradewind Recruitment is working with a supportive and inclusive secondary setting in Northampton seeking an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) to join their pastoral and inclusion team. This is a full-time role available for an ASAP or September 2026 start, ideal for someone with experience in education, pastoral support, or youth work who is looking to develop their career in a specialist support role.

Working under the guidance of the SENDCo and inclusion team, you will support students who require additional help with emotional regulation, resilience, self-esteem, and engagement with learning.

Your Role Will Include:

• Supporting students with social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs, including anxiety, EBSA, and emotional dysregulation
• Delivering targeted, planned emotional literacy interventions (1:1 and small group)
• Helping students develop coping strategies, resilience, and emotional awareness
• Supporting the planning, delivery, and evaluation of intervention programmes
• Working closely with the SENDCo, pastoral team, and teaching staff to ensure consistent support
• Acting as a key point of contact for students requiring emotional or behavioural support
• Encouraging positive relationships, engagement, and access to learning

Who We're Looking For:

• ELSA trained, or willing to undertake ELSA training
• Experience working with young people in an educational, pastoral, or support role
• Strong understanding of SEMH needs, behaviour, and emotional wellbeing
• A calm, patient, and empathetic approach
• Excellent communication and active listening skills
• A genuine passion for helping young people overcome barriers to learning

What You'll Receive:

• A full-time, rewarding role in a supportive Northampton-based setting
• Competitive salary depending on experience and responsibilities
• Access to ongoing CPD and training opportunities
• Supportive pastoral and SEND team environment
• Health and wellbeing support, including access to counselling and assistance services
• Enrolment into a pension scheme (where applicable)
• Opportunities for long-term progression within pastoral or SEND pathways

If you're ready to support students in developing emotional resilience and help them re-engage positively with education, we would love to hear from you.

Apply now to find out more about this Emotional Literacy Support Assistant opportunity in Northampton, starting ASAP or September 2026.