We are proud to offer ELSA support here at Cherhill CofE Primary School. Our trained ELSA specialist, Mrs Vowden has two timetabled afternoons and one morning where she is available to support children and staff. 

Hi, my name is Mrs Vowden and I have been an ELSA for 8 years.

I mainly work with all year groups  and will work with children individually or in a small group.  Most interventions will last 6 weeks, sometimes longer and will consist of weekly half hour sessions in our cosy Coral Room.

Children will usually be referred by their class teacher, who will set a target and then I will plan the appropriate intervention to suit the individual’s needs. Examples of interventions we cover are: managing strong feelings, worries and anxiety, being a good friend, encouraging self-esteem, separation and loss, building resilience and many more.

Sessions usually begin with some gentle warm up games and chat to help the child feel at ease and then we will move onto the main activity of the intervention. These activities can be working through a workbook, building a lapbook, craft activities, playing games and lots more.  At the end of the session we will look at different relaxation techniques for the child to use in everyday life and this also leaves them relaxed and ready to go back to their learning in class.

Being an ELSA is extremely rewarding especially when you see children feeling empowered by their new skills, knowledge and better understanding of their emotions.