Job Description

ELSA Teaching Assistant - Primary & Secondary Support - Southampton - September 2025 Start
Location: Southampton
Start Date: September 2025
Contract Type: Full-Time, Long-Term (potential to become permanent)
Daily Rate: 100 - 130 (dependent on experience and qualifications)
Are you a caring, ELSA-trained professional with a passion for supporting young people's emotional wellbeing? A school in Southampton is looking for a dedicated ELSA Teaching Assistant to join their support team this September. This full-time, long-term position offers the opportunity to work across both primary and secondary age groups, making a real difference in children's lives from Key Stage 1 through to Key Stage 4.
About the Role:
As an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA), you'll provide targeted support to students who may be struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, emotional regulation, or other wellbeing concerns. Working with both individuals and small groups, you'll help pupils build resilience, confidence, and the tools they need to thrive--both inside and outside the classroom.
This is a truly rewarding role for someone who believes that emotional wellbeing is the foundation of successful learning.
Your Key Responsibilities:
Delivering bespoke ELSA sessions to primary and secondary students
Supporting pupils in recognising, understanding and managing their emotions
Encouraging healthy coping strategies and emotional resilience
Building nurturing, trusting relationships to create safe spaces for self-expression
Collaborating with class teachers, pastoral leads, SENCOs and external agencies
Contributing to support plans and regularly feeding back on student progress
What We're Looking For:
ELSA qualification/training is essential
Experience supporting young people in education, pastoral, or mental health settings
A warm, compassionate, and non-judgemental approach
Excellent communication and listening skills
Confidence working with both primary and secondary age groups
A calm, patient presence with the ability to remain flexible and adaptable
A genuine desire to support emotional wellbeing in a school setting
About the School:
This is a caring and forward-thinking school community that places student wellbeing at the heart of everything they do. With a strong emphasis on emotional support, staff work collaboratively to ensure every pupil feels seen, supported, and empowered. You'll be part of a welcoming team that values professional growth, with ongoing training and development opportunities available. The School is based close to central Southampton with convenient access for those taking public transportation.
Requirements:
ELSA training or qualification
GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths
Enhanced DBS registered on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)
A background in education, youth work or mental health support is desirable
What's on Offer:
Competitive daily rate: 100 - 130 per day
Long-term opportunity with potential for a permanent role
The chance to support both primary and secondary students
A positive and nurturing school environment
Supportive leadership and staff team
Ongoing CPD and professional development opportunities
If you're ready to take the next step in your ELSA journey and want a meaningful role that truly makes a difference, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today or get in touch at to find out more.
Supply Desk is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will be subject to enhanced DBS and reference checks in line with our Safer Recruitment Policy.