Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) Training 5+1 Autumn 2026

A training course coaching teaching assistants to plan and deliver emotional literacy and wellbeing support programmes for pupils in their schools.

This ELSA training programme, delivered by Croydon Educational Psychology Service, gives teaching assistants the knowledge and skills to plan and deliver individualised support for pupils with additional emotional health and wellbeing needs. First developed by Hampshire and Southampton services, it has been delivered to Croydon schools since 2011 across primary, secondary and specialist settings. The course comprises five one-day training sessions led by educational psychologists, a course handbook, a follow-up group supervision session and refreshments (lunch not included). Ongoing ELSA supervision is required after training to practise safely.