ELSA Teaching Assistant - Secondary School - Southampton - September 2025 Start

Location: Southampton
Start Date: September 2025
Contract Type: Full-Time, Long-Term (with a view to becoming permanent)
Salary: £100 - £130 per day (depending on experience and qualifications)

A forward-thinking secondary school in Southampton is seeking a compassionate and skilled ELSA-trained Teaching Assistant to join their pastoral and support team from September 2025. This is a rewarding, long-term opportunity with the potential to become a permanent position for the right candidate.

About the Role:

You will be working closely with students who need additional emotional support, helping them develop resilience, self-esteem, andhealthy coping strategies to manage challenges both in and out of the classroom. This role is essential in creating a safe, nurturing environment where students feel heard, valued, and supported.

Key Responsibilities:

Delivering targeted ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant) sessions to individuals and small groups
Supporting students in understanding and managing their emotions
Helping young people develop strategies for self-regulation and emotional wellbeing
Building trusting relationships to foster a safe and supportive space for expression
Working closely with pastoral staff, SENCO, and class teachers to support whole-school wellbeing initiatives
Contributing to personalised support plans and providing regular feedback on student progress
ELSA qualification/training is essential
Experience working with young people in a pastoral, SEN or mental health support capacity
A warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental approach
Strong communication and active listening skills
A genuine passion for supporting emotional wellbeing in education
Resilience, patience, and the ability to work effectively within a team

What We're Looking For:

School Overview:

This secondary school prides itself on its commitment to student wellbeing and personal development. With a strong emphasis on emotional support, the school values the vital role of ELSA practitioners in helping young people thrive. Staff are collaborative, student-focused, and benefit from ongoing training and professional development.

Requirements:

ELSA qualification or currently completing ELSA training
GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths
An enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)
A background in education, youth work, or mental health support is beneficial
Competitive daily rate: £100 - £130 per day
Long-term stability with potential for a permanent role
A chance to make a genuine difference in young people's lives
Supportive school community and senior leadership
Continued professional development and training

Why Join This Role?

If you're an ELSA-trained TA looking for a meaningful role where your support truly matters, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today or contact us at for more information.

Supply Desk is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and reference checks in line with our Safer Recruitment Policy