It is important here at The Acorns School that we invest in our staff because when we do this, we invest in our pupils too. 

We have recently funded several training courses for our staff to achieve vital qualifications that will support our pupils’ wellbeing and resilience. This has included facilitating the participation and completion of ELSA (emotional literacy support assistant) training to further enhance pupils’ emotional and social development.

By supporting more staff members to complete ELSA training, we will be able to deliver additional one-to-one and small group sessions for our pupils that focus on developing skills such as emotional regulation, self-awareness and resilience.

As well as delivering one-to-one and small group sessions, ELSA-trained staff support pupils to build emotional literacy, so they can recognise and understand their own emotions and the emotions of others, as well as strategies to manage emotions constructively.

We have an open-door policy for pupils who struggle with their emotions in school as this allows them space to concentrate in the moment and to be able to talk to a safe person to help them to understand why this reaction has occurred.

Alongside this we have regular ELSA slots for pupils who need a more consistent approach and who may have concerns at home and/or in the community. Being able to talk with a qualified, trusted staff member can, and does, make a real difference for our pupils. Pupils know they are supported, and they can talk freely in a safe space. They also know that they can come to key staff at any time and this gives them the confidence to engage in school.

Every young person at The Acorns School can access ELSA and we are currently supporting 24 pupils. 

ELSA training is so important to ensure our pupils feel heard and understood.  By completing the ELSA course, staff can continue to support pupils in developing the skills and confidence required to navigate challenges and thrive both inside and outside of the classroom.

Mrs Joanne Hodson, Headteacher of The Acorns School, said: “I’m delighted that we’re able to support our staff members in their professional development, and ELSA training is an area that we’ve prioritised over the past five years, having seen the real impact it has made for our pupils.”