Emotional Wellbeing
Emotional literacy refers to the ability to express an emotional state and communicate feelings. In this context, emotional literacy refers to emotional knowledge or capability. A person with well-developed emotional literacy is able to recognise and respond to the emotional state of themselves and of others. A lack of emotional literacy can affect a child’s attitude, social skills or academic performance.
ELSA – Emotional Literacy Support (Assistant) – was developed as a programme by an Educational Psychologist who recognised that children learn better when they are happier. The ELSA project was designed to build the capacity of schools to support the needs of their pupils from within their own resources. ELSA work is not behavioural management, it helps children to self-support their emotions and empower themselves.
At Pembury School we offer ELSA sessions both individually, or as part of a small group. ELSA support can help children to make informed choices for themselves and to recognise when to ask for support from others. Children who are experiencing emotional difficulties can be helped to deal with a range of issues such as: anxiety, self-esteem, self-regulation, anger management, resolving conflict, social and friendship skills and bereavement. ELSAs receive regular supervision and work is over-seen by an Educational Psychologist.
At Pembury School we offer ELSA support for a range of circumstances and this includes both a reactive and proactive approach. Children are usually referred for ELSA intervention via their class teacher or SENCO but we also welcome approaches from parents/carers who feel their child may benefit from this support.
The sessions take place in a designated area where children can feel relaxed and comfortable. Outcomes are carefully planned and monitored to develop skills and coping strategies that will help children in managing social and emotional demands more positively and effectively.
Drawing and Talking is a gentle, person-centred, therapeutic intervention that allows individuals to discover and communicate emotions through a non-directed technique. This sets it apart from solution-focused and cognitive-based therapies and interventions. For children who may have suffered trauma or who are experiencing emotional difficulties, the Drawing and Talking Intervention focuses on prevention, early intervention and recovery.
At Pembury School we have trained practitioners in Drawing and Talking and Sand Play therapy. Sessions take place over a number of weeks and are offered individually or as part of a small group. Referrals are usually made from the class teacher or SENCO but we also welcome approaches from parents/carers who feel their child may benefit from this support.
Lower Green Road, Pembury, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 4EB