Hello!  My name is Louise Saunders (Miss Louise) and I am Cherry Hinton C of E Primary School's Family Support Worker and ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant).

My role in school is to provide support, advice and information to the families within our community.  I can help you with any worries that you may have in relation to your child's education, behaviour and wellbeing.  

I am also here as someone to talk to if you need it! I am in school from 8.45am -3.45pm every day. You can contact the school on 01223 568834 or email me lsaunders@cherryhinton.cambs.sch.uk to make an appointment to see me during the school day at a time that is convenient to you.

Advice and support is confidential, although concerns relating to the safeguarding of children will always be dealt with in accordance with the school's Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy.  I may not have all the answers, but hopefully I can help you to work out how to find them!

Many children at some point in their school lives will have to cope with certain issues which may affect their ability to achieve in school. These may include:

• Showing signs of anxiety
• Managing strong emotions
• Behaviour management
• Coping with changes (starting school, moving house/ school)
• Relationship difficulties 
• Separation, divorce or bereavement         

These can lead to poor attendance or problems while a child is at school. They can also have an effect on how a child behaves, how they feel or how they cope with day-to-day situations. It is here that the Family Support Worker can offer help and support, a listening ear or by directing you to other agencies should you need extra support.               

                
If the school is concerned about your child’s attendance I may be asked to contact you to discuss the reasons for their absence or lateness and to make sure you receive any support you might need.

Support for pupils includes:

• Promoting good attendance and punctuality
• Promoting self-esteem and confidence
• Promoting positive behaviour and positive attitudes to learning
• Providing one-to-one ELSA support
• Providing small group ELSA support

Support for families includes:

• Providing information and signposting to other services in the local area
• Liaising with a range of external services such as housing and Social Care
• Attendance and support at school and other agency meetings
• Advice and support in promoting positive behaviour at home