Educational Psychologists are applied psychologists, regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). They have specialist knowledge, skills and expertise in child and adolescent development, school systems and organisations.
What an Educational Psychologist does
Educational Psychologists use psychological theory and evidence-based practice to promote the mental health and wellbeing, learning and development of children and young people aged up to 25. They work in partnership with parents and carers, schools and other agencies to promote inclusion and improve outcomes for children and young people.
Educational Psychologists work to understand the child or young person in context. This involves identifying the difficulties, challenges and barriers, as well as the strengths and assets of the child or young person and their situation. This information is used to inform strategies and interventions that can help.
Ways that Educational Psychologists work
Stockport Educational Psychology Service is funded by Stockport Council and has a service level agreement (SLA) with schools. The SLA means that schools pay for educational psychology involvement to provide early intervention, advice and support. Our model of practice is aligned to the SEND Code of Practice. Schools involve us in a targeted way and we contribute to the assess, plan, do and review (APDR) process for identifying and meeting children and young people’s needs.
Educational Psychologists also have a statutory role in providing psychological advice that contributes to Education, Health and Care (EHC) needs assessments.
The work of an Educational Psychologist usually falls under one of 5 key activities:
- consultation: this is a joint problem-solving meeting with parents or carers, teachers and other key adults to explore the issues and concerns and find ways forward. The process is informed by psychological theory and frameworks
- observation and direct work with a child or young person
- intervention work with a child or young person, for example, therapeutic intervention
- staff training, supervision and support, including advice on ways to support children and young people in school
- research and strategic development, including whole school approaches and policy development
How to access support from an Educational Psychologist
If you’re concerned about your child’s development, educational progress or social, emotional health and well-being, you should first talk to their teacher or the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) at their school or college. They will be able to advise you about the help and support that’s already in place and whether involvement from an Educational Psychologist or other support service is needed.
Contact details
To contact the Educational Psychology Service, you can:
- call 0161 474 3870
- email C&YPPsychology@stockport.gov.uk