Educational Psychologists work with and on behalf of individuals and groups of children and young people from 0-19 years on tasks such as:
- purposeful discussion and problem solving, using a range of approaches
- looking at learning, emotions, behaviour and interpersonal skills
- group work aimed at developing interpersonal skills.
We work at an organizational level on tasks such as:
- development of special educational needs policies and practices and behaviour management
- research and project work
- training.
Support for children with complex and enduring special needs
A small proportion of children with the most complex and enduring special educational needs may, after sustained and focused assistance from us, have a formal assessment of their needs.
This is known as a statutory assessment of Special Educational Needs.
We will contribute psychological advice on individual children and young people, as part of this assessment. Other people, such as teachers and Social Workers may also contribute to this assessment.
Support through consultation
Our consultation is a purposeful conversation between a psychologist a young person and other people that they know well.
It is a collaborative process and involves working with the people who have direct contact with the issues of concern and are therefore more likely to be able to bring about positive change.
Information from each person’s view is shared and discussed, so that the people involved can agree a way forward and commit to action, in order to make positive differences.
Getting a young person’s view
Whenever possible, a child or young person is involved in the consultation process.
We try to ensure their views are taken into account, and that they are kept informed and involved in the decision making process.
In some circumstances their views may be obtained through staff.
Children and young people have a lot to contribute about themselves. This is valuable information that schools can use, to plan effectively to meet their needs and help them to be fully included in the life of the school.
Information leaflets are available for the purpose of preparing children and young people for working with the Educational Psychologist.
Getting a parent's or carer's view
We know that parents and carers know their child best and we value the unique contribution they can make to the consultation process.
This helps us to gain a clearer picture of a child or young person’s development, and helps us to find a way forward.