The Educational Psychology Service

Educational Psychologists (EPs) bring a specialised perspective to working with children and young people. They are concerned with children's learning and development and they aim to bring about positive change for children and young people. They have skills in a range of psychological and educational assessment techniques and have expertise in different methods of helping children and young people who are experiencing difficulties in learning, behaviour and or development.

During their training, EPs study normal child development, the psychology of learning and teaching and psychological aspects of educating children with special needs. They study how groups function and how people communicate and maintain relationships. They also learn about assessment, problem solving, counselling, treatment, research and training others.

EPs have a role in the assessment of children's difficulties from an early stage and a statutory role in the multi-professional assessment, as required by the Code of Practice (2014 edt). Much of the work of EPs is with children and young people from 0 to 25 years, both at pre-school level, in mainstream and special schools and more recently further education institutions.

Educational Psychologists work in different ways. The activities that the Educational Psychologist (EP) undertakes will vary depending on the needs of your child. Sometimes the EP will undertake testing to identify your child’s academic strengths and areas for development. They may also observe your child to identify how they approach tasks in the classroom or respond socially with peers on the school yard. Educational psychologists may also speak to school staff and parents in order to define strengths and help develop a shared understanding of your child’s needs.

After an Educational Psychologist has worked with your child you will receive a written report within a maximum of six weeks. The length of the report will vary depending on the needs of your child and the work that has taken place.  Your child’s school will also receive the report. Within the report there will be advice and recommendations about strategies or approaches that could be used to support your child. If upon receiving the report you would wish to discuss any of its contents in more detail please contact the relevant Educational Psychologist on the number on this record