Care and support

Educational Psychology

Information for parents and carers.

What is an educational psychologist (EP)?

A person who has had lengthy training in psychology to understand more about the ways children learn, think and behave and is also a qualified and experienced teacher. They can advise teachers and parents on ways to help children make progress.

When might teachers talk to an EP about my child?

Teachers monitor the progress of every child. You or your child’s teacher may have noticed difficulties in child’s learning or relationships with others. Teachers will have talked to you about these problems and will have tried some ways of helping your child. If their approaches have not worked well enough they may feel they need to get some specialist advice from outside the school. The school staff will, however, need your agreement to do this.

What does an educational psychologist do?

Talks to you and the school staff about your child and what approaches have been tried so far
Suggests further action for helping your child.

They may also:

Look at your child’s work
See and work with your child in the classroom and/or the playground
Take your child out of the classroom for a while to work and talk in a quiet room; very young children may be accompanied by an adult they know well
Use some special activities to gain a clearer understanding of your child’s strengths and difficulties; these might include tests of reading, spelling and number skills.

The EP tries to make children feel relaxed and that they are doing well, and will make sure that they succeed in many of the activities and tasks given to them.

Do I have to be there when my child is seen?

As a parent you have the right to be present when the educational psychologist meets your child. You may feel, however, that your presence will be distracting and prefer to meet the educational psychologist later.

What about parents’ views?

Your views and knowledge of your child are important in helping us understand your child’s difficulties. You are best placed to say what your child is like at home and out of school. This may be very different from school.

You might like to write down your views on your child before the educational psychologist sees your child. Sometimes parents find this very helpful.

What happens next?

The educational psychologist will provide a written record of their visit to the school. A copy of this will be sent to you and to the school.

The educational psychologist will usually plan to discuss your child’s progress during a future visit to the school. School staff will be asked to keep you informed about this.

How long will it take?

Educational psychologists visit County Council schools regularly, several times a year, but many children need help in school and it may be some time before the educational psychologist is able to see or discuss your child. The school will tell you when this likely to happen.

What if I am unhappy or uncertain about the educational psychologist’s recommendations?

The EP will be happy to discuss any concerns you may have following their visit to the school.

Who is the educational psychologist for my child’s school?
Each school has an educational psychologist. Information can be obtained from the headteacher of your child’s school or from the appropriate area office.

How can I get more information?

If you need more information, please contact the headteacher or special needs co-ordinator of your child’s school.