What is an Educational Psychologist?

An Educational Psychologist (EP) is a professional psychologist with specialist knowledge, training and expertise in psychology, learning and behaviour. They work directly with children and young people, as well as those who support them, to understand and meet individual needs.

EPs help to identify and address barriers to learning and development, and promote wellbeing and inclusion. These may include learning differences, social and emotional needs, and developmental challenges. Most EPs are employed by local authorities, with a smaller number working independently. EPs carry out assessments and make recommendations to support positive educational experiences and outcomes for children and young people, enabling them to achieve their full potential.

Why might I need an Educational Psychologist?

You may be concerned about your child’s learning, development or emotional wellbeing at school and unsure about the next steps. If your child attends a state school, the school’s link EP may be able to assess them, but this often depends on whether the school has purchased access to that service. If not, it can sometimes take a long time before your child is seen.

We understand the importance of early and proactive support, and can usually offer timely assessment and feedback with clear recommendations to help you move forward.

Where can I find an Educational Psychologist?

Right here at RocketEd.

All practising EPs must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), which holds a register of qualified professionals with the protected title of Practitioner Psychologist. You can use this register to verify our credentials. All RocketEd EPs are fully qualified, HCPC-registered and hold professional indemnity insurance.

What does an assessment involve?

An EP assessment usually includes a range of activities designed to understand a child or young person’s strengths, learning profile, and areas where support may be needed. This typically involves consultations with parents, school staff, and the child or young person themselves, as well as observations in school and the use of both standardised and informal assessments. Through this process, the EP builds a detailed picture of the individual’s learning and wellbeing, including skills, motivation, behaviour, communication, and emotional factors, and offers practical advice for supporting progress at home and school.

How long does an assessment take, and what will it cost?

The time needed for an EP assessment can vary depending on the child’s needs and the scope of work. Assessments usually include consultations with parents and school staff, observations in school, and direct work with the child.
Some activities may take place over one or more days, depending on the child’s age and attention span.

We always provide a clear outline of what to expect and confirm costs before proceeding. Every assessment is tailored to the individual, and we’ll agree the format and focus together to make sure it’s right for your child.

How should I explain what an Educational Psychologist does to my child?

We suggest explaining that an EP’s job is to help people understand how children learn best and how adults can support them. You might say that the EP will spend some time getting to know them and finding out what they enjoy and what they find trickier.

When EPs meet with children and young people, they use friendly and reassuring approaches to help build trust and make the experience feel comfortable and positive.

Will the Educational Psychologist be able to tell me if my child has a specific learning difficulty?

EPs can identify and assess areas of learning that may indicate a specific learning difference, such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, or difficulties with attention or working memory. Our assessments look in depth at your child’s learning profile and how best to support them, whether or not a formal diagnosis is appropriate.

I would like to go ahead. What do I need to do?

We recommend letting your child’s school know if you’re planning a private assessment, as collaboration helps ensure any recommendations are well understood and implemented. Schools are usually very supportive of private EP involvement.

We’ll be happy to talk you through what’s involved, discuss any questions, and agree next steps. You can contact us at any time - we’re here to help when you’re ready.