Educational Psychologist in Portsmouth

Who are Fair Ways and what do we stand for? At Fair Ways we believe in making a difference through passionate care, support and education. Together we aim to build an institution that makes a difference to society and leaves a legacy greater than ourselves and our contributions. Our values sit at the heart of everything we do; we measure our wealth by the difference we make, rather than the profit we make. Fair Ways is a leading children’s services charity based in the Solent, delivering Fostering, Education, Residential and Family services and cares for over 400 children, families, young people and vulnerable adults each year.

Fair Ways is committed to fostering a trauma informed therapeutic culture that makes a positive difference. To support that commitment, we are looking for a confident, professional and pro-active Educational Psychologist to join our Therapeutic Hub. The Educational Psychologist role provides psychological leadership across Fair Ways education services, strengthening the integration of education, therapy and residential care. Through consultation, formulation, intervention oversight and workforce development, the role promotes psychologically informed practice that improves outcomes for individuals with complex social, emotional, mental health and neurodevelopmental needs. The post holder will support consistency, quality and innovation across services, ensuring that the individuals that we support receive evidence-informed support that enables them to thrive.

As an Educational Psychologist with Fair Ways you will:

• Psychological Leadership and Consultation - You will provide psychological leadership through consultation, assessment and formulation for children and young people with complex needs. This enables colleagues to better understand individual strengths, needs and barriers to learning, promoting effective support and positive outcomes.
• Intervention Planning and Outcomes - You will support the planning, delivery and review of educational and therapeutic interventions by ensuring approaches are evidence-informed, outcome-focused and aligned with identified needs. This strengthens the effectiveness of support and promotes meaningful progress for the individuals that we support.
• Integrated Multi-Disciplinary Practice - You will work collaboratively with education, residential, fostering and therapeutic colleagues to develop coordinated and holistic practice. This promotes consistency across services and strengthens integrated provision.
• Staff Consultation and Reflective Practice - You will provide consultation, supervision, coaching, professional guidance and reflective practice opportunities to colleagues across Fair Ways services. This develops confidence, strengthens decision-making and supports psychologically informed practice throughout the organisation.
• Workforce Development - You will contribute to the development of staff knowledge and skills through training, coaching and the sharing of best practice. This builds organisational capability and supports the delivery of trauma-informed and neurodevelopmentally informed support.
• Quality Assurance and Governance - You will support the evaluation and review of educational and therapeutic interventions to ensure practice remains safe, effective and aligned with professional standards and evidence-based approaches. This contributes to strong governance and continuous improvement across services.
• Service Development and Innovation - You will contribute specialist psychological expertise to service development, innovation and improvement initiatives. This supports Fair Ways in responding to changing needs and the wider SEND landscape while maintaining high-quality provision.

What are the required skills and experience are we looking for?

• Knowledge and Qualifications
• Essential: Doctorate in Educational Psychology (or equivalent recognised qualification). Registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Knowledge of child development, SEND legislation, trauma-informed practice, neurodevelopmental differences and integrated models of support. Experience of consultation, formulation and collaborative working within multi-disciplinary settings.
• Desirable: Experience within specialist education, children's services or residential care. Experience contributing to service development, quality improvement or organisational change.
• Personal Qualities
• Builds positive and effective relationships with children, families, colleagues and partner agencies, demonstrating compassion, professionalism and respect in all interactions.
• Thinks strategically and works collaboratively to achieve practical, achievable outcomes whilst maintaining a commitment to reflective practice and continuous learning.
• Adaptable, flexible and solution-focused, with the ability to take initiative, respond constructively to guidance and maintain a strong focus on quality and detail.

This role will be 37.5 hours PW and will be undertaken as a hybrid position with 1 day per week in the Hub office and the rest within relevant services as required. All candidates must have a full driving license and have access to the use of a car. Successful candidates will be required to provide an enhanced Disclosure (DBS). This disclosure cost will be met by Fair Ways. Fair Ways are unable to provide VISA sponsorship for this role and all applicants will need to be able to provide evidence of right to work in the UK.

At Fair Ways, we care about your well-being, here is what we currently offer to our dedicated team:

• Exciting Opportunities: Participate in free staff lotteries with amazing prizes, such as £1000 holiday vouchers, weekends away, luxury hampers, £1000 fostering referral scheme and vouchers. Experience a workplace that celebrates your contributions.
• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a Holiday Accrual Scheme, an extra day of annual leave as a ‘wellbeing day’ and the option to purchase additional holidays (up to 5 days). We value your time and offer flexibility to accommodate your existing commitments.
• Health and Support: Benefit from Simply Health, our health cash plan, and access to our Employee Assistance Scheme, providing emergency financial assistance and 24/7 counselling services. Access your salary when you need it with Early Pay – The ability to withdraw an amount of your salary early each month to assist with any unforeseen circumstances.
• Growth and Development: Progress and develop in your career with excellent support from an employer committed to ensuring you reach your goals. Unlock your potential with our Education Grant, offering funding for accreditation up to master's level. Engage in leadership courses to enhance your skills and progress in your career.
• Wellbeing Matters: Experience team-building days, summer festivals, and well-being initiatives, promoting a positive work environment. Take advantage of discounted gym memberships and a cycle-to-work scheme to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
• Recognition and Rewards: Be appreciated for your dedication through annual Staff Awards and Long Service Awards. Build a secure future with our pension scheme and gain eligibility for a Blue Light Card.
• Supportive Community: Be part of our diverse workforce that embraces all communities. We value your unique perspective and encourage you to contribute to our inclusive and vibrant culture.

*Benefits may differ dependant on contract type. Become a part of our community – We can’t wait to meet you! If you're passionate about making a difference and are ready to embark on an incredible journey, apply today and be a part of something amazing at Fair Ways. Join our team and help shape brighter futures!

*Fair Ways reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.