Educational Psychologist

Background Children, young people and Education Key Responsibilities To carry out educational psychology assessments of children and young peoples special educational needs to provide statutory advice in line with the regulations set out in the 2014 Children and Families Act and the SEND Code of Practice according to relevant timescales. This may include appropriate contributions and presentations to support tribunal procedures. Locum EPs are responsible for ensuring that any concerns they may have of a Child Protection/Children in Need nature are reported to the designated person in line with the LAs Child Protection Procedure. It is an expectation of the post that Child Protection training will be undertaken. Locum EPs will promote and facilitate the development of effective, inclusive evidenced based practice when working with practitioners in schools with the aim of improving equitable access to education and attainment for all children , especially those who are vulnerable and/or have special educational needs. To work collaboratively with parents, young people, schools, early years settings and FE colleges and other practitioners to promote shared understanding of childrens strengths, the outcomes that would support educational progress towards independence in adulthood and provision to enable outcomes to be achieved as part of the process of providing Education, Health Care needs assessment EP advice. To undertake LA/SEN work, using report templates and following protocols and policy guidance as required. All locum EP reports are quality assured by Senior EPs. Locum EPs are expected to amend and/or revise advice in response to Kent Senior EP feedback. Locum EPs will ensure a high standard of practice is provided to Kent County Council and that the Health Care Professions Council requirements for Continuing Professional Development and supervision are maintained. Qualifications/Experience and Knowledge Qualified status approved by the British Psychological Society (BPS) in Educational and Child Psychology or equivalent, including Graduate Basis for Registration and recognised postgraduate qualification in Educational and Child Psychology or equivalent. All appointees will be required to be registered with the Health Care Professionals Council (HCPC). The qualifications detailed above must be met and have either previous experience as an educational psychologist or be completing a recognised postgraduate qualification in Educational and Child Psychology or equivalent in order to qualify as an educational psychologist and gain registration with the HCPC. Understanding of, and positive commitment to, inclusive practice in schools. Understanding of and positive belief in the promotion of equal opportunities for all. Up to date understanding of child development and knowledge of child related legislation including child protection procedures. Knowledge of psychological models, theories and current issues. Knowledge of the context in which psychological services work. A commitment to the relevance of the application of psychology in organisational change processes. Positive attitudes towards, and evidence of, own continuing development and reflective practice. Positive approach to networking and co-operative working with other departments, services and agencies.