Educational psychologist

Educational psychologist job description: Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills | Useful links | Find jobs

The majority of educational psychologists are employed by local education authorities. Other employers include: consultancies, social services departments, universities, child psychiatric units, paediatric assessment units, independent schools and voluntary organisations. Typical responsibilities of the job include:

• using psychological tests, theories and procedures
• recommending, developing and administering appropriate therapies and strategies
• writing reports
• undertaking research
• providing training
• meeting, advising and liaising with parents, teachers and other professionals
• advising on educational policies.

The work commonly requires local travel to visit clients in their homes or in schools, colleges and nurseries. Regularly dealing with the problems faced by children and young people can make the job stressful and emotionally demanding.

There is strong competition for training places. Opportunities are advertised in national newspapers, the Times Educational Supplement, the AEP Broadsheet and Psychologist Appointments.

Qualifications and training required

A lengthy period of study and vocational training is required for qualification. You'll need a British Psychological Society accredited degree followed by a three-year professional doctorate that combines practical experience with academic knowledge. You should apply for doctorate courses via the Children's Workforce Development Council (CWDC).

Key skills for educational psychologists

• The ability to relate to children and young adults
• Sensitivity and the ability to cope with emotional situations
• Excellent listening, observational and verbal communication skills
• Ability to empathise