Educational Psychology

Every school and early years setting has the support of an educational psychologist.

Schools can refer pupils to an educational psychologist if there are ongoing concerns about issues such as learning, emotional wellbeing and behaviour.  This will only take place with consent from parents/carers.

Pupils with additional learning needs can be referred by the school’s Additional Learning Needs Co-Ordinator, with parental permission. In the first instance, parents/carers should contact the school ALNCo with any concerns. We are available to discuss concerns more broadly on the contact details below, but we are not able to give specific detailed advice or support in this way.

There are also dedicated early years education psychologists, and the team provides support for students in post-16 education.

If an assessment is needed, an educational psychologist will usually assess a child in their school or early years setting. They do this in several ways, such as:

• Discussing them with their parents/carers, teachers and others who know them well.
• Observing the child in their classroom or playground.
• Reviewing the work they have been doing in class.
• Speaking to the child.
• Testing to check on the child's skills and/or intellectual development.

Involvement may include: 

• Consultation and psychological advice - individual, group, and whole school issues.
• Psychological assessments - using a range of methods to inform interventions.
• Psychological interventions - to promote psychological wellbeing, social, emotional, and behavioural development and to raise educational standards.
• Delivery of professional development and training - to be able to support others' learning, knowledge, and practice.
• Emotional Literacy Support Assistant Training and Supervision.
• Support around critical incidents and bereavement.

For more information about the service contact:

Dr Alyson Costa (Lead EP)
Tel: 01495 766819
Email: alyson.costa@torfaen.gov.uk