Psychology is the study of why people think, feel, and behave the way they do. Educational psychology is an area of psychology that explores what's happening when people learn; at school, pupils need to remember information, solve problems, and feel safe enough to engage in class and exams.

Educational Psychologists use their knowledge and skills as psychologists to support learners, families, and schools. They might help a learner to develop memory or attention strategies, train teaching staff, or understand a pupil's behaviour. 

Usually, schools request that an Educational Psychologist be involved. However, the council may ask us to assess the strengths and needs a learner has to help them make decisions. Our involvement can last weeks, months or years (though this is unusual). You will likely meet your Educational Psychologists a few times while they are involved. 

If you are asked to work with an Educational Psychologist, that often looks like sitting at a table and having a conversation about your life at school. The questions we ask might seem a little strange because they are trying to understand the why you see and feel about things. We call these sorts of conversations consultations. 

Another thing we do is assessment by using different tools (like games, questionnaires, or activities) to build a clear picture of your strengths and the areas you might need support.

We work with the adults in a learner's life as well. For example, by offering training to staff, or carrying out research about what's working in education. Whatever Educational Psychologist's do, we work with everyone involved to make sure they have a chance to share their perspective, and bring their unique knowledge to solving problems. 

It is important for you to feel comfortable and happy to meet us; it is alright to say if you are feeling overwhelmed, nervous or unconvinced things will change. Depending on the situation we may need your permission, or informed consent, to be involved. 

We will normally ask your permission to share what you’ve said with others. This is a safe space to talk about anything that’s on your mind. This is called confidentiality. There is one important exception which is if you share that you or someone else is in immediate or serious danger or risk of getting hurt, then we must share that with someone who has responsibility to keep you safe. 

You always have the right to know what data, or information, has been collected and how its used, stored or shared. There might be times where you want to see the information too. The information we have is kept until you are 25 years old, and 100 years if you are care-experienced.