A guide for parents and carers
We help schools (and some other places), parents and children by training, advising and getting involved with children directly. We want to help children be happy and make progress.
A guide for parents and carers 2010-2011
Educational psychologists
Educational psychologists (EPs) have training and qualifications relating to education and child development. They are regulated by the Health Professions Council (opens in a new window). We will advise others about child development, learning, emotional wellbeing and behaviour. They deal with children and young people of all ages.
The Educational Psychology Service (EPS) works with other council services to help settings, parents and children.
We want to help children be happy and make progress.
How we work with schools
All of Derbyshire's schools have a linked EP.
We help by training, advising and getting involved with children directly.
The EP will liaise closely with the school to agree and prioritise their work.
Access to the service is through the school or setting.
Our work with Early Years children
Some places like children's centres and nurseries get visits in the same way as schools do. In addition, we have children referred to them by the Early Years Panel at County Hall.
School and parents working with others
If you or the school staff notice any difficulties that your child is having with learning or relationships, the first stage is to discuss it and try to find ways of helping them. If this does not bring the changes wanted it may be helpful to seek further advice from other services or the EP.
Consent
We can only get involved with children with the written permission of the parent or carer.
If the EP is involved with your child
It is not always necessary for the us to see your child for things to change. They might talk to you and the school staff to offer their advice.
If a more direct involvement is needed we will try to gain a better understanding of your child's strengths and difficulties through:
meeting and talking with you
talking with staff
observing in the classroom or playground
talking to your child on their own or with you there if you wish
looking at school work
using activities or tests with them
You have the right to be present when the EP is with your child if you wish. Sometimes it can be reassuring to an anxious or very young child. In other circumstances it can be off-putting to the child. You are likely to know best how your child will respond.
How parents can help
Your views and knowledge are important in helping the EP to understand your child's needs. You can help by:
telling the EP about your child, including his or her strengths
letting the EP know what your child is like at home
preparing any questions you would like to ask
Confidentiality and records
The EP will make notes and write to you and the school about what they think and what advice they offer. All of their notes, letters and reports will be kept securely and privately at our office.
We will not normally share the notes on a child with anyone without the permission of the parent. (There are a few exceptions to this: for example, where there are issues of child protection or criminal proceedings).
Derbyshire complies with the Data Protection Act 1998.
You can reach us by telephone at:
Amber Valley, Erewash and South Derbyshire
Tel: 01629 533815Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire
Tel: 01629 532735High Peak and Derbyshire Dales
Tel: 01629 533535