Educational Psychologists work with schools and other agencies to support them in meeting the needs of children, in line with the Code of Practice SEN. (See 'Related Links for the Code of Practice on the DCSF website). 

Involvement is through meetings in schools twice a year and discussions follow a set agenda. The Service expects that, if a child is to be discussed at a planning meeting, the parents/carers will have been informed of this in advance of the meeting by school staff.

If it is appropriate for the Educational Psychologist to do some individual assessment work with a child, the school will gain parental agreement and complete the referral form. (Please see School Information Form; and Information about the Educational Psychology Service, under 'Downloads').

If a parent/carer is concerned about their child they should discuss these concerns with the Headteacher or Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCo) in their child’s school. This will inform the parents/carers of the steps being taken by the school to support their child, in line with the above Code of Practice, and the Wakefield SEN Inclusion Guidance file. Ongoing discussion between the parent/carer and school staff will determine whether the involvement of an Educational Psychologist is appropriate and, if so, the school will take the necessary action for this to happen. (Please see List of Educational Psychologists and School Allocations, under 'Downloads').

A full description of Aims and Objectives of the Educational Psychology Service and a description of all the EPS procedures can be found in the SEN Inclusion Guidance under 'Related Links'. 

The Pre-5 Service: 

Portage and SEN is also part of the Educational Psychology Service, as is the Primary Behaviour Support Service.  A full description of both these Services can also be found in the SEN Inclusion Guidance File as mentioned above.