Senior Educational Psychologist

Job Type: Senior Educational Psychologist (Interim)
Location: Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council (BCP Council) BH2 6DY
Service: Educational Psychology Service
Contract Type: Temporary / Interim
Positions Available: 1
Hours: 29.5 hours per week
Working Pattern: Monday to Friday
Contract Dates

• Start Date: Monday 12 January 2026 (09:00)
• End Date: Friday 10 April 2026 (17:00)

Pay Rates

• £522.09 per day PAYE

Career Grade: Soulbury B SCP 4-7 plus up to 3 SPA points (if applicable)

About the Role
BCP Council is seeking an experienced Senior Educational Psychologist (Interim) to support and help shape the delivery of its Educational Psychology Service.
The role focuses on improving outcomes and quality of life for children and young people aged 0-25, using psychology to support learning, wellbeing, and inclusion. As a senior practitioner, you will provide professional leadership, line management, and supervision, while contributing to the strategic direction of the service.
You will work closely with families, schools, SEND services, and partner agencies, providing independent psychological advice and advocating for children and young people.
Key Responsibilities

• Support daily operational management of the Educational Psychology Service
• Contribute to service evaluation, development, and continuous improvement
• Provide line management, professional supervision, and appraisal of EPs and Assistant EPs
• Ensure delivery of high-quality psychological advice for EHC assessment and review processes
• Monitor service performance, impact, and value for money
• Promote inclusion, wellbeing, and positive outcomes for children and young people
• Lead on specific projects and strategic developments
• Coordinate Critical Incident support
• Promote training, research, early intervention, and innovative practice
• Ensure safeguarding policies and procedures are adhered to
• Inspire and develop team members through compassionate, collaborative leadership

Essential Qualifications

• Honours degree in Psychology (or equivalent) conferring Graduate Basis for Registration (GBR) with the British Psychological Society
• Postgraduate qualification in Educational Psychology
• Current HCPC registration as an Educational Psychologist

Essential Experience

• Minimum 3 years' post-qualification experience as an Educational Psychologist within a UK Local Authority
• Experience across a wide range of EP work within an LA context
• Proven experience of providing consultation-based and solution-focused EP services
• Demonstrated leadership experience, including supervision and project leadership
• Experience of involving children and families in service development and evaluation
• Strong collaborative working experience across education, health, and social care

Knowledge & Skills

• In-depth knowledge of child development theories and psychological research
• Strong understanding of SEN legislation and statutory guidance
• Knowledge of inclusive, strengths-based and systemic approaches
• Experience of supervision and staff development
• Ability to apply psychology creatively and proactively
• Strong ICT skills for data collection, analysis, and reporting

Personal Attributes

• Solution-focused and analytical thinker
• Excellent communication and organisational skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Compassionate and collaborative leadership style
• Commitment to inclusion, diversity, and improving outcomes for all children
• Motivating, supportive, and innovative approach

Additional Requirements

• Enhanced DBS check (including Children's Barred List)
• Ability to travel across the area (valid UK driving licence or alternative transport arrangements)