We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced and strategic Educational Psychologist ready to lead a dedicated service and make a significant impact on the lives of children and young people (CYP) with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in Bracknell Forest.
At Bracknell Forest, we pride ourselves on being a council which is stable and well-managed where our employees can thrive in a supportive environment. We understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance and offer a variety of flexible working practices, including options for remote working and arrangements that allow you to work from home, dependant on the needs of the service.
About you...
As Principal Educational Psychologist, you will be able to provide strategic leadership for our Educational Psychology Service (EPS). You will drive high standards and innovation, ensuring the effective, evidence-based deployment of psychologists to meet both statutory duties and the demands of our traded service offer. The role of Principal Educational Psychologist is key to shaping the EPS, aligning it with council priorities like the Safety Valve agenda, and ensuring financial sustainability.
You will also play an active leadership role within the wider SEND & Inclusion service, contributing significantly to the local SEND strategic plan and fostering strong multi-agency partnerships to enhance outcomes for CYP with SEND and their families.
You will be fully qualified (Doctorate or Masters in Educational Psychology) and HCPC registered Educational Psychologist with significant post-qualification experience, preferably within a local authority.
As Educational Psychologist, you must have proven ability to lead, manage, and motivate professional staff, alongside experience in strategic planning, service development, and managing change. A deep understanding of relevant legislation (Children and Families Act 2014, SEND Code of Practice), educational systems, and psychological theory is essential. We need an excellent communicator and collaborator with experience managing budgets and using data to drive service improvement. A commitment to ethical practice, equality, diversity, and inclusion is fundamental.
About the team...
As the Principal Educational Psychologist, you will lead the Educational Psychology Service (EPS), managing the Senior Educational Psychologists and reporting directly to the Assistant Director Education & Learning. The EPS sits within the Education & Learning section of the People Directorate.
You will be joining a structure focused on improving outcomes for children and young people through collaborative, evidence-based practice.
Key responsibilities...
- Provide strategic and operational leadership for the Educational Psychology Service (EPS), ensuring alignment with council priorities (e.g., SEND strategy, Safety Valve agenda).
- Lead, manage, and supervise the EP team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, professional development, and high-quality, evidence-based service delivery (statutory and traded).
- Manage the EPS budget and develop the traded service offer, including income generation, marketing, and ensuring financial sustainability.
- Champion multi-agency collaboration, building strong partnerships with schools, health, social care, and families to drive the SEND strategic plan and promote inclusive practice.
- Represent the EPS, contributing expert psychological knowledge at strategic council meetings, SEND panels, and multi-agency forums, ensuring the LA meets its statutory duties
An enhanced DBS check is required for this post.
Key Details
Principal Educational Psychologist
Salary: Soulbury B 10-13 £68,086 - £72,095
plus London Weighting £939
Closing Date: Tuesday 10th June 2025
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