The Educational Psychology Service in Darlington provides information, assessment and advice to children, their parents, schools and other professionals. The Educational Psychologists are fully qualified teachers and have widespread experience of children's learning as well as having undertaken further specific professional training.

The age range of children that the Service deals with is O to 19. Some children in their early years have learning difficulties which can benefit from early intervention. The majority of children dealt with will be in nursery, primary and secondary schools. Some older pupils continue to receive a service if they remain in school beyond the age of sixteen. Educational Psychologists work closely with parents and carers to obtain the fullest possible picture of the child or young person. They are used to working in teams with other professionals. Wherever possible preventative approaches are employed, for example giving advice to teachers or running courses. In many cases the Educational Psychologist will work directly with a child or young person.

Although the primary focus is on learning difficulties and special educational needs, a wide range of other issues are dealt with including behaviour problems, emotional difficulties, bullying and stress. Educational Psychologists have also developed some areas of specialist expertise, for example autism and specific learning difficulties.

The service works by allotting time to schools and asking each school to identify priorities for involvement. This gives schools some opportunities to determine which children they wish to involve the Educational Psychologists with.

The service works closely with the Learning Development Service through shared referral procedures.

You can contact the service by writing to:
The Educational Psychology Service, Town Hall, Darlington, DL 1 5QT
or by telephoning:
(01325) 388840.