These are the most common questions we get asked about the work experience required to apply for educational psychology training.

 
 Do I need to apply for an assistant educational psychologist position before applying?

No. You will complete work placements during your second and third years of training. The arrangements for these will be made by your training provider. 

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 What kind of work experience do I need?

Your experience needs to be the equivalent of one to two years full-time work with children and/or young people. This can be made up of a series of part-time roles.

In 2012, applications were received from candidates with experience in a range of areas including the following job titles/work areas: assistant educational psychologist, assistant psychologist, behaviour worker, early years worker, teacher, teaching assistant, learning mentor, special educational needs worker and youth worker.

These areas of work are examples and the list is not exhaustive. Please contact the universities you are interested in applying to directly to check if the work experience you have would be suitable.   

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 Does voluntary work count as relevant experience?

Yes. Most training providers recognise voluntary work as relevant experience, although this needs to be in addition to at least one to two years paid experience.

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 Is work experience from outside the UK counted?

Work outside of the UK will contribute to your application. However, you are advised to ensure that you have up-to-date knowledge and an understanding of the UK education system.

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 Can I defer entry or take a gap year during the course or after graduating?

No, this is not permitted. Those accepting a funded training place are expected to make a five year commitment, including the three-year course and working as a qualified educational psychologist in England for at least two years after graduating.

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 If I become pregnant while I am studying, am I entitled to maternity pay?

If you take maternity leave during your first year of training, the Teaching Agency will suspend payment of your bursary until you return to study. Trainees in their second and third years of study should discuss maternity arrangements with their employer and training provider. 

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 I want to apply for the course but I have children. Is there any additional childcare support?

Training providers will wish to be as supportive as possible to trainees and their childcare arrangements. It is advisable that you check with individual training providers to determine what their individual policies are, ideally ahead of submitting an application.

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