Assessments / Advice & next steps
Preparing for an educational psychology assessment
A child does not need to rehearse or produce a particular result. The aim is to understand strengths, barriers and useful support in context.
Quick answer
Before an educational psychology assessment, clarify the question you want the psychologist to explore, gather the most relevant school information and help the child understand what will happen in an age-appropriate way. The assessment may draw on conversation, observation, existing records and selected activities rather than one single test.
What this means
Educational psychologists consider how a child or young person learns and participates within their environment. Preparation should focus on accurate information: current concerns, strengths, support already tried, progress over time and the child’s own experience. Ask who requested the assessment, what decisions it may inform and whether school staff, parents and the child will be consulted.
Different assessment questions lead to different methods. A psychologist may explore learning, cognition, communication, emotional wellbeing, relationships, sensory or environmental factors, but should explain what is within the scope of the work.
One assessment is a snapshot. Findings should be considered alongside school evidence, other professional advice and information from home.
Questions to ask
What specific question is this assessment intended to answer?
How will the child’s views and communication needs be included?
Which records and observations would be most useful beforehand?
When will we receive feedback and a written report?
Local Northamptonshire route
Schools and local authorities may access educational psychology through different arrangements. North Northamptonshire Council and West Northamptonshire Council operate separately, so ask the SENCO which local route applies and what the current criteria or timescales are. Families considering a private psychologist can check HCPC registration; private assessment is optional.
Free support and useful links
External free resource
West Northamptonshire SENDIASS
Free, impartial SEND information, advice and support for families in West Northamptonshire.
External free resource
North Northamptonshire SENDIASS
Free, impartial SEND information, advice and support for families in North Northamptonshire.
External free resource
Northamptonshire Local Offer
Local SEND information, services and support routes for children and young people.
External free resource
GOV.UK SEND information
Official information about special educational needs, EHC plans and support.
External free resource
IPSEA
Free SEND law information and resources for parents and carers.
External free resource
Council for Disabled Children
National resources and information about SEND support and policy.
Professional help is available if you need it
The school or local authority may already have access to educational psychology advice. Paying privately is not required and does not guarantee a particular school or EHC plan decision. If choosing an independent assessment, agree the question, scope, fee and report arrangements before booking.
What happens next?
Read the report alongside the psychologist’s feedback. Ask how each recommendation connects to an identified need and who will take it forward. Agree with school which actions will be added to the support plan and when their impact will be reviewed.
Support that may help
School SENCO · HCPC-registered educational psychologist · SENDIASS · Relevant school specialists
Related guidance
SEND Lantern provides general information to help families understand possible next steps. It does not replace legal, medical or local authority advice.
Independent guidance for families
SEND Lantern is an independent guidance platform operated by SEND Lantern Ltd. We help families explore special educational needs and disabilities support, possible next steps and relevant services. SEND Lantern is not part of the NHS, a local authority, a school or any individual service provider. Information on this website is general guidance and should not be treated as medical, legal or educational advice.