Educational Psychologists insights on mental health in schools: our report findings

Over recent years, Educational Psychologists have witnessed significant changes in the needs of schools and children and young people with SEND. The lasting implications of COVID-19 has reshaped the educational landscape and as schools continue to face complex issues with some students, the role of Educational Psychologists is more important than ever. 

We recently conducted our own research amongst Educational Psychologists from local authorities and private practices. Our findings revealed compelling insights from those practicing in the sector regarding the mental health of children and young people.

A significant finding from our research detailed that 75% of Educational Psychologists surveyed said they had noticed significant trends or changes in the needs of students and schools within the last 5 years, with some commenting on the rise of Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs amongst children and young people. 

One Educational Psychologist said, “There is an apparent trend of speech and language and literacy needs which appears to coincide with the educational and social disruption caused by the Covid-19 crisis. This is notable in children aged between 4 and 10 years old.” 

Our report also highlighted an increase in Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA), with some of our respondents suggesting that this could be linked to increased levels of anxiety within children and young people. An increase in the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and the long waiting times for children and young people waiting for ASD assessments was also highlighted within our findings. 

As well as noticing significant changes within the needs of students, those who responded to our survey also warned about a lack of support provided to teachers who must support and manage the mental health of their pupils. The need for leniency in the academic expectations of students was raised in our findings. 

One Educational Psychologist said, “It feels hypocritical to tell schools that they should be prioritising mental health without acknowledging that, in some instances, this will mean that this takes precedence over pushing an academic agenda.”

SEND recruitment specialist, Richard Shorrock, said “Educational Psychologists have seen big changes in the needs of students in recent years which have coincided with the effects of COVID-19 lockdowns.”

Richard continued “For children and young people to reach their academic potential, it’s so important that Teachers are equipped with the skills needed for supporting mental health in the classroom.” 

Discover more insights in the SCG Educational Psychology Workforce Insights Report 2024.

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