Job Description
FIXED TERM CONTRACT FOR 2 YEARS
Who we are & what we stand for
Do you want to help make Gateshead a place where everyone thrives? If that sounds like you, keep reading - we might be the perfect match.
We’re delighted that you’re interested in working with us. You’d be joining us at a very exciting time.
We pride ourselves on our ambitious and forward-thinking approach to taking care of Gateshead and its people, and we passionately believe that our employees reflect that spirit in truly enabling Gateshead to thrive.
At Gateshead Council you’d be a highly valued member of a team that recognises and respects the skills that you bring to your role, encourages creativity and passionately advocates a great work / life balance. Our actions speak louder than words, and with flexi-time and hybrid working available across many of our roles, as well as a full suite of outstanding employee benefits, we’re confident that it isn’t just the salary that attracts our staff.
Make a real difference – supporting children and young people to overcome barriers and thrive
We are a friendly, supportive and well-established Educational Psychology Service at the heart of Gateshead’s commitment to inclusion and positive outcomes for children and young people. Highly regarded by our schools and partners, we work collaboratively to apply psychology in practical, meaningful ways that make a difference day to day. As an Assistant Educational Psychologist, you will be part of a nurturing and dynamic team, working closely with experienced Educational Psychologists who are committed to your development and future career progression. We offer high-quality supervision, extensive induction, and opportunities to get involved in research, intervention, and service development—making this an ideal environment for aspiring EPs to grow, learn and build strong foundations for doctoral training.
Help children and young people succeed through the power of applied psychology
What you will get to do
- Support the delivery of a high-quality Educational Psychology Service to children, young people, families and schools, promoting inclusion, learning, mental health and wellbeing
- Work alongside Educational Psychologists within schools to deliver a traded and responsive service
- Deliver evidence-based interventions to individuals and groups to address barriers to learning and engagement
- Undertake observations, consultations and direct work with children and young people to inform support and planning
- Work collaboratively with parents/carers, school staff and other professionals to develop effective strategies for inclusion and achievement
- Contribute to written feedback and reports, clearly identifying strengths, needs and recommended next steps
- Support the development, delivery and evaluation of projects, interventions, research and service initiatives.
- Participate in training delivery, CPD activities, supervision and ongoing professional development
- Maintain accurate and timely records to support monitoring, quality assurance and outcomes
- Contribute to service development and actively participate in team working within a supportive service.
- Work within a multi-agency framework, promoting safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusive practice
Use psychology to unlock potential and improve outcomes for children and families
What you will bring
- Qualifications & foundation knowledge: 2:1 (or above) Honours Degree in Psychology with eligibility for BPS Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership
- Core knowledge: Understanding of SEND legislation, child development, applied psychology, safeguarding, inclusion and the role of the Educational Psychologist
- Relevant experience: Experience applying psychology with children and young people in education or community settings, including SEND contexts
- Intervention, training & research: Experience delivering group work, interventions, training, and contributing to research and evaluation activities
- Collaboration & autonomy: Ability to work effectively with professionals, families and multi-agency partners, both independently and under supervision
- Professional skills: Strong written and verbal communication, ICT capability, organisation, time management and ability to meet deadlines
- Practical requirements: Full driving licence (or access to mobility support) and commitment to ongoing CPD and professional development
If successful you will have to apply for an Enhanced Disclosure
We plan that interviews will take place week commencing 22nd June 2026.
What’s in it for you
- Competitive Salary: We offer fair and transparent pay that reflects your skills and experience.
- Outstanding Pension Scheme: We don’t just offer a great salary – we invest in your future too. Find out what benefits a Local Government Pension provides: https://twpf.info
- Generous Annual Leave: Enjoy 28 days of annual leave, rising to 32 days after 5 years (2 of which can be fixed by the Council), plus the option to buy up to 10 extra days.
- Learning & Development: Access a wide range of training, development, and progression opportunities to help you grow your career.
- Health & Wellbeing Support: From discounted gym memberships through our partner GLL to mental health resources, we care about your wellbeing.
- Cycle to Work Scheme: Save money and stay active with our tax-efficient cycle to work programme.
- Electric & Hybrid Car Scheme: Get behind the wheel of a brand-new electric or hybrid vehicle through our salary sacrifice car scheme in partnership with NHS Fleet Solutions – a cost-effective, environmentally friendly way to drive (after 12 months service).
- Exclusive Discounts & Salary Sacrifice: Through our VIVUP employee benefits platform, enjoy discounts on shopping, travel, and services – plus salary sacrifice options on white goods, electronics, and more, helping you spread the cost of essential purchases (after 6 months service).
Our commitment to you
We are an equal opportunities employer and aim to have a culture and a workplace where our people feel a sense of belonging, are respected and empowered to do their best work. We know that we deliver better services when our workforce reflects the full range of backgrounds and experiences in the society we serve. We welcome applications from suitably qualified people from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation
How to apply
You can apply online using the apply now button below. Within the form, you’ll be asked for details about you, your career history, skills, experiences and qualifications.
We advise you to be as detailed and specific as possible, paying particular attention to any of the above which are relevant to the role to which you are applying.
If you have any questions about your application, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our recruitment team via recruitment@gateshead.gov.uk
Please note: As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role. However, in high-volume recruitment situations, it may not always be practicable to interview every eligible candidate. In such cases, we may need to prioritise those who best meet the essential criteria, based on the information provided in the application.
Additionally, the Council reserves the right to close this vacancy early or adjust the shortlisting criteria, including the pass mark for interview selection, to ensure a fair and manageable recruitment process. We encourage early applications.