A new initiative connecting educational psychologists looking for flexible careers with a wider network of professional support, supervision and multidisciplinary collaboration has been launched by Aroa Educational Psychology Services.
Known as The Aroa Network, it has been created in response to changing working patterns across the profession. It launches at a time of growing national demand for Educational Psychology services, with recent research commissioned by the British Psychological Society highlighting significant workforce pressures and the need for more educational psychologists across England.
Dr Leanne Short, Founder and Director of Aroa Educational Psychology Services, said:
“Over the past few years, we've spoken to many educational psychologists who love what they do but are looking for a different way of working. They want greater flexibility around family life, young families, personal commitments and their own wellbeing, but that doesn't mean they want to work in isolation.
“We don't believe educational psychologists should have to choose between the flexibility of independent working and the support, supervision and professional relationships that come from being part of a team. That's exactly why we created The Aroa Network.”
Founded by educational psychologist Dr Leanne Short in 2022, Aroa supports schools, families and education providers across the North of England and North Wales. What began as an independent Educational Psychology practice has grown into a multidisciplinary team bringing together Educational Psychologists, Occupational Therapists and therapeutic specialists, providing joined-up support tailored to the needs of children, young people and the professionals around them.
The Aroa Network is a professional community built around relationships. Members will have opportunities to work flexibly while accessing supervision, peer support, continuing professional development, multidisciplinary projects and a broader range of work beyond statutory EHCP assessments.
They will also have the opportunity to build long-term relationships with schools and families, working alongside Occupational Therapists and other specialists to provide more joined-up support.
Leanne added:
“Educational Psychology is an incredibly rewarding profession, but it can also be demanding. We know many independent practitioners have to source and fund their own supervision, and opportunities to collaborate with colleagues can become more limited. We wanted to create a community where people can enjoy the freedom of flexible working while remaining connected to experienced colleagues, ongoing learning and multidisciplinary expertise.
“When an Educational Psychologist really gets to know a school, they understand its priorities, its staff, its children and its wider challenges. That creates opportunities for more meaningful support, longer-term planning and trusted relationships. The best outcomes for children and young people are built through understanding, collaboration and relationships, and that's what The Aroa Network is all about.”
Aroa is now inviting Educational Psychologists interested in joining The Aroa Network to register their interest.
