Principal Educational Psychologist – South Essex (Hybrid)

About the role

This permanent position leads the Educational Psychology Service for a forward‑thinking local authority in South Essex. The role combines strategic leadership with hands‑on delivery, working across schools, health and social care partners.

Key responsibilities

• Set the strategic direction and operational delivery of the service.
• Ensure high‑quality, evidence‑based psychological practice and compliance with statutory SEND duties.
• Provide expert advice on inclusion, mental health, wellbeing and safeguarding.
• Develop the psychology workforce through supervision, coaching and professional development.
• Collaborate with senior leaders and multi‑agency partners to drive system‑wide improvement.

Required profile

• Post‑graduate qualification in Educational Psychology.
• HCPC registration as a Practitioner Psychologist.
• Significant experience in local authority Educational Psychology.
• Deep knowledge of SEND legislation, statutory processes and safeguarding.
• Proven experience leading senior teams and managing service quality.

Required skills

• Strategic service development.
• Performance management and quality assurance.
• Multi‑agency partnership working.
• Leadership and workforce development.

What we offer

• Hybrid working model.
• Salary on the Soulbury Scale B Points 12–15 (£72,999‑£77,184) plus optional SPA points.
• Access to a dedicated recruitment consultant and streamlined DBS compliance.