Schools across Wandsworth consistently highlight the Schools and Community Psychology Service (SCPS) as a valued partner in supporting students, staff, and families. Feedback from 38 different schools across the borough underscores the breadth of our impact. We take pride in working collaboratively with schools, co-developing strategies, and providing expert guidance to help create the best possible outcomes for students.
We are encouraged to hear that our expertise, responsiveness, and commitment to collaborative working is helping schools navigate challenges and develop effective strategies.
Here’s some highlights from what schools have to say:
Expert Knowledge and Professionalism
We are recognised for our high level of expertise and collaborative approach, working alongside schools to provide essential insights and guidance.
“Highly knowledgeable and professional service, we are lucky to have this service in Wandsworth!”
Head Teacher
Alternative Provision
“Expert knowledge and expertise that differ from that of teaching staff/SENCO. Helpful for staff and parents to be able to understand a child’s needs better and therefore support them better.”
Inclusion Manager
Primary
As a fully staffed team with deep knowledge of Wandsworth’s diverse communities, we build lasting relationships with schools, offering tailored psychological support informed by local needs. The team also plays a vital role in key decision-making panels and forums, bridging local authority strategic planning with school-level implementation to help schools access additional resources and make the best use of existing support.
Collaborative Support for Schools and Staff
Schools value the opportunity to work closely with SCPS, benefitting from a supportive and reflective space to explore complex situations together.
“Having a calm voice and thoughtful presence to give us the space to talk through a difficult case – it can be difficult to find the time and not to feel as if you need to have all the answers (especially as a SENCo) and the EPs that I work with are great at providing that space and asking all the right questions!”
Inclusion Manager
Secondary
Our consultation model is built around working with schools, ensuring that all voices are heard and that strategies are co-developed for meaningful and lasting impact. Our approach is based on robust theoretical evidence and a commitment to understanding the child within their wider context. While it may take longer than a direct within-child assessment approach, this model provides a comprehensive and holistic view of a child’s needs. By taking the time to explore the systems around the child, we help schools develop sustainable and long-term solutions that benefit students, staff, and families alike.
Empowering Schools Through Training and Development
Training and professional development provided by SCPS equip school staff with the tools they need to better support students in a collaborative learning environment.
“Very supportive service for supporting staff to meet the needs of children through training and consultations which has supported staff in challenging situations.”
Inclusion Manager
Primary
“Great INSETs.”
Inclusion Manager
Primary
We are leaders in delivering training on trauma and relational approaches, ELSA, AME coaching, and other evidence-based strategies that support schools in meeting the needs of their most vulnerable students. The team also supports professional learning through monthly development sessions and opportunities to share expertise, ensuring that best practices are consistently refined and upheld.
Strong Communication and Responsiveness
Schools appreciate our clear and open communication, which supports effective collaboration and helps schools navigate complex processes with confidence.
“Excellent communication, child-focused sessions.“
Inclusion Manager
Primary
“Swift communication. All work is well planned and when deadlines are tight, SCPS always work to these deadlines.”
Inclusion Manager
Secondary
With strong relationships across Wandsworth schools, we work flexibly to provide timely and practical support when it’s needed most. The team’s size and diverse expertise allow for shared casework, ensuring that schools have access to a wide range of specialist knowledge and a collaborative approach to problem-solving.
High-Quality Assessments and Reports
Our assessments and reports are recognised for their depth and clarity, helping schools and families better understand students’ needs and access the right support.
“The EP reports are invaluable when applying for EHCNAs.“
Inclusion Manager
Primary
“Assessments are thorough and helpful and the EP is personable and efficient. Parents like him.”
Inclusion Manager
Primary
The team’s capacity to hold both pre-statutory and statutory work ensures a deep understanding of casework and provision, providing continuity for families and informed recommendations for schools.
Partnerships with Families and Multi-Agency Working
We work closely with schools, families, and other services to ensure a joined-up approach to student support, helping to navigate challenging conversations with care and expertise.
“EP having difficult conversations with parents to help them understand in a supportive way.”
Inclusion Manager
Primary
“Working in partnership with families, class teams and pupils. Advice and support on a myriad of issues that come with working in a school with a resources base and pupils in mainstream with high needs.”
Inclusion Manager
Primary
With direct links to Wandsworth Council, NHS teams, and key national networks, we are well-positioned to provide informed, system-wide guidance that enhances school support structures. The team is also a leading example in anti-racist practice, helping other local authority teams build confidence in this crucial area.
Flexibility and Innovation
Schools appreciate our adaptable and solutions-focused approach, working in partnership to develop strategies that fit their unique contexts.
“EPs open to new and innovative ways of working with the school and their decreasing budgets.”
Inclusion Manager
Primary
“Flexibility and calm approach to problem-solving!”
Inclusion Manager
Primary
With a large, well-connected team, we remain responsive to the evolving needs of schools, ensuring support is both effective and sustainable. Each EP is allocated a variety of early years, primary, secondary, and specialist schools, allowing for a broad familiarity with different educational settings while also encouraging team members to develop deeper areas of expertise.