Thank you for writing to me concerning a potential pay rise for educational psychologists.
Evidence provided to the Senedd’s Children, Young People and Education Committee by experts in the sector has demonstrated the deep systemic issues present in the field, and the clear efforts that must be made to support and motivate education psychologists.
I note that an average of less than twelve educational psychologists are being trained in Wales every year and local authorities are struggling to meet demand. My colleagues and I in the Welsh Conservatives understand that educational psychologists offer a highly valuable level of expertise and insight into the education sector in Wales, and play a vital role in the provision of education for learners with additional learning needs.
Positive mental health and social development for children and young people is vitally important, yet just two years ago over 94% of school leaders in Wales reported to NAHT Cymru that the funding they received for the provision of ALN education was insufficient to meet the needs of the Welsh Government’s latest ALN legislation.
Unfortunately, it is clear that many sectors across Wales are struggling after over two decades of Labour mismanagement, with substantial recruitment and retention issues being seen in a number of crucial professions. It is clear that when those responsible for education and social development face challenges in performing their duties, it is our children that suffer the consequences.
The Labour government are responsible for the pay decisions in this area. As a result, my colleague Laura Anne Jones MS, the Shadow Minister for Education, will continue to petition the Minister for Education, Jeremy Miles MS, to outline our concerns.
I thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
