Promoting Psychology in Education

Abstract

’Opting In or Acting Out‘ This preface is written to provide a framework for the two articles delivered at the Annual ‘Challenge and Change’ Conference held at NELP July 1988. The title of the Conference ‘Opting In or Acting Out’ was decided on in 1987 and even then we little realised the full portent of its message. By the time of the Conference some Practical EPs had begun to realise the implications of the 1988 Act (especially those connected to our Professional Bodies). Many Principals and most EPs had not though even begun to consider what the future of their Service might be. Derek Lucas's paper was published in the January issue of the Journal. Lea Pearson's paper was the second of a trilogy. The third key speaker was Dr. Judith Haynes who runs a private child psychological service in London. Unfortunately she has been unable to provide a paper for publication. Three interwoven themes were prevalent through the day. Firstly, the old chestnut, who are SPSs clients; education departments, schools, parents or children? Secondly, and obviously related to the first, who will pay for SPSs. Thirdly what will SPSs offer in light of the changes in the eduction system? Running through, and often overriding, these themes was a fourth strand ‐ a strand of emotionality that manifested itself as despair, anxiety and anger. We can see the educational world is rapidly changing but find it more difficult to focus on the necessity for SPS to change to meet the new demands. All three key speakers, from their different perspectives, highlighted the demand for the effective application of psychology to the educational system. The point and mode of delivery may change but let us not forget the value of what we can deliver‐psychology. Mark Fox, Associate Tutor North East London Polytechnic, Conference Convenor