Scotland is set to gain nearly 100 educational psychologists, funded with £4 million of cash from government and local authorities.
It comes after Tes Scotland reported warnings from teachers that pupils with special needs and mental health problems were not getting the support they need, due to an acute shortage of educational psychologists.
Up to 90 educational psychology trainees could benefit from the first three years of a new funding package, agreed between local authorities and the Scottish government.
The current shortages have been blamed on the Scottish government’s decision to end bursaries for educational psychology students, which critics claim has led to a dramatic fall in applications.
The £4 million funding announced today - which is to be spread over three years - will help with training fees and living costs.
Education secretary and deputy first minister John Swinney said it would also ultimately “help thousands of school pupils across Scotland”.
He added: “The work of educational psychologists significantly contributes to the equality, effectiveness and inclusiveness of our schools and they play a vital role in raising attainment.
“By working closely with the school community, and other relevant professionals, educational psychologists help build capacity to meet the learning and mental health needs of pupils and I am confident this significant investment will have long-lasting positive effects on many future generations of young people.”
Stephen McCabe, spokesman for children and young people at local authorities body Cosla, said that educational psychologists “play a vital role in supporting our children”. He added that “the introduction of financial support for trainee educational psychologists which will hopefully increase the number of trainees available”.
Funding from 2018-19 to 2020-21 will include a Scottish government contribution of £2.85 million, including nearly £1.5 million from the Attainment Scotland Fund, and £1.35 million from local authorities.
