Early investment: the use of Action Research in developing the role of an educational psychologist in an early years setting

This research considers the role an educational psychologist could play within one early years setting over an academic year, using an Action Research and a Research and Development in Organisations framework. A model of practice was developed based on the needs of the setting that included being more frequently involved with casework and conducting work aimed at supporting early years practitioners and parents/carers. This research suggests there is a greater role for educational psychologists within early years, involving more than conducting casework, through providing a more holistic and intensive approach to supporting practitioners, parents/carers and children. This supports the existing literature as well as advocating a more extensive role within early intervention services.