Dr Jane Yeomans

Dr. Jane Yeomans – Educational Psychologist, Author, and Specialist in Cognitive Thinking Skills

Dr. Jane Yeomans is a highly accomplished Educational Psychologist with decades of experience across education, psychology, and professional training. With qualifications including a Cert Ed., Dip. SE, MEd (Ed Psych), PhD, and HCPC registration as a Practitioner Psychologist, Dr. Yeomans has significantly contributed to special educational needs (SEN) support, cognitive skills development, and the professional training of educational psychologists.

Educational and Professional Journey

Dr. Yeomans began her career as a Primary School teacher in Birmingham, later specializing in Special Education while working in a school for pupils with moderate learning difficulties. Her experience as a SENCo in two inner-city primary schools deepened her commitment to improving outcomes for children with specific learning difficulties (SpLD) and diverse educational needs.

While teaching full-time, Dr. Yeomans pursued part-time study, earning a Master’s degree in Educational and Child Psychology. This achievement enabled her to train as an Educational Psychologist, qualifying in 1993. Her dedication to research led her to complete a PhD, focusing on the development of early reading skills in nursery-aged children.

Educational Psychology Practice

Dr. Yeomans has worked as an Educational Psychologist (EP) in various West Midlands Local Authorities, gaining substantial experience across all phases of education. In 2011, she transitioned into private practice, where she now works independently, providing tailored psychological assessments and interventions.

Her expertise extends to supporting children with complex and profound difficulties, particularly in non-aversive approaches to challenging behavior management. Dr. Yeomans has applied this method effectively in both mainstream and special school contexts, promoting positive outcomes for students with diverse needs.

Academic and Professional Training Leadership

From 2004 to 2013, Dr. Yeomans served as an Academic and Professional Tutor for the Professional Training course in Educational Psychology at the University of Birmingham. She maintains close ties with the university as an Honorary Clinical Lecturer, where she continues to contribute to the training and supervision of future educational psychologists.

Her academic leadership also includes:

• Acting as External Examiner for the University of Manchester and UCL professional training programs.
• Supervising doctorate students on the University of Leicester’s PsyD top-up program for HCPC-registered psychologists.
• Contributing teaching and thesis examination support to the University of Nottingham and UCL.

Collaboration with Real Training

Dr. Yeomans plays a pivotal role with Real Training, serving as Deputy Programme Director for their MEd SEND distance-learning program. She has authored several modules and acts as Module Leader and Tutor for key areas, including:

• General Learning Difficulties
• Dynamic Assessment
• Enquiry Modules

Additionally, she supports aspiring SEN coordinators as a tutor for Real Training's National SENCo Award.

Expertise in Cognitive Assessment and Feuerstein’s Methods

Dr. Yeomans has a long-standing interest in assessing and teaching cognitive thinking skills. She is an accredited practitioner of Professor Reuven Feuerstein’s methodologies, including:

• Learning Propensity Assessment Device (LPAD) – A dynamic assessment tool to identify and unlock learning potential.
• Instrumental Enrichment (IE) – A structured teaching program designed to enhance cognitive skills.
• Bright Start – A cognitive curriculum tailored for young children to develop foundational thinking skills.

Her work in cognitive skills development has empowered educators and schools to provide targeted support that addresses the unique needs of learners, fostering critical thinking and independence.

Publications and Research Contributions

Dr. Yeomans is a published author, having co-written three influential psychology textbooks with Dr. Christopher Arnold and Dr. Sarah Simpson:

• Psychology for Teaching Assistants
• Teaching, Learning and Psychology
• Excluded from School

Her research and publications reflect her commitment to bridging psychological theory and educational practice, ensuring that teachers, SEN coordinators, and educational psychologists can access actionable insights to improve outcomes for all learners.

Professional Memberships and Certifications

Dr. Yeomans is a member of several prestigious organizations, including:

• HCPC Registered Practitioner Psychologist
• BPS Register of Qualifications in Test Use (RQTU)
• ACHIPP (Association of Child Psychologists in Private Practice)
• PATOSS (Professional Association of Teachers of Students with Specific Learning Difficulties)
• Drawing and Talking Practitioner

Her professional affiliations reflect her dedication to staying at the forefront of educational psychology practice and ongoing professional development.

A Legacy of Impact

Dr. Jane Yeomans’ contributions to educational psychology, teacher training, and cognitive skill development are extensive and impactful. With a career spanning teaching, research, and leadership, she continues to inspire educators, psychologists, and students to embrace evidence-based approaches that foster inclusive, supportive, and effective learning environments.