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    Student members

    Explore the many benefits of student membership, including the opportunity to transfer to graduate membership and continue your career development as a member of the BPS.

    Why should I become a student member?

    If you're studying on a BPS-accredited undergraduate degree, conversion course, or a BPS-accredited training programme of study for the wider psychological workforce, you can join as a student member.

    Your first year of membership is free, no matter which year of study you are in.

    Start your application now

    When you join the BPS, you become part of a community of people who are on similar journeys, facing the same challenges, and aiming for the same goals.

    Whether you're planning a career within the psychological professions or looking to apply your qualification in other roles and sectors, the BPS is here to support and inspire you at every step.

    You can also keep up with our ongoing work and activities via Instagram or LinkedIn.

    Read the membership and subscription fees terms and conditions.

    More about student membership
    • Man listening to music
      What are the benefits of being a student member?
      The BPS is recognised around the world as one of the leading authorities of psychology. As a member of the society you'll be entitled to a wide range of benefits designed to help you in your studies and your career.
      Learn about the benefits available
    • Four people in discussion around a table
      Join our online student community
      Do you ever wish you had a huge network of peers at different stages of their psychology studies to learn from and share your experience with? Then come and be part of our online student community.
      Join the community
    • Students laughing
      Could you be a BPS Volunteer Student Ambassador?
      If you are studying on one of our accredited undergraduate or conversion courses, are passionate about psychology, supporting your fellow students and want to learn new skills, we would love for you to join us.
      Become an ambassador

    The Student Committee

    The Student Committee represents student members of the society in matters pertaining to education, discipline and policy.

    We promote communication between student members through the annual student conference and through international links with psychology students and associations world-wide via the European Federation of Psychology Student's Association (EFPSA).

    We also organise a range of events throughout the year, such as seminars and networking opportunities, and are responsible for the publication of the PsychTalk magazine.

    Meet the committee

    David J. Hancock

    Chair

    David J. Hancock is a mature, neurodivergent psychology student and long-standing BPS Student Ambassador, currently completing the final stage of his BPS-accredited BSc (Hons) Psychology degree via distance learning at The Open University. He was elected Chair of the national BPS Student Committee in 2026.

    David's route into psychology has been non-traditional. After leaving university in the 1990s, he later returned to higher education with a strong focus on equity, accessibility, and student representation. His lived experience informs his leadership and his commitment to ensuring that students from distance-learning, international, caring, disabled, and neurodivergent backgrounds feel visible, supported, and valued within the Society.

    David is a BPS Student Ambassador (2023–2026) and recipient of the Most Creative Student Ambassador Award (2024/25). He also serves as a committee member on the South East Branch and the Defence & Security Psychology Section. As Chair, his priorities include strengthening student voice, improving support for distance learners, and fostering inclusive, collaborative ways of working across the society.

    Kumi Lam

    Chair-Elect

    Kumi Lam is a dedicated undergraduate psychology student at the University of Bath, serving as the Chair-elect of the British Psychological Society (BPS) student committee for the 2026 academic year. Since an early age, Kumi has developed a deep passion for psychology, particularly Clinical Psychology.

    Her journey into representing student voices was shaped by her involvement with the Student Committee at her previous school, where she demonstrated strong leadership skills and ensured each voice was heard equally, fuelling her commitment to becoming Chair-elect. Through building networks and collaborating with universities across the UK, she aims to create inclusive opportunities within the psychology student community.

    As Chair-elect, Kumi aims to be a proactive spokesperson for Psychology students across the UK. Alternatively, being an international student, she also ensures international students feel included and valued within the Psychology discipline.

    Shannon Woodward

    PsychTalk Editor

    Shannon Woodward is a part-time student studying a Psychology Masters at Manchester Metropolitan University alongside full-time work. 

    Running a wellness blog in her spare time, Shannon was drawn to the position of Psych-Talk Editor to refine her editorial skills while gaining deeper insight into Psychology by helping students publish and improve their work.

    In her free time when not socialising, she volunteers for the CCP, paints, hikes, and enjoys spending time reading.

    Zaynab Alam

    PsychTalk Editor Elect

    Zaynab Alam is an undergraduate student studying BSc Psychological and Behavioural Sciences at the London School of Economics and Political Science. She was elected PsychTalk Editor of the national BPS Student Committee in 2026.

    Zaynab is passionate about making psychological research accessible to wider audiences. As PsychTalk Editor Elect, she works to bridge the gap between academic research and public understanding whilst also amplifying diverse voices within psychological research.  She believes that psychology should be inclusive and understandable to all, not just those within academia.

    Her research interests include identity formation among ethnic minorities, the cognitive mechanisms underlying memory loss, and decision-making processes.

    Jack Wood

    Student Ambassador Liaison Link

    Jack Wood is an undergraduate psychology student at Birmingham Newman University, currently studying for a BPS-accredited BSc (Hons) Psychology degree. He was appointed to the national BPS Student Committee in 2026 as Student Ambassador Liaison Link, a role focused on strengthening communication and collaboration between the Student Committee and the wider Student and Lead Ambassador network across the UK and Internationally.

    Alongside his studies, Jack is deeply engaged in professional and applied psychology settings. He works within healthcare services and has experience across NHS and private healthcare environments, as well as in emotional wellbeing and support roles. He is also a Research Assistant at Birmingham Newman University, contributing to projects exploring neurodiversity and healthcare access, and is an active contributor to psychology publications and student-led initiatives.

    Jack is a Lead Student Ambassador for the West Midlands and Co-Editor of the BPS West Midlands Branch Newsletter. His interests include applied clinical psychology, accessibility in higher education, mental health, and widening participation. Through his committee role, Jack is particularly focused on amplifying student voice, improving engagement for students on non-traditional routes, and ensuring strong, joined-up working between the Student Committee and the Ambassador community.

    Chloe Lim

    Events Organisation Officer

    Chloe Lim is an undergraduate psychology student at the University of Glasgow, currently serving as Events Organisation Officer on the British Psychological Society Student Committee. She is completing a BSc (Hons) Psychology degree and is actively involved in student leadership and outreach alongside her studies.

    Chloe's route into student representation has been shaped by her experience as an international student and her strong interest in mental health and wellbeing. Her academic and co-curricular experiences have informed her commitment to creating supportive, inclusive environments and to promoting thoughtful engagement with psychology beyond the classroom.

    As Events Organisation Officer, Chloe's priorities include supporting collaborative event delivery, strengthening student engagement, and ensuring events are welcoming, well-organised, and responsive to the needs of a diverse student body, helping to make psychology feel more accessible to all students.

    Laura Kövécs

    Member Representative of EFPSA (European Federation of Psychology Students’ Associations)

    Laura Kövécs is an MSc Psychology (Conversion) student, pursuing the degree via distance learning with Brunel University of London. She was elected as a Member Representative of EFPSA (European Federation of Psychology Students' Associations). 

    Prior to entering psychology, Laura studied Liberal Arts and Sciences: Global Challenges (BA) and has lived in several European countries. Her personal experiences drive her passion for fostering a global network of communities, creating opportunities with an international reach and representing students from diverse backgrounds.

    Chloe-Louise Herron

    EDI Rep

    Chloe-Louise Herron is a second-year psychology and counselling student at Birmingham City University and serves as the Diversity and Inclusion Lead for the BPS Student Committee 2026. Her academic interests focus on equity, accessibility, and inclusion within psychology education, with particular attention to how institutional structures shape student experience and belonging.

    In her committee role, Chloe is committed to amplifying student voice and supporting inclusive, collaborative ways of working. Her priorities include contributing to initiatives and events that centre meaningful inclusion rather than surface-level awareness, and helping ensure that diverse student experiences are recognised, valued, and supported across the society.

    Eleanor Glowrey

    Communications Officer

    Eleanor is a second-year psychology student at Newcastle University and the Communications Officer for the BPS Student Committee.

    She is passionate about spreading awareness around mental health and making supportive resources more visible and accessible to students. Outside of their studies, they volunteer with charities such as Shout and the NHS, supporting young people with their mental health and wellbeing. They hope to use communication to amplify student voice, reduce stigma, and help foster a more connected and supportive psychology student community.

    Hannah Treagus

    Scotland Branch Representative

    Hannah Treagus has been elected as the Scotland Branch Representative for the national 2026 BPS Student Committee. Hannah is a BPS Student Ambassador and undergraduate student at The University of St Andrews, where she is currently in her second year of her MA (Hons) Psychology degree.

    Through Hannah's continued involvement with the BPS, she aims to create a more inclusive and connected cohort of psychology students across Scotland. She intends to represent Scottish students by working with both universities and psychologists across the country to create more opportunities for students to explore the field of psychology. Hannah also has a strong passion for educational psychology and aims to use this passion to enhance the learning of psychology students across Scotland.

    Student members

    News

    Student members

    Events

    Student members

    Guidelines

    What is Psych-Talk?

    Psych-Talk is a bi-annual publication for psychology students showcasing student-written material on a variety of topics, spanning from general interest essays to placement reviews.

    Group of students working at a table

    Find out more about Psych-Talk

    The aim of the publication is to provide a platform for open discussion of topics relevant to students interested in psychology wh

    Download the latest issue

    Can I write for Psych-Talk?

    Psych-Talk is made up of articles written by undergraduate student members.

    The Psych-Talk page gives information on word counts, deadlines, etc, but we've also provided the following hints and tips to think about if you're considering submitting something for publication.

    Steps for writing for Psych-Talk:
    1. Pick a topic you're interested in - we love getting articles about general topics, but the best ones seem to have a passionate flair to them
    2. go through our past publications - if you're unsure about what to write, going through what we've chosen to publish before might help you get a better understanding of what to submit
    3. Start simple, then funnel - Alice Thomson, the winner of The Psychologist's Student Competition suggested using a technique where she wrote down every idea related to the topic in it's simplest form, then grouping them together into common themes that would form paragraphs. This helps organise your article better
    4. Communicate with other BPS student members - the BPS student community includes several discussion threads started by members on topics that can help inspire you into writing for us
    5. Don't be afraid of being controversial - we are open to articles that specifically look at controversial topics as a publication that hopes to provide a platform to varying perspectives
    6. However, be as objective as you can - this is still a scientific publication representative of the BPS student community. A high level of objectivity when writing is a prerequisite for most of our articles

    FAQs

    All About Psych-Talk

    Raegan Shaw | Psych-Talk Editor Shannon Woodward | Psych-Talk Editor-Elect

    As we transition into Summer 2025, why not embrace the chance to have your work featured in an upcoming Psych-Talk issue? 

    Psych-Talk Editor Raegan Shaw and Editor-Elect Shannon Woodward answer some FAQs to help you get started!

    What is Psych-Talk? 

    Psych-talk is a bi-annual publication created by students, for students. 

    The aim of Psych-Talk is to platform for student voices. Your opinion could encourage and inspire other students to express their own unique insights in the rapidly evolving field of Psychology.

    At Psych-Talk, we champion scientific progression. The way we discuss and explore diverse pathways in Psychology should reflect the ever-changing needs and understanding of current society.

    Why students? 

    Student voices are new, zealous, and ripe with innovation. Psych-Talk seeks to build the field of Psychology through upcoming scientists just like you.

    Psych-Talk could mark a key stepping stone in your career development, paving the way for ongoing academic success. 

    Who can contribute?

    We welcome engaging, encouraging, and informative contributions from students of any discipline interested in psychology. Please submit your article to [email protected]

    What topics should I write about? 

    The best articles are driven by genuine passion and motivation. 

    For this reason, we encourage you to write about your personal interests and experiences within the field of Psychology. 

    You may also choose to write about a topic you have explored as part of an outstanding assignment, to celebrate your good work. 

    At Psych-Talk, you have the freedom to write authentically and communicate your unique contributions for powerful impact.

    When are the submission deadlines for 2025? 

    Submissions for the August 2025 issue are now closed.

    The deadline for the issue to be published in December 2025 is 29 August 2025.

    What skills could I gain by writing for Psych-Talk?

    Psychology is a competitive field. Here are some skills you could list on your CV when your article is featured in Psych-Talk: 

    • Analytical and critical thinking
    • Effective written communication
    • Strong time-management
    • Knowledge of your chosen research field or topic
    • Evidence-based literature review
    • Experience of the collaborative peer-review and publishing process
    • Applied understanding of research ethics 

    How do I prepare for writing an article? 

    1. Plan for submission deadlines

    In your busy student life, you will undoubtedly have to balance numerous workplace, social, and educational commitments. Therefore, time is precious and effective time management is a valuable skill. 

    First, check the submission deadlines and plan when you will prioritise writing your article. Your dedicated writing time must not conflict with other important deadlines or assessments. 

    At Psych-Talk, we understand student life is busy, so 2025 submission dates are planned around the summer holidays. 

    If you can't submit before the 1 May deadline, don't stress – submit your article before 29 August and you'll still have a chance to be featured in the December 2025 issue!

    1. Read past publications

    When planning your article, it is good to have an excellent understanding of the Psych-Talk expectations and standards, in terms of style, content and format. 

    We recommend you read previous issues of Psych-Talk available on our BPS Explore webpage. Don't forget - issues are free to access for current BPS student members!

    What types of articles do we look for?

    Psych-talk contains open discussion of any topics relevant to students interested in psychology. Content also informs readers of upcoming events and possible placement opportunities.

    The aim is to showcase student-written material on a variety of topics, spanning from general interest essays to placement reviews.

    Here is a list of frequently published articles: 

    1. Articles/Debates (1,500-2,000 words, third person)

    If you'd like to raise awareness on a controversial topic or simply start a discussion, you're welcome to submit an opinion article. Alternatively, you may wish to continue a discussion in response to a previously published article. All opinions should be fully APA referenced and evidenced with current scientific literature.

    1. Placement Reflections (first person)

    If a work placement has had a profound impact on you and your professional journey, we'd love to share your encouraging message.

    1. Interviews (5-10 Questions, first person or third person)

    If you'd like to interview a psychologist you admire, this is a great platform to promote them and build your skills in the process. We welcome you to devise your own list of questions, but if you'd like some suggestions, send us an email, and we will be happy to help.

    1. Conference/BPS Event Articles (first person)

    If you've recently attended an event that you believe would interest other student members, please share your experience in an article. 

    1. Book Reviews (first person)

    Have you read a particularly impactful book that you'd love to showcase? Share your comments and feedback in a book review. 

    Please be mindful that all submissions must be fully referenced according to the latest APA guidelines wherever possible.

    For more information, please visit the Psych-Talk webpage or send us an email at [email protected].

    Can I submit an article that has already appeared as a dissertation or thesis?

    Yes, but the article needs to be substantially revised to fit our article format and length. For example, you may choose to modify the literature review section of your thesis to form an opinion article. 

    What happens once an article is submitted to Psych-Talk?

    Navigating the publishing process can be daunting, but don't worry! The editorial team are here to support you and collaboratively ensure your work achieves BPS standards. 

    Once received, the editorial team will review your article and suggest a few edits to make your piece outstanding and ready for publication. 

    You will receive an email from us with the reviewed article, a list of suggested edits, and a copyright form to complete. 

    We will also give you the option to submit a photo of yourself to be displayed alongside your work, in addition to information about your institution and any relevant affiliations.

    If you are successful, we will send you a PDF of your final published article and a document containing your Retained Rights.

    How long does the review process take?

    This varies. The review process can take two weeks or longer, depending on the edits needed, length of submission and proximity to the submission deadline. The editorial team will send you a confirmation of receipt upon submission of your article. 

    Closing tips from the Editor-Elect, Shannon Woodward

    • Familiarise yourself with the publication – Follow the submission guidelines carefully. Misformatted or lengthy submissions are common reasons for delay that can easily be avoided.
    • Be original – Don't be afraid to bring your own ideas and opinions to your articles. We want to see you building on existing work, whilst also filling a gap, challenging ideas or adding your own fresh perspective on the topic.
    • Proofread – This can save a lot of time for both you and the editorial team, to ensure your article makes it into the upcoming publication.
    • Don't fear feedback – Peer review only helps to strengthen and improve your work. Respond to comments or pose any questions with professionalism, and be open to revising your article. This is a great chance to gain insight into how the publication process works and will prepare you for the future.

    Final words of encouragement

    If you'd like to get your work featured, just submit! Don't let self-doubt discourage you or defeat your chance for success. 

    If you have any questions, please send us an email at [email protected]. 

    We look forward to reading your submissions!

    Writing prompts

    But What Do I Write About…?

    Psych-Talk Editor Raegan Shaw provides a list of writing prompts to help you plan your next article and explains the core values to make your writing truly impactful.

    Psych-Talk: Values and aims

    Motivations behind your writing are important. The reader can often subtly detect the underlying attitudes and reasoning behind your article. 

    For your writing to engage the reader, let your sincere enthusiasm shine through. 

    Here is a list of core values and principles we would like to see demonstrated throughout your writing: 

    1. Seek to encourage: Demonstrate a positive attitude and commitment to scientific progression.
    2. Be outward-focused: Consider how you can best serve and inspire other students with your own unique knowledge and experience.
    3. Provide solutions: Psychologists face many challenges, but your work should seek to contribute ways that we could collectively overcome barriers within the field to maximise future outcomes.
    4. Communicate effectively: Convey complex information concisely, prioritising quality over quantity. 

    How to choose a topic 

    Choose to write about an area of psychology that is personally relevant and authentic to you. Your genuine motivation to write about an area of science that fascinates you will be expressed in your writing, and your enthusiasm will inspire readers to learn more.  

    Psych-Talk is an opportunity for you to demonstrate a deep level of understanding of your chosen subject area. This in-depth knowledge is extremely beneficial when seeking to specialise in a specific field. 

    Writing prompts

    Psych-Talk accepts a wide range of submissions. Here, we explore the most popular submission types and provide suggestions to guide you when planning your piece.

    Debates and opinion pieces

    Think of a key discussion or topic within psychology that you want to call greater attention to. Use evidence from recent research literature to form an evidence-based opinion on this area. 

    An opinion piece should demonstrate strong critical analysis skills and the ability to consolidate a large body of evidence. Your literature review will form an overarching stance or argument. 

    Use in-text citations to persuade the reader and promote further exploration into your chosen topic. 

    Questions to answer:

    • Are there any gaps within the research literature you'd like to address?
    • Using current evidence as support, suggest possible solutions to overcome any barriers you have highlighted within the field (e.g., interventions or future research directions). 
    Work placements

    Reflecting on your own placement experience can inspire confidence in your fellow students as they embark upon their own career journeys. Each placement has equipped you with unique experiences and personally relevant insights, allowing the opportunity to practically apply your psychological understanding in an active role. 

    Through these opportunities, students can fully appreciate the value of evidence-based practice that is integral to the role of a scientist-practitioner. Why not share your personal progression to support others?

    Questions to answer: 

    • How has your work placement impacted the way you approach psychology?
    • How has your psychological understanding impacted and informed the way you serve others within your work placement?
    • Do you have any advice for your fellow students seeking to pursue a similar role?
    BPS event reviews

    The BPS hold many exciting and informative events that cover a multitude of interests.

    If you have feedback for a recent or past event, we'd love to hear your opinion.

    Questions to answer: 

    • What was your overall experience when attending the event?
    • Did you contribute to the event in any way? If so, how did you contribute? What did you learn and what skills did you gain from participation?
    • What did you specifically enjoy about the event (e.g., content, guest speakers, organisation, communication, location/host platform)?
    • Do you have any recommendations to enhance future events? Are there any events you would like to see hosted by the BPS in the future?
    Interviews

    Psychological expertise is gained through seeking advice and imitating influential figures within the field. Is there a practitioner or researcher who particularly influences you?  Why not use Psych-Talk to share their guidance with other students?

    Top tip: Prepare beforehand by reading the psychologist's own work to fully understand their role and plan your questions accordingly. 5-10 questions are an ideal length. Always give full informed consent and ask permission to publish the interview before submitting the written piece.

    Questions to ask: 

    • What are their greatest contributions to their chosen fields?
    • What skills and experiences led them to achieve within their area of research/practice?
    • Do they have any advice for students seeking to enter a similar field? 
    Book/article reviews

    You may have heard the expression 'read for a degree.' Being a student requires a lot of reading. Throughout your educational journey, you will have undoubtedly read something that was pivotal in shaping your current understanding, interests, and performance. 

    If a particular book or article has inspired you, why not share the joy with other students? 

    Questions to answer: 

    • What insight and knowledge did you gain from reading this book/article?
    • What did you particularly enjoy about the content, writing style and format?
    • How have you applied this understanding to enhance your own studies and practice?

    What makes an outstanding article and/or interview?

    An outstanding article communicates complex information in an informative and concise manner, for high quality and impact. 

    We welcome all pieces with a fresh, positive outlook that offer solutions to overcome barriers within Psychology. 

    Articles are selected based on the following specific criteria: 

    • Scientific and professional value: Is your article grounded in the latest peer-reviewed research?
    • Critical analysis: Does your article contribute valuable new insight into your chosen topic?
    • Written communication: Is your article grammatically correct with a clear, comprehensible structure?

    If you have any questions, please send us an email at [email protected]. 

    For more information and previous issues, visit the Psych-Talk webpage.

    We look forward to reading your submissions!

    Employability skills

    Employability skills

    2025 Psych-Talk Editor Raegan Shaw deep-dives into the skills you could gain when your work is featured in Psych-Talk. Discover how to make your CV stand out in the competitive field of Psychology through successful navigation of the publication process.

    As a self-driven psychology student, you may be looking for creative ways to showcase yourself as an outstanding candidate to future employers. Publishing your best work is a great solution to practically demonstrate a wide range of employability skills and strengthen post-graduate applications. 

    Here are some skills to add to your CV when your work is featured in Psych-Talk.

    Writing and communication

    Writing for Psych-Talk will demonstrate your ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely. In your article, you will structure logical arguments in an accessible way to engage with the Psych-Talk audience.

    Remember, Psych-Talk is created by students, for students. The aim is to inform and inspire your peers, while showcasing your best work to the wider Psychological workforce.

    Did you know? Psych-Talk is free to download for BPS student members.

    Critical thinking 

    Critical analysis is an essential scientific skill. A Psych-Talk article will prove your ability to evaluate the current body of research, identify limitations and generate alternative explanations for results. 

    You can use your evaluations to provide recommendations for how to overcome barriers in the industry: this could include suggestions for future research ideas or interventions.

    Time management

    Demonstrate to employers that you are prepared to go the extra mile! A Psych-Talk article will evidence that you can diligently balance busy student life with professional writing and successful navigation of the publication process. 

    Knowledge of your research field

    Specialising in a specific area of Psychology can be difficult to pursue, especially as students don't always have the freedom to choose assignment topics. 

    By taking the time to explore your chosen topic in-depth, you can show your true passion and extensive knowledge of the area you seek to specialise in. 

    Having published work in this area can really make your CV stand out to employers within your chosen field. 

    Literature review 

    Literature review is an integral part of any scientific writing, as you thoroughly review the latest research on a topic of your choice.

    In your article, you will consolidate a whole body of research literature into a cohesive and persuasive argument. This will signify to employers that you can effectively select relevant information from an expansive array of scientific findings. Furthermore, you can use the knowledge gained from the literature review in your article to both inform other students and enhance ongoing assignments.

    Experience with the publication and peer-review process

    Once your submission is received, a member of the editorial team will review your work. 

    Throughout this process, you will demonstrate that you can respond effectively to feedback and revise manuscripts according to a list of suggested edits. You will also be provided with forms to help you understand publishing copyrights and your retained rights as an author. 

    These are valuable skills that could pave the way for your work to be published in future academic journals.

    For more information about the peer-review process, email us at [email protected].

    Application of research ethics 

    As a psychology student, you will be familiar with the importance of ethics for both research and practice.

    Throughout your article, you can champion the BPS Code of Ethics and Conduct by discussing controversial or sensitive narratives with respect, competence, responsibility and integrity. 

    For more information, read the BPS Code of Ethics and Conduct.

    For a chance to be featured in an upcoming Psych-Talk issue, please email your article to [email protected].

    For further information or to read past Psych-Talk issues, visit us at BPS Explore.

    Could you be a Volunteer Student Ambassador?

    If you are studying on one of our accredited undergraduate or conversion courses, are passionate about psychology, supporting your fellow students and want to learn new skills, we would love for you to join us.

    Students laughing

    Do you want to represent the BPS at your university?

    We would love you to join us to support your fellow psychology students.

    Find out more about being a student ambassador

    Online volunteering and professional training recommendations

    We have noticed increased interest in gaining experience and undertaking volunteering roles online. See our list of recommended organisations as follows. 

    If you have any questions or would like further information, please contact the Membership team. 

    Online volunteering organisations

    The BPS also advertises job vacancies for psychology graduates, including roles, such as 'Assistant Psychologist' and 'Research Assistant'.

    View a full list of opportunities available Jobs in Psychology.  

    You may also like to visit one of the following organisations:

    Another option for gaining more experience could be to train as a Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner.

    The purpose of this area is to direct users to resources and guidelines that are available online. Inclusion should not be taken to imply endorsement.

    Student mental health

    Students experiencing racism

    Students with disabilities

    Careers and professional development

    How to ace job interviews

    The Division of Occupational Psychology has put together some top tips for job interviews to help you stand out from the crowd.

    You're studying hard, but how do you make sure you secure your dream job?

    Coming across well in a job interview is an important step towards your landing your perfect job, and there are lots of psychological tips to make sure you come out on top.

    Careers in psychology 2020

    On 21 November 2020, the society held an all-day online event aimed at helping our student members to explore their career options and learn about where psychology can take them.

    As well as exclusive keynote speakers and panel discussions the event also featured several Q&A sessions with representatives from various BPS member groups.

    Part 1

    • Welcome and introduction - Hazel McLaughlin, BPS President
    • My route into Clinical Psychology and Beyond - Dr Gemima Fitzgerald
    • The psychology of performance excellence - Dr Mustafa Sarkar CPsychol

    Part 2

    • Panel discussion - including practitioner psychologists, BPS student member and representative of the student committee and BPS staff from membership and education & training
    • Cognition and neuroscience: a day in the life - Dr Chris Street

    Part 3

    • Being a Forensic Psychologist: from the street to the laboratory - Professor Coral Dando
    • Speaker panel - a Q&A session with our expert keynote speakers

    Is Clinical Psychology for me?

    This free event for psychology students and recent graduates was designed to encourage students from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds to consider clinical psychology as a career

    The recording provides information about clinical psychology training programmes and sharing the experiences of BAME colleagues during training and as qualified clinical psychologists.

    Inspiring careers in Counselling Psychology 2020

    On 18 November 2020, the Division of Counselling Psychology Scotland held an online event aimed at those interested in, or thinking of, a career in Counselling Psychology.

    Participants heard from a number of professionals who work within a variety of settings such as the NHS, private settings and the third sector.

    Speakers included:

    • Dr Suzanne Roos, Consultant Psychologist & Professional Lead for Psychological Therapies, NHS Orkney
    • Dr Siân Clifford CPsychol., Chartered Counselling Psychologist
    • Dr Fani Papayianni, Counselling Psychologist
    • Ben Amponsah, BSc, PGDipl, GMBPsS, MBACP (Accred)

    So you want to work with children? online careers event

    On 10 September 2020, the East of England branch held an online careers event on what it takes to work with children in psychological settings.

    The event featured four speakers with psychology backgrounds who now work with children, each of whom presented a 'Day in the life of' segment describing what a typical day looks like in their role, and this was followed by a panel discussion.

    Professional development advice

    The society has produced a series of five short videos to highlight the importance of continued professional development (CPD) throughout your career,

    These videos providing advice on a variety of topics and answer some key questions, such as:

    • The value of professional development
    • Why is CPD important?
    • What are the benefits of engaging in CPD?
    • Advice to peers to encourage CPD engagement
    • How do you approach CPD?

    External careers resources

    PsychWeb

    PsychWeb is a UK network supporting aspiring Clinical Psychologists from underrepresented backgrounds to progress onto DClinPsy.

    Find out more about PsychWeb

    The Black Mind Initiative

    The Black Mind Initiative is a non-profit organisation which aims to educate, encourage, equip and engage with young Black individuals to increase representation within the mental health field.

    Find out more about The Black Mind Initiative

    The BPS Student Committee has established a bursary scheme to provide financial support of up to £150 (UK) to eligible university students, helping to cover travel or event-related expenses for British Psychological Society events or conferences.  

    Find out more about the Student Committee Bursary Scheme.

    Who can apply?

    To be eligible for the bursary, applicants must be student members of the British Psychological Society, and meet at least one of the following criteria: 

    • First in their family to attend university
    • Living in a low participation neighbourhood (where fewer people typically go to university)
    • A care leaver or estranged student
    • A student with a disability
    • From an ethnic minority background
    • An asylum seeker 

    Disclaimer: This list is not exhaustive. If you believe your circumstances align with the aims of this bursary but are not specifically mentioned, we still encourage you to apply. Each application will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

    What can the bursary be used for?

    The bursary can be used for: 

    • Travel costs for academic or career-related events, such as conferences, networking events, or research events, organised by the British Psychological Society.
    • Registration fees for relevant British Psychological Society events
    • Accommodation costs associated with attending the event (if applicable). 

    How to apply 

    1. Complete the online Application Form – Fill out the online application form with your details, eligibility criteria, and a brief statement on how the funding will benefit you.
    2. Submit your application – Applications should be submitted at least four weeks before the planned event or travel. Where applications are submitted after the event, we cannot guarantee your application will be successful.
    3. Await a Decision – Applications will be reviewed, and successful applicants will be notified within three weeks of submission. 

    Submit an application for a Student Committee Bursary

    Terms and Conditions

    • Funding is limited and will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis. The application form will close once all funds have been allocated.
    • The available funding can be accessed from 01 January 2025 to 31 December 2025, for events held within that timeframe.
    • Each student may submit only one bursary application per year. The maximum amount that can be requested is £150 (GBP). Your application must specify the requested amount with a detailed breakdown of costs.
    • The British Psychological Society (BPS) Careers Team can assist successful applicants with booking travel and/or accommodation. Alternatively, students may request reimbursement for their expenses, up to a maximum of £150 (GBP), by submitting the necessary proof of payment.
    • The bursary is intended solely for the participation in British Psychological Society events or conferences, including both in-person and online formats. The bursary can not be used for the BPS Psychology Careers Festival. 

    Contact Information

    Please contact Cat Bernet-Wilson, BPS Careers Manager on [email protected] if you have any questions.