Joni Holmes

The University of East Anglia is offering a fully funded PhD studentship titled "Learning Beyond the Label: Enhancing Classroom Identification and Support for Children’s Wellbeing." This project, supervised by Professor Joni Holmes and Dr Elizabeth Byrne, aims to address the challenges faced by children in schools who require support for cognitive and socio-emotional difficulties. The research will use a mixed methods approach, drawing on psychology, health, and education to co-produce and validate a practical classroom tool for profiling children's needs and implementing evidence-informed strategies. The studentship includes a three-month integrated placement with collaborative partners such as More House School and NHS Trusts, providing hands-on experience in both educational and health service settings. This unique placement bridges NHS needs-led transformation and school-based practice, offering a systems-level perspective on how clinical pathways interface with classroom realities. The project is part of the South and East Network for Social Sciences (SENSS) Doctoral Training Partnership and aligns with the theme of Health, Wellbeing, and Social Care. Applicants should have a degree in Psychology or a related field and research experience. A passion for improving access to support for children in schools and needs-led approaches is essential. Experience working in schools with teachers or children is desirable. The studentship is open to both Home and International applicants, with full funding provided, including university fees and a stipend of £20,780 per year. Additional funding for training is available through the SENSS Research Training Support Grant. The minimum duration of the studentship is 3.5 years (PhD plus placement), with a maximum of 4.5 years if a Masters is included. Training will be tailored to the student's needs and provided by the supervisors, UEA, and partner organizations. The deadline for applications is 16 February 2026. For more information or to apply, visit the SENSS website or contact the supervisors directly.