Thread by @saiqa_naz

I attended an Clincal Psychology  training open day today for BAME people. Here are my initial reflections.

I went with an open mind, curious about whether I can learn anything that may help me with my @BABCP
Work.

Would like other people's perspectives too please 🙂

 1/11

1) One application form for different courses, with different selection criteria, with different emphasis on what each course is looking for. Some veer more towards clinical experience and some research. See the issue here? Some found this confusing today.  2/11

2) The application form asks for ethnicity etc, but this is hidden during shortlisting. One of the suggestions today was to introduce a quota system for those underrepresented in the profession.
3/11

3) The process doesn't acknowledge individual's personal journeys which may have disadvantaged them, yet in psychology we talk about idiosyncratic formulations etc. Sounds contradictory to me!
4/11

4) I raised the issue that many psych undergraduate students are from minority backgrounds, then why are they not entering the profession? Maybe training courses need to create better links with unis and colleges to share the info' they shared today earlier on in the process?5/11

4 cont) With a bit more guidance and mentoring, students can plan ahead and be a bit more strategic by making more informed career choices-knowledge is power right?
6/11

5) Concerned any training course would think their pre-selection interview tests are an accurate way of messuring someone's intelligence, competency and potential. I thought we had moved past these? I once completed these tests at @UEL_News . It was disgusting! 🤢
7/11

5 cont) After 3hrs, I felt that they learnt nothing about me. I was disappointed that their selection process wasn't reflective of what appeared to be an inclusive course- something which I've heard they pride themselves upon.
8/11

6) Moving towards a more values based process might be more helpful. Yes it may take a little longer, but it's worth it if you get a wider representation.

9/11

Quick tip- Add some compassion and empathy to the interview. Ask people at the beginning of the interview if they feel there is anything happening in their lives which may impact upon their performance that day. It will help you and they will appreciate you for it!
10/11

I end this thread with this quote a colleague reminded me of recently and was brought up again today. 🤦🏽

11/11