Sport and Exercise Psychology Accreditation Route
Introduction and Pre-application Information
SEPAR Introduction
The purpose of the BASES Sport and Exercise Psychology Accreditation Route (SEPAR) is to ensure that candidates acquire the knowledge, skills and experience required to be eligible to apply for registration with the Health Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a Practitioner Psychologist. Once registered with the HCPC, members are able to use the protected title: Sport and Exercise Psychologist. The overarching aim of the SEPAR is to ensure that practitioners can work autonomously and are industry ready in that they will be able to integrate effectively into a a range of sport and/or exercise environments with a view to facilitate optimal involvement, performance and/or enjoyment in sport and exercise as well as support the development of mental health and well-being in client
For candidates interested in pursuing the SEPAR, please take time to thoroughly read the Qualification and Candidate Handbooks in particular. These are key resources which have been complied to help prospective candidates make informed and appropriate decisions before embarking on SEPAR. The information is very comprehensive and is important for individuals to be fully aware of, prior to submitting an application.
Please be aware that for some candidate's there will be additional information required to be reviewed and approved by BASES prior to an application being made. These are detailed in the Pre-application Process document below and refer to Pre-application Annexes 1 & 2 (for underpinning psychology evidence and for evidencing a non single-discipline MSc). The additional information can be submitted to BASES at any time of the year and in doing so outside of the application windows, will save time when it comes to processing your application.
If you are a candidate who falls into one of the categories below, please read Annex B: SEPAR pre-application checks, within the Qualification Handbook as there is additional information you will need to provide, prior to applying for SEPAR:
- A UK citizen who has spent some/all of the last 5 years living out of the UK?
- A UK citizen but currently living out of the UK
- A non-UK citizen currently living in the UK
- A non-UK citizen currently living out of the UK
BASES is aware that many members interested in undertaking the SEPAR may not currently meet the 'underpinning psychology knowledge' entry criteria (see section 2.0 Entry Requirements in the Qualification Handbook). We have therefore formed a collaboration with The Open University to offer a 60-credit module that will enable candidates to meet this entry requirement (note: candidates will need to complete this module before they can enrol on the SEPAR). Further details are available in the Open University: 'Investigating Psychology' module section below.
BASES members can apply to enrol on the SEPAR twice a year. BASES will be accepting SEPAR applications from 6 January to 1 February and 1 July to 1 August.
Candidates are required to complete the SEPAR Online Application Form by the application deadline. Candidates will be informed of their acceptance (or requirement to provide any further necessary information) within 4 weeks. Specific information regarding the application process and requirements can be found in the SEPAR Qualification Handbook.
Submit and pay for Annex 1 review
What are the Entry requirements?
To be eligible for enrolment onto the SEPAR it is necessary for candidates to provide evidence of the following:
- Minimum Graduate membership of BASES
- Confirmation that the applicant holds all necessary relevant qualifications:
- MSc Sport and/or Exercise Psychology
- Evidence of underpinning psychology knowledge (see Qualification Handbook for more details) - Where appropriate, evidence of a standard of proficiency in the English language to IELTS grade 7 (with no less than 6.5 in any area)
- Confirmation of a SEPAR Supervisor (see SEPAR Directory)
- Confirmation of professional indemnity cover.
Candidates are also required to undergo a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check when they apply to enrol on SEPAR. Confirmation of enrolment will not be granted until the DBS check is complete.
More detailed information can be found in the SEPAR Qualification Handbook.
Updated SEPAR Candidate Documents (Post-August 2023)
Handbooks & Guidance
SEPAR Qualification Handbook 2025 onwards - V8
SEPAR Qualification Handbook 2023/2024 - V7
SEPAR Candidate Handbook - V3
SEPAR Practice Placement Handbook - V1
SEPAR APEC Handbook - V1
Conflict of Interest Meeting Record
Portfolio Guidance Video
(All candidate and supervisor names in the examples within this video are pseudonyms, any likeness to real individuals is coincidental)
Essential Documents for Portfolio Submissions
All submission timepoints
SEPAR Practice Log (submit new log for each submission)
SEPAR CPD & Supervision Log (submit new log for each submission)
SEPAR Dissemination & Citizenship Log (submit new log for each submission)
SEPAR Observation Log (submit new log for each submission)
SEPAR Core workshops Log (cumulative log across all submissions)
SEPAR Themed Reflection
SERAR Single Reflection Templates (candidate can choose which to use)
- SEPAR Reflective Practice Template 1
- SEPAR Reflective Practice Template 2
- SEPAR Reflective Practice Template 3
- SEPAR Reflective Practice Template 4
- SEPAR Reflective Practice Template - Unstructured
SEPAR CPD Reflection Sheet
SEPAR Observation Form
SEPAR Quarterly Review report
SEPAR Therapeutic Risk Assessment
Initial Submission
SEPAR Initial Submission Checklist
SEPAR Initial Competency Profile - Knowledge
SEPAR Initial Competency Profile - Skills
SEPAR Initial Competency Profile - Self
SEPAR Initial Competency Profile - Experience
SEPAR Action Plan (Initial & Mid-point submissions)
SEPAR Professional Philosophy Reflection
SEPAR Backdated Hours Log (If applicable)
Mid-Point Submission
SEPAR Mid-point Submission Checklist
SEPAR Mid-point Competency Profile - Knowledge
SEPAR Mid-point Competency Profile - Skills
SEPAR Mid-point Competency Profile - Self
SEPAR Mid-point Competency Profile - Experience
SEPAR Action Plan (Initial & Mid-point submissions)
SEPAR Professional Philosophy Reflection - Mid-point
SEPAR Case Study - Mid-Point Template
SEPAR Client Reference Template
Final Submission
SEPAR Final Submission Checklist
SEPAR Final Competency Profile - Knowledge
SEPAR Final Competency Profile - Skills
SEPAR Final Competency Profile - Self
SEPAR Final Competency Profile - Experience
SEPAR Action Plan (Final)
SEPAR Professional Philosophy Reflection - Final
SEPAR Case Study - Final Template
SEPAR Client-Practitioner Relationship Case Study - Final Template
SEPAR Client Reference Template
Optional Documents that can be used as candidates wish
Monitoring and Evaluation Sheet (relates to competency 2.6.1 - 2.6.4)
Psychological Demands Analysis Sheet (relates to competency 2.2.1)
SEPAR Candidate Documents (Pre-August 2023)
Handbooks
SEPAR Practice Placement Handbook
Forms and Templates for Standard SEPAR
SEPAR Competency Profile - Initial
SEPAR Competency Profile - Mid-Point
SEPAR Competency Profile - Final
SEPAR Professional Philosophy Report Template - Initial
SEPAR Professional Philosophy Report Template - Mid-Point
SEPAR Professional Philosophy Report Template - End-Point
Forms and Templates for APEC SEPAR
SEPAR APEC Competency Profile - Initial
SEPAR APEC Competency Profile - Final
SEPAR APEC Professional Philosophy Report Template
Forms and Templates for all SEPAR
SEPAR Candidate Annual Review Form
SEPAR General Reflection Sheet
SEPAR Psychological Demands Analysis sheet
SEPAR CPD Activity Evaluation sheet
SEPAR CPD and Supervisor-led Activity log
SEPAR Dissemination and Citizenship Activity log
SEPAR Monitoring and Evaluation Sheet
SEPAR Reflective Practice Template 1
SEPAR Reflective Practice Template 2
SEPAR Reflective Practice Template 3
SEPAR Reflective Practice Template 4
SEPAR Case Study - Mid-Point Template
SEPAR Case Study - End-Point Template
SEPAR Client-Practitioner Relationship Case Study - End-Point Template
SEPAR APEC Candidate Documents
APEC Update
28 May 2024
When the Sport and Exercise Psychology Accreditation Route (SEPAR) was developed, an Accreditation of Prior Experiential Competence (APEC) route way was developed for those with alternative, yet relevant, professional qualifications (e.g., BASES, AASP, APS, APA) and who had significant experience within sport and exercise psychology delivery, to complete their registration within a shorter timeframe, but still meeting the HCPC criteria.
Given that SEPAR is now 4 years old, many of those who were in the position to complete their SEPAR journey via APEC have already either started the qualification or, indeed, completed it. The decision was made and advertised back in September 2022 that the APEC route to completion of SEPAR will be withdrawn. The final enrolment for APEC candidates will be July 2024.
SEPAR APEC Handbook
Forms and Templates for APEC SEPAR
SEPAR APEC Competency Profile - Initial
SEPAR APEC Competency Profile - Final
SEPAR APEC Professional Philosophy Report Template
Forms and Templates for all SEPAR
SEPAR General Reflection Sheet
SEPAR Psychological Demands Analysis sheet
SEPAR CPD Activity Evaluation sheet
SEPAR CPD and Supervisor-led Activity log
SEPAR Dissemination and Citizenship Activity log
SEPAR Monitoring and Evaluation Sheet
SEPAR Reflective Practice Template 1
SEPAR Reflective Practice Template 2
SEPAR Reflective Practice Template 3
SEPAR Reflective Practice Template 4
SEPAR Case Study - Mid-Point Template
SEPAR Case Study - End-Point Template
SEPAR Client-Practitioner Relationship Case Study - End-Point Template
The Open University: 'Investigating Psychology 2' module
For members who may be interested in the SEPAR, but currently do not meet the necessary entry requirements in relation to evidencing "underpinning psychology knowledge", BASES has collaborated with The Open University to offer a 60-credit module that will provide the underpinning knowledge required to meet the SEPAR entry criteria.
Course Provider: The Open University
Module Title: Investigating Psychology 2
Module Code: DE200
Course Duration: The September enrolment course will complete June/July. The February enrolment course will complete November/December.
Cost: Course fee's for the DE200 module vary depending on which country within the United Kingdom you are a resident of:
- England/RoI: £3,636*
- Scotland: £1,188*
- Wales: £1,312*
- Northern Ireland: £1,159*
- EU/Other non UK: £3,636*
* Please note that fee's were updated 15 May 2024 in accordance with the Open University.
Course Details: Please click here to view the DE200 Module flyer from the Open University with further course information.
Module Payment information: The following link will take you the Open University webpage for information about OUSBA (the Open University Student Budget Account Ltd) which is essentially a loan system offered by the Open University to pay by instalments, employer sponsorship, cred/debit card or a mixture of these; http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/fees-and-funding. Please note that BASES does not deal with any payments for the DE200 module.
Entry requirements: Candidates must have completed an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject (i.e. sport and/or exercise science-related) and have completed a Sport and/or Exercise Psychology Masters course.
How to register: From June 2024, the Open University introduced a second intake for the Investigating Psychology 2 module, the new date being a February start.
You can submit a request for an application pack to be sent to you, for either enrolment dates, by completing an expression of interest form; Investigating Psychology 2 expression of interest form.
For the September enrolment/course this can be made between 1 January and 1 June
For the February enrolment/course this can be between 1 June and 1 November.
BASES does not receive application
forms from the OU until approx June and November, so is unable to send them out to potential
applicants until after this time. The application documents will be emailed out when they have been
made available to BASES by the OU. Please note the expression of interest
forms will not be processed until after 1 June and 1 November therefore you will not hear anything
from BASES regarding these forms, prior to this time.
Applications will need to be submitted online via a link which will be sent with the application forms and will carry a £20 non refundable administration fee.
How long does SEPAR take?
The length of the qualification will
primarily depend on the time that the candidate is able to dedicate to the
qualification and the competencies that require development. As such, the SEPAR
is planned to be either 2, 3, or 4-years in duration. Please see section 2.0. Qualification process: Enrolment to HCPC eligibility in the Qualification handbook for detailed information on choosing the SEPAR duration and choosing the SEPAR pathway.
It is suggested that candidates discuss the intended qualification time with their supervisor(s) before stipulating the intended duration of their ‘SEPAR Application document’.
There may be some exceptional circumstances whereby candidates can request Accreditation of Prior Experiential Competence (APEC) for up to half of the full SEPAR process (i.e., this is based on the 2-year registration). Any request for APEC must be made when the candidate enrols to the SEPAR.
Finding a SEPAR Supervisor
You can search for an Approved SEPAR Supervisor on the SEPAR Directory
To qualify for inclusion on the ‘Approved SEPAR Supervisor’ list, supervisors must have adhered to the necessary SEPAR Supervisor training requirements and be registered with the HCPC as a Sport and Exercise Psychologist.
Further information can be found in the SEPAR Qualification Handbook Section 2.9 and in the SEPAR Supervisor Handbook.
Supervisors, Reviewers and External Examiners Information
SEPAR Supervisors
In becoming a supervisor for the SEPAR, supervisors hold responsibility for guiding and supporting the candidate to develop as a practitioner, and for quality assuring candidates’ practice to ensure ethical and professional boundaries are maintained. This process begins prior to enrolment and continues to the point at which the candidate is confirmed to be eligible to apply for HCPC registration.
To maintain the quality of the SEPAR experience, supervisors are expected to ensure the following:
- Maintain, and develop knowledge of contemporary supervision frameworks (to include the BASES SEPAR Supervision Framework) relevant to the delivery of effective supervision.
- Be a role model for candidates with regards to (but not limited to): managing and developing effective professional relationships; time management; maintaining confidentiality; gaining and acting upon feedback; listening and communication skills; demonstrating accountability; and, ethical practice.
- Engage in reflective practice and continuous professional development for the purposes of developing and refining supervisory skills, evaluating candidates’ on-going development, and understanding and managing the changing nature of the supervisory relationship and expectations regarding the supervisor’s role.
To become a SEPAR Supervisor, you will need to meet the following criteria:
- be registered with the HCPC as Sport and Exercise Psychologist;
- be a BASES professional member;
- complete all of the necessary ‘SEPAR Supervisor training’ and attend refresher supervisor training as and when required.
If you are interested in becoming a SEPAR Supervisor, please complete and submit the SEPAR Supervisor Application Form.
The documents below provide further information about the role of a SEPAR Supervisor, the qualification requirements of SEPAR and the expectations of Candidates. Please familiarise yourselves with these as well as the template documents:
SEPAR Supervisor Handbook - August 2023
SEPAR Qualification Handbook - August 2023
SEPAR Candidate Handbook - August 2023
SEPAR Practice Placement Handbook
SEPAR Portfolio Guidance Reflections Worksheet - New
Portfolio Guidance Video - New
(All candidate and supervisor names in the examples within this video are pseudonyms, any likeness to real individuals is coincidental)
Requirements of Supervisors and Reviewers following the SEPAR Review - August 2023
Due to the fundamental changes that have been made within the SEPAR Reviewer, to keep in line with the HCPC requirements of ongoing training, and as per the email sent 4 August, all supervisors and reviewers are required to familiarise themselves fully with the new processes and documents. The two actions which are required of all supervisors is:
1. Watch the SEPAR Portfolio Guidance Video (~1.5 hours) and familiarise yourself with the new documentation (including the new Candidate Handbook, Qualification Handbook and respective Supervisor/Reviewer Handbooks). You must then complete the “SEPAR portfolio guidance supervisor/reviewer reflection” worksheet (above) to evidence your learning from the Portfolio Guidance Video and return to education@BASES.org.uk by Tuesday 19 September. Please put “SEPAR portfolio guidance reflection” in the subject header.
2. Attend one of two supervisor/reviewer workshops with Dr Paula Watson (SEPAR consultant who led the review) to hear an overview of the key changes and what these will mean for your supervision / reviewing. The dates, times and Zoom links for these workshops are as follows:
Monday 21st August, 1pm - 2.30pm https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8868...
Thursday 7th September, 2pm - 3.30pm https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8691...
If you are unable to make either of these dates, please e-mail education@BASES.org.uk ASAP and a recording of the workshop presentation will be sent to you, along with a reflective worksheet to complete before Tuesday 19 September 2023 to evidence your learning. We do however encourage you to attend a workshop as it will be interactive and more beneficial to you. It is essential you complete both tasks 1 & 2 before Tuesday 19 September 2023 if you wish to continue supervising and/or reviewing for SEPAR.
Supervisor Forms and Templates
SEPAR Supervisor Registration form - Updated August 2023 (for Candidate application)
SEPAR Supervisor Report Form - Initial - Updated August 2023
SEPAR Supervisor Report Form - Mid-Point - Updated August 2023
SEPAR Supervisor Report Form - End-Point -Updated August 2023
SEPAR APEC Supervisor Report Form - Initial
SEPAR APEC Supervisor Report Form - End Point
Conflict of Interest Meeting Record - New (for use if ever required)
SEPAR Reviewers
It is a requirement for all candidates to have 2 reviewers throughout their SEPAR journey. Reviewers will be required to assess candidates competence at the initial, mid, and final stages of the SEPAR process and conduct a 1-hour mid-point meeting (via e.format) to discuss progress; reviewers will receive payment for each assessment point.
The role of a SEPAR reviewer is:
- to support candidates’ formative development and ensure they are on track to complete SEPAR;
- to ensure candidates meet the required SEPAR standards and adhere to the BASES code of conduct;
- (at the final submission stage) to determine whether candidates have reached the required level of proficiency to be fit to practise as an independent Sport and Exercise Psychologist and to apply for registration with the HCPC.
Reviewer responsibilities include:
- Following a candidate through to the end of the SEPAR process;
- Supporting the candidate’s process of development through provision of a professional perspective that is independent from that of the supervisor;
- Providing feedback in a timely manner that is appropriately detailed, constructive and developmental in nature;
- Signposting candidates, where appropriate, to additional sources of knowledge or CPD that might be beneficial to their particular needs;
- Offering candidates and supervisors opportunity for clarification of feedback
The documents below provide further information about the role of a SEPAR Reviewer, the qualification requirements of SEPAR and the expectations of Candidates. Please familiarise yourselves with these as well as the template documents:
SEPAR Reviewer Handbook - Updated August 2023
SEPAR Qualification Handbook - Updated August 2023
SEPAR Candidate Handbook - Updated August 2023
SEPAR Practice Placement Handbook - New
SEPAR Portfolio Guidance Reflection Worksheet - New
Portfolio Guidance Video - New
(All candidate and supervisor names in the examples within this video are pseudonyms, any likeness to real individuals is coincidental)
Requirements of Supervisors and Reviewers following the SEPAR Review - August 2023
Due to the fundamental changes that have been made within the SEPAR Reviewer, to keep in line with the HCPC requirements of ongoing training, and as per the email sent 4 August, all supervisors and reviewers are required to familiarise themselves fully with the new processes and documents. The two actions which are required of all supervisors is:
1. Watch the SEPAR Portfolio Guidance Video (~1.5 hours) and familiarise yourself with the new documentation (including the new Candidate Handbook, Qualification Handbook and respective Supervisor/Reviewer Handbooks). You must then complete the “SEPAR portfolio guidance supervisor/reviewer reflection” worksheet (above) to evidence your learning from the Portfolio Guidance Video and return to education@BASES.org.uk by Tuesday 19 September. Please put “SEPAR portfolio guidance reflection” in the subject header.
2. Attend one of two supervisor/reviewer workshops with Dr Paula Watson (SEPAR consultant who led the review) to hear an overview of the key changes and what these will mean for your supervision / reviewing. The dates, times and Zoom links for these workshops are as follows:
Monday 21st August, 1pm - 2.30pm https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8868...
Thursday 7th September, 2pm - 3.30pm https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8691...
If you are unable to make either of these dates, please e-mail education@BASES.org.uk ASAP and a recording of the workshop presentation will be sent to you, along with a reflective worksheet to complete before Tuesday 19 September 2023 to evidence your learning. We do however encourage you to attend a workshop as it will be interactive and more beneficial to you. It is essential you complete both tasks 1 & 2 before Tuesday 19 September 2023 if you wish to continue supervising and/or reviewing for SEPAR.
To become a SEPAR Reviewer, you will need to meet the following criteria:
- be registered with the HCPC as a Sport and Exercise Psychologist;
- be a BASES professional member;
- complete all of the necessary ‘SEPAR Reviewer training’ and attend refresher reviewer training as and when required;
- support a supervisee through to the end of the SEPAR process.
If you are interested in becoming a SEPAR Reviewer, please register your interest here.
Reviewer Forms and Templates
Review Process Flowchart - New
Reviewer Report Form - Updated August 2023
Reviewer Report Form (Re-submission) - New
Reviewer Candidate Tracking template - New
Conflict of Interest Meeting Record - New (for use if ever required)
Reviewer Claim Form - Updated August 2023
External Examiners
Interested in becoming a SEPAR External Examiner?
To meet the HCPC requirements for quality assurance monitoring, there will be two external examiners appointed to the SEPAR. The external examiners will need to hold registration as Practitioner Psychologists with the HCPC and be prepared to serve for an appointment period of 4 years (where there will be a requirement to submit one annual report and attend one committee meeting per year).
It is preferred that the external examiner team will comprise one individual who typically fulfils an academic-practitioner role, with another who has an independent/self-employed practitioner roles.
If you are interested in becoming a SEPAR external examiner, please express your interest to the SEPAR lead, Professor Richard Thelwell (richard.thelwell@port.ac.uk).
SEPAR Supervisor and Reviewer Testimonials
Laura Carey
Why I chose to become a BASES SEPAR Supervisor and / or Reviewer?
I chose to become a BASES SEPAR Supervisor and Reviewer as I am keen to promote the training and development of new Sport and Exercise Psychologists, particularly in a training route that actively encourages observation and open dialogue between the trainee, supervisor and reviewers. I believe this route is much more accessible to sport and exercise science graduates. I think having a background in sport and exercise science can be very useful when working as part of a multidisciplinary team.
My reflections on the experience so far?
The experience so far has been a positive one. The process is new, but people are keen to learn and support each other. I have found it to be a rewarding experience and I also know from speaking to trainees that they feel the same. The CPD workshops and modules have been very useful and this is a great benefit.
Why others should take up the training and become a Registered Supervisor and /or Reviewer.
I believe the support from the committee is fantastic. I do believe the process of supervising and/or reviewing benefits the profession and helps the profession to continue to grow and evolve.
Dr Amy Whitehead
Reader (Associate Prof) in Sport Psychology and Coaching at Liverpool John Moores University.
Why I chose to become a BASES SEPAR Supervisor and / or Reviewer?
I'm both a supervisor and reviewer. BASES have set up a fantastic SEPAR programme which takes into the account the holistic role of the sport and exercise psychologist. As a result, I was excited to be part of a very supportive and innovative programme as a supervisor and reviewer and support future Sport and Exercise Psychologists in Training to embark and be successful on their journey.
My reflections on the experience so far?
BASES and the staff that have developed the programme have done a fantastic job in creating a world leading training programme. As both a suprervisor and reviewer I have been immensely supported by BASES to ensure I am doing a good job and providing my supervisee's with the appropriate support. The candidates I supervise are all on different stages of their journey, however, regardless of which stage candidates are at, BASES have a fantastic suite of online courses and workshops that supplement their education and their progression.
Why others should take up the training and become a Registered Supervisor and /or Reviewer
The whole process is straight forward and the training is extremely informative yet not too onerous. There is a fantastic support group around you as both a supervisor and reviewer and I always feel supported and confident to support my candidates. The whole process has been extremely rewarding and I thoroughly enjoy supporting my trainee's through this programme.
David Charlton
Managing Director of Inspiring Sporting Excellence and Applied Sport and Exercise Psychologist, David Charlton
Why I chose to become a BASES SEPAR Supervisor and Reviewer?
The reason I chose to become a BASES SEPAR Supervisor and Reviewer was so that I could make a positive impact on the career progression of young and up and coming Sport and Exercise Psychologists, as well as on the field as a whole.
My reflections on the experience so far?
As a SEPAR Supervisor and Reviewer there is an extensive network who are there to guide you in every step of the process which has been hugely helpful.
Why others should take up the training and become a Registered Supervisor and /or Reviewer.
As well as having a positive contribution to the field as a whole, for your own professional development I have found that I’ve learned so much from peers, as well as my supervisee’s which has made me a much better Sport and Exercise Psychologist and person.
Dr Paula Watson
Senior Lecturer in Exercise & Health Psychology, Liverpool John Moores University. Independent Exercise Psychologist, Made Up To Move Ltd
Paula is a SEPAR supervisor representative. Anyone who would like an informal chat about SEPAR supervision is welcome to contact Paula at p.m.watson@ljmu.ac.uk
Why I chose to become a BASES SEPAR Supervisor
I’m really interested in the development of the “exercise” component of applied sport and exercise psychology, and I recently moved to a part-time contract in my academic post to develop my own independent exercise psychology company (www.madeuptomove.co.uk). Supporting the development of the profession is really important to me, and when I heard about the opportunity to supervise on the BASES SEPAR pathway it was a no brainer.
My reflections on the experience so far
The experience for me has been far more than simply another supervision. Like anything, it is about what you put into it – but being a SEPAR supervisor has given me opportunities to further develop my supervision skills, to build new collaborations, and to engage in CPD. As a SEPAR supervisor you have access to BASES educational resources, such as the newly released mental health modules, and there are always further opportunities to get involved with BASES for those who are keen.
There are several things I like about SEPAR (when compared with other training routes):
a)SEPAR focuses on applied practice and essential skills needed to become an independent practitioner. There is great emphasis on practice hours and applied skill development, with progress being assessed by case studies and critical reflection. The supervisory relationship and observation is central to this process, and this is given structure through a minimum requirement for formal meetings and supervisory observations (two-way).
b)SEPAR is inclusive. High quality sport and exercise psychologists may come from multiple backgrounds, and SEPAR provides an accessible pathway for those coming via sport and exercise science degrees, for international candidates, and for those who do not fit the rigid criteria for other training routes.
c)SEPAR gives exercise equal status to sport. Physical activity and exercise psychology is a growing area of interest, but too often exercise psychology is an “add-on” to sport psychology courses. SEPAR is forward-thinking in allowing an exercise-only pathway, and in requiring candidates who choose the sport and exercise psychology pathway to evidence knowledge and experiences from both sport and exercise. Both aspects will help our future sport and exercise psychology workforce become more balanced, and help us promote the value of psychology in the world of physical activity and health.
Why others should take up the training and become a Registered Supervisor
I would encourage anyone who is a HCPC-registered Sport and Exercise Psychologist to get involved. We particularly need supervisors willing to supervise in either “sport and exercise” or “exercise psychology only”, since an increasing number of candidates are coming to the qualification with an interest in exercise and physical activity psychology. If you are working as an academic exercise psychologist, please don’t let the fact you don’t practice put you off - if you have an applied knowledge of exercise and physical activity psychology and would like to support the development of the field, your expertise is needed!
Why I chose to become a BASES SEPAR Reviewer
I had already enrolled as a SEPAR supervisor, and it seemed logical to me to also contribute as a reviewer. As a reviewer you assess the work of multiple SEPAR candidates, which improves your understanding of the SEPAR process and helps you develop your own supervisory skills.
My reflections on the experience so far
My experience as a reviewer has been very positive. As expected, it has improved my understanding of the SEPAR process and informed by own supervision in giving me a better idea of where other candidates are at, and what is expected of candidates at each stage.
As an exercise psychologist, it is also interesting for me to review candidates who are on the sport and exercise psychology and sport psychology only pathways. Perhaps an unexpected benefit of reviewing has been the opportunity to work and to learn from other HCPC-registered psychologists (you review in pairs), many of whom I did not previously know. In this year alone, my sport and exercise psychology network has grown extensively and I have developed fruitful collaborations that I know will be long-lasting.
Why others should take up the training and become a Registered Reviewer
Reviewing for SEPAR can be an interesting and meaningful experience, and can help with your own development (if you allow it to). What I particularly like about SEPAR is the openness of the review process. You stay with a candidate throughout their journey and you are introduced to them (virtually) at the start. Reciprocal communication between trainees, supervisors and reviewers is encouraged, and I feel this greatly enhances the development process for the trainee. Perhaps I should mention also…there is fair remuneration for each review you do!
David Priestley
Why I chose to become a BASES SEPAR Supervisor and / or Reviewer?
Having been through SEPAR APEC myself, I wanted to help others with their development in a pathway that is balanced but rigorous. I am especially attracted to the transparent community of reviewing and communicating between supervisors, reviewers and the candidate.
Dr.
Lisa O'Halloran BSc(Hons),
MSc, PhD, HCPC, FHEA, CSci
Why I chose to become a BASES SEPAR Reviewer?
I chose to become a BASES SEPAR Reviewer so that I could make a positive impact on the development of practitioners. Having completed SEPAR APEC, I also wanted to help to support the profession as we venture into this exciting new SEPAR era. Further to this, I was aware that Reviewers receive training, support amongst the supervision/reviewer community and CPD credits. I felt as though it was a great opportunity for me to be part of a shared team where I can network and continue to learn new skills.
My reflections on the experience so far?
My experience as a Reviewer so far has been a really positive one. Each SEPAR candidate is assigned 2 reviewers and I feel that this helps to make the review process supportive, transparent and rigorous. I have found the Reviewer training very beneficial. The process that Reviewers must follow is outlined clearly from start to finish in the documentation and this has helped to make it really straight forward for me to settle into this new role.
Why others should take up the training and become a Registered Supervisor and /or Reviewer?
We have entered into an exciting new era for the field of Sport and Exercise Psychology with the SEPAR. It is a wonderful time to be associated with such a momentous development in how practitioners can gain access to HCPC register. Being involved as a Reviewer is an opportunity to develop new skills, network in a supportive community of practitioners who are also SEPAR Reviewers, be a positive addition in the development of upcoming SEPAR candidates and to give something back to the profession.
Information for BASES Accredited members and members on Supervised Experience
It is acknowledged that there are a number of individuals who are BASES Accredited, or are currently undertaking the BASES Supervised Experience scheme, who do not conform to the eligibility requirements to apply directly for HCPC registration as a Practitioner Psychologist and would like guidance on how the SEPAR may enable eligibility for registration with the HCPC.
The guidance notes below outline the options for BASES members who are Accredited or on the Supervised Experience scheme who are interested in HCPC registration.
SEPAR guidance notes for BASES Accredited members and members on Supervised Experience
BASES Assistance Support for Candidates on Supervised Experience and SEPAR
BASES offers to support members on either Supervised Experience (SE) or SEPAR, the Sport and Exercise Psychology Accreditation Route, who are in financial difficulty. The Assistance Fund is capped at £1,000 per year in total.
Financial Assistance will be considered, on a case-by-case basis to contribute (up to 50%) to core learning activities taking place over the next six months or so (from the date of application).
Applicants must be:
- current BASES members; and
- enrolled on BASES Supervised Experience or SEPAR; and
- in genuine hardship or financial insecurity inhibiting their training.
Support will be prioritised for candidates facing genuine financial hardship.
The fund will be open from May 2024 until the total fund has been allocated. A new fund will then hopefully be available from April 2025.
Only one successful application can be made per person in a 12-month period.
Details of the assistance programme can be found here.
To apply, SE or SEPAR candidates must submit a completed application form (via this link).
(Updated Sept 2024)
BASES code of conduct
All BASES members must abide by the The BASES Code of Conduct. This states that “Members must ensure that suitable insurance indemnity cover is in place for all areas of work that they undertake”.