At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students' emotional well-being through counselling and tailored therapeutic programmes.
- Company: Arco Academy, a unique independent school focused on holistic student development.
- Benefits: Make a real difference in young lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth and a chance to impact the future of students.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team dedicated to promoting mental health and well-being in education.
- Qualifications: Level 5 qualification in Counselling and 2 years' experience with adolescents required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Arco Academy is an independent alternative provision school in Camberwell, London, specialising in sports. We provide tailored education for students referred by mainstream schools and the Local Authority, with a strong focus on pastoral care and holistic development. We are seeking a dedicated School Counsellor and Lead Therapist to join our team. This role supports the emotional and mental well-being of our students, helping them navigate challenges and thrive both academically and personally.
Position: School Counsellor and Lead Therapist
Location: United Kingdom
Education Stage: Secondary
Qualifications: Level 5 qualification in Counselling or equivalent
Experience: Minimum experience: 2 years
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide individual and group counselling sessions to students.
- Develop therapeutic programmes tailored to student needs.
- Collaborate with teachers, parents, and external agencies to support student welfare.
- Lead initiatives promoting mental health awareness within the school community.
- Maintain accurate records while ensuring confidentiality.
Skills and Additional Qualifications:
- Minimum of 2 years' experience as a counsellor or therapist working with adolescents.
- Relevant professional qualification in counselling, psychotherapy or related field.
- Strong understanding of adolescent development and mental health issues.
- Excellent communication, listening, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Values and Attitudes:
- Empathy, patience, and genuine care for young people's wellbeing.
- Commitment to maintaining confidentiality with integrity.
- Proactive approach towards problem-solving with resilience under pressure.
- Respect for diversity including cultural sensitivity within the school community.
- Dedication to continuous professional development.
If you are passionate about making a positive impact on young lives through compassionate support services at Arco Academy, we encourage you to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role. The role is scheduled to commence in September 2026. Candidates who can start earlier should outline their availability in their expression of interest or cover letter, submitted to hr@arco.academy. The school reserves the right to close this advert early and appoint before the stated closing date should a suitable candidate be identified.
School Counsellor and Lead Therapist employer: Arco
Arco Academy is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing environment for professionals dedicated to the emotional and mental well-being of young people. Located in the vibrant community of Camberwell, London, we prioritise employee growth through continuous professional development and foster a collaborative work culture that values empathy and respect for diversity. Join us in making a meaningful impact on students' lives while enjoying the unique advantages of working in a specialised alternative provision school focused on holistic development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Counsellor and Lead Therapist
✨Connect Through Professional Networks
Join associations related to therapy and counselling, like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They often have job boards, events, and forums where you can meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Being active in these spaces can give you a significant edge.
✨Show Up at Local Mental Health Events
Look for workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on mental health in your area. Not only can you learn valuable insights, but you can also network with professionals who might be aware of full-time opportunities, like the ones at Arco. Plus, showing your passion for the field in person can leave a lasting impression.
✨Utilise Online Platforms Tailored to Counselling
Websites like TherapyJobs or Indeed specifically cater to therapy professionals. Make sure to check these regularly for new listings, and consider setting up alerts to stay ahead of the game. Plus, applying directly through these platforms can sometimes give you better visibility.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re recently graduated or still in school, don't forget to tap into your university's career resources. They often have exclusive listings for full-time positions and can help you refine your interview skills. Plus, they might connect you with alumni who’re already working at places like Arco.
We think you need these skills to ace School Counsellor and Lead Therapist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to showcase any relevant qualifications you've completed, such as a degree in psychology or counselling certifications. This is super important in the therapy and counselling field, so don’t skip over these details in your CV.
Showcase Your Empathy Skills:In your cover letter, it's essential to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills, which are key in therapy. Share specific examples from your previous experiences where you've effectively helped someone through a tough time—this will make your application stand out.
Demonstrate Your Continued Learning:We love seeing candidates who are committed to ongoing professional development. Mention any workshops, seminars, or additional training you’ve attended recently. This not only boosts your CV but shows your passion for the field.
Personalise Your Application for Arco:Take some time to research Arco and reflect this understanding in your application. Explain why you’re interested in working with them specifically and how your values align with their approach—this personal touch can make all the difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Arco
✨Show Your Empathy and Communication Skills
In therapy and counselling, it's all about how well you connect with others. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy, active listening, and non-verbal communication in past experiences. Your ability to create rapport with clients is key, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face some scenario-based questions that assess your practical skills in dealing with clients. Think of various client situations or challenges you've encountered or could encounter. Practice how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your problem-solving abilities and therapeutic techniques.
✨Highlight Your Continuing Education
Being in a full-time role in therapy means you need to stay updated with the latest techniques and theories. Mention any professional development courses you've taken recently, or plans you have for ongoing education. This shows that you’re committed to growth in your field and eager to help your clients with the best approaches.
✨Finesse Your Personal Statement
In therapy, your personal statement is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your qualifications. Tailor it to not just highlight your credentials but also your passion for helping others. Share personal stories or insights that led you to this profession, reinforcing why you'd be a great fit for Arco's values and approach.
