At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people aged 11-18 in schools, enhancing their self-esteem and emotional awareness.
- Company: ASCERT, a supportive organisation focused on youth wellbeing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, and part-time hours for work-life balance.
- Other info: Fixed-term maternity cover with potential for growth in a rewarding role.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in counselling and a passion for helping young people thrive.
The predicted salary is between 29848 - 29848 £ per year.
We are currently looking to expand our team and are recruiting for the following position: Counsellor (HOPE Schools Counselling service) (Maternity Cover). As a counsellor within ASCERT's Services, you will be part of a multidisciplinary team that provides services within a school setting. The Holistic Options for Promoting Resilience Schools (HOPE) Counselling service helps young people improve self-esteem, access to care, less interruption in learning, increased quality of everyday life and relationships, strengthening the use of their emotions, and increased self-awareness.
You will provide confidential support to young people aged 11 - 18 within a schools environment using your skills and knowledge in working safely and ethically and practising within relevant Competency Frameworks and Standards in counselling.
- RESPONSIBLE TO: Service Manager
- LOCATION: Based within key post primary schools in the Mid Ulster area.
- LENGTH OF POST: Fixed Term maternity cover until September 2027.
- HOURS: From 6.25 hours per week, Part-year 38 week contract
- SALARY: £29,848 pro rata per annum (FTE for 35 hour contract, 52 weeks per year) Plus 4% Pension
Please send your CV along with the completed forms by 12 noon on Wednesday 23rd September 2026. Full job pack can be found at ASCERT are an equal opportunities employer.
School Counsellor employer: ASCERT
ASCERT is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people and families affected by substance use and mental health issues. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, ASCERT offers generous benefits including 28 days of annual leave, a supportive hybrid working environment, and opportunities for professional development through training and staff recognition programmes. Working from the Omagh office and across the Western Health & Social Care Trust area, employees are part of a collaborative and inclusive culture that values diversity and fosters personal growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Counsellor
✨Get Involved in Local Mental Health Initiatives
Join local mental health organisations and initiatives to immerse yourself in the community. Volunteering at workshops or support groups can not only boost your experience but also help you make valuable connections that might lead to part-time roles. It’s all about getting your name out there!
✨Attend Networking Events and Workshops
Keep an eye on workshops and networking events specifically for therapy and counselling professionals. These gatherings are prime opportunities to meet potential employers, hear about job openings, and engage in meaningful conversations with industry peers. Who knows who you might bump into!
✨Showcase Your Skills Online
Create a professional online presence highlighting your counselling approach and experiences. Consider starting a blog or sharing insights on social media about therapy methods. This can attract attention from local companies like ASCERT who are looking for someone like you for their part-time needs.
✨Directly Approach Local Clinics
Don't be shy about reaching out directly to clinics or counselling practices in your area. Many part-time roles are filled without ever being advertised. A friendly email introducing yourself and expressing interest in potential opportunities at ASCERT can sometimes lead to the job you’ve been dreaming of!
We think you need these skills to ace School Counsellor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Compassionate Side:In the therapy and counselling professions, it's crucial to convey your empathy and understanding in your application. Your CV should highlight any relevant volunteer work or experience in helping roles. Let’s face it, potential employers want to see that you can connect with clients, so showcase those soft skills front and centre!
Include Your Credentials:For a part-time role in therapy or counselling, it’s essential to demonstrate your qualifications. Make sure to include any degrees, certifications, or workshops that are relevant to the position. If you’ve completed specific training in mental health or counselling techniques, don’t skip those; they can set you apart from others.
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Your cover letter is the perfect place to express your interest in working part-time and highlight your passion for helping others. Talk about why you’re drawn to ASCERT and how the part-time role fits into your career path. We're looking for a genuine connection, so let your personality shine through!
Availability Matters:Since this is a part-time role, clearly outline your availability in your application. Be honest about the hours you can commit, and consider mentioning if you have any flexibility. This helps ASCERT see how you can fit into their schedule and be a valuable addition to the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at ASCERT
✨Know Your Theoretical Frameworks
It's crucial for us to brush up on the therapy techniques and theoretical frameworks relevant to this field. Be prepared to discuss how you apply them in practice—think about specific case studies from your training that highlight your approach. This not only shows your understanding but also helps you connect with your potential clients at ASCERT.
✨Practice Your Active Listening Skills
Since we're diving into therapy and counselling, active listening is our bread and butter. You might face role-play scenarios during the interview, so make sure to showcase your ability to listen and respond empathetically. Demonstrating this skill can make all the difference in how we're perceived as future therapists.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility With Clients
In a part-time role, we often deal with a diverse client base, so it’s important to showcase our adaptability. Be ready to discuss how you can tailor your therapeutic approach to fit different client needs. Sharing any past experiences—whether from internships or coursework—will provide great insights to ASCERT about your versatility.
✨Prepare Your Questions on Working with Diverse Populations
Part-time roles can sometimes mean working with a variety of clients from different backgrounds. Think of specific questions to ask about how ASCERT supports inclusivity and handles diverse cases. This not only highlights your interest but also shows that you’ve thought ahead about client dynamics and your role within them.
