At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide emotional and wellbeing support to students through counselling sessions.
- Company: Join a top Multi-Academy Trust in a friendly school environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy comprehensive training, generous benefits, and lifestyle perks.
- Other info: Flexible working opportunities and a commitment to equality and diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Hold a L4 Diploma in School-Based Child Counselling or equivalent experience.
The predicted salary is between 31537 - 40000 £ per year.
Location and Contract: Lift New Forest, Long Lane, Holbury, Hampshire, SO45 2PA. Full time, Permanent, start September 2026.
Overview: This is an exciting opportunity to join one of the top MATs in the country. We are seeking a highly motivated, compassionate, and skilled School Counsellor to provide high‑quality emotional and wellbeing support for our pupils as soon as possible.
About the School: Lift New Forest is a successful and friendly school in the Waterside area of Hampshire. Our vision is simple – to provide an excellent education for every child, in every classroom, every day. Students are respected, behave well, and belong to a community that values kindness, determination, and making good choices.
Your new role: The School Counsellor is pivotal in providing student advice and guidance to support the welfare of all students across the academy. The role offers an independent, confidential counselling service through individual and group sessions, addressing personal, social, emotional, or educational concerns. Responsibilities include maintaining appropriate records and liaising regularly with the Principal, SLT, SENDCO, and other professionals regarding safeguarding and welfare matters.
Qualifications and Experience: You should hold a L4 Diploma in School‑Based Child Counselling or equivalent, with experience or further qualifications in working with children, young people, and families. Excellent interpersonal skills, strong relationship‑building with staff, students, parents and external agencies, calmness, active listening, and the ability to anticipate and act proactively on issues are essential.
Benefits and Training: Comprehensive training: access to high‑quality developmental training to boost your career. Generous benefits: pension plan, healthcare, financial support, and more. Lifestyle perks: discounted gym memberships, travel deals, and electric vehicle incentives.
Recruitment Process: Applications will be reviewed rapidly and interviews conducted ASAP. A confidential discussion or school tour can be arranged by contacting Jessica Billows. This vacancy may be closed early if response is overwhelming.
Equalities, Diversity, and Inclusion: Lift Schools are committed to safeguarding, equality, and diversity. We offer job share, part‑time and flexible working opportunities, and are a Disability Confident Employer with a guaranteed interview scheme for eligible candidates. All selections follow a fair recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance, including online checks and an Enhanced DBS check.
School Counsellor in Southampton employer: Lift New Forest
Lift New Forest is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for its staff. With a strong commitment to professional development, the school offers comprehensive training opportunities and generous benefits, including a pension plan and lifestyle perks. Located in the picturesque Waterside area of Hampshire, employees enjoy a community that values kindness and collaboration, making it an ideal place for those passionate about making a meaningful impact on students' lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Counsellor in Southampton
✨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 Lift New Forest. 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 Lift New Forest.
We think you need these skills to ace School Counsellor in Southampton
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 Lift New Forest:Take some time to research Lift New Forest 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 Lift New Forest
✨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 Lift New Forest's values and approach.
