At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide emotional and wellbeing support to students through counselling sessions.
- Company: Join Lift New Forest, a top Multi-Academy Trust in a friendly community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, wellbeing cash plan, pension scheme, and lifestyle perks.
- Other info: Flexible working opportunities and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and be part of a supportive community.
- Qualifications: L4 Diploma in School-Based Child Counselling or equivalent experience with children.
The predicted salary is between 27255 - 31022 £ per year.
Salary: NCJ 24 £35,412 - 27 £38,220 + wellbeing cash plan + pension scheme (LGPS) + additional Lift Schools benefits
School: Lift New Forest, Long Lane, Holbury, Hampshire, SO45 2PA
Hours: Full time
Contract type: Permanent
Start date: September 2026
This is an exciting opportunity to join one of the top MATs in the country. We are seeking to appoint a highly motivated, compassionate, and skilled School Counsellor with the ability to provide high-quality emotional and wellbeing support for our pupils as soon as possible.
Your new 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. At Lift New Forest, children belong to a community of students who are proud of their school. Students are respectful to each other and behave very well in and out of lessons. They embody the habits of the New Forest Way; Be Kind, Show Determination, Make Good Choices. The children at our school are a pleasure to work with, both inside and outside the classroom. As a small school we are fortunate to be able to really get to know each student very well, and our children are part of a school with a real community feel. Strong relationships and first class support across the community ensure that young people are safe, happy and successful.
Your new role: The role of the School Counsellor is pivotal in providing student advice and guidance to support the welfare of all students across the academy. They provide an independent and confidential counselling service to students, through individual sessions and group sessions, responding to their personal, social, emotional or educational concerns. The role is also responsible for maintaining appropriate records and liaising regularly with the Principal, SLT, SENDCO and other professionals as necessary in relation to students’ safeguarding and welfare.
What you’ll need to succeed: You will have a L4 Diploma in School-Based Child Counselling or equivalent alongside experience or further qualifications in working with children, young people and families. As a person we need you to have excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to form strong relationships with staff, students, parents and external agencies. You will remain calm and actively listen and understand students, ensuring effective and empathetic interactions and anticipate issues and act on them in a proactive manner.
Who is Lift Schools? Lift Schools is made up of 59 primary, secondary and special schools, educating more than 33,000 pupils across the country. We believe education can transform lives – and we want every child in our schools to achieve their full potential.
We offer you:
- Comprehensive training: Access to some of the best developmental training to boost your career.
- Generous benefits: From your pension plan to healthcare and financial support, we've got you covered.
- Lifestyle perks: Enjoy discounted gym memberships, travel deals, and much more.
If you would like a confidential discussion before applying and/or a tour of the school please contact Jessica Billows, Recruitment Manager on jbillows@liftschools.org.
Lift Schools are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils, and we expect all our people and volunteers to share this commitment. We adopt a fair and consistent recruitment process which is in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. This includes online checks for shortlisted candidates. All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check. Lift Schools embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. Job share, part-time and flexible working opportunities will be considered. We are a Disability Confident Employer and there is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
School Counsellor employer: Meadsteadprimaryacademy
Lift New Forest is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing environment where every child is valued and encouraged to thrive. With a strong focus on employee development through comprehensive training and generous benefits, including a wellbeing cash plan and pension scheme, staff can enjoy a fulfilling career while making a meaningful impact on students' lives. The community-oriented culture fosters strong relationships among staff, students, and families, ensuring a rewarding experience for all involved.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Counsellor
✨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 Meadsteadprimaryacademy. 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 Meadsteadprimaryacademy.
We think you need these skills to ace School Counsellor
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 Meadsteadprimaryacademy:Take some time to research Meadsteadprimaryacademy 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 Meadsteadprimaryacademy
✨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 Meadsteadprimaryacademy's values and approach.
