At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide one-to-one counselling and support pupil wellbeing in a caring school environment.
- Company: Tormead School, a leading independent school for girls in Guildford.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, free lunch, and gym access.
- Other info: Part-time role with flexible hours, starting September 2026.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a supportive community.
- Qualifications: Counselling qualification and experience with children and young people.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Tormead School is a leading academically selective independent school for 800 girls aged 4–18 in Guildford, just 40 minutes from London. We are looking for an experienced and well‑qualified Counsellor to join our outstanding pastoral team and play a meaningful part in supporting the wellbeing of our pupils. This is a rewarding opportunity to provide high‑quality counselling support while contributing to a wider culture of care, resilience and personal development within a warm, inclusive and ambitious school community.
Position: Part‑time, term‑time only, two days per week (negotiable), starting in September 2026.
Responsibilities:
- Provide confidential one‑to‑one counselling for pupils.
- Work closely with the Designated Safeguarding Lead, pastoral leaders, School Nurses and external agencies where appropriate.
- Support the wellbeing of pupils and contribute to a culture of care, resilience and personal development.
- Lead small‑group work and deliver mental health training where appropriate (advantage).
Qualifications:
- Recognised counselling or psychotherapy qualification.
- Membership of a relevant professional body such as BACP or UKCP.
- Experience of working therapeutically with children and young people.
- Strong safeguarding awareness and the ability to handle sensitive situations with professionalism, empathy and care.
- Experience in a school or education setting (advantage).
- Willingness to undergo child protection screening, including enhanced DBS checks and online searches.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary.
- Supportive working environment.
- Professional development opportunities.
- Free lunch and refreshments during term time.
- Free use of the school gym.
School Counsellor in Guildford employer: The Independent Schools Council
Tormead School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive environment where dedicated professionals can thrive. As a part-time School Counsellor, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the wellbeing of our pupils while benefiting from competitive salary, professional development opportunities, and access to excellent facilities, including free use of the school gym. Join our outstanding pastoral team in Guildford, where your contributions will be valued in a warm and ambitious community focused on personal growth and resilience.
Contact Details:
The Independent Schools Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Counsellor in Guildford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work in counselling or pastoral roles. They might have insider info on job openings or can even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to school counselling. Think about how you would handle specific scenarios with pupils and be ready to share your experiences. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for supporting students' wellbeing! During interviews, highlight your commitment to creating a culture of care and resilience. Share examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace School Counsellor in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of a School Counsellor. We want to see how you can contribute to our culture of care and support for pupils.
Showcase Your Qualifications:Don’t forget to mention your recognised counselling or psychotherapy qualifications and any relevant memberships. This is key for us to understand your professional background and expertise.
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you've worked in a school or educational setting before, make it known! Share specific examples of how you've supported young people’s wellbeing and resilience, as this will resonate with us.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this rewarding opportunity at Tormead School.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re familiar with the key responsibilities of a School Counsellor. Brush up on your counselling techniques, safeguarding policies, and how to support pupils' wellbeing. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re serious about the role.
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, demonstrate your ability to connect with young people. Share examples from your past experiences where you’ve successfully supported students or handled sensitive situations. This will highlight your empathy and understanding, which are crucial for this role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the school’s pastoral care approach and how they integrate counselling into their culture. This shows that you’re genuinely interested in contributing to their community and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
✨Be Professional Yet Approachable
While it’s important to maintain professionalism, don’t forget to let your personality shine through. The school is looking for someone who can build rapport with students, so being warm and approachable during the interview can make a great impression.
