At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide professional counselling to pupils and staff, supporting emotional wellbeing.
- Company: St Albans School, dedicated to fostering a supportive environment.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, opportunity to make a real difference in students' lives.
- Other info: Part-time role with a commitment to safeguarding and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and help shape the future of young people.
- Qualifications: Recognised counselling qualification and experience with ages 11-18.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are seeking to recruit a School Counsellor to provide a professional counselling service to pupils and staff of St Albans School. The role involves working on a one-to-one basis and with small groups, providing advice, supporting emotional wellbeing and contributing to the School’s pastoral provision.
Duties include:
- Promoting the counselling service within the School
- Supporting pupil induction
- Attending parent events
- Liaising with staff as appropriate
- Recommending referrals to external agencies where necessary
The successful candidate will hold a recognised counselling qualification with BACP or UKCP registration or accreditation and have experience working with young people aged 11–18, ideally within a school environment. They will be approachable, empathetic, skilled at building effective relationships across the school community and willing to contribute to pastoral initiatives and, where appropriate, PSHEE delivery.
Candidates must be able to work independently with a high level of professionalism and ethical awareness and demonstrate a strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Hours are 10 per week during term time. The role is currently anticipated to be 1.00pm to 6.00pm on two days per week, although exact working patterns can be agreed at interview.
The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants must therefore be willing to undergo child protection screening and safer recruitment checks appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
St Albans School is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and the creation of an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment selections are made according to suitability for the post, irrespective of background or protected characteristic. Should you have any queries please contact Sarah de Rossi, HR Manager, at scderossi@st-albans.herts.sch.uk. The School reserves the right to make an appointment before the closing date, so early applications are encouraged.
School Counsellor (Contractor) employer: The Independent Schools Council
St Albans School is an exceptional employer that prioritises the emotional wellbeing of its students and staff, fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture. With a commitment to professional development and safeguarding, the school offers unique opportunities for growth within a vibrant educational environment, making it an ideal place for dedicated professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people.
Contact Details:
The Independent Schools Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Counsellor (Contractor)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who might know about opportunities at St Albans School. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school’s values and pastoral initiatives. We want you to show how your skills align with their mission, so think about examples from your experience that highlight your approachability and empathy.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-up! After your interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who are committed to supporting young people’s emotional wellbeing.
We think you need these skills to ace School Counsellor (Contractor)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for supporting young people shine through. We want to see how your experience and values align with our commitment to emotional wellbeing and pastoral care.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially working with young people aged 11-18. We’re looking for candidates who can demonstrate their skills in building relationships and contributing to a supportive school environment.
Be Professional:Since this role involves safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, it’s crucial to showcase your professionalism in your written application. Use clear language and ensure there are no typos or errors – we want to see your attention to detail!
Apply Early:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application! We encourage early applications as we may fill the position before the closing date. Head over to our website to apply and make sure you don’t miss out on this opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re familiar with the role of a School Counsellor and the specific needs of St Albans School. Brush up on your counselling techniques, especially those relevant to young people aged 11-18. This will show that you’re not just qualified, but also genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, demonstrate your ability to connect with others. Share examples of how you've built relationships with students or staff in previous roles. This is crucial for a School Counsellor, so let your passion for supporting emotional wellbeing shine through!
✨Be Ready to Discuss Safeguarding
Since safeguarding is a top priority, be prepared to talk about your understanding of child protection policies and your experience in this area. Highlight any training or qualifications you have that relate to safeguarding, as this will reassure them of your commitment to the welfare of children.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school’s pastoral initiatives or how they promote the counselling service. This shows that you’re proactive and genuinely interested in contributing to their community.
