At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide professional counselling to students and staff, supporting emotional wellbeing.
- Company: St Albans School, dedicated to student welfare and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, supportive environment, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Part-time role with potential for impactful connections and career development.
- Why this job: Empower young people and contribute to their emotional growth in a vibrant school community.
- Qualifications: Recognised counselling qualification and experience with 11-18 year olds.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Required for September 2026, we are seeking to recruit a School Counsellor (Contractor) 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.
Part-Time School Counsellor — Empower Student Wellbeing in St Albans employer: The Independent Schools Council
St Albans School is an exceptional employer that prioritises the wellbeing of its staff and students, fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture. As a part-time School Counsellor, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on young people's lives while enjoying flexible working hours during term time. The school is dedicated to professional development and offers a collaborative environment where your contributions to pastoral initiatives are valued and encouraged.
Contact Details:
The Independent Schools Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Part-Time School Counsellor — Empower Student Wellbeing in St Albans
✨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 that interview! Research the school’s values and their approach to student wellbeing. We want you to show how your skills align with their mission, so think of examples from your experience that highlight your empathy and relationship-building skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your passion for safeguarding! Be ready to discuss how you’ve contributed to creating a safe environment for young people in your previous roles. This is key for any counselling position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Part-Time School Counsellor — Empower Student Wellbeing in St Albans
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a School Counsellor. We want to see how you can contribute to promoting student wellbeing and supporting emotional health.
Showcase Your Qualifications:Don’t forget to mention your recognised counselling qualifications and any relevant registrations, like BACP or UKCP. We’re looking for someone who’s not just qualified but also has hands-on experience working with young people in a school setting.
Be Personable:In your written application, let your personality shine through! We value approachability and empathy, so share examples that demonstrate your ability to build effective relationships within the school community.
Apply Early!:Since we might fill the position before the closing date, it’s best to get your application in as soon as possible. Head over to our website to submit your application and show us why you’d be a great fit for our team!
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, and be ready to discuss how you can support their emotional wellbeing.
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, demonstrate your ability to connect with others. Share examples of how you've built effective relationships in previous roles, particularly in a school environment. This will show that you understand the importance of being approachable and empathetic.
✨Be Prepared for Scenarios
Expect to be asked about specific situations you might encounter as a School Counsellor. Think through potential scenarios involving student wellbeing and how you would handle them. This will showcase your problem-solving skills and ethical awareness.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about the school's approach to pastoral care or how they promote the counselling service. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
