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) in St Albans 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) in St Albans
✨Tap into Local Networks and Communities
Freelancing in therapy and counselling means you'll need to build a solid local presence. Attend workshops, community events, or local counselling meet-ups to connect with potential clients and other professionals in your area. They might have referrals or even collaboration opportunities to help you get started!
✨Create a Public Portfolio of Your Work
Craft a portfolio that showcases your skills and the different therapeutic approaches you use. This could include case studies, testimonials from past clients (with privacy respected, of course), and any resources you’ve created. Having a strong online presence helps potential clients see what you’re about and builds credibility.
✨Join Professional Online Platforms
Freelance therapists thrive on platforms designed for mental health professionals. Sign up for directories like TherapyDen or Psychology Today where you can list your practice. This is a great way to gain visibility and connect with clients actively looking for someone with your qualifications.
✨Promote Your Services Through Social Media
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Create accounts focused on mental health awareness and share insightful content or tips that demonstrate your expertise. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook can be great for establishing connections and letting people know you're available for freelance work, including promoting any workshops or events you may be hosting.
We think you need these skills to ace School Counsellor (Contractor) in St Albans
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Therapy Style:Freelance roles in therapy and counselling really thrive on personal connection, so we're talking about your unique approach to counselling. In your cover letter, share your therapeutic style, whether it's person-centred, cognitive-behavioural, or something else. This will help The Independent Schools Council see how you fit into their team's vibe.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:This field is all about qualifications and certifications. Make sure to list any relevant psychology degrees, counselling diplomas, or licenses right at the top of your CV. That'll speak volumes about your capability and commitment, not to mention it's a must-have in our profession!
Portfolio of Experience:As a freelancer, your portfolio is your best friend! Include case studies or testimonials from clients (with permission, of course) that highlight your skills and success stories. This real-world proof can set you apart from the crowd for The Independent Schools Council.
Rates and Availability:Don’t shy away from discussing rates upfront in your application. Give a rough idea of your fee structure and your availability—this shows professionalism and helps The Independent Schools Council assess if you’re the right fit without any surprises down the line.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Showcase Your Unique Approach
As a freelance therapist or counsellor, it’s crucial to highlight your specific therapeutic style and methods. Be prepared to discuss your philosophy, any unique techniques you use, and how they benefit clients. This lets The Independent Schools Council see how you stand out in a crowded market.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving skills in real-life situations. Think about challenges you’ve faced in past counselling sessions and how you navigated them, demonstrating your expertise and empathy.
✨Bring Your Portfolio and Success Stories
Don’t forget to prepare a portfolio showcasing your qualifications, certifications, and successful case studies. This could include testimonials or feedback from previous clients (anonymised, of course). It’s like your sales pitch for your unique brand of therapy, so make it count!
✨Know Your Rates and Value Proposition
As a freelancer, you’ll need to discuss your rates confidently. Have a clear understanding of what you offer and how it translates into value for clients. Be ready to explain why investing in your services is worthwhile for The Independent Schools Council, as they might want to help you find clients or collaborators down the line.
