At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide therapeutic support to children and young people in schools.
- Company: Join a multidisciplinary team at Words First, dedicated to emotional wellbeing.
- Benefits: Supportive culture, ongoing professional development, and supervision opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment focused on inclusive and neurodivergent-affirming practices.
- Why this job: Make a genuine difference in the lives of young people every day.
- Qualifications: Recognised counselling qualification and experience with children and young people.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Words First is a multidisciplinary team of Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Educational Psychologists, and Counsellors working across schools in London. We are looking for a Counsellor to join our growing team and support children and young people within education settings. This role involves working directly in schools to support pupils with a range of emotional, behavioural, social, and mental health needs. You will work collaboratively with school staff, families, and the wider Words First multidisciplinary team to help create emotionally supportive and inclusive learning environments.
About the Role
You will provide therapeutic support to children and young people experiencing challenges such as emotional regulation difficulties, low self-esteem, trauma, friendship difficulties, school avoidance, and neurodivergent-related mental health needs. The role combines direct therapeutic work with consultation and collaboration alongside school staff and families.
Responsibilities
- Deliver counselling and therapeutic support within school settings
- Support children and young people with emotional wellbeing and mental health needs
- Work collaboratively with SENCOs, pastoral teams, families, and multidisciplinary professionals
- Maintain accurate and professional clinical records
- Contribute to safeguarding and wellbeing planning where appropriate
- Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils and school staff
- Participate in supervision, CPD, and team meetings
Essential Criteria
- Recognised counselling qualification
- Registration with the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP)
- Experience working with children and young people
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong understanding of child and adolescent mental health
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
- Commitment to inclusive, child-centred, and neurodivergent-affirming practice
Desirable
- Experience working within schools or educational settings
- Experience supporting neurodivergent children and young people
- Understanding of trauma-informed approaches
- Experience working collaboratively with families and external professionals
What We Offer
- A warm, supportive, and collaborative team culture
- Opportunities for ongoing CPD and professional development
- Regular supervision and reflective practice
- Structured onboarding and induction
- Opportunities to work alongside highly specialist therapists and psychologists
- The chance to make a genuine difference in the lives of children and young people every day
At Words First, children are at the centre of everything we do. We value collaboration, clinical excellence, and creating supportive environments where both young people and staff can thrive.
School Counsellor in London employer: Words First
Words First is an exceptional employer that prioritises the wellbeing of both its staff and the children they serve. With a warm and collaborative team culture, employees benefit from ongoing professional development opportunities, regular supervision, and the chance to work alongside highly specialist therapists. Located in London, this role offers the unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people within educational settings, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Counsellor in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education and counselling fields. Attend local events or workshops where you can meet people from schools or organisations like Words First. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, be ready to discuss your experience with children and young people. Share specific examples of how you've helped them overcome challenges. This will make you stand out as a candidate who truly understands their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a school or organisation that aligns with your values, don’t wait for a job posting. Reach out directly and express your interest in working with them. A personal touch can go a long way in landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got a streamlined application process that makes it easy for you to showcase your qualifications. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team at Words First. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to make a difference!
We think you need these skills to ace School Counsellor in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for supporting children and young people shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in counselling and working with children. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on those examples!
Be Professional Yet Approachable:While we appreciate professionalism, it’s also important to come across as friendly and approachable. Use a warm tone in your writing to reflect the supportive environment we foster at Words First.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your journey with us.
How to prepare for a job interview at Words First
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your counselling theories and techniques, especially those relevant to children and young people. Familiarise yourself with trauma-informed approaches and neurodivergent needs, as these are key in the role.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working with various professionals, be ready to discuss your experience in teamwork. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with teachers, families, or other therapists to support a child's wellbeing.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, demonstrate your ability to build trusting relationships. Use examples from your past experiences where you’ve connected with children or young people, highlighting your communication skills and empathy.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the team culture and the specific challenges faced by the school. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute effectively.
