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
✨Connect Through Professional Networks
Join associations related to therapy and counselling, like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They often have job boards, events, and forums where you can meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Being active in these spaces can give you a significant edge.
✨Show Up at Local Mental Health Events
Look for workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on mental health in your area. Not only can you learn valuable insights, but you can also network with professionals who might be aware of full-time opportunities, like the ones at Words First. Plus, showing your passion for the field in person can leave a lasting impression.
✨Utilise Online Platforms Tailored to Counselling
Websites like TherapyJobs or Indeed specifically cater to therapy professionals. Make sure to check these regularly for new listings, and consider setting up alerts to stay ahead of the game. Plus, applying directly through these platforms can sometimes give you better visibility.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re recently graduated or still in school, don't forget to tap into your university's career resources. They often have exclusive listings for full-time positions and can help you refine your interview skills. Plus, they might connect you with alumni who’re already working at places like Words First.
We think you need these skills to ace School Counsellor in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to showcase any relevant qualifications you've completed, such as a degree in psychology or counselling certifications. This is super important in the therapy and counselling field, so don’t skip over these details in your CV.
Showcase Your Empathy Skills:In your cover letter, it's essential to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills, which are key in therapy. Share specific examples from your previous experiences where you've effectively helped someone through a tough time—this will make your application stand out.
Demonstrate Your Continued Learning:We love seeing candidates who are committed to ongoing professional development. Mention any workshops, seminars, or additional training you’ve attended recently. This not only boosts your CV but shows your passion for the field.
Personalise Your Application for Words First:Take some time to research Words First and reflect this understanding in your application. Explain why you’re interested in working with them specifically and how your values align with their approach—this personal touch can make all the difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Words First
✨Show Your Empathy and Communication Skills
In therapy and counselling, it's all about how well you connect with others. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy, active listening, and non-verbal communication in past experiences. Your ability to create rapport with clients is key, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face some scenario-based questions that assess your practical skills in dealing with clients. Think of various client situations or challenges you've encountered or could encounter. Practice how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your problem-solving abilities and therapeutic techniques.
✨Highlight Your Continuing Education
Being in a full-time role in therapy means you need to stay updated with the latest techniques and theories. Mention any professional development courses you've taken recently, or plans you have for ongoing education. This shows that you’re committed to growth in your field and eager to help your clients with the best approaches.
✨Finesse Your Personal Statement
In therapy, your personal statement is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your qualifications. Tailor it to not just highlight your credentials but also your passion for helping others. Share personal stories or insights that led you to this profession, reinforcing why you'd be a great fit for Words First's values and approach.
