At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide one-to-one counselling for students and support their emotional wellbeing.
- Company: Join a supportive alternative provision school in Barking & Dagenham.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, local government pension, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Enjoy a collaborative environment with dedicated support throughout your career.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and promote positive mental health.
- Qualifications: Recognised counselling qualification and experience with young people aged 11-16.
The predicted salary is between 31469 - 31469 £ per year.
Location: Barking & Dagenham
Salary: £30,553 - £31,469 per annum (Term Time Only)
Start Date: September 2026
Contract Type: Permanent | Term Time Only
This is an excellent opportunity to support students aged 11-16 who require additional emotional, behavioural, and mental health support. The successful candidate will play a key role in helping pupils overcome barriers to learning while working alongside a dedicated pastoral and safeguarding team.
About the Role
- Provide confidential one-to-one counselling sessions for students aged 11-16.
- Support pupils experiencing anxiety, trauma, bereavement, emotional regulation difficulties, low self-esteem, and other mental health challenges.
- Work closely with pupils with SEMH and additional needs.
- Offer support and guidance to parents, carers, and school staff where appropriate.
- Liaise with CAMHS, social care, educational psychologists, and other external agencies to coordinate support.
- Maintain confidential records in accordance with safeguarding and GDPR requirements.
- Contribute to the school's wider pastoral and wellbeing provision.
- Promote positive mental health and emotional resilience across the school community.
Requirements
- Recognised counselling qualification (Level 4 Diploma or above) or equivalent.
- Experience working with children and young people aged 11-16.
- Previous experience within a school, alternative provision, CAMHS, youth service, or similar setting.
- Strong understanding of safeguarding and child protection.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to build positive relationships with pupils, families, and professionals.
- Right to work in the UK.
- Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to obtain one).
Desirable
- Experience supporting pupils with SEMH, challenging behaviour, or those educated outside mainstream settings.
- Experience working alongside multi-agency teams including CAMHS.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed practice and restorative approaches.
- Experience supporting staff wellbeing or delivering parent support where appropriate.
What We Offer
- Permanent, term-time only position.
- Salary of £30,553 - £31,469 per annum.
- September 2026 start.
- Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
- A supportive and collaborative working environment.
- Dedicated support from Your Teaching throughout the recruitment process.
Your Teaching partners with schools across London to connect outstanding education professionals with rewarding opportunities. We pride ourselves on providing a professional, transparent, and supportive recruitment service for both schools and candidates. Your Teaching is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.
If you're a qualified School Counsellor looking for your next opportunity in Barking & Dagenham, we'd love to hear from you. The school is looking to appoint for September 2026, and interviews will be arranged as suitable applications are received, so early applications are encouraged.
School Counsellor in Dagenham employer: Your Teaching Ltd
Join a vibrant community in Croydon where your role as a SEN Teaching Assistant will be valued and supported. Our schools foster a collaborative work culture, offering continuous professional development and growth opportunities to help you thrive in your career. With competitive pay and a commitment to inclusivity, we ensure that every day is rewarding and meaningful for both staff and students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Counsellor in Dagenham
✨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 Your Teaching Ltd. 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 Your Teaching Ltd.
We think you need these skills to ace School Counsellor in Dagenham
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 Your Teaching Ltd:Take some time to research Your Teaching Ltd 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 Your Teaching Ltd
✨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 Your Teaching Ltd's values and approach.
