School Counsellor
Location: Cambridge
Salary: £7,307 per annum
Hours: 1 day per week (Thursday), Term Time only
The School is one of the country’s leading independent co-educational day schools for children aged 3-18. Their aim is to be a leading employer of choice, striving to be a school where staff feel valued, respected, and motivated.
At the school, they are committed to fostering a nurturing, inclusive, and child-centred environment where every child feels valued, supported, and able to thrive. Their approach prioritises emotional well-being, resilience, and strong partnerships with families and staff.
The School has been increasing its counselling provision over several years and is now looking for a new counsellor to join the team for one day per week. This role will involve working at the Pelican with children aged 3-7. They are looking for someone who is confident and experienced to work across the early years age range and who is keen to work as part of a team in developing the service. Ideally, the successful candidate will have experience of developing/establishing counselling provision for younger children.
The Role
The School Counsellor will offer a dedicated counselling service to pupils at the school. The successful candidate will have access to a shared office space within the School, with resources provided, including toys, a dollhouse, and art materials.
The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Key Responsibilities:
* Provide therapeutic support for a diverse range of emotional and psychological needs, including emotional regulation, anxiety, peer relationships, transitions, bereavement, sleep difficulties, depression, and experiences of abuse.
* Offer consultation and reflective space for staff to help support pupil wellbeing.
* Liaise closely with the pastoral management team to collaboratively assess pupil needs.
* Work alongside other counsellors to allocate workload and develop the service.
* Build relationships with external agencies to facilitate referrals and ensure access to specialist support.
* Provide clear and accessible information about the counselling service to pupils, parents, and staff.
* Engage in regular supervision with a suitably qualified supervisor to reflect on clinical work.
* Work in alignment with the School’s Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy and complete annual safeguarding training.
* Adhere to professional standards and perform duties within the codes of practice recommended by the BACP, UKCP, or equivalent organisation.
Skills and Qualifications
Education/Qualifications:
* Postgraduate Diploma or Masters level qualification in Counselling or Psychotherapy.
* BACP Accreditation, UKCP registration, or equivalent organisation.
* Additional therapeutic training or qualifications related to working with children and young people.
They are looking for a professional who has:
* A strong understanding of early child development and the challenges young children face.
* Awareness of the diverse needs of children and families from various backgrounds.
* Knowledge of local mental health services, including CAMHS, and the referral process.
* A solid understanding of the Children’s Act and relevant safeguarding legislation.
* The flexibility to work with both short-term and long-term clients.
* Experience in offering parent sessions to support children’s wellbeing.
* Strong written and verbal communication skills.
* Ability to work independently and manage a caseload.
* Capacity to remain calm and professional under pressure.
* Flexibility to adapt within a developing organisation.
* A commitment to ongoing professional development.
* Excellent listening and communication skills to build strong therapeutic relationships.
* Empathic attunement and sensitivity in supporting children and families.
* Minimum of 2 years post-qualification counselling experience.
* At least 1 year of experience working with children and young people.
* Experience of working as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
To Apply
If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for this reputable School, please click apply to be redirected to their website to complete your application.
Closing Date: Tuesday 22nd April 2025
Interviews: Thursday 1st May 2025
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