School Counsellor

ACS International Schools are recruiting a School Counsellor to join the Middle School team at ACS Cobham International School.

ACS Cobham is a prestigious day and boarding school for students and is located in the beautiful Surrey countryside close to central London. We offer a broad and flexible curriculum including the International Baccalaureate and US programmes, with a wide range of subjects and outstanding facilities catering to different interests across all age groups.

JOB PURPOSE

• The School Counsellor works with students, faculty, and families from their assigned division to promote student success by following best practices to empower students to achieve their potential as global thinkers and doers.
• The School Counsellor promotes a positive School climate through the delivery of a comprehensive program in support of the academic, social/emotional, and future goals of each student.
• The School Counsellor is part of the ACS Safeguarding team as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead within the assigned division.
• The School Counsellor is responsible for developing The International Model for School Counselling Programs (ISCA) to meet the needs of all students
• The School Counsellor is responsible for educating Faculty on current trends and wellbeing issues
• The School Counsellor is an integral part of the faculty whose role is to develop, implement and continually review the Advisory/PSHE program as well as train and support subject teachers to present the program successfully.
• The School Counsellor is expected to keep current with best practices and trends in delivery of School counselling services.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Provide short-term, individual, and small group counselling support to students in need.
• Provide opportunities for rapport building and introductory activities for all students familarising them with counsellor services
• Collaborate with teachers, staff, and parents to support the overall development and well-being of students.
• Organise and conduct/support new student orientations as part of transition programs.
• Work proactively with the School counselling staff and administration to ensure appropriate transition support between different divisions.
• Attend all grade level meetings for assigned grade levels.
• Work in partnership with stakeholders around student advocacy and wellbeing.
• Facilitate workshops and presentations for parents regarding various developmental topics relating to academic, social, and emotional concerns.
• Refer students to outside therapeutic services as needed.
• Coordinate and schedule sessions for the visiting therapeutic
• Take a leading role in following and understanding appropriate laws relating to safeguarding and child welfare.
• Maintain accurate and confidential notes within the Scuta system to inform professional practice while following GDPR and professional ethics guidelines .
• Liaise with Admissions, teachers, and students to organise shadow visits for prospective students.
• Any other duties as assigned by the Principal or Assistant Principal

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• Degree in Counselling or a related field and/or certification or licensure as a School Counsellor is essential
• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a School Counsellor or related position is essential
• Previous experience working as a Counsellor with children and adolescents in an international School setting is desirable
• Knowledge and understanding of The International Model for School Counselling Programs is preferred or a commitment to undertake the training to become an effective leader and change-maker within the ISCA framework.
• In depth knowledge of cultural bias and how it can impact international populations is essential
• Experience working with a culturally and linguistically diverse population is desirable
• In-depth knowledge of child and adolescent development and expertise in addressing presenting and underlying issues is essential
• Ability to appropriately and flexibly prioritise when safeguarding or other immediate concerns arise without notice
• Excellent organisational and time management skills
• Excellent communication skills, written and oral
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Ability to collaborate in teams in a variety of circumstances

Start date: August 2023

Contract duration: Permanent

ACS is committed to inclusion across race, gender, faith, identity and abilities. We believe that diversity helps us to fulfil our purpose, realise our vision and exemplify our values. ACS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and, as an employee of ACS, you are expected to share this commitment. This position is therefore subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service Check.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

• Canteen
• Company pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• Discounted or free food
• Free parking
• On-site gym
• On-site parking
• Private medical insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Cobham: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Experience:

• Psychotherapy: 1 year (preferred)

Work Location: In person

Expected start date: 01/08/2023