Job Description

Job Title: Student Counsellor
Reporting To: Principal / Head of Student Well-being
Location: UAE
Contract Type: Full-Time
1. Job Purpose:
The Student Counsellor is a vital member of the school's pastoral care team, responsible for supporting the social, emotional, and personal development of all students. The counsellor provides a confidential and safe space for students to discuss issues, develops proactive well-being programs, and works collaboratively with teachers and parents to ensure every student can thrive academically and personally, in line with the UAE's focus on holistic student development and well-being.
2. Key Responsibilities:
A. Direct Student Support:

• Provide short-term, solution-focused individual and group counselling sessions to students dealing with issues such as anxiety, stress, peer relationships, family changes, and academic pressures.
• Use a variety of therapeutic techniques appropriate for a school setting and the cultural context of the UAE.
• Conduct assessments to identify students' needs and develop personalized support plans.
• Act as a first point of contact for students in crisis and follow established safeguarding protocols.

B. Proactive and Preventative Programs:

• Design and deliver classroom-based workshops and programs on topics like cyber safety, anti-bullying, mental health awareness, resilience, and growth mindset.
• Contribute to the school's PSHE (Personal, Social, Health, and Economic) education curriculum.
• Identify trends in student issues and develop school-wide initiatives to address them.

C. Consultation and Collaboration:

• Work closely with teachers to advise on strategies for supporting students' emotional and behavioral needs within the classroom.
• Partner with parents through meetings and workshops, providing guidance on parenting strategies and child development.
• Liaise with external professionals (e.g., educational psychologists, therapists) and make referrals when necessary.
• Serve on the school's Child Protection/Safeguarding team.

D. Administrative and Professional Duties:

• Maintain confidential and accurate records of all counselling sessions in compliance with school policy and ethical guidelines.
• Stay current with research and best practices in child and adolescent psychology and counselling.

3. Qualifications, Experience, and Skills:

• Essential: Master's degree in Counselling, Psychology, or a related field. Must hold a valid professional license/certification to practice.
• Essential: Minimum of 2-3 years of experience as a school counsellor in a UAE school.
• Knowledge: Expertise in child and adolescent development and mental health. A deep understanding of the unique social and cultural dynamics within UAE school communities and the well-being objectives of both the UAE and NCERT.
• Skills: Excellent interpersonal, listening, and empathy skills. High level of cultural sensitivity and discretion. Ability to maintain strict confidentiality. Strong crisis management and problem-solving abilities.

Skills Required