Academic Counsellor

Position Summary

The Student Counselor provides comprehensive guidance and support to students, addressing their academic, personal, and career development needs. This professional serves as a vital resource for students, parents, and faculty, fostering a supportive environment that helps students overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. The Student Counselor implements programs for students across elementary, middle, and high school levels, ensuring they have the skills and resources to succeed both in and out of the classroom.

Key Responsibilities

1. Academic Support and Planning

• Provide individual and group counseling to assist students in setting and achieving academic goals.
• Help students develop essential skills like time management, study habits, and effective learning techniques.
• Advise students on course selection to ensure their academic plans align with their interests, abilities, and future aspirations.
• Collaborate with teachers and administrators to monitor student progress and intervene when academic difficulties arise.

2. Personal and Social Development

• Create a safe and non-judgmental space where students can discuss personal and emotional issues confidentially.
• Provide brief counseling to help students develop coping strategies for challenges such as stress, anxiety, and peer pressure.
• Facilitate workshops and group sessions on topics like conflict resolution, emotional regulation, and social skills.
• Mediate conflicts between students or between students and teachers to promote a positive school climate.

3. Career and Vocational Guidance

• Administer and interpret vocational and aptitude tests to help students evaluate their interests, skills, and abilities.
• Work with older students to help them explore career paths and make informed decisions about their future.
• Provide support for post-secondary planning, including assistance with college applications, scholarships, and preparation for job interviews.
• Organize events such as career fairs and college information sessions.

4. Crisis Intervention and Safeguarding

• Offer immediate support during a personal crisis or school-wide emergency, ensuring student safety and well-being.
• Work in collaboration with school leadership and external agencies on safeguarding and child protection matters.
• Identify and report cases of potential neglect or abuse through the proper channels.

5. Collaboration and Communication

• Maintain open communication with parents and guardians, providing regular updates on a students academic and personal development.
• Work closely with teachers, school administrators, and special education staff to implement support strategies for students.
• Refer students and families to appropriate mental health resources and community services when necessary.

Qualifications and Skills

Educational Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in Counseling, Education, or a related field is required. (0–3 years experience) Females preferred.
• A master’s degree / Degree in EdTech Counseling preferred.
• Relevant certifications or licensure in counseling may be required depending on the institution.

Required Skills

• Empathy and Compassion:

  Must be patient and understanding, creating an approachable and non-judgmental environment for students.

• Communication:

  Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential for building rapport and conveying information clearly.

• Active Listening:

  The ability to listen carefully to students and grasp their concerns is crucial for effective counseling.

• Problem-Solving:

  Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to help students navigate and resolve their issues.

• Organizational Skills:

  Proficiency in managing caseloads, maintaining accurate and confidential records, and handling administrative tasks.

• Interpersonal Skills:

  The ability to work collaboratively and maintain strong relationships with students, parents, and school staff.

• Crisis Management:

  The ability to remain calm and intervene effectively in stressful or emergency situations.