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A high school careers guidance counsellor serves as a pivotal support figure for students navigating their academic and professional futures. Their role typically involves a blend of individual advising, program development, resource management, and community outreach. The major focus will be on assisting pupils in the Sixth Form but responsibilities will also extend to assisting with guiding pupils in Y9 and Y11 with options choices, as well as general careers guidance throughout KS4 and KS5.
• Individual and Group Counselling: Conduct one-on-one sessions and group workshops to help students explore career interests, set goals, and develop academic plans. This includes discussing strengths, aspirations, and potential pathways like higher education, apprenticeships, or direct employment.
• CIPQ Support: Assist tutors and the CIPQ Lead in the conduct and administration of the CIPQ through one to one sessions, project monitoring and workshops providing guidance on key elements of the project.
• Career Assessment and Tools Management: Administer and interpret psychometric tests, interest inventories, and other assessment tools (e.g., via platforms like Unifrog). Use these to guide students in understanding their aptitudes and matching them to suitable careers.
• Platform and Resource Administration: Manage digital tools and databases for tracking student progress, destinations, and alumni networks. This involves curating materials for personal, social, health, and economic (PSHE) education, as well as providing training on effective use to students, parents, and staff.
• Options and Transitions Guidance: Collaborate with key stage leads to advise on subject choices at critical points (e.g., Year 9 for GCSEs or Year 11 for post-16 options). Monitor and support students through transitions, ensuring informed decisions aligned with long-term goals.
• Work Experience and Opportunity Coordination: Research, secure, and facilitate work placements, job shadowing, virtual experiences, and MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses). Process necessary paperwork and ensure safety compliance for in-person opportunities.
• Workshop and Skill Development Delivery: Design and lead sessions on essential skills like CV/resume writing, personal statement crafting, interview techniques, job search strategies, and career exploration. Tailor these for different year groups and include parent involvement when beneficial.
• Employer and Institution Partnerships: Build and maintain relationships with local businesses, universities, vocational schools, and employers. Organize events such as career fairs, university visits, guest talks, and alumni panels to expose students to real-world opportunities.
• Data Tracking and Reporting: Maintain up-to-date records on student outcomes, destinations, and program effectiveness. Use this data to refine services and report to school leadership on careers education impact.
Other duties and Responsibilities
• To ensure the safeguarding of pupils.
• Other duties that the line manager or a member of SLT may from time to time ask the post holder to perform.
Managing Own Performance and Development:
• Stay current with academic and labour market trends, educational policies, and best practices through ongoing training. Ensure all activities comply with safeguarding, equality, and data protection regulations.
• Participate in arrangements for Appraisal and take responsibility for own professional development.
• Priorities and manage own time effectively.
Bachelor's (minimum); Postgrad in Careers Guidance/Counselling (preferred)
School-based career advising, especially with KS4 & KS5 students; program/resource development; community engagement