School Counsellor at Peponi House Preparatory School

Description

We are seeking a School Counsellor who has extensive experience of working with teenagers (boys and girls) and young children of school age

As a School Counselor, you will play a crucial role in supporting the academic, social, and emotional well-being of our pupils. You will work closely with other counsellors, pupils, parents, teachers, and other school staff to provide guidance, counseling, and resources to help our young people navigate through the challenges they may face.

Responsibilities

•  Support the school’s mental health strategy and contribute to its effective development as directed by the senior mental health lead.
•  Take a lead in developing mental health and wellbeing strategies for our oldest pupils with a focus in developing the mental health and wellbeing of boys.
•  Conduct individual counseling sessions with pupils to address their personal, academic, and social concerns.
•  Create and implement workshops and group counseling sessions to address common issues pupils face, such as self-esteem, stress management, and relationship issues.
•  Collaborate with teachers and other wellbeing staff to develop and implement intervention programs for at-risk students.
•  Provide crisis intervention and support to pupils in emergencies or difficult situations.
•  Maintain accurate and confidential pupil records, including counseling notes and progress reports.
•  Coordinate with the Deputy Head Pastoral to provide additional support and resources to pupils when necessary.
•  Provide training and support for youth mental health first aiders and wellbeing ambassadors.
•  Provide individual and group counselling to address emotional, social, and behavioural issues.
•  Develop and implement behaviour intervention plans for students with behavioural difficulties.
•  Support students in developing coping strategies, resilience, and social skills.
•  Conduct psychological assessments to identify students' needs, strengths, and challenges.
•  Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss and plan for students' needs.
•  Develop and implement crisis response plans in collaboration with school administration.
•  Provide support to students affected by traumatic events.
•  Uphold the school's mission, values, and policies in all interactions and interventions.

Requirements

•  Minimum a degree in Counselling Psychology/ Certification from a recognized counselling association or body in Kenya, and certification with the counselling and psychologist board ministry of health (MOH).
•  Registered as a Counselling Psychologist
•  Minimum of 2 years of experience working as a School Counselor, preferably with teenagers.
•  Strong understanding of adolescent development and the challenges they may face.
•  Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both with pupils and adults. The ability to be empathetic and compassionate.
•  Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse range of individuals, including pupils, parents, and the senior leadership team.
•  Knowledge of counseling theories, techniques, and best practices.
•  Experience conducting individual and group counseling sessions.
•  Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage a caseload of pupils effectively.
•  Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines in counseling practices.
•  Strong commitment to continued professional development
•  Proven experience working as a School Counsellor, preferably within an International School Setting.
•  Experience in conducting psychological assessments and providing counselling services to children and teenagers.
•  Strong analytical and assessment skills.
•  Effective problem-solving and crisis management skills.
•  Cultural sensitivity and awareness.