School Counselor

Children’s Counsellor - Complex Trauma - Residential School

Handsworth, West Midlands

Full-time, permanent role

Compass Associates is pleased to partner with an independent provider of children’s residential care homes and schools in the UK. This organisation supports children and young people facing social, emotional, and behavioural challenges, mental health difficulties, learning disabilities, and autism. They provide therapeutic environments designed to help residents recover from past traumas and develop the skills necessary for independent living or reintegration into family settings.

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Children’s Counsellor to join a newly established small school, designed for six pupils from a residential home focused on addressing neglect, abuse, and trauma. The successful candidate will create a safe and confidential environment where students can express their concerns, develop effective coping strategies, and build resilience. This role requires collaboration with students, parents, and school staff to foster a positive and inclusive school culture.

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and are committed to their emotional well-being, we invite you to apply.

The Role

• Provide one-on-one and group counselling to assist students facing emotional, social, or behavioural challenges, helping them navigate stress, anxiety, family issues, and academic pressures.
• Develop tailored strategies to enhance students' emotional regulation and overall mental well-being, fostering resilience and healthy coping mechanisms.
• Deliver engaging workshops on essential topics such as resilience, self-esteem, stress management, and healthy relationships.
• Collaborate closely with teachers and parents to identify and support students in need, ensuring a holistic approach to their well-being.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of counselling sessions and interventions, while staying updated on best practices in school counselling, mental health, and safeguarding protocols to ensure the safety and welfare of all students.

Requirements (Essential)

• Recognised qualification in Counselling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field
• Experience working with children and young people in an education/therapeutic setting
• Excellent communication skills
• Strong understanding of child development, mental health, and safeguarding policies.

Requirements (Desirable)

• Membership with recognised professional body (e.g. UCKP or BACP)
• Experience with trauma-informed care
• Experience working within a school environment
• Ongoing training and CPD support
• Flexible working options
• Supportive school environment and leadership team.

If this exciting opportunity sounds like the right fit for you, please contact Jenny Marr on 0161 672 3174.

Alternatively, email your updated CV to jmarr@compassltd.co.uk.