College Counsellor

OUR SCHOOL:

Reddam House Umhlanga is a co-educational, non-denominational independent school designed to inspire students to achieve their maximum potential in a nurturing, progressive academic environment from ages 1 to 18 (Prep to College phases). We offer a fresh, contemporary approach to education, re-evaluating traditional methods to create a dynamic, relevant model. Our College section focuses on developing individuality, talent, and self-assurance, equipping students with skills and confidence for success. Affiliated with the Independent Examinations Board (IEB), we foster a secure, relaxed, and self-disciplined community.

ROLE SUMMARY:

The School Counsellor promotes student success in the College section by providing preventive services, responding to identified needs, and implementing a comprehensive counselling programme that addresses academic, personal, and social development. You will establish the programme, support students in crisis, and collaborate with staff, parents, and external professionals.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Establish the school counselling program and develop activities/resources to implement and evaluate it.
• Identify students needing help with life issues and provide individual/group counselling for remedial needs.
• Assist teachers with educational placement using assessment strategies.
• Support students in crisis and maintain appropriate records.
• May teach Life Orientation and English.
• Liaise with external medical/welfare professionals.
• Ensure the school’s Wellbeing Programme is immersed in culture (e.g., small groups like bullying workshops; parent sessions on resilience).
• Consult/collaborate with parents, teachers, administrators, and community resources; implement referrals/follow-ups.
• Monitor academic performance, behaviour, and attendance; assist interventions.
• Work with SENCO on pastoral meetings, minutes, and follow-ups.
• Contribute to staff development and address large groups (students/staff/parents).

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR:

Qualifications and Accreditations:

• An appropriate professional qualification and accreditation with the HPCSA
• SACE accreditation
• 5 years’ experience in a similar position, including work with adolescents and families, individual, group and family therapy, and crisis intervention
• Thorough knowledge of relevant legislation (e.g. Children’s Act 58 of 2005)
• A clear criminal record (essential) 

Key Skills and Experience:

• A passion for the role of School Counsellor, serving the health and wellbeing of others
• Adheres to professional codes of conduct
• Personal commitment to the school’s values and ethos.
• Genuine care and commitment to the highest standards of student and team welfare
• Ability to set clear expectations and ambitious personal and team goals
• Strong ability to engage with teenagers and build trusting relationships
• Ability to act as a role model and reflect on own practice
• Strong planning, organising, reporting, time management and administrative skills (fully computer literate)
• Confident in the use of ICT for recording session notes
• Excellent communication (oral, written and presentation) and interpersonal skills, with a team-oriented approach
• Ability to build relationships across diverse backgrounds and network with community professionals

SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT:

Inspired Education Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practices and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.