School Counselor

Role Summary:

The Student Welfare Officer will contribute to the overall wellbeing and welfare of students at the school under the direction of the Student Wellbeing Coordinator and the Assistant Principal.

Key Responsibilities:

• Work collaboratively with Year Level Teams, the Executive Team and the Student Wellbeing Team to provide counselling, support and therapeutic services to students at the school.
• Provide counselling and a range of therapeutic interventions.
• Be a visible and welcome presence in the school environment, including in the wellbeing area, classrooms and the yard.
• Assist with Coordinating and supporting new students to transition smoothly into the school.
• Attend and contribute to relevant staff meetings, including, Year Level Meetings, Allied Health Team meetings, Care Team meetings, SSG meetings and Engagement and Wellbeing Meetings.
• Work closely with families to create plans, ensure supports are in place, follow up and reassess as needed.
• Provide wellbeing support for the Disability and Inclusion Program, assisting with the development of IEPs, BSPs and other plans where appropriate.
• Promote student wellbeing to the school community via staff meetings, newsletter articles, bulletins, noticeboards, assembly, etc.
• Work cooperatively with community service agencies and refer students/families where necessary.
• Liaise closely with all relevant members of staff, including with teaching staff, engagement and wellbeing staff, pathways program staff and Principal team.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records.
• Conduct risk assessments and create safety plans in consultation with students, family and school-based teams.
• Be proactive in the development and delivery of positive mental health promotion and initiatives within the school.
• Case management including consultation with a range of stakeholders involved with a student and/or their family.
• Developing and leading evidence-based programs and groups that assist students to be resourceful and resilient at school and beyond (alongside other staff or external agencies).
• Supporting placement students on the school wellbeing team.
• Other duties as directed by the Executive Team and Student Wellbeing Coordinator.

Requirements:

• Individuals with the aptitude, experience and/or qualifications to fulfill the specific requirements of the position.

Working Conditions:

• All staff employed by the Department and schools have access to a broad range of employment conditions and working arrangements.
• Appointment of successful applicants will be made subject to a satisfactory pre-employment conditions check.
• A probationary period may apply during the first year of employment and induction and support programs provided.
• Detailed information on all terms and conditions of employment is available on the Department's Human Resources website.