School Counsellor

The School Counsellor will work for Ambition Community Trust and will support the emotional, psychological, and social well-being of pupils aged (typically in Key Stage 3 and 4) by providing a safe and confidential environment for them to discuss and work through challenges. The counsellor will work as part of our multi-disciplinary Therapeutic Team that spans two multi-academy trusts, collaborating to deliver services across our schools. You will also work closely with teaching staff, parents, and external agencies to ensure the overall development of the child and create a supportive, relational inclusive school culture. You will also contribute to the Trust’s training offer for schools, promoting relational, trauma-informed approaches to working with children. Previous experience of working within an education setting with students in a supporting role is essential to contribute towards a positive learning culture, which promotes success and personal well-being.

Qualifications and Experience:

Essential:

•           Qualified Counsellor or Psychotherapist: Recognised qualification in counselling or psychotherapy (Level 4 diploma or higher).

•           BACP/UKCP Registration: Full membership or accreditation with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP), or an

equivalent body.

•           Experience with Children: Proven experience working with children in a school or educational setting, ideally with children aged 9–12 (Key Stage 2/3).

•           Knowledge of Child Development: Strong understanding of child development, mental health issues, and the emotional needs of children in a school environment.

•           Safeguarding: Familiarity with safeguarding policies and practices in educational settings, with up-to-date safeguarding training.

•           DBS Check: Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check required.

Desirable:

•           Experience in Schools: Prior experience working in a primary or secondary school as a school counsellor or in a similar pastoral role.

•           Specialised Training: A recognised qualification in Children’s Counselling. Additional training in specific therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution

Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, or Art Therapy.

•           Experience with Special Educational Needs (SEN): Experience supporting children with SEN, including autism spectrum conditions, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental disorders.

•           Crisis Management: Experience in dealing with crisis situations, such as self-harm, suicide ideation, bullying, or bereavement.

KEY TASKS – General

• To fully support the Head of Centre, Executive Head and the Governing Board of Tameside Alternative Provision Academy in the discharge of their duties, by ensuring maximum efficiency in all aspects of delegated authority.

• To play a leading role in the development, dissemination and promotion of an effective and challenging vision and ethos.

• To play a leading role in developing the aims of Tameside Alternative Provision Academy.

• To support all staff in achieving the priorities and targets that the service sets itself.

• To work in partnership with parents and carers, outside agencies and TAPA staff to co-ordinate interventions as appropriate.

• To support form tutors with their pastoral responsibilities i.e. ensuring pastoral information for individual pupils is in place (pupil profiles, behaviour plans etc.) and updated as appropriate and that staff are aware of any changes.

• To be flexible in working hours as student needs require.

• To be available to provide pastoral support for staff and pupils, whenever the need arises.

Ambition Community Trust

Our vision is rooted in the power of relational inclusion. We believe that schools thrive when every child, every colleague, and every family feels seen, valued, and supported. By prioritising relationships at the heart of everything we do, we aim to create spaces where kindness and understanding are not just encouraged but embedded in the culture of our schools.

This is not just about academic success; it’s about helping every individual flourish, equipping young people with the confidence and skills to lead fulfilling lives, and ensuring that no one is left behind. By working collaboratively, we have an opportunity to challenge old systems, reimagine what is possible, and inspire lasting change.

The Trust is committed to safer recruitment practice and pre-employment checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed. The PRS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service disclosures.

For an informal discussion about this role. Please contact Anthony Benedict on 07710437473 or email a.benedict@tprs.tameside.sch.uk