Councellor

**All applicants must submit the Arco Academy Employment Application Form, the Arco Academy Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form and a CV. The addition of a cover letter is optional.**

**About Arco Academy**

Arco Academy is a registered independent alternative provision school with sports as a specialism. Situated in the heart of Camberwell, London, Arco Academy offers education to students referred by mainstream schools and the Local Authority. We have an emphasis in pastoral care and take a holistic approach towards education.

Our aim is to enhance the academic, wellbeing and personal growth for all students of all abilities.

We are committed to high-quality education and promoting our vision to unleash the potential we know exists in all our students, by providing a creative and tailor-made curriculum.

Every student is provided with the opportunity to learn, achieve and succeed to their highest potential. Consequently, we work diligently towards meeting the learning needs of our students. This includes encouraging participation in sports, development of essential life skills and nurturing a positive relationship within school and the community.

We believe all staff members play a vital role in the lives of our students. Therefore, we take a proactive approach to the development and wellbeing of all Arco staff. We are committed to investing in all staff through CPD, internal staff support and wellbeing development.

We pride ourselves on appreciating, promoting and celebrating the diversity and individuality of all students, staff and partners.

For further information regarding Arco Academy policies, visit. Please ensure you have read our Safeguarding (Child Protection) Policy and Safer Recruitment Policy.

**Role Overview**

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate school counsellor to join us at Arco Academy. The School Counsellor will play a vital role in supporting our students' social, emotional, and academic well-being. They will provide individual and group counselling sessions, develop and implement prevention programs, and collaborate with staff, parents, and community resources to ensure the holistic development of students.

**Responsibilities**:
1. Individual Counselling: Provide confidential counselling sessions to students dealing with personal, academic, or social issues.

2. Group Counselling: Facilitate group counselling sessions to address common concerns among students and promote peer support networks.

3. Crisis Intervention: Offer immediate support and intervention in crisis situations, including but not limited to emotional distress, trauma, or emergencies.

4. Assessment and Referral: Conduct assessments to identify students needing additional support and refer them to appropriate resources, including mental health professionals or community organisations.

6. Collaboration: Work closely with teachers, administrators, and parents to address student needs and promote a supportive school environment.

7. Consultation: Provide services to teachers and staff regarding student behaviour, mental health concerns, and academic support strategies.

8. Documentation: Maintain accurate and confidential records of counselling sessions, assessments, and interventions in compliance with school policies and regulations.

9. Professional Development: Stay informed about current trends, research, and best practices in school counselling through ongoing professional development and training.

Qualifications:

- Level 5 qualification in Counselling or equivalent
- BACP accreditation or working towards
- Ability to liaise and refer with other local services including CAMHS
- Demonstrable understanding of the developmental, emotional, social and educational issues of children and young people
- Knowledge of the Children's Act and legislation pertaining to children
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Experience working with children and adolescents in an educational or counselling setting.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport with students, parents, and staff.
- Knowledge crisis intervention strategies, and ethical guidelines.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
- Commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the school community.
- Proficiency in computer skills for maintaining records and accessing resources.
- Flexibility and adaptability to meet the changing needs of students and the school community.

**Job Type**: Part-time

Expected hours: 4 - 16 per week

Schedule:

- Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person