Counsellors at Varndean College

What does the opportunity involve doing?

We are seeking counsellors in training or qualified counsellors for an opportunity to accrue experience working therapeutically within an educational setting with students aged 16-19. You will be expected to work one clinical day, with a caseload of 4 clients as well as attending scheduled supervision and line management. As part of our offer, we provide supervision in a blend of both group and individual formats, 3 weeks out of every 4, and provide fortnightly line management. This ensures that your counselling work is well supported, that the placement is facilitating your professional growth and gives opportunities to think more broadly about counselling outside the therapeutic hour.

What induction, training and support is offered?

As part of our offer, we provide supervision in a blend of both group and individual formats, 3 weeks out of every 4, and provide fortnightly line management. This ensures that your counselling work is well supported, that the placement is facilitating your professional growth and gives opportunities to think more broadly about counselling outside the therapeutic hour.

What skills or qualities are needed?

• Enrolment on a training course working towards a professional qualification in counselling.
• Relevant membership with appropriate professional body (BACP/UKCP).
• Experience of working with young people or adolescents with a range of needs.
• Experience as a lone worker.
• Have a developing knowledge of a therapeutic framework.
• Understanding of social and contextual factors, mental health and emotional wellbeing issues for 16-19 students.
• A proven track record and a genuine interest in working with and improving the life chances of young people so that they can engage in education.
• Good interpersonal skills: Strong communicator in a range of contexts e.g. 1-1 with students, online, on paper, in training/presentations to large groups.
• An enthusiastic team player with a highly organised and flexible approach and the ability to work within strict confidentiality requirements.
• A commitment to developing strong relationships with students.
• Someone who is determined and resilient with high expectations of themselves.
• Energy, tenacity and enthusiasm to fulfil the role.
• A flexible approach to work and working hours to meet College needs.
• An understanding of safeguarding and its importance within the college.
• A commitment to equality of opportunity.