Secondary Student Counsellor - KSAB - AY26-27

Secondary Student Counsellor

Kings’ School Al Barsha is on the lookout for an outstanding Counsellor to join our exceptional team starting in August 2026. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a highly regarded and effective department renowned for its commitment to student wellbeing and pastoral care.

At Kings’, we prioritize fostering resilience and confidence in our students, ensuring that each child receives the "Best by every child" experience. You will be instrumental in guiding their educational journey.

We offer excellent opportunities for professional development, supporting every staff member in reaching their full potential. Become part of a collaborative, innovative, and forward-thinking educational community where excellence is both encouraged and expected.

Apply now to be part of something remarkable.

Requirements and Experience:

Essential:

• A Postgraduate Diploma or Master’s degree in counselling or a related field.
• Accreditation with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) or actively working towards it.
• Membership in or willingness to join the International School Counsellors Association (ISCA).
• Experience in supporting children and young people with developmental, emotional, social, and educational challenges.
• Awareness of the diverse needs of individuals from various ethnic, cultural, and social backgrounds.
• Proven experience in providing high-quality individual and group counselling to children and adolescents, addressing a range of social, emotional, and mental health needs.
• Strong knowledge of evidence-based therapeutic approaches and the ability to implement them effectively within a school environment.
• Capability to create a safe, confidential, and supportive atmosphere that encourages students to express themselves.
• Skills in helping young people develop resilience, emotional regulation, and healthy coping mechanisms.
• Comprehensive understanding of safeguarding protocols, confidentiality standards, and professional ethical guidelines (including BACP standards).
• Experience in responding to student crises, assessing risks, and executing suitable interventions in collaboration with safeguarding leads and parents.
• Ability to build constructive, professional relationships with parents and guardians, including conducting workshops and offering guidance on student wellbeing.
• Commitment to engaging in regular professional supervision.
• Strong organizational skills, with experience in maintaining accurate, confidential, and compliant records in accordance with safeguarding and data protection regulations.
• Dedication to ongoing professional development and staying updated on current research, legislation, and best practices in child and adolescent mental health.

Desirable:

• Additional therapeutic training or qualifications in working with children and young people.
• Experience in a high-performing British Curriculum School.
• Familiarity with established networks in Dubai, including external mental health professionals and managing referrals within the UAE.
• Experience collaborating within a multidisciplinary team and contributing to a whole-school wellbeing strategy and initiatives.

How to apply:

Candidates should apply directly through the WhatSchool platform.

The closing date for applications is 30th April 2026. Only those shortlisted will be contacted, and we reserve the right to appoint a suitable candidate prior to the closing date. Successful candidates will begin their role in August 2026.

Safer Recruitment

We are dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, expecting all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants must be prepared to undergo a thorough screening process that includes:

• Verification of qualifications and passport.
• Obtaining three satisfactory references (including from the current/most recent employer and a previous employer).
• Providing Police Certificates for the last ten years.