School Counsellor

Team: Jigsaw Service

Job Family: CBG9 - Supporting

Salary: £34,811 - £37,562 per annum pro rata

Hours: 37 hours per week - term time only

Location: You will be expected to attend a CBC office location as often as needed to carry out your role, which will be no less than once per month.

Contract Type: Hybrid - Fixed Term until 31st August 2026

Closing Date: 22nd March 2026

Interview Date: w/c 23rd March 2026

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated School Counsellor to be part of our pilot project. It is an exciting opportunity to join our established Jigsaw Service as we expand the offer to reduce suspensions and permanent exclusions which have a detrimental effect on future outcomes for children. 

The Jigsaw Service is Central Bedfordshire Council's specialist Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) support service for schools, children and families. The service provides educational support for children who have been permanently excluded or are at high risk of permanent exclusion. This includes fulfilling the Local Authority's statutory obligation and offering in-reach services at two designated Jigsaw Centres. Through Outreach Support, the Jigsaw team aims to reduce school suspensions by providing direct assistance to school staff, students, and their families within the school environment. This preventative approach benefits the entire school community and mitigates the negative impact of exclusion on a child's well-being and future outcomes.

Key Responsibilities of the role:

Client Assessment:

• Conduct comprehensive intake interviews to assess clients' presenting problems, needs, and goals.

Counselling Sessions:

• Facilitate therapeutic sessions using evidence-based counselling techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, or Person-Centered Therapy.
• Create a safe and supportive environment for clients to express their thoughts and feelings.
• Employ active listening, empathy, and other therapeutic skills to build rapport and trust with clients.
• Help clients explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, and develop coping strategies.
• Connect clients with appropriate resources, such as emergency services or crisis hotlines, as needed.

Case Management:

• Maintain accurate and confidential client records, including session notes, progress reports, and treatment plans.
• Coordinate with other professionals from Education, Health and Social Care.
• Adhere to ethical guidelines and legal requirements related to counselling practice.

Professional Development:

• Stay current with the latest research and best practices in the field of counselling.
• Participate in ongoing professional development activities, such as workshops, conferences, and continuing education courses.
• Seek supervision and consultation to enhance clinical skills and address complex cases.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Qualification in Psychotherapeutic Counselling or a related field.
• Licensed or certified to practice.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Empathy, compassion, and a non-judgmental attitude.
• Ability to establish rapport and build trust with clients.
• Excellent active listening and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of various counselling theories and techniques.
• Strong ethical and professional boundaries.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.

For an informal discussion about this position, please contact: Justine McQuillan at justine.mcquillan@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk or call 0300 300 4111