School Counsellor

About the role

The School Counsellor at Smart Vision School supports the social, emotional and psychological wellbeing of students, working with them, their families and staff so that every learner feels safe, supported and able to succeed. Through individual and group counselling, preventative wellbeing programmes and early intervention, the counsellor helps students build resilience, emotional intelligence and positive relationships, while supporting safeguarding and an inclusive school environment. The role aligns with the KHDA Education Inspection Framework, UAE Ministry of Education wellbeing expectations and international safeguarding standards.

Key responsibilities

• Provide confidential individual and group counselling for students facing emotional, social, behavioural or academic challenges, and help them develop coping strategies, resilience and self-confidence.
• Identify students needing extra support and provide early intervention, and support students during transitions and personal challenges.
• Support safeguarding and child protection policies, identify safeguarding concerns and work with the Designated Safeguarding Lead, keeping accurate confidential records.
• Contribute to whole-school wellbeing initiatives, deliver workshops on emotional wellbeing, resilience, relationships and mental health awareness, and promote empathy, respect and positive behaviour.
• Work with teachers, leadership and inclusion staff, advise teachers on students' emotional and behavioural needs, liaise with parents and external specialists, and take part in safeguarding discussions and school events.
• Keep up to date with counselling, safeguarding and wellbeing training, and uphold professionalism, confidentiality and ethical practice.

Required profile

• Degree in Psychology, Counselling or a related field.
• Recognised counselling qualification or professional certification.
• At least two years' experience working with children or adolescents in a counselling or wellbeing role.
• Desirable: experience in international schools or the UAE, knowledge of KHDA inspection expectations, and experience delivering preventative wellbeing programmes.

Required skills

• Strong understanding of child development, mental health and safeguarding.
• Excellent communication, listening and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.
• Compassionate, culturally sensitive and collaborative, with a proactive approach.