Phyllis Jowell School announces part-time School Counsellor vacancy, apply by 7 November 2024

Phyllis Jowell School, a co-educational Jewish institution, is seeking to appoint a dedicated part-time School Counsellor to join its Learning Team, starting in January 2026. This vital role is focused on enhancing the academic, social, and emotional well-being of students within a dual curriculum environment. Interested candidates with a strong background in school counselling and the required professional registrations are invited to apply by Friday, 7 November 2024.

Vacancy key details

• Position: School Counsellor (Part-Time)
• Institution: Jewish International, Phyllis Jowell School
• Location: Not specified in the vacancy, but likely South Africa given the legislation mentioned.
• Start date: Term 1, January 2026
• Application deadline: Friday, 7 November 2024
• Role overview: To support students’ academic, social, and emotional well-being within a co-educational Jewish school setting offering a dual curriculum.
• Essential qualifications: Recognised qualifications and registration with a relevant professional body are mandatory.
• Experience required: Previous experience in a school environment is essential.
• Key skills: Strong interpersonal, communication (verbal and written English), administrative, and computer literacy skills are critical.
• Legal knowledge: Familiarity with the South African Schools Act and the Children’s Act is required.
• Clearances: Applicants must provide Police, Sexual Offences, and Child Protection clearances.

Simple summary of the vacancy

Phyllis Jowell School, a prominent co-educational Jewish institution that delivers a unique dual curriculum encompassing both Jewish and General subjects, is looking for a highly qualified and experienced School Counsellor. This is a part-time position, with the successful candidate expected to commence their duties in Term 1 of 2026. The School Counsellor is an integral member of the Learning Team, playing a crucial role in nurturing the holistic development of students by supporting their academic progress, social integration, and emotional resilience.

The ideal candidate will possess recognised qualifications and be registered with an appropriate professional body. Essential requirements include previous experience in a school setting, demonstrating an inspirational, organised, and energetic approach to their work. The role demands excellent interpersonal skills, particularly the ability to collaborate effectively with other professionals within a multi-disciplinary Learning Team. Strong verbal and written English communication skills are vital, along with proven administrative capabilities. The School Counsellor will be responsible for facilitating workshops for students, staff, and parents, providing sensitive guidance and counselling to students of all ages, and offering support to both teaching and non-teaching staff as needed. Furthermore, comprehensive computer literacy, the ability to maintain accurate and confidential records, and familiarity with relevant legislation such as the South African Schools Act and the Children’s Act are prerequisite. All applicants must also secure Police, Sexual Offences, and Child Protection clearances. This is a wonderful opportunity for a dedicated professional to make a significant impact within a vibrant school community.

How to apply for this post

• Prepare a written application.
• Compile a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Ensure you include details for two contactable references.
• Email your complete application to [email protected].
• The deadline for applications is Friday, 7 November 2024.
• Please note that only suitably qualified and experienced applicants will be considered, and short-listed candidates will be contacted telephonically. Submission of an application does not guarantee an interview, and Phyllis Jowell School reserves the right not to fill the post. For more details on this vacancy, you can visit the source: School Counsellor Vacancy.

Questions and advice for potential candidates

Here are some questions and tips that a potential candidate might find useful before applying, and how to become a preferred applicant:

• Q: What specific qualifications are required? A: You must have recognised qualifications in counselling or a related field and be registered with a relevant professional body. Ensure your registration is current and clearly stated in your CV.
• Q: How important is school experience? A: It’s essential. The vacancy explicitly states “Previous experience in a school setting essential.” Highlight any work in primary, secondary, or special needs education.
• Q: What kind of personality traits are they looking for? A: The school seeks someone “inspirational, organised and energetic.” Demonstrate these qualities through examples in your application and interview.
• Q: How can I show my interpersonal skills? A: Emphasise your ability to “coordinate and work with other professionals on the multi-disciplinary Learning Team.” Give examples of successful collaborations in previous roles.
• Q: What about communication skills? A: “Strong English verbal and written communication skills with a track record of effective administrative abilities” are crucial. Provide evidence of report writing, parent communication, and record keeping.
• Q: Should I mention my experience with workshops? A: Absolutely. The role requires being “willing and able to run student/staff/parent workshops.” Detail any workshops you’ve designed or delivered.
• Q: How should I address counselling students of different ages and engaging with parents? A: Show your ability to “guide and counsel students across all ages as well as communicate with parents with sensitivity and understanding.” Share examples of tailored approaches for different age groups and challenging parent discussions.
• Q: Is legal knowledge really necessary? A: Yes, familiarity with the South African Schools Act and the Children’s Act is explicitly required. Briefly mention how your practice aligns with these regulations.
• Q: What clearances do I need? A: You will need Police, Sexual Offences and Child Protection clearances. It’s advisable to have these prepared or be in the process of obtaining them.
• Q: How can I stand out as a preferred candidate? A: Beyond meeting the minimum requirements, demonstrate your passion for student well-being, provide concrete examples of your impact in previous roles, and show a clear understanding of the unique environment of a Jewish co-educational school with a dual curriculum. A cover letter tailored to Phyllis Jowell School will be highly beneficial.
• Q: Is there a website for Phyllis Jowell School? A: The vacancy advertisement does not provide a direct website link for Phyllis Jowell School. It would be advisable to perform an online search to learn more about the school’s ethos and programmes.
• Q: What is the school’s address? A: The vacancy does not provide a physical address for Phyllis Jowell School.

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