Lower School Counselor, American International School of Cape Town, South Africa Education Support

This school is based in Cape Town, South Africa and is looking for a Lower School Counselor.

The American International School of Cape Town (AISCT) is dedicated to creating a nurturing and inclusive environment that supports the academic, social, and emotional development of our students. Our comprehensive counseling program is an integral part of our mission to ensure the well-being and success of every child.

Job Summary: The Lower School Counselor will provide a comprehensive counseling program for approximately 250 students in kindergarten through fifth grade. This role involves offering services to meet the needs of assigned students, consulting with teachers, staff, and parents to enhance their effectiveness in supporting students, and providing support to other elementary school educational programs. The counselor will deliver regularly scheduled guidance lessons, small group sessions, and individual short-term counseling. The counselor is an active member of our student support team and leadership team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Comprehensive Counseling: Develop and implement a comprehensive counseling program for K-5 students.
• Guidance Lessons: Conduct regularly scheduled guidance lessons to promote social, emotional, and academic growth.
• Individual and Group Counseling: Provide small group and individual short-term counseling sessions to address specific student needs.
• Consultation: Consult with teachers, staff, and parents to enhance their effectiveness in helping students.
• Student Support: Actively participate in the student support team and leadership team meetings.
• Crisis Intervention: Provide immediate support and intervention in crisis situations.
• Program Development: Assist in the development and implementation of school-wide programs that promote a positive school climate.
• Assessment and Evaluation: Assess and evaluate the effectiveness of counseling programs and services, making adjustments as needed.
• Collaboration: Work collaboratively with school staff and parents to address and resolve student issues.

Qualifications:

• Education: Master’s degree in educational psychology or a related field.
• Certification: License or certificate in school counseling.
• Experience: Experience in school counseling, preferably in an international or diverse setting.
• Skills: Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills; ability to work effectively with students, staff, and parents.

Personal Attributes:

• Empathetic and Compassionate: Ability to understand and respond to the diverse needs of students with empathy and compassion.
• Proactive: Takes initiative to develop and implement programs that support student well-being.
• Collaborative: Works well as part of a team and fosters positive relationships with all stakeholders.
• Professional: Maintains high standards of professionalism and confidentiality.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students
• Collaborative and supportive work environment
• Access to professional development and training opportunities