School counsellors support students’ academic, emotional, and social development. They provide guidance on career planning, address personal challenges, and work with educators and parents to create a supportive learning environment.
What is a typical day in School Counsellor?
– Meeting with students to discuss academic performance, career goals, or personal issues.
– Developing and implementing programs to improve student well-being and resilience
– Collaborating with teachers and parents to address specific student needs
– Organizing workshops on topics like study skills, mental health, or career planning
What else might they be expected to do?
– Identify and support students at risk of dropping out or underperforming
– Facilitate conflict resolution between students or between students and teachers
– Maintain confidential records and monitor students’ progress over time
What type of training is needed for this career path?
– A Bachelor’s degree in Education, Psychology, or Counselling is often required.
– A Master’s degree in School Counselling or a related field is typically preferred.
– Certification or licensing as a school counsellor, where applicable, is essential.
What kind of personality is needed to excel in this career path?
– Empathetic, patient, and resourceful individuals excel in this role.
– Big 5 traits: Agreeableness and Emotional Stability.
– Myers-Briggs types: INFJ or ISFJ often align with this career.
What kind of interests do people in this career path have?
– Passion for helping students overcome challenges and achieve their goals (Social traits).
– Interest in psychology, personal development, and education.
– Interests & Aptitude: Social (S), Investigative (I), and Conventional (C)
Are there any innate skills or aptitudes required?
– Strong interpersonal and communication skills for building trust with students
– Problem-solving skills to develop effective strategies for student success
– Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism
What challenges can I expect to face if I pursue this career path?
– Addressing complex emotional and behavioural issues among students
– Balancing the needs of individual students with those of the wider school community
– Managing stress and maintaining self-care in a demanding role
What are the job prospects for this path in Kenya and Africa? What about International prospects for a Kenyan citizen?
– Kenya and Africa: Increasing demand for school counsellors as mental health awareness grows in education. Opportunities exist in schools, universities, and community programs.
– International: School counsellors are highly sought after in countries like the USA, UK, and Canada, particularly in schools with a focus on holistic student development.
What should I focus on if I choose to pursue this career?
– Gain experience in student support roles or counselling internships.
– Develop expertise in conflict resolution, career guidance, and mental health support.
– Stay informed about educational psychology and counselling techniques.
Which other careers or job roles can I progress to?
– Educational Psychologist
– Academic Advisor
– Career Coach
– School Administrator
– Mental Health Counsellor