School Counsellor

Job OverviewThe School Counselor is responsible for designing and delivering a comprehensive, culturally responsive school counseling program that supports the social-emotional development of students within the framework of the Aga Khan Academies and the International Baccalaureate. This role also includes support for residential students, ensuring their well-being and successful adjustment to residential life. The counselor serves as a leader, advocate, consultant, and collaborator, upholding the ethical and professional standards of the International School Counselor Association (ISCA) and the International Model for School Counseling Programs.

S/He Will Be Responsible ForProgram Development and Delivery Plan, implement, support and evaluate a comprehensive, developmental, results-based counseling program aligned with ISCA Student Standards and the IB philosophy. Integrate social-emotional learning (SEL) and student well-being into the school’s curriculum and culture. Deliver individual and group counseling to address students’ social, emotional, and behavioral needs. Support students’ personal development, resilience, and sense of belonging, in line with the Academies’ Learner Profile. Residential Student SupportProvide dedicated counseling and pastoral care to residential students, addressing challenges related to adjustment, homesickness, cultural transition, and interpersonal relationships.

Collaborate closely with residential life staff, heads of houses, and families to ensure a safe, supportive, and nurturing boarding environment. Facilitate workshops and group activities aimed at promoting community, well-being, and life skills among boarding students. Monitor and advocate for the mental health and welfare of residential students, coordinating referrals to external mental health professionals when necessary. Advocacy and Collaboration Serve as an assertive advocate for student equity, access, and well-being within the school community. Consult and collaborate with students, parents, teachers, administrators, residential life staff, and external professionals to promote student success.

Participate in school-wide initiatives and contribute to the school’s mission and improvement plan. Professionalism and EthicsUphold the ISCA ethical standards and professional responsibilities. The successful candidate should have a Master’s degree in Counseling from an accredited institution, A valid teaching certificate and certification as a counselorS/he must have a minimum of 5 years’ experience as a school counselor in an international school setting, preferably with experience in IB programmes. Experience supporting residential or boarding students is highly desirable.