About Company
Discovery Bay High School is a vibrant and growing educational institution located in the beautiful coastal community of Discovery Bay, Saint Ann, Jamaica. We are committed to fostering a supportive and enriching learning environment where every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our mission is to empower students to achieve their full potential, cultivate a love for lifelong learning, and become responsible, contributing members of society. We believe in a holistic approach to education, recognizing the critical role that mental, emotional, and social well-being plays in a student’s success. We pride ourselves on a dedicated faculty and staff who are passionate about student development and community engagement.
Job Description
Discovery Bay High School is seeking a compassionate, dedicated, and highly skilled Guidance Counselor to join our team, focusing primarily on student welfare. This pivotal role involves providing comprehensive counseling services to students across all grade levels, addressing their academic, personal, social, and career development needs. The successful candidate will be instrumental in creating a positive and inclusive school climate, supporting students through various challenges, and guiding them towards successful futures.
As a Guidance Counselor, you will develop and implement school-wide guidance programs, conduct individual and group counseling sessions, and act as a critical resource for students, parents, and staff. Your expertise will help students navigate academic pressures, personal issues, and future planning, ensuring their overall well-being and success. This role requires a proactive approach to identifying student needs, intervening effectively, and collaborating with stakeholders to provide integrated support systems. We are looking for someone who is not only a skilled counselor but also a passionate advocate for students, capable of fostering resilience, self-esteem, and decision-making skills. Join us in making a profound difference in the lives of our students and contributing to the success of our school community.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide individual and group counseling to students regarding academic, personal, social, and career development concerns.
- Develop and implement comprehensive school guidance programs aligned with the school's mission and educational objectives.
- Conduct crisis intervention and conflict resolution as needed, ensuring student safety and emotional well-being.
- Collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to support student success and address behavioral or academic challenges.
- Assist students with post-secondary planning, including university applications, vocational training, and career exploration.
- Facilitate workshops and presentations on topics such as study skills, bullying prevention, mental health awareness, and healthy relationships.
- Maintain accurate and confidential student records in compliance with professional and ethical standards.
- Serve as a liaison between the school, families, and external support agencies to provide holistic support for students.
- Participate in student support teams and contribute to the development of individualized education plans (IEPs) when appropriate.
- Advocate for the needs and interests of all students, promoting an inclusive and equitable learning environment.
Required Skills
- Master's Degree in Guidance Counseling, School Counseling, or a related field.
- Valid professional counseling license or certification recognized in Jamaica.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Guidance Counselor in an educational setting.
- Proven ability to conduct individual and group counseling sessions effectively.
- Strong understanding of child and adolescent development theories and counseling techniques.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups, including students, parents, and staff.
- Proficiency in crisis intervention and conflict resolution strategies.
- Knowledge of Jamaican educational system and post-secondary pathways.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with high school-aged students.
- Familiarity with restorative justice practices.
- Bilingual proficiency (e.g., English and Jamaican Creole).
- Experience with career assessment tools and techniques.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
- Professional development and training opportunities.
- Supportive and collaborative work environment.
- Opportunity to make a significant impact on student lives.
- Paid vacation and sick leave.
- Pension scheme contribution.
- Access to school facilities and resources.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit a detailed resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience. Please highlight your approach to student welfare and how you align with the values of Discovery Bay High School. All applications must be submitted via the provided application link below. We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.