Volunteer Counsellor

Summary

Bedford Girls’ School is seeking a compassionate and committed Volunteer Counsellor to join our Pastoral Team.

Detail

Minimum of 4 hours, could be more

Voluntary position

About Bedford Girls’ School

At Bedford Girls’ School, we believe in empowering our students to become confident, compassionate, and accomplished individuals who aspire to change the world around them. We achieve outstanding academic excellence and are dedicated to offering a truly holistic education.

About the Role:

Bedford Girls’ School is seeking a compassionate and committed Volunteer Counsellor to join our Pastoral Team. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of students aged 11–18 (Years 7–13) by supporting their emotional wellbeing and helping them navigate anxiety, stress, and personal challenges.

Working alongside our School Counsellor, you will provide one-to-one or small group sessions, helping students to explore their feelings and develop healthy coping strategies within a confidential and supportive environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide one-to-one or small group counselling sessions to students.
• Support students in managing emotional wellbeing and mental health challenges.
• Maintain accurate, confidential client records and case notes.
• Work within BACP ethical guidelines and school safeguarding policies.
• Participate in supervision and maintain ongoing professional development.

What we are looking for:

• A trainee counsellor in the final year of a recognised counselling qualification or a qualified counsellor (Diploma level or above).
• Student or registered member of BACP, NCS, or equivalent professional body.
• Experience in a supportive role with young people, adults, or families (minimum 30 hours counselling experience).
• Understanding of adolescent mental health and a commitment to client-centred practice.
• Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and a non-judgemental approach.

Why Join Us?

Be part of an outstanding forward-looking school who have an ambitious vision to develop the next generation of creative thinkers, change-makers and problem-solvers. Become a member of a friendly inclusive community which values its employees, offering opportunities for professional development and growth. We offer a wide range of benefits including, excellent pension scheme, life insurance, hospital surgical treatment insurance, and a cash plan scheme that includes a variety of wellbeing benefits.

Closing date: Tuesday 25th November 2025

Interview Date: Monday 2nd December 2025 and Friday 5th December 2025

If you have any queries regarding this vacancy, please email hr@harpurtrust.org.uk or ring 01234 369500

Applicants are encouraged to apply early as immediate interviews are available for exceptional candidates. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early should we receive sufficient applications.

At Bedford Girls’ School, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive working environment. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. We believe that a diverse team enriches our school community and helps us better meet the needs of our students.

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). The School may carry out online searches on shortlisted applicants.

The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. The School is therefore permitted to ask job applicants to declare all convictions and cautions on a self-declaration form in advance of attending an interview (including those which are "spent" unless they are "protected" under the DBS filtering rules) in order to assess their suitability to work with children.

Documents

• Job Description for Volunteer Counsellor PDF Document