Post: University Counsellor (plus a potential Head of University Counselling)
We are seeking applications for the position to start in January 2025 (Negotiable for the right candidate).
The SJI International University Counselling Department is expanding from 3 to 4 full time counsellors.The school may also be looking for a Head of University Counselling and candidates interested in this leadership role are encouraged to indicate this in their application.
- The listed start date is January 2025 but this is negotiable for the right candidate.
- We welcome applications from candidates working within schools as well as within university admissions.
Primary Responsibility
The University Counsellor will provide Senior School students with a comprehensive university counselling programme, supporting them through every stage of the university admissions process. This role involves working within the University Counselling Department to continuously develop and improve the programme. The University Counsellor is expected to take initiative and be adaptable as the programme expands, working collaboratively with a growing team in a positive and proactive manner.
Specific Responsibilities
The University Counsellor will work alongside the Head of University Counselling to support students in the following ways:
University Application Support:
- Guide students and alumni, including those serving National Service or taking gap years, in selecting appropriate and rewarding university courses.
- Run information sessions for students, parents, and teachers as needed.
- Provide detailed support on personal statements, application essays, and all aspects of the application process.
- Collaborate with teachers to ensure strong academic references and provide counsellor references when necessary.
- Oversee the timely and accurate submission of university applications.
Programme Development:
- Continue to develop the University Counselling programme and ensure it meets the needs of the diverse student body.
- Organise and attend individual and group university visits, both virtual and in-person.
- Foster relationships with admissions officers at universities and colleges worldwide, including Singapore.
- Stay informed about developments in admissions processes, particularly for universities in Singapore, the UK, Australia, the US, Canada, Asia, and Europe.
Advisory and Guidance:
- Offer guidance to Grade 10 students on their IB Diploma subject choices, ensuring alignment with their future aspirations.
- Meet with students and parents in Grades 7 - 10 as needed and requested by the Pastoral Team and the Wellbeing Counsellors.
- Provide comprehensive information to students, parents, and teachers about university visits, application timelines, and other relevant updates through coffee mornings, information sessions, workshops, newsletters, and school communication platforms.
- Maintain and update admissions guidance materials as needed.
Professional Development:
- Engage in continuous professional learning through attending webinars, conferences, and relevant training sessions, including in school holidays.
- Share knowledge with the wider counselling team and school community to support the continuous improvement of the programme.
- Take opportunities to engage with and contribute positively to the university counselling community in Singapore.
Contribution to School Life
All staff at SJI International are expected to contribute to the wider life of the school, including but not limited to:
- Supporting the school’s Catholic and Lasallian ethos.
- Acting as role models through dress, punctuality, and professional conduct.
- Participating in school events, open evenings, and student performances.
- Upholding the school's behaviour and uniform codes.
- Participating in staff meetings, training, and the annual performance review process.
- Involvement in the school’s service, sport, and activity programmes.
- Supporting school trips and expeditions.
Preferred Experience and Skills
- A positive, proactive and flexible work ethic.
- Detail oriented.
- Strong knowledge of university systems and admissions processes, particularly for universities in Singapore, the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Asia, and Europe.
- Familiarity with international financial aid options and scholarships, especially Singapore government scholarship opportunities.
- Knowledge of university counselling software and online tools
- Strong organisational and time management skills.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Willingness to be contacted outside normal school hours and term dates when necessary.
- A clear vision for evaluating and improving the University Counselling programme.
For those applying for the Head of University Counselling role, please include your leadership experience and vision for guiding the department in your application letter.
Application Process
All applications for this position strictly to be submitted through Schrole/ APLi only. The link to our Schrole / APLi page can be found on our Employment Page (https://www.sji-international.com.sg/about/employment).
We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.
