Trainee Counsellor (Voluntary, unpaid placement)

Contract Type: Temporary, 12 months

Contract Term: Term Time Only (38 weeks)

Hours: 9am to 4pm; 1 day a week (Monday, Tuesday or Thursday)

Salary: Voluntary, unpaid placement

Posted: Tuesday 24th February 2026

Closing Date: Tuesday 10th March 2026, 9am

Job Starts: Required ASAP

Interview Date: Week commencing: Monday 16th March 2026

The school reserves the right to interview and appoint this position ahead of any advertised application closing date, should an appropriate candidate be found. Therefore, it is advisable to submit applications as early as possible.

We are seeking to appoint a compassionate, motivated Trainee Counsellor to join our team at Rooks Heath School. The role provides valuable opportunities to develop counselling skills, integrate theory into practice, qualify on training courses, and gain meaningful clinical experience as a therapist, enhancing trainees’ professional growth overall.

You will support young people (11–18 years old), who may or may not have special educational needs and are at risk of mental health issues, such as low self-esteem and confidence levels, anxiety, difficulties verbalising and regulating their emotions. You will also support the parent/carer of the referred student person with wellbeing through provision of peer support and training.

The successful candidate must hold their own Professional Indemnity Insurance prior to commencing the role. Candidates invited to interview will be required to provide their DBS certificate, insurance documentation, and evidence of professional membership

What will you get in return? 

• Free fortnightly clinical one to one clinical supervision

• Additional training that supports your development for example, FGM, Autism, and Mental Health First Aid.

• Clients to counsel for up to 3 terms

• An induction into the organisation that meets not only Health and Safety requirements but is also sufficient to allow the         counselling trainee to function effectively in their role.

• Continuous support from the Service Manager.

• Job references after six months of volunteering with us.

• A setting that is safe and fit for purpose.

• Excellent transport links

• Access to Employee Assistance Programme providing free, confidential counselling, legal advice and a range of different support

Rooks Heath School is part of Tithe Academy, a Multi Academy Trust and sponsors a local primary school and an Alternative Education provider. Our schools work together to drive up standards across the MAT. We offer excellent PD opportunities and potential for career progression.

Tithe Academy is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The recruitment of the successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check and registration with the update service. A Certificate of Good Conduct is also required from the successful applicant if they have lived abroad and fulfil relevant requirements.

If you think this role may be for you and have any questions about the position, please get in touch by contacting the school.  We would be happy to facilitate a visit to our site to see the school in operation.  Contact details are: recruitment@rooksheath.harrow.sch.uk