What does an education counsellor do?
An education counsellor is a professional who helps students pilot their academic decisions. They work with students to provide academic counselling and develop personalised plans – considering their goals, abilities and learning style. This involves assessing their strengths, weaknesses, interests and aspirations and designing strategies that maximise their potential.
These professionals possess in-depth knowledge of educational programs, institutions, admission requirements and career options.
The primary role of education counsellors is to empower students to attain their academic excellence and personal goals through customised mentorship. Besides, they aid students in developing the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen field.
Education counsellors also collaborate with teachers to develop innovative teaching methods and learning experiences in the academic institution. They provide guidance on course selection, career planning and college admissions.
In India, where the education landscape is vast and diverse, education counsellors provide valuable support to students, parents and educational institutions.
An education counsellor is also called an education consultant, career counsellor, guidance counsellor, student counsellor and academic advisor. In their career trajectory, they can lead more senior positions such as director of counselling, vice president of student affairs and chief academic officer.
Job Description: Template
We seek a compassionate and efficient education counsellor to join our team at [School or College].
As an education counsellor, you will be responsible for providing supervision and assistance to students during the application process. This includes providing support with admissions, financial aid, scholarships and other post-secondary education-related questions. You will also mentor students on using technology in education and advise them regarding their academic and extracurricular interests.
If you are a creative problem-solver, passionate about education and committed to helping students achieve their goals, we’d love to have you. We offer a collaborative, progress-driven working environment within educational institutions alongside competitive remuneration packages.
Objectives of this role
- Developing guidelines about academic performance, behaviour problems, discipline procedures and school/college policies.
- Implementing policies related to student success, including instructional time management and establishing a learning culture.
- Liaising with faculty members to ensure that students are supported in their coursework.
- Provide a safe and supportive environment where students can discuss their concerns and receive guidance on coping with difficult situations.
Your tasks
- Provide academic support services such as tutoring, group meetings and individual one-on-one meetings.
- Assist in transitioning from high school to college, including advising on course selection, application process, financial aid options and navigating the culture.
- Create and develop a personalised learning plan for students that addresses their needs and is aligned with their goals.
- Monitor progress through grade reports, transcripts and other feedback tools.
- Work towards enriching students’ mental health and well-being and help them develop coping strategies to manage stress, anxiety and other challenges.
- Providing feedback to the staff and parents on their teaching practices, lesson plans and instructional approach.
- Stay updated on educational trends, industry developments and changing admission requirements in India.
Required skills and qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in counselling, education, psychology, or a related field.
- Minimum experience of (3) three years in education counselling or a related role.
- Demonstrated knowledge of educational best practices, learning theory and counselling techniques.
- Ability to foster strong relationships with students, parents, teachers and other stakeholders.
- Passion for education, commitment to equity and a desire to positively impact students’ lives.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to establish rapport with students and their families.
- Possess an empathetic and a patient approach to address students’ emotional and personal concerns.
- Strong organisational skills to manage multiple students and tasks simultaneously.
Preferred skills and qualifications
- Relevant certification or licensure as a counsellor.
- Proficiency in computer applications and educational software.
- Knowledge of study abroad programs and application procedures.
- Ability to assess complex situations, identify problems and develop practical solutions.
