Guidance Officers are experienced teachers who have completed post-graduate level qualifications in guidance and counselling. They also undergo training in other areas such as behaviour management, family therapy, grief counselling, mental health issues and career development.
Guidance Officers work in a team with members of other student support services such as the Chaplain, School Nurse and Head of Senior Schooling. They also work closely with administration and staff to ensure that the welfare needs of students are met.
Guidance Officers provide a direct service to both individuals and groups of students. Students may self-refer or be referred by parents, teachers or members of the administration. Guidance Officers provide counselling and advice on personal issues, resources and advice on careers and courses, personal development and mental health issues. They are also involved in behaviour management and give advice to parents.
Although they are members of the school staff, they are able to extend beyond the teacher role and handle sensitive situations in a confidential manner. They also maintain links with and can refer students and families to outside agencies.
The role of a Guidance Officer is very broad and he or she can be involved in many areas. These may include:
Assessing students’ placement and specialist support needs.
Personal counselling in relation to individual safety and crisis management.
Helping students manage relationships and behavioural difficulties.
Study skills development.
Ascertainment of students with special needs.
Career counselling and advice.
Subject and Course selection.
Career planning and decision making.
Overseeing tertiary applications through QTAC.
Providing Information on jobs and how to get them.
Supporting Independent Students.
Student Education and Transition Plans.
Accessing Services.
Students may make appointments with the Guidance Officers. Parents may phone to either make an appointment or to speak to the Guidance officer by phone. If the Guidance Officers are not available, a message may be left on the message bank. Parents may also contact us by email.