School Counsellor

**Position Summary**

Seabird Island is committed to supporting the holistic development of students and fostering a culturally safe learning environment. We are dedicated to creating a culturally safe and inclusive environment that respects and values Indigenous knowledge, traditions, and ways of being. We are seeking a School Counsellor to join our team, working collaboratively to enhance the learning and well-being of students and the broader school community.

Under the direction of the Principal, the School Counsellor provides culturally informed counselling, consultation, coordination, and educational support to students. This role involves delivering personal and social counselling, facilitating collaboration between school and community agencies, and promoting an inclusive school culture that empowers students toward positive change. The School Counsellor will also engage in community relations activities to support both students and the wider community.

**This is a Term Contract ending on June 30th 2026 with potential to sign on for the next school year.**

**What you'll do**

**Student Support & Counselling**

- Create a safe, positive, and nurturing environment that fosters trust and open communication with
students.
- Provide counselling to students and families to build self-esteem, personal responsibility, and essential
skills such as decision-making and social interaction.
- Support students in taking ownership of their personal choices and decision-making processes.
- Offer appropriate interventions to address school-related challenges and issues.
- Promote personal and social development aligned with each student’s developmental stage.

**Academic & Career Development**

- Enhance students’ educational achievement through goal setting, individualized learning plans (SLPs,
IEPs), and activities that encourage effective study and work habits.
- Assist students in exploring career opportunities and understanding the educational skills required for
future pathways.
- Facilitate career education by guiding students and families in clarifying career options through
developmental activities focused on planning, awareness, and decision-making.

**Collaboration & Coordination**

- Work collaboratively with teachers, administrators, parents, healthcare professionals, community
agencies, and other support staff to strengthen students’ social and emotional development.
- Coordinate counselling services for students, parents, and teachers, making referrals when necessary.
- Contribute to the overall goals of the counselling program through informational, organizational, and
curricular initiatives.

**Instruction & Skill Development**

- Provide direct instruction to students in areas such as peer helping, conflict resolution, social skills, and
life skills.
- Support the development and implementation of Individual Educational Plans (IEPs) in partnership
with school administrators and professional resource personnel.
- Observe and document students’ strengths, achievements, and areas of need to inform ongoing support.

**Administration & Professional Conduct**

- Maintain accurate student records and complete required administrative tasks.
- Attend and actively participate in school staff meetings and cultural events.
- Uphold professional standards by conducting oneself in a manner that reflects positively on the
teaching profession, the Employer, and the Seabird Island Community.

**Cultural Engagement**

- Strive to learn the Halq’eméylem language and consistently promote its use within the classroom.
- Contribute to creating a culturally safe and inclusive environment that respects and values Indigenous
knowledge, traditions, and ways of being.

**Other Duties**

- Additional responsibilities as needed to support the community and uphold our shared values.

**What you Bring**

**Qualifications**

- Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology, or a related discipline with a focus in counselling.
- 3 years of school counselling experience. Teaching experience is also considered an asset.
- Experience working with Indigenous communities and understanding of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contemporary issues.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain positive, supportive, and professional relationships with students.
- Strong leadership, motivational, and interpersonal skills.
- High professional, moral, and ethical standards.
- Proven ability to work collaboratively with staff, parents, administrators, and community partners.
- Excellent writing and verbal communication skills.

**Preferred**

- Lived experience as a member of a First Nations community.

- Knowledge and understanding of Seabird Island’s culture, traditions, teachings, community dynamics.

- Ability to respond quickly and professionally to community or colleague needs and inquiries.
- Training in elementary counselling techniques.
- Experience supporting students with Individual