Guidance Counsellors advise students on their career and course options and are an important resource for students when they are considering their future options. They also provide support to students who may be encountering personal or other problems.
The 1998 Education Act requires school to provide students with “appropriate guidance to assist them in their educational and career choices”. The qualification in guidance and counselling is a postgraduate one. To work in guidance in educational settings, qualifications and other requirement criteria vary according to the role and the employee.
If you are considering working as a Guidance Counsellor in a Department of Education & Skills Post Primary school, you need the following..
- Be a Qualified Teacher (Degree level + Teaching Qualification)
- Registered with the Teaching Council
- Have a DES recognised Guidance Counselling Qualification