Guidance services are provided to state school students in all phases of learning.
Guidance officers provide a comprehensive guidance and counselling service for students and their families, and professional and personal skill development programs for school staff.
Psychologists' work aligns with that of the guidance officers to enhance education opportunities for every student.
Role descriptions
Specifics about how you will work within the education environment will be addressed during local inductions by your line manager and your senior guidance officer. These details are also included in your
role description.
Senior guidance officers may be based in regional offices or schools and general specialise in one of two educational areas: Primary/developmental or Secondary/post compulsory.
They are responsible for:
- designing and implementing training programs for guidance officers in training
- designing and implementing induction/supervisory programs for guidance officers on probation
- coordinating and supporting the provision of guidance and counselling services to schools in consultation with principals.
Line manager
If you are a school-based guidance officer, your line manager is the school principal. Senior guidance officers may report to a nominated delegate of the Regional Director; however, when delivering a direct guidance service in a school, they will report to the school principal.
Employment conditions
Guidance Officers are paid under the Teachers Award—State 2016.
Your teacher registration or psychologist registration assures your suitability to work with children. However, if you become involved in out-of-school activities that differ from the duties expected of your position you may require a
Blue Card to undertake those activities.
Professional learning
Your professional induction will include information:
caseload management
use of professional frameworks
where to find and how to use forms, training materials and assessment tools
how your professional services are provided in an educational context.
Various opportunities for professional development are published on the
Professional Development website. You will find current opportunities in the
Professional Development Calendars under the year and month of interest.
Membership of your professional association will provide access to up-to-date information in your field.
The
Student Services website includes information on policies and strategic initiatives related to child safety, students with disabilities, student wellbeing and behaviour.
Professional interactions
You will have relationships with other government agencies, other professionals, students, parents, carers and educators in the course of your work.
Resources