Guidance Officer

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The Guidance Officer plays a vital role in promoting student wellbeing, learning engagement, and future planning. As a registered teacher with postgraduate qualifications in guidance, counselling, and psychology, the Guidance Officer brings specialised expertise to support students across a wide range of academic, social, and emotional needs.

Core Responsibilities

The Guidance Officer provides direct support to students through individual counselling, group programs, and case management. Referrals may come from students themselves, parents and carers, or school staff. The guidance office offers a confidential space for students to access support around mental health, personal development, relationships, and career planning.

While part of the school staff, the Guidance Officer operates beyond the traditional teaching role, offering professional intervention in sensitive matters and facilitating referrals to external agencies when appropriate. This includes collaboration with community services in areas such as child protection, mental health, substance use, and crisis response.

Key Areas of Practice

Student Wellbeing & Personal Support
The Guidance Officer supports students' social and emotional development through counselling, early intervention, and targeted wellbeing programs. They work collaboratively with families, staff, and external professionals to ensure students receive appropriate care and support.
Career Development & Transitions
Students are supported in exploring post-school options including university, TAFE, apprenticeships, and employment. The Guidance Officer provides career counselling, QTAC application support, and facilitates access to career expos, guest speakers, and pathway planning tools.
Curriculum & Learning Pathways
The Guidance Officer contributes to curriculum initiatives such as career education and wellbeing programs. They assist students with subject selections, course changes, and transitions in and out of school, particularly in complex or high-needs cases.
Behaviour & Safety Support
Working within the school's behaviour support framework, the Guidance Officer provides counselling and case support for students experiencing harm, bullying, harassment, or other safety concerns. They may also coordinate peer support programs and restorative practices.
Inclusive Education Collaboration
In partnership with the Head of Special Education Services (HoSES), the Guidance Officer contributes to planning and review processes for students with disability or learning support needs. While psychoeducational assessments are more common in primary settings, the Guidance Officer may assist with referrals and coordination of specialist services.

Accessing Support

Students can access the Guidance Officer by appointment through the administration office or during designated drop-in times. Parents and carers are encouraged to contact the school to arrange meetings or discuss concerns. Staff may also refer students for support through internal wellbeing processes.

Professional Supervision

The Guidance Officer is professionally supervised by the school Principal and receives clinical and technical supervision from the region's Senior Guidance Officer. This ensures ongoing professional development and alignment with departmental standards.

Crisis & Community Contacts