Counsellor (Replacement Position)

Cardijn College Marcellin Campus | Christie Downs, SA 2027 School Year Contract | 0.4 FTE

ESO Grade 6 | Commencing 20 January 2027

Join a Leading Catholic School Committed to Student Wellbeing

Cardijn College is a leading R-12 co-educational Catholic school established in 1984, deeply connected to the Marist tradition and inspired by the dual charisms of our patrons, Cardinal Joseph Cardijn and St. Marcellin Champagnat. Located in the Southern Vales region of Adelaide, Cardijn has grown to three campuses, each offering a unique educational environment to over 2,100 students, supported by more than 300 dedicated staff members.

Cardijn College Marian in Noarlunga Downs enrols students from Years 7 to 12, offering an extensive curriculum alongside a vibrant extra-curricular program to support a range of learning pathways and cater to the varied interests of our students.

Cardijn College Marcellin in Christie Downs has a focus on vocational education and training for students in Years 10 to 12 and beyond, with relationships that extend well into their careers. Marcellin facilitates seamless transitions into professional life through strong industry partnerships, equipping students with the skills and experiences necessary for career success.

Cardijn College Galilee in Aldinga enrols students from Reception to Year 9, providing a nurturing environment with an emphasis on ecological awareness and a personalised sense of belonging.

We are seeking an experienced and compassionate Counsellor (Replacement Position) to join our team at Cardijn College Marcellin Campus for the 2027 school year. This 0.4 FTE fixed-term opportunity has arisen to replace an employee during a period of leave and is ideal for a qualified counselling professional who is passionate about supporting young people as they navigate their educational journey, personal wellbeing and transition into further study, training and employment.

About the Role

Reporting to the Principal or delegate, the Counsellor supports school leadership through the application of specialist professional knowledge, skills and expertise to enhance student safety, wellbeing and learning outcomes. Working collaboratively with students, families, educators, school leaders and external agencies,



the Counsellor delivers professional counselling services and provides specialist advice and support to promote positive wellbeing outcomes across the school community.

This role plays an important part in supporting senior secondary students and young adults, assisting them to develop resilience, positive wellbeing practices and confidence as they prepare for life beyond school.

Key Responsibilities

Counselling and Student Support

- Provide professional counselling services to students experiencing social, emotional, behavioural and wellbeing concerns.
- Facilitate individual and small-group interventions relating to trauma, grief, loss, resilience, anger management and other identified needs.
- Maintain accurate and confidential case notes, records and reports in accordance with professional obligations.
- Support students with complex individual, peer group, social and emotional concerns.
- Provide support and advice to parents and caregivers where appropriate to enhance student wellbeing and learning outcomes.
- Monitor wellbeing trends and identify emerging student support needs.

Collaboration and Community Engagement

- Work collaboratively with school leadership, teachers and support staff to support student wellbeing.
- Liaise with Catholic Education South Australia Allied Health Professionals and external support agencies.
- Facilitate referrals and coordinate support with external counselling and wellbeing services.
- Support transition and orientation programs for students.
- Assist with the development and implementation of pastoral care and wellbeing initiatives.
- Develop positive relationships with students, families and external stakeholders to support student outcomes.

Skilled Practice and Leadership

- Provide specialist advice to school leaders regarding student wellbeing and support services.
- Contribute to the development, review and implementation of policies and procedures relating to counselling and student wellbeing.
- Prepare correspondence and reports as required for families, government agencies and support services.




- Maintain current qualified knowledge and actively participate in professional learning opportunities.
- Support a culture of wellbeing, inclusion and student success across the College.

About You

You will be an experienced counselling professional with a strong commitment to supporting children and young people. To be successful, you will demonstrate:
- Comprehensive experience providing counselling services to children and young people.
- Strong knowledge of child protection legislation and mandatory reporting requirements.
- Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
- Exceptional communication, organisation and time-management skills.
- The ability to exercise sound qualified judgement and maintain confidentiality.
- The ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a range of stakeholders.
- Strong record-keeping and case management skills.
- A commitment to ongoing professional learning and continuous improvement.
- A commitment to the values and mission of Catholic education.

Essential Requirements

- University qualifications in Counselling (or equivalent).
- Current registration and/or membership with a recognised professional body, where applicable.
- Demonstrated experience in a comparable counselling role.
- Current Working with Children Check.
- Current Responding to Risks of Harm, Abuse and Neglect (RRHAN-EC) certification.
- First Aid qualification (or willingness to obtain).
- Eligibility to work within Catholic Education South Australia.

Why Join Cardijn College?

- Make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people.
- Work within a supportive and team-oriented educational community.
- Support students as they prepare for life beyond school.
- Access professional learning and development opportunities.
- Contribute to a values-driven culture committed to wellbeing, inclusion and excellence.

Apply Now

If you are a qualified counselling professional who is passionate about student wellbeing and supporting positive outcomes for young people, we encourage you to apply by submitting a resume and cover letter addressed to the Principal, Mr Steve Byrne. Applications close at 11:55pm on Sunday, 1 November 2026.

Cardijn College is committed to child safety and the safeguarding of all children and young people. Successful applicants will be required to undergo relevant screening and comply with all child protection requirements.

📌 Counsellor (Replacement) (Christie Downs)
🏢 Catholic Education South Australia
📍 Christie Downs