Overview Work Type: Fixed-term - Part-time Salary: Salary not specified Grade: Education Support - Level 1, Range 3 Occupation: Health and allied health Location: Grampians - Ballarat Reference: 1518488 Selection Criteria Applicants are requested to present a written response to the key selection criteria below:
* Highly developed communication and interpersonal skills and an ability to maintain comprehensive confidential case notes.
* Demonstrated awareness and understanding of the issues encountered by young people and the ability to work alongside and support those who are experiencing barriers to education, training and employment.
* Demonstrated ability to work in a multi-faceted team, fostering effective working relationships with external agencies and service providers, and knowledge of a range of support services available to young people and families.
* Demonstrated ability to develop, implement and evaluate high quality programs which support student wellbeing and success.
* Demonstrated capacity for critical reflection and leadership in the Student Wellbeing area.
* Relevant experience and/or tertiary qualifications in welfare, counselling or psychology.
Role The position of Youth Counsellor is one of providing significant support to Ballarat High School in achieving the government targets of improved retention. Working within the framework of our Strategic Plan and Annual Implementation Plan, the Youth Counsellor will provide counselling advice to students of Ballarat High School and be required to work in close association with all members of staff to develop policies, programs and implement strategies to improve student engagement, retention and wellbeing. As an Education Support staff member, the range of duties may be expanded in the future in accordance with the ES Level 1, Range 3 General Duties. Attendance during some school holiday periods may be required and would be compensated through Leave Purchase or Time in Lieu arrangements. Responsibilities The key responsibilities of the position may include, but is not limited to: A: Student Development
* Work in close association with the Assistant Principals, Sub-school Leaders, Team Leaders, Student Wellbeing Team, Mentors and external agencies in the development and implementation of the policies and practices that support student success, engagement and wellbeing.
* In consultation with others at Ballarat High School and external agencies, identify program needs and support the implementation of appropriate programs especially for those identified as being at risk.
B: Student Welfare and Support
* Identify and assess the barriers to education being faced by young people.
* Provide counselling support to individual students as needed.
* Collaborate with Team Leaders, Mentors and classroom teachers to develop individual learning plans for identified students, to address their individual needs.
* Develop and assist in delivering pro-active classroom and extra curricula programs that improve student resilience and wellbeing.
* Provide information and advice to parents and students upon request, including referral to DE Student Support Services, other Government agencies and alternative education/training/employment programs.
* Liaise with community agencies and education related groups as required.
C: Administration and Management
* Maintain confidential records of referrals, student information and detailed case notes.
* Attend relevant committees and forums on youth issues.
D: Human Resources
* Assist in the identification of own training needs.
* Participate in an annual Performance and Development process.
Who May Apply Individuals with the aptitude, experience and/or qualifications to fulfil the specific requirements of the position. Diversity and Inclusion The department is committed to diversity and inclusion and developing a workforce that is representative of the community we service. We value diversity and inclusion in all forms - culture, gender, religion, ethnicity, LGBTIQA+, disability and neurodiversity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for roles within the Department. The Department recognises that the provision of safe, respectful and inclusive workplaces is essential to high performance and promotes flexible work and diversity across all schools and Department workplaces. It is our policy to provide reasonable adjustments for staff with disability (see Workplace adjustment guidelines).
Additional support and advice on the recruitment process is available to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander candidates from the Koorie Outcomes Division (KOD) via Applicants seeking part-time employment are encouraged to apply for any teaching service position and, if they are the successful candidate, request a reduced time fraction. Such requests will be negotiated on a case-by-case basis and will be subject to the operational requirements of the school. Child Safe Standards Victorian government schools are child safe environments. Our schools actively promote the safety and wellbeing of all students, and all school staff are committed to protecting students from abuse or harm in the school environment, in accordance with their legal obligations including child safe standards. All schools have a Child Safety Code of Conduct consistent with the department's exemplar available at: https:///pal/child-safe-standards/policy DE Values The department's employees commit to upholding the department's Values: Responsiveness, Integrity, Impartiality, Accountability, Respect, Leadership and Human Rights. The department's Values complement each school's own values and underpin the behaviours the community expects of Victorian public sector employees, including those who work in Victorian Government Schools. Information on the department values is available at: https:///pal/values-department-vps-school-employees/overview Other Information Enquiries regarding the position can be directed to Mrs. Donna Phillips 03 5338 9000. Please ensure that your application includes:
* A resume including relevant experience as well as personal details (name, address, email and contact number)
* A section addressing the key selection criteria and the requirements for application under the Who May Apply section
* Names and contact numbers (telephone and email) of three referees who are able to attest to the claims made in your application.
Please note that the selection panel may seek additional referees beyond those you name. Consistent with policy, we shall advise you if we will take this action.
Applications should be submitted via School Jobs Vic (formally Recruitment Online) https:///hrweb/careers/Pages/advacsSch.aspx or a copy of your application can be emailed to Mrs Julie Pickering, Personnel Manager, marked Confidential Youth Counsellor, by 11.59pm on the closing date. Conditions of Employment
* All staff employed by the Department and schools have access to a broad range of employment conditions and working arrangements.
* Appointment of successful applicants will be made subject to a satisfactory pre-employment conditions check.
* A probationary period may apply during the first year of employment and induction and support programs provided.
* Detailed information on all terms and conditions of employment is available on the Department's Human Resources website at https:///hrweb/Pages/default.aspx
* A current Working with Children Check.
Location Profile Ballarat High School is a vibrant and inclusive government secondary school with a proud history dating back over a century. The school caters to approximately 1,500 students from Years 7 to 12 and offers a broad, challenging and future-focused curriculum designed to meet the diverse needs and interests of our students. Ballarat High School is a learning community where every person is valued, respected, and challenged as a learner. At Ballarat High School, we are guided by the core values of Pride, Respect and Responsibility, which underpin all aspects of school life. These values shape a positive school culture where students are encouraged to strive for excellence, take ownership of their learning and behaviour, and contribute meaningfully to their community. We are committed to evidence-based teaching, student wellbeing and the ongoing professional growth of our staff. With strong community connections, modern facilities and a culture of high expectations, Ballarat High School provides a dynamic environment where all students are supported to thrive. Applications close Sunday 8 March Posted 23 February 2026