Graduate Counsellor
Location: Sunderland
Salary: £25,281 to £25,809 per annum pro rata
Post Type: Part Time Term Time
Hours per Week: 25
Weeks per Year: 38
Contract Type: Fixed Term – 24 Months
Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Wednesday 15 April 2026
Reference: 0161-26
About Education Partnership North East (EPNE)
At EPNE our ‘purpose’ is our north star. It is what we expect of ourselves every single day and why we ask all staff to keep our purpose front and centre in all that they do.
Our Purpose is to “unlock potential, create opportunities, and transform lives through outstanding education, skills and training”. Rooted in our transformative power, it communicates our work in tackling inequalities, removing barriers, and improving the life chances of the people and communities we serve.
We nurture our very special culture. Our unifying values framework “The actions we take the choices we make – The actions I take the choices I make”represent the character of our college group, and are grounded in the belief that every action, by every individual, contributes to our success. This why we encourage empowered individuals, personal accountability and growth.
Building on our remarkable past, creativity and pioneering spirit, we are moving forward with courage into the future, improving what we do, remaining action‑orientated, and innovating to make an exceptional difference for the world we live in. Shaping futures for a better tomorrow, join our changemaking community now.
Please see the following link to our 2024 Ofsted Report, in which EPNE was graded as being Outstanding across all areas –
Ofsted-Report-Outstanding
Our Journey & Values
As an employer, we prioritise cultivating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, where our staff can thrive and grow. We recognize that our employees are our greatest asset, and we are deeply committed to investing in their professional development and overall wellbeing.
About The Candidate
We are seeking a compassionate and motivated Graduate Counsellor who is committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of young people. You will embody EPNE’s changemaker values — demonstrating empathy, integrity, and professionalism in all interactions.
You will be an active listener who can provide a safe, non‑judgemental space for students to explore their feelings and experiences. As a changemaker, you will work collaboratively with colleagues to build a culture of emotional wellbeing across our college community, empowering students to thrive personally and academically.
About The Role
This is a rewarding opportunity to begin or develop your counselling career within a college community recognised by Ofsted as Outstanding across all areas.
As a Graduate Counsellor, you will contribute to our overall student support offer through the delivery of an essential counselling service. Working as part of a dedicated and supportive team, you will provide therapeutic interventions for students facing a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges.
You will also collaborate with our wider Safeguarding and Wellbeing team to develop wellbeing resources, deliver workshops, and promote a positive mental health culture throughout the college. Continuous professional development and regular supervision are integral parts of this role, supporting your growth towards full professional accreditation.
Role Responsibilities
- Provide therapeutic counselling sessions to students experiencing emotional, mental health, or wellbeing challenges.
- Maintain accurate, confidential case records in line with BACP ethical standards and GDPR requirements.
- Support and promote wellbeing across the college through resources, campaigns, and student‑facing activities.
- Work collaboratively with the Senior Student Counsellor, Intensive Support Officers, and wider college teams.
- Refer and liaise with internal and external support agencies where appropriate, including safeguarding officers.
- Participate in team meetings, CPD sessions, and clinical supervision to maintain professional standards.
Qualifications
- Foundation Degree or higher qualification in Counselling (achieved within the last two years).
- GCSE English and Maths Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent).
Essential Skills & Experience
- Some experience (including placement) as a practising counsellor.
- Understanding of time‑limited or brief therapeutic models.
- Knowledge of issues common to young people (e.g., anxiety, depression, self‑esteem, bereavement, self‑harm, relationships, ACEs, LGBTQ+).
- Understanding of safeguarding protocols and confidentiality boundaries.
- Strong communication, organisational, and teamwork skills.
- Ability to demonstrate empathy, professionalism, and resilience.
Desirable Skills & Experience – (Optional)
- Working towards or holding accreditation with BACP, UKCP, or equivalent body.
- Knowledge of FE systems, post‑16 education, and student support services.
What’s in it for you?
Join EPNE and you’ll be part of a culture that prioritises your development and wellbeing, which is why all employees receive an extensive benefits package.
- Enjoy a generous holiday allowance ranging between 35‑48 days per year, plus public holidays (excluding Term Time Only contracts).
- Generous family leave and flexible working options (dependent on role).
- LGPS or Teacher Pensions Scheme, (dependent on role 15.7% – 28.68%).
- Access to myLifestyle benefits platform providing retail discounts and more.
- We offer dental, eye care & health cash plans.
- Extensive wellbeing support through a digital Wellbeing Hub that offers a broad range of support for physical, mental, and financial wellbeing.
- Free parking on most campuses.
- Free Gym access available at Bede Campus
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equality and Inclusion
At Education Partnership North East (EPNE), we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences. We know that diverse perspectives strengthen our teams to enhance the education and support we provide to our learners and communities.
We recognise that talented individuals may not always follow a traditional career path and may hesitate to apply unless they meet every requirement. If you are excited about the role and believe you can make a positive contribution, we encourage you to apply.
As a Disability Confident Employer and Armed Forces Covenant Member, and with Ofsted Outstanding status across all campuses, we are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive, and high‑performing environment where everyone can thrive.
Due to the nature of this post, you will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure Check.
We believe in equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community.
We are committed to PREVENT and safeguarding the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.
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