AISNSW is the peak body supporting and representing independent schools in NSW and provides a range of services across NSW and ACT. We believe in the excellence and opportunities that come with choice, diversity and independence in education and aim to serve and champion Independent schools. Position Purpose The Education Consultant plays a key role in strengthening student wellbeing, mental health, and inclusive education outcomes across the independent school sector. This position combines the application of counselling expertise with the delivery of proactive, preventative initiatives that build the capacity of school staff. Working in close partnership with principals, senior leaders, teachers and school counsellors, the Education Consultant provides expert advice on a broad range of complex student matters, facilitates professional learning, and contributes to sector-wide projects and priorities. The role offers a unique opportunity to make a direct impact on student outcomes while influencing whole-school practices and broader sector initiatives. Key Accountabilities Operational Accountabilities Student and School Support Apply counselling skills, via a dedicated intake service, to respond to a diverse range of school-related and individual student matters. This includes responding to requests for advice regarding individual student needs, which may involve academic, behavioural, social or emotional development, mental health concerns, school refusal, gender identity, or a combination of these factors. Provide advice and guidance on risk assessment planning and collaborate with schools to develop Individual Plans for curriculum access, behaviour support, mental health, and health care. Facilitate attendance planning meetings, including Compulsory Attendance Conferences. Guide schools in understanding and applying processes related to the Nationally Consistent Collection of Data (NCCD). Capacity Building and Professional Learning Design and facilitate components of a new reflective practice service, including small group sessions and targeted professional learning for senior and middle leaders. Design and deliver high-quality professional learning – face-to-face and online - supported by tailored resources. Focus areas may include whole-school wellbeing and behaviour approaches, social and emotional learning, positive classroom practices, and trauma-informed practices. Strategic and Sector Engagement Contribute to a range of strategic projects and priorities within the Portfolio. Represent AISNSW and the independent school sector on committees and in a variety of professional forums. Qualifications, Experience and Knowledge/Skills Qualifications Undergraduate qualifications in psychology/mental health. Post-graduate qualifications are desirable. Be a registered psychologist, or eligible for registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) or a relevant regulatory body. Current experience in a school-based counsellor/psychologist role. What Experience are we looking for? Recent experience as a counsellor, preferably in a school setting. What Knowledge/Skills are we looking for? Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality, exercise discretion, and handle sensitive student matters and personal information with respect. Proven ability in applying counselling skills effectively across a wide range of student-related and school-based matters. Extensive experience supporting students with diverse social-emotional, behavioural, and learning needs. Comprehensive knowledge of relevant legislation, including disability legislation, and the ability to apply this knowledge in an educational context. Well-developed understanding of mental health and wellbeing promotion strategies within a multi-tiered system of support. Proven capacity to lead strategic discussions with school leadership teams to promote whole-school improvement and advance long-term initiatives. Expertise and confidence in facilitating impactful professional learning for adult learners using varied delivery methods. Ability to provide instructional leadership and coaching when advising and guiding schools. Deep understanding of curriculum delivery, adjustments, and inclusive education practices. Demonstrated openness, adaptability, and a solutions-focused approach when collaborating with schools on complex and multifaceted student matters. Essential Ideally full-time availability: this is a Sydney-based role. Must hold a valid NSW Working with Children Check. Current NSW Driver’s Licence is required. Capacity to travel across metropolitan Sydney and regional areas of NSW, including occasional overnight stays that may extend to consecutive nights. Flexible work arrangements are available. Desirable Understanding of the NSW independent school sector and the role of AISNSW as a peak body and member-based service organisation. At AISNSW we value and promote a respectful, diverse and inclusive workplace and encourage applications from people of all ages, nationalities, abilities, cultures and experiences. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know. Application Process Please provide the following: Resume Covering Letter. Please direct any queries to Margaret Molloy, People and Culture Manager on 9248 3778 or aisnsw.edu.au.
