Counselling Skills for Schools

Workshops and CPD

Presented by Dr Joanna Naxton.

Teaching is more than imparting knowledge—it requires a deep understanding of classroom dynamics and the ability to address the challenges of diverse and often complex student needs. With over 9.9 million pupils and more than half a million teachers in 2020, and pupil-teacher ratios as high as 19.3, the need for personal and professional growth among educators has never been greater.

This workshop focuses on self-development through learning essential counselling skills, which empower teachers and support staff to not only address student needs effectively but also enhance their own emotional resilience and interpersonal skills.

What's it all about?

Connecting to National Mental Health Initiative

This workshop complements ongoing efforts by the UK government to improve mental health support in schools. Initiatives such as the introduction of Mental Health Support Teams (MHSTs) by the Department for Education and NHS England aim to provide early intervention and guidance for school staff. In addition, campaigns by organisations like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) highlight the importance of trained counsellors in every school to reduce psychological distress among children and young people.

Workshop Outcomes

Through this Continuing Professional Development (CPD) session, participants will:

• Master counselling techniques to address student behavioral and emotional challenges.

• Build resilience and emotional tools to handle workplace stress and improve their own mental health.

• Learn to navigate difficult conversations with students, parents, and colleagues effectively.

• Strengthen their overall capacity to balance the demands of work and home life.

By focusing on self-development, this workshop empowers teachers and support staff to enhance their skills and well-being, creating a broader, positive impact on their schools and personal lives. Together, we can foster healthier classrooms, schools, and communities.

In this workshop we cover...

Self-Development for Teachers and Support Staff

Gain self-awareness and emotional intelligence to manage personal stress and challenges.

• Build communication skills that foster confidence and clarity in both professional and personal relationships.

• Develop strategies to enhance well-being, contributing to a healthier work-life balance.

Enhanced School Relations

Learn how to create a supportive and inclusive classroom environment that encourages positive student-teacher interactions.

• Improve collaboration with colleagues by fostering empathy, understanding, and respect.

• Contribute to a positive school culture by modeling effective conflict resolution and support practices.

Impact Beyond the Classroom

The skills learned in this workshop extend beyond school, helping staff develop healthier relationships at home and in their wider communities.

• Teachers who invest in their own personal growth inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of positive change.