Guidance Officers are experienced teachers
who have completed postgraduate qualifications at Masters Level in Guidance and
Counselling or have psychology qualifications.
Their role in the school is to provide specialised support and counselling for students and parents in personal, academic and vocational areas. At Gladstone State High, they work closely with other school support staff and with the school administration to ensure that the welfare needs of all students are met.
Some of the issues which our Guidance staff may assist with include:
Personal Counselling (issues affecting home, school, work, friends etc)
Career Counselling, information and advice
Subject selections and changes
Course information
Tertiary applications through QTAC
Class information sessions on issues such as Stress and mental health
Time management, Motivation, Anger management, school life balance, grief, conflict resolution
Behaviour management
School life skills programs
Supporting students at risk of disengaging from learning
Referral on to other school support staff and community agencies
How do students access the Guidance Officer
Students may self-refer or be referred by parents, teachers or members of the school administration team. Conversations with parents and students are generally confidential, except in cases where there is a concern about possible harm to the student.