Head of University and Careers Counseling

Head of University and Careers Counseling Hengqin, Zhuhai Dulwich Int. High School Programme Hengqin Professional Support Services

About Role The Head of University and Careers Counseling is responsible for providing strategic leadership and oversight of the school's university and career guidance program. In this role, the leader ensures that the counseling framework is coherent, forward looking, and aligned with the school's mission to support every student in defining and achieving their post secondary goals.

A key aspect of the position is developing a deep understanding of students' aspirations, strengths, and growth areas. By working closely with academic teams, pastoral care staff and other departments, the Head ensures that university and career planning is integrated into the broader student experience. This collaborative approach allows the school to provide informed, personalised support that guides students through career exploration, university selection, application planning and transition readiness.

The Head of University and Careers Counseling also plays a vital role in shaping the school community's understanding of the student journey. This includes offering tailored guidance to students and families, leading professional learning for teachers on counselling related topics, and facilitating workshops that help parents engage meaningfully in their child's planning process. In addition, the role represents the school in external networks and partnerships with universities and professional organisations, strengthening opportunities for students.

The ideal candidate will bring strong counselling expertise, proven leadership capabilities and a deep knowledge of global university systems and adolescent development. A high level of communication, empathy and strategic thinking is essential to ensure that each student is supported in finding their best fit future pathway and navigating transitions with confidence.

Our School Dulwich International High School Programme Hengqin is part of the wider Education in Motion (EiM) family. The programme offers a curriculum for high school students that is made up of the IGCSE and A Levels, with CNC modules offered by local partners, for Chinese and foreign students who want an excellent educational experience in preparation for the best universities in the UK, USA or elsewhere, inspiring them to build a global mindset on the foundation of English mastery and cultural understanding to thrive in an interconnected, multicultural and multilingual world. Hengqin Huafa Yung Wing High School, as the Sino partner of the Programme, brings strong support in terms of local educational resources, activities and experiences.

Dulwich International High School Programme Hengqin offers students comprehensive academic support, university and career counselling, an immersive linguistic environment and a global culture to Graduate Worldwise. Our students are provided with a supportive environment of mutual care, respect and concern from all staff members. We believe our students must gain holistic experiences and skills to engage effectively with new opportunities, thrive in a changing future and create real impact as global citizens.

Zhuhai is one of several Special Economic Zones in mainland China and is undergoing significant development, including Hengqin Island, part of an education and technology hub in South China's Greater Bay Area. Macau is just minutes away and Hong Kong is a one hour ferry or bus ride over the new Zhuhai Macau Bridge.

Zhuhai is well positioned for flights within China and to Southeast Asia, and its high standard of living and warm temperate climate make it an excellent place to pursue an international teaching career.

Duties and Responsibilities As the Head of University and Careers Counseling, the position holder will lead the strategic development, implementation and continuous improvement of the school's university and careers programme. This includes designing a coherent and progressive guidance framework that supports students in making informed academic and career decisions, ensuring that counselling services effectively address the diverse needs of students.

The Head will oversee all counselling operations, including personalised guidance, UCC lesson planning, record management, recommendations and key application procedures such as predicted grades collection and summer clearing. They will also coordinate major events-such as career talks and parents academy sessions-to engage and inform parents while ensuring accessible and effective one to one support for students.

Collaboration with academic staff is central to the role. The position holder will keep teachers updated on admissions requirements, provide training on recommendation letters and work with departments on course selection and academic planning.

Externally, the Head will maintain strong relationships with universities, host visiting representatives and collaborate with counsellors across the Dulwich network to share best practices. They will also contribute to the broader school community and carry out additional duties assigned by the Line Manager.

As the Head of UCC:

• Strategic Planning: Collaborate with school leadership to set long term objectives and devise an annual plan for the university counselling department that aligns with the school's improvement plan.
• Staff Management: Oversee staff performance, management progress and offer support to team members.
• Data Management and Reporting: Ensure UCC data accuracy and timeliness, analyse data to improve department strategies.
• Program Development: Develop and implement a comprehensive UCC programme tailored to the needs of the school context.
• University Networking: Build relationships with universities to stay current with admissions criteria and advocate for students; coordinate university visits to the school and arrange student visits to universities.
• Alumni Networking and Development: Maintain the alumni network and leverage resources to mentor both alumni and current students.
• Proactive Engagement among Internal Communities: Offer information sessions to key stakeholders, collaborate with the academic team to increase student profiles, promote student success and work closely with AMC to assist in promotional events.
• Other tasks assigned by line manager and SLT.

We are Looking for Someone Who THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field; a Master's degree or higher is preferred.
• Minimum of five years' professional experience in a related area.
• Strong familiarity with current developments and trends in higher education.
• At least two years of successful experience working in an international school environment.
• In depth knowledge of university admissions systems, particularly in the US and UK, and a solid understanding of processes in Canada, Australia and other popular destinations in Europe and Asia.
• Full professional fluency in English (native level); bilingual ability is an advantage.
• Strong organisational, planning and educational management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively within a team.

How to Apply Successful applicants will be enthusiastic about the ethos and values of Dulwich International. An attractive and competitive remuneration package will be offered to the chosen candidate. To apply for this post, please click the 'Apply' button on this page to submit your application. Applications will be reviewed on receipt and we reserve the right to make an early appointment.

Safeguarding Statement Our School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all the students in our care and expects all applicants to share this commitment. We follow safe recruitment practices, which are aligned with the recommendations of the International Task Force on Child Protection. We hold ourselves to a high standard of effective recruiting practices with specific attention to child protection. All appointments are subject to an interview, identity checks, criminal record checks, successful references, possible social media checks, as well as a due visa and work permit process as required by Chinese law.

Equity Diversity Inclusion Statement EiM is committed to diversity within its team, organisational practices, policies and culture. It recognises that people with different backgrounds, skills, attitudes and experiences bring fresh ideas and perceptions, and it encourages and leverages these differences to make its work more relevant and approachable. EiM will not discriminate or tolerate discriminatory behaviour on any grounds such as, but not limited to, race, gender, disability, nationality, national or ethnic origin, religion or belief, marital/partnership or family status, sexual orientation, age or socioeconomic background. EiM strives to an inclusive workplace where everyone feels a sense of belonging, has a voice, can raise concerns and feels comfortable and confident. It expects everyone who works with it to share this commitment and to act accordingly, as it aspires to best serve the EiM mission and its community.

Core Competencies

• Passion
• Vision

Why you'll love working with us

• Professional learning and collaboration are always just a conversation away
• A supportive, welcoming community that values every voice
• A culture where curiosity and a love of learning thrive every day
• The chance to make a meaningful impact on your students and on the planet
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