Student Futures Counsellor Basic

About the school

Oeiras International School (OIS) is a dynamic, not-for-profit IB World School offering the PYP, MYP and DP programmes. The school is a vibrant international community dedicated to academic excellence, holistic development, and the nurturing of ethical, responsible global citizens. Its culture is grounded in inclusivity, creativity, innovation, and strong values-based education.

The role

Oeiras International School is seeking an experienced and passionate Student Futures Counsellor to support students in planning their academic, university, and career pathways. Reporting to the Head of Student Futures, the counsellor will provide personalised university and career guidance, help students navigate national and international application processes, and foster the confidence, skills, and wellbeing needed for success beyond school. The role involves close collaboration with students, families, teachers, and external partners to create meaningful opportunities.

Key responsibilities

• Provide academic, university, and career guidance to students, helping them make informed choices about subjects, higher education, and future career pathways.
• Support students through Portuguese and international university application processes, including personal statements, CVs, and interview preparation.
• Deliver individual and group counselling sessions for students and parents, offering guidance and wellbeing support throughout the decision-making process.
• Organise workshops and events focused on university admissions, career planning, and life skills development.
• Build and maintain relationships with universities and external partners to expand opportunities for students.
• Collaborate with teachers and school leadership to embed career education and university readiness across the school.
• Maintain accurate student records, application data, and career guidance resources.
• Stay current with IB developments, higher education trends, and counselling best practices through ongoing professional development.
• Support prospective family meetings, student admissions processes, and other duties as required by school leadership.

Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree in Education, Psychology, Counselling, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• At least 3 years of experience in university, career, or student counselling.
• Experience working in an IB or international school environment.
• Strong knowledge of international and Portuguese higher education systems.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organisational skills.
• A student-centred approach with the ability to provide guidance and emotional support.
• Strong digital literacy and experience with counselling and application platforms.
• A commitment to confidentiality, integrity, and safeguarding.
• A commitment to international-mindedness and holistic education.
• EU citizenship or valid work permit for Portugal is an advantage.
• Excellent level of written and spoken English.

Benefits & package

• A supportive, collaborative, friendly, international, and innovative teaching environment.
• Opportunities for IB professional development and career growth.
• A welcoming school community with a strong culture of care and learning.
• Supportive Senior Leadership Team.
• Thorough induction, integration and adaptation to Portugal/OIS process.
• Professional development opportunities.
• An idyllic location in which to work, learn and grow.
• Salary and benefits aligned with experience.
• Private medical insurance.
• Heavily subsidised tuition scholarship for up to two dependent children (for local hires this only applies after the first year of contract).
• Lunch allowance.

How to apply

Candidates can apply via TheTeacherJob or request the school contact after signing in. Oeiras International School is committed to the protection and safeguarding of children. Enhanced background checks will be carried out on all employees. OIS is an equal opportunities employer.