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School Counsellor Cover Letter Template

Professional template and example for Australian job applications

School Counsellor Cover Letter Example

Dear Hiring Manager, In my current role as a school counsellor, I’ve supported students through a wide range of needs and seen how small, well-timed conversations can shift a day. At [Previous Company], I ran crisis and ongoing counselling sessions for about 60 students a term, with a focus on active listening and practical coping strategies. I’ve found that having a steady, calm presence and clear boundaries helps kids feel safe enough to share and start moving forward. I’m drawn to [Company Name] because of the emphasis on collaboration with families and teachers. My work centres on listening, empathy and information provision, with a practical approach to behaviour and attitude change. I’ve worked closely with learning support teams to adapt plans for students with special needs and to bridge gaps between home and school. I can contribute to parent-teacher liaison and offer straightforward guidance that families can apply at home and in classrooms. One recent example stands out. A student dealing with anxiety and stress around exams needed ongoing support beyond individual sessions. I coordinated with the classroom teacher and parents, helped the student develop a simple study routine, and provided targeted coping strategies. Over two terms the student reported improved concentration and greater confidence in test situations, with significantly improved engagement in class activities. I’m available for a discussion about how I can support your students and families at [Company Name]. I can start with a one hour meeting next week to map priorities and share a plan that fits your team. Kind regards, [Your Name]

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What happens next: Our AI will match your skills to the job requirements, highlight relevant achievements, and create a compelling narrative that positions you as the ideal candidate.

Why This School Counsellor Cover Letter Works

Opening Paragraph

Hook with specific achievement + role alignment

Skills Match

Maps experience to job needs + company research

STAR Example

Situation-Task-Action-Result with numbers

Professional Close

Forward momentum + availability

Key Requirements for School Counsellor Roles

Essential Skills to Highlight

Make sure your cover letter demonstrates these key skills:

Counselling SkillsActive ListeningEmpathyInterpersonal CommunicationInformation ProvisionAdvice GivingKnowledge of Special NeedsUnderstanding Learning DifficultiesBehavioural GuidanceAttitude Adjustment SupportParent-teacher LiaisonTelephone Counselling

Tip: Include specific examples of how you've used these skills in your STAR example paragraph.

Core Responsibilities to Address

Align your experience with these typical responsibilities:

  • Conduct Counselling Interviews with Students
  • Assist Students Understanding and Adjustment of Attitudes
  • Present Alternative Approaches to Attitude Change
  • Discuss Potential for Behavioural Change
  • Contribute Information and Advice on Learning and Behaviour
  • ...and more

Tip: Reference 2-3 of these responsibilities when describing your relevant experience.

School Counsellor Cover Letter Best Practices

Structure (4 Paragraphs)

Opening (40-60 words): State the role and company, plus one compelling hook
Match (100-130 words): Map 2-3 achievements to their top requirements
Proof (80-100 words): One detailed STAR example with quantified results
Close (30-40 words): Confirm fit and invite discussion

Essential Requirements

  • • Length: 250-350 words (one A4 page)
  • • Australian English spelling and dates (DD/MM/YYYY)
  • • Address to specific person when possible
  • • No photos or personal details (DOB, etc.)

What Makes It Strong

  • • Specific achievements with numbers
  • • Company research in second paragraph
  • • Keywords from the job description
  • • Professional but personable tone

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • • Generic opening lines
  • • Repeating your CV chronologically
  • • Including salary unless asked
  • • Exceeding one page