From Monday 24 April - Friday 5 May we celebrate Guidance Officer Week.
Our Guidance Officers play a vital role in our Wellbeing #2 Team and offer counselling and guidance on academic, career, personal and wellbeing matters.
About Guidance Officers
Guidance officers are specialist teachers who deliver a broad range of services to school community members. They contribute to the development of a comprehensive student support and wellbeing program that is responsive to the needs of the school community.
Guidance officers may work directly with students in addition to working with a student's teachers, school support personnel, family, other specialists or external support providers.
Support offered by guidance officers includes providing advice and counselling on educational, behavioural, vocational, personal, social, family, and mental health and wellbeing issue
Meet our team
Meet Sarah
Sarah is the Guidance Officer for Year 9 and 12. We asked Sarah a few questions so you could get to know her.
How long have you been at The Gap SHS?
"I have been a GO at the Gap SHS since 2022, and have been working in the GO space since 2015."
What made you become a Guidance officer?
"I love working with young people and have a passion for wellbeing. I felt that I wanted to support students, not just in the classroom, but as they journey through life, helping them build their capacity for self care and getting the most out of their education."
Tell us a fun fact about you
"I have 3 young boys and love spending time with my family in the outdoors. My 2nd favourite thing to do is read a book under my Cool Cabana at the beach!"
What does a 'normal' day look like for you?
"Being a Guidance Officer is such a rewarding career. Each day is different, but centres around supporting students. Usually each day we have many 1:1 appointments with students about mental health, social situations, difficulties at home or school, career discussions or post school options, speak with parents and external support providers, facilitate group activities, liaise with teachers, develop plans that support our students and meet with school teams."
What do you enjoy most about being a GO?
"I love the interactions we have with students, and those special moments when you feel that you have made a positive impact on a young person's life."
What can you help with?
"If you are needing support around your education, personal concerns – friends, family, home life, metal health or general wellbeing, please make an appointment to see your year level Guidance Officer.
You can do this via the link on the School Website, or on the student SharePoint page, or just by popping down to Wellbeing Hub #2 (Lower E Block)."