Guidance Counsellor
Guidance Counsellor
Based on the guidance documents provided, the following is a comprehensive Whole School Guidance Plan that aligns with the NCGE standards and incorporates key insights from the Irish Guidance Inspectorate reports. The plan includes a detailed guidance program for each year group (1st to 6th Year), along with timelines, digital elements, and specific lesson plans tailored to each stage of a student’s journey through secondary school.
Whole School Guidance Plan Overview
This plan is structured to ensure a cohesive, well-rounded guidance program that addresses the personal, social, educational, and career development of all students. It is designed following a Continuum of Support model, ensuring that guidance is accessible for all students, with additional support available for those who need them. The plan also integrates digital tools and resources to enhance engagement and accessibility.
Guidance Program by Year: 1st to 6th Year
1st Year: Transition and Self-Discovery
Key Objectives:
- Facilitate a smooth transition from primary to secondary school.
- Introduce students to the concept of guidance and its role in personal, educational, and career development.
- Help students develop self-awareness, good study habits, and organizational skills.
Timeline and Lesson Plans:
|
Month
|
Lesson Plan / Activity
|
Objective
|
|---|---|---|
|
September
|
Orientation and Introduction to Guidance Services
|
Introduce students to the school environment and the role of guidance in supporting their transition.
|
|
October
|
Study Skills Workshop
|
Teach basic study skills, time management, and organizational techniques.
|
|
November
|
Self-Awareness and Personal Development
|
Facilitate self-reflection activities to identify strengths and interests.
|
|
December
|
Introduction to Career Awareness
|
Begin exploring the concept of careers and link it to personal interests and strengths.
|
|
February
|
Goal Setting and Self-Management Workshop
|
Teach goal-setting techniques and self-management skills for personal and academic growth.
|
|
April
|
Review and Reflective Session
|
Reflect on personal development throughout the year and set goals for 2nd Year.
|
|
May
|
Planning for 2nd Year
|
Plan activities and goals for 2nd Year, focusing on personal and academic development.
|
Downloadable Resource:
📘 Download the Full 1st Year Guidance Lesson Plan (PDF)
2nd Year: Building on Self-Awareness and Career Exploration
Key Objectives:
- Reinforce good study habits and organizational skills.
- Introduce students to career exploration and help them understand how their strengths and interests align with different careers.
- Develop self-management and resilience.
Timeline and Lesson Plans:
|
Month
|
Lesson Plan / Activity
|
Objective
|
|---|---|---|
|
September
|
Study Skills Refresher Workshop
|
Review study techniques and introduce more advanced strategies.
|
|
October
|
Career Exploration and Interest Assessment
|
Use career assessments to help students identify career options that match their interests.
|
|
December
|
Connecting Subjects to Careers
|
Discuss how different subjects can influence career choices and align with student interests.
|
|
February
|
Self-Management and Resilience Workshop
|
Develop self-management skills and strategies for handling challenges and building resilience.
|
|
April
|
Career Awareness Day
|
Host guest speakers from various professions to provide insight into different career paths.
|
|
June
|
Reflective Review and Planning for 3rd Year
|
Reflect on progress, set new goals for 3rd Year, and discuss subject choices for the Senior Cycle.
|
Downloadable Resource:
📘 Download the Full 2nd Year Guidance Lesson Plan (PDF)
3rd Year: Junior Cert Preparation and Senior Cycle Subject Choice
Key Objectives:
- Prepare students for the Junior Cert exams by developing effective study strategies.
- Guide students in making informed subject choices for the Senior Cycle.
- Support personal and career planning.
Timeline and Lesson Plans:
|
Month
|
Lesson Plan / Activity
|
Objective
|
|---|---|---|
|
September
|
Junior Cert Exam Preparation Workshop
|
Provide strategies for effective studying, stress management, and exam techniques.
|
|
October
|
Senior Cycle Subject Choice Guidance
|
Guide students through the process of choosing subjects for the Senior Cycle based on their strengths and career interests.
|
|
November
|
Individual Career Guidance Meetings
|
Conduct one-on-one meetings to discuss career interests and subject choices.
|
|
January
|
Parent Information Night: Junior Cert and Senior Cycle Planning
|
Inform parents about the Junior Cert, subject choices, and career implications.
|
|
March
|
Mock Exam Review and Study Plan Adjustment
|
Review mock exam results and adjust study plans accordingly.
|
|
May
|
Exam Preparation and Stress Management
|
Provide strategies for managing stress and planning revision for the Junior Cert.
|
Downloadable Resource:
📘 Download the Full 3rd Year Guidance Lesson Plan (PDF)
4th Year: Career Exploration and Work Experience
Key Objectives:
- Encourage students to explore different career paths through work experience and interest assessments.
- Develop a deeper understanding of personal strengths and career aspirations.
- Build a portfolio of skills and experiences.
Timeline and Lesson Plans:
|
Month
|
Lesson Plan / Activity
|
Objective
|
|---|---|---|
|
September
|
TY Orientation and Career Planning
|
Set expectations for Transition Year and discuss career planning activities.
|
|
October
|
Career Research and Interest Assessments
|
Conduct career assessments to identify potential career paths.
|
|
December
|
Work Experience Preparation
|
Teach students how to prepare for work experience placements, including CV writing and interview skills.
|
|
January
|
Reflective Review on Work Experience
|
Reflect on work experience placements and discuss how these experiences influence career choices.
|
|
March
|
Personal Development Workshops
|
Workshops on communication, leadership, and other soft skills.
|
|
May
|
Career Portfolio Development
|
Develop a digital or physical portfolio showcasing skills, work experience, and career exploration.
|
Downloadable Resource:
📘 Download the Full 4th Year Guidance Lesson Plan (PDF)
5th Year: Career and Educational Planning
Key Objectives:
- Align subjects with career aspirations and develop an academic plan for Leaving Cert.
- Explore further education and career options.
- Set academic and personal goals for success in the Senior Cycle.
Timeline and Lesson Plans:
|
Month
|
Lesson Plan / Activity
|
Objective
|
|---|---|---|
|
September
|
Career Planning and Research
|
Begin exploring career paths, college courses, and entry requirements.
|
|
November
|
Subject and Career Alignment
|
Ensure students’ subject choices align with their career aspirations.
|
|
January
|
Exploring College and Course Options
|
Research various colleges and courses, attend open days, and plan for CAO applications.
|
|
March
|
Study Planning and Goal Setting
|
Create a detailed study plan and set academic goals for the remainder of the year.
|
|
June
|
Career Planning Workshop
|
Finalize career and educational plans and prepare for 6th Year.
|
Downloadable Resource:
📘 Download the Full 5th Year Guidance Lesson Plan (PDF)
6th Year: Leaving Cert Preparation and Post-School Transition
Key Objectives:
- Prepare students for the Leaving Cert exams and support their CAO applications.
- Guide students in planning their transition to college or the workforce.
- Provide support for stress management and exam preparation.
Timeline and Lesson Plans:
|
Month
|
Lesson Plan / Activity
|
Objective
|
|---|---|---|
|
September
|
CAO Application Overview
|
Guide students through the CAO application process and discuss course options.
|
|
November
|
Individual Career Guidance Meetings
|
Conduct one-on-one meetings to finalize career and college plans.
|
|
January
|
Final Exam Preparation Workshop
|
Review study strategies, exam techniques, and stress management.
|
|
March
|
Career and College Decision-Making Workshop
|
Discuss the decision-making process and finalize post-school plans.
|
|
June
|
Post-Exam Transition Planning
|
Plan for life after secondary school, including college or work transitions.
|
Downloadable Resource:
📘 Download the Full 6th Year Guidance Lesson Plan (PDF)
Guiding Your Child’s Success
Career Guidance “Ask Anything” Tool
The Career Guidance “Ask Anything” Tool provides instant support and answers to common career-related questions. Whether students need help choosing a career path, understanding subject requirements, or exploring different colleges, this tool has the answers.
Digital Portfolios
Encourage students to create digital portfolios using tools like Google Sites or Seesaw to document their career exploration, work experience, and reflections throughout the school years. This helps students showcase their learning and growth, making it easier to track progress and prepare for college or job interviews.
Whole School Guidance Plan and Resources:
📘 Download the Whole School Guidance Plan Template (Word Document)
📘 Download the Full-Year Guidance Program and Lesson Plans (PDFs)
📘 Download the Junior Cycle Timeline of Events (Excel)
This comprehensive guidance plan integrates the key elements from the NCGE and Guidance Inspectorate, ensuring effective implementation of the whole school guidance program across all year groups.
Certainly! Below is a comprehensive outline for each downloadable resource, complete with descriptions and links where necessary. Each document will be structured to provide clear guidance, activities, templates, and additional resources for students, parents, and teachers, based on the guidance program laid out above.
Downloadable Resources
Whole School Guidance Plan Template (Word Document)
This document will outline the overall guidance strategy for the school, including roles and responsibilities, annual review, monitoring, and evaluation. It will also contain templates for creating individualized plans for each year group.Content Outline:
- School Vision and Mission Statement
- Guidance Goals and Objectives for Each Year Group
- Roles and Responsibilities of Guidance Counsellors, Teachers, and Management
- Yearly Guidance Program Outline
- Integration with the Curriculum and Digital Guidance Elements
- Monitoring and Evaluation Framework
- Digital Tools and Resources Integration
- Annual Review and Update Section
📘 Download Whole School Guidance Plan Template
1st Year Guidance Lesson Plan (PDF)
A detailed guidance plan for 1st Year students covering personal development, study skills, and career awareness.
Content Outline:
- Orientation and Introduction to Guidance Services
- Self-Awareness and Personal Development Activities
- Study Skills Workshop with Templates and Weekly Planner
- Introduction to Career Awareness with Career Interest Inventory
- Reflective Journals and Goal-Setting Templates
📘 Download 1st Year Guidance Lesson Plan
2nd Year Guidance Lesson Plan (PDF)
A structured lesson plan that builds on the foundations set in 1st Year, focusing on career exploration, personal development, and self-management.
Content Outline:
- Study Skills Refresher and Advanced Study Strategies
- Career Exploration Activities with Links to Subject Choices
- Self-Management and Resilience Workshops
- Career Awareness Day Outline with Guest Speaker Templates
- Goal Setting for Personal and Academic Development
📘 Download 2nd Year Guidance Lesson Plan
3rd Year Guidance Lesson Plan (PDF)
A comprehensive guidance plan for Junior Cert preparation and Senior Cycle subject choices.
Content Outline:
- Junior Cert Study Skills and Exam Techniques
- Senior Cycle Subject Choice Workshops
- Individual Career Guidance Meeting Templates
- Parent Information Night Outline with Presentation Slides
- Goal Setting for Senior Cycle and Beyond
- Goal Setting for Senior Cycle and Beyond
📘 Download 3rd Year Guidance Lesson Plan
4th Year Guidance Lesson Plan (PDF)
A year-long plan for Transition Year focusing on career exploration, work experience, and personal development.
Content Outline:
- TY Orientation and Career Planning Activities
- Work Experience Preparation Guide with CV Templates
- Reflective Review on Work Experience with Evaluation Templates
- Personal Development Workshops (Leadership, Communication, etc.)
- Career Portfolio Development Guide (Digital and Physical)
📘 Download 4th Year Guidance Lesson Plan
5th Year Guidance Lesson Plan (PDF)
A plan that aligns academic subjects with career aspirations and prepares students for the Leaving Cert.
Content Outline:
- Career Planning and Research Activities with Career Interest Inventories
- Subject and Career Alignment Workshops
- Exploring College and Course Options with Open Day Checklist
- Study Planning and Academic Goal Setting
- Career Planning Workshop and Individual Meetings
📘 Download 5th Year Guidance Lesson Plan
6th Year Guidance Lesson Plan (PDF)
A structured guidance plan for Leaving Cert preparation and transitioning to post-secondary education or work.
Content Outline:
- CAO Application Guidance and Support with Templates
- Final Exam Preparation and Stress Management Workshops
- Career and College Decision-Making Activities
- Transition Planning for Post-Secondary Education or Employment
- Post-Exam Transition Planning and Goal Setting
📘 Download 6th Year Guidance Lesson Plan
Junior Cycle Timeline of Events (Excel)
A detailed timeline that includes events, activities, and workshops for each year in the Junior Cycle (1st, 2nd, and 3rd Year).
Content Outline:
- Month-by-Month Breakdown of Events
- Key Activities and Deadlines for Each Year Group
- Parent-Teacher Meeting Schedules and Topics
- Important Career Awareness and Guidance Days
- Reflective Review and Planning Sessions
📘 Download Junior Cycle Timeline of Events
Senior Cycle Timeline of Events (Excel)
A detailed timeline for 4th to 6th Year guidance events, workshops, and key activities.
Content Outline:
- Career Awareness Days and Guest Speaker Schedules
- CAO Application Deadlines and Workshops
- Work Experience Placement and Review Sessions
- Exam Preparation and Stress Management Workshops
- Transition Planning and Goal-Setting Meetings
📘 Download Senior Cycle Timeline of Events
Career Guidance “Ask Anything” Tool (Digital Resource)
An interactive digital tool for students, parents, and guidance counsellors to access career-related information, ask questions, and explore educational pathways.
Content Outline:
- Career Paths and Subject Choice Information
- College Course Requirements and Options
- Study Skills and Exam Preparation Resources
- Personalized Career Recommendations Based on Interests
- Integration with Guidance Counsellor Support
🔗 Access the Career Guidance Tool
Digital Portfolio Template for Students (Google Sites or Seesaw)
A template for students to create digital portfolios, documenting their career exploration, work experience, academic progress, and personal development.
Content Outline:
- Personal Profile Section (Strengths, Interests, and Goals)
- Career Exploration Section (Career Research, Work Experience Reflections)
- Academic Progress Section (Subjects, Performance, Goals)
- Digital Badges and Certificates Section (Awards, Competencies)
- Reflection and Future Planning Section
🔗 Access the Digital Portfolio Template
Parent Information Night Presentation Slides (PowerPoint)
Presentation slides for hosting parent information nights at various stages (e.g., Junior Cert, Senior Cycle Planning, CAO Application).
Content Outline:
- Overview of Yearly Guidance Activities
- Key Information on Subject Choices and Career Implications
- CAO Application Process and Key Deadlines
- Tips for Supporting Student Success at Home
- Q&A Session and Resources for Further Support
📘 Download Parent Information Night Presentation Slides
How to Access and Use These Resources
These resources are designed to be easily accessible and adaptable for use in various school settings. Guidance counsellors can download, customize, and implement these materials according to the specific needs of their students and school community. Each resource includes practical templates, worksheets, and interactive elements to ensure that students, parents, and teachers are actively engaged in the guidance process.
Let me know if you’d like to provide additional details or have specific content requirements for any of these resources!
