Career Counsellor - January 2027 - Rugby School Dubai

Role Overview

Career Counsellor at Rugby School Dubai, a British curriculum school operated by Aldar Education, located in the Nad Al Sheba district of Dubai. The role commences in January 2027 and reports to the Senior School Leadership Team.

Company Overview

Rugby School Dubai opened in August 2026 and is guided by the ethos "The Whole Person, The Whole Point." The school pairs academic depth with pastoral strength across rigorous academics, sport, performing arts and music, leadership and service, and House life. The school serves pupils from Foundation Stage 1 to Year 13 and is a proud member of the Aldar Education group.

Role Purpose

You will guide students from Year 7 to Year 13 as they explore their options, build strong university applications and prepare for life beyond school. You will help shape a growing Futures programme, supporting students and families with pathways to universities in the UK, UAE, US and worldwide, as well as apprenticeships and alternative routes.

Key Responsibilities

University and Post-18 Pathways

• Guide students through university applications, including UCAS and international systems.
• Support personal statements, references, transcripts and deadlines.
• Track applications, offers and leaver destinations.
• Maintain accurate records of university contacts and alumni.
• Deliver information sessions and parent webinars on university choices, application timelines and admission requirements.
• Support interview preparation.
• Help specialist applicants, such as those applying for Oxbridge or Medicine, in partnership with Heads of Department.

Careers Education and Guidance

• Deliver one-to-one and group guidance on subject choices, careers and future pathways.
• Focus on Year 9 and Year 11 options and other key transition points.
• Help students develop employability skills, including CV writing, personal statements and interview techniques.
• Support the use of Unifrog with students, staff and parents.
• Contribute to the Careers programme for Years 7 to 13, working with the Senior School Leadership Team and Heads of Year.

Work Experience and Partnerships

• Coordinate work experience placements with external organisations, including agreements, parental consents and risk assessments.
• Act as a point of contact for students and employers during placements.
• Record feedback and outcomes.
• Build links with universities, businesses and the alumni network to create opportunities for students.

Events and Communication

• Organise university fairs, guest speakers, workshops and careers events.
• Share careers information through newsletters, displays, the school website and social media.
• Support students and families on results days.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Psychology, Counselling, Careers Guidance or a related field.
• Experience working in a school setting, ideally in careers, university guidance or student support.
• Knowledge of UK university admissions (UCAS) and international application processes (US, Europe, etc.).
• Experience in a British curriculum school.
• A recognised careers guidance or counselling qualification (desirable).
• Experience using Unifrog or similar platforms (desirable).

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent communication skills, with the confidence to engage students, parents and external partners.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage competing deadlines.
• Proficiency in MS Office and student data systems.

Additional Information

All appointments are subject to satisfactory references, police clearance and qualification verification, in line with KHDA and Rugby School requirements. Rugby School Dubai is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and expects all staff to share this commitment. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the school reserves the right to appoint early if an outstanding candidate is identified.