Chief Student Officer
Location:
Aston University Main Campus
Salary:
£38,784 to £46,049 per annum (pro-rata)
Grade:
Grade 08
Contract Type:
Permanent
Basis:
Part Time (0.82)
Closing Date:
23.59 hours GMT on Monday 09 February 2026
Interview Date:
Monday 23 February 2026
Reference:
R260005
Release Date:
Monday 12 January 2026
Join Our Dynamic Student Counselling Team at Aston University!
Are you an accredited Psychotherapist or Counsellor with a Level 7 or Master's (MSc) qualification and a passion for supporting student well-being? Aston University is looking for an experienced and culturally competent professional to join our thriving Counselling Service. If you have three years of post-qualification supervised practice and current BACP, UKCP/HPC, BABCP, or BPS accreditation and extensive experience providing brief counselling, preferably within a higher education institution or a similar fast-paced environment - we want to hear from you!
As a key member of our student-facing Counselling Service, you'll provide short-term, culturally competent therapeutic counselling (typically 6 sessions) to students navigating a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties. These can include anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, self-harm, and the unique pressures of university life. You'll join a vibrant and experienced team, working collaboratively to deliver individual interventions, conduct risk assessments, and respond effectively to students in need.
We're looking for someone enthusiastic about contributing beyond one-on-one sessions. You'll have the opportunity to passionately deliver well-being activities and support our drop-in desk, enhancing the overall student experience. Given current student demand, this is a predominantly in-person role on campus, requiring year-round presence.
The Counselling Service is an integral part of Student Wellbeing, which also encompasses our Wellbeing and Chaplaincy teams. We are further situated within the larger Student Life directorate, working alongside Mental Health & Welfare, Disability & Neurodiversity Support, and Student Engagement and Advice Services to provide holistic support to our diverse student body. Please note, t his role is subject to a satisfactory DBS check.
We are particularly keen to expand our expertise in the following areas, complementing your essential qualifications:
Humanistic Integrative Psychotherapy/Counselling, with a strong focus on:
Rape and sexual abuse/violence
Trauma, loss, and bereavement
Self-harm and suicidal ideation
Cultural sensitivities
Spiritual and faith-based issues
This is a fantastic opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of students, helping them thrive academically and personally. If you're a dedicated professional ready to contribute to a supportive and dynamic university environment, we encourage you to apply!
What we offer:
* Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
* Excellent training and development opportunities.
* A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days bank holiday and University Closure days.
* Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
* Great family friendly policies.
* On site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available
* Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here
This role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess eligibility if you are shortlisted for the role. Please note we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting.
Click here for more information on Skilled Worker visa eligibility.
Further details:
Job Details
University Information
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Anonymous shortlisting will be carried out for this role as part of Aston University's commitment to equality and diversity and ensuring a fair and consistent approach to recruitment. Personal details that are included on application forms, including the candidate's name and address will not be disclosed to the shortlisting panel. CVs will not be considered as part of the shortlisting process.
The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual's lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions.
Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit: https://www2.aston.ac.uk/about/inclusive-aston
Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications
While we cannot prevent applicants from using AI tools to support their application, we ask that all submissions reflect your own experience, achievements, and motivations. We want to understand what you personally bring to the role, so please ensure your application represents your own voice and capabilities.
We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.
If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format please contact the recruitment team at recruitment@aston.ac.uk