After graduating as a Health and Physical Education, and English teacher in 2005, Prina Scot came face to face with the complexity of issues impacting on student learning. She became torn between 2 equally attractive career paths—teaching and counselling. That is, until 2014 when she found the perfect way to combine both interests into a new and rewarding career as a guidance officer.
As a new graduate in her first teaching role at
Springwood State High School, Prina enjoyed helping young people achieve good educational outcomes, but her experiences with students both inside and outside the classroom inspired her towards other career goals.
'While teaching at Springwood, a lot of students were telling me about their family situations and personal issues they were dealing with at the time,' Prina said.
'I found myself wanting to help more at that personal and systemic level.'
Sparking her interest in counselling, Prina left teaching for a short time to study and pursue a career in guidance and counselling.
Shortly after graduating from the Master of Counselling in 2013, Prina returned to teaching, but her old career dilemma kept gnawing away at her.
It was resolved when her school's guidance officer suggested she consider becoming a guidance officer herself. Prina realised that a role like this offered her an opportunity to combine her passion for education with her passion for wellbeing and counselling.
Prina then completed a Master of Education, majoring in Guidance and Counselling, online while continuing to teach. She is now working full-time at Everton Park State High School as a guidance officer.
Guidance services have been available in Queensland state schools since 1948.
While the role of guidance officers has changed much over the last 70 years, some core priorities like helping students stay engaged and finding their ideal educational pathway haven't changed.
Although career advice remains an important function, it is only a small part of Prina's role. Other aspects include mental health support, student safety and welfare, and support of students in care.
'Perhaps the 2 biggest mental health issues experienced by students I come across are depression and anxiety, which in turn can lead to issues such as behavioural problems, disengagement and non-attendance,' Prina said.
'It's a privilege to walk the path with these students to help them navigate these obstacles, support their emotional needs, and assist in re-engaging them with education in a way that works for them,' Prina said.
Prina's teaching background helps her relate to what students are experiencing which enables her to better support them.
'Having been in the classroom as a teacher, you know the dynamics of the classroom and understand the nuances of what they are struggling with or facing,' she said.
Prina also appreciates the team approach to student welfare.
'The job of a guidance officer is such a collaborative role. It's not something you can do in isolation,' Prina said.
'I work closely with the senior leadership team and a great student support services team, including chaplains, school-based youth health nurse, youth support worker, Indigenous support worker and defence support mentor,' Prina said.
'A senior guidance officer is also available for regular supervision and input.'
Guidance officers are required to be registered teachers in addition to having either a Master of Guidance and Counselling or a 4-year degree in Psychology.
Could this be the career for you? Find out more about
becoming a guidance officer.