A report of a counselling internship and associated research undertaken in Harlow, England

Abstract

The purpose of this internship was to provide an opportunity for the intern to further his skills in guidance and counselling. The internship was undertaken at West Hatch High School, Chigwell, Essex, Great Britain during the spring school term. It began in April, 1980 and concluded in July of that year. -- During the internship, opportunities were provided for the intern to: a) acquire a detailed knowledge of the British school system and in particular the role of guidance and counselling within the system; b) develop the competence to counsel school children; c) explore his personal feelings about the role and function of a guidance counsellor in a school; d) become familiar with community services and resources which exist in support of schools and students; and e) learn to develop sound working relationships with other professionals in the helping fields. -- The purpose of the research component of the internship was to assist the headmaster in assessing the effectiveness of his school in achieving its objectives. Using a questionnaire, designed by the intern during the internship and completed by over 60% of the school faculty, information was collected for and discussed with the headmaster concerning a number of key areas relating to the education and welfare of students.