About SPARK Schools
SPARK Schools is a social impact disruptor and is leading change in the education space through its network of affordable private schools. The SPARK Schools network provides transformational education innovation through Africa’s first blended learning model, which elevates student achievement and provides the tools teachers need to serve their students effectively.
The blended learning model, which combines classroom teaching and online instruction, allows teachers to anticipate student needs and equips schools to provide personalised education at an affordable cost. SPARK Schools is pioneering this transformative education model to ensure the accessibility of university and careers for all.
SPARK Schools is a high growth, mission and values-driven entrepreneurial organisation, operating 21 primary schools, and 5 high schools and serving over 16,000 families in 2025. We are looking for dynamic people to join our team.
Job Title: Primary School Social Worker
Purpose of Role:
The purpose of the School Social Worker role is to provide essential socio-emotional support to scholars, ensuring that their well-being is a strong foundation for academic success. Emotional well-being is closely linked to a scholar's ability to thrive academically; when scholars feel supported emotionally, they are better equipped to focus, manage stress, build relationships, and engage fully in their learning environment. The School Counselor helps scholars develop the resilience, coping skills, and emotional intelligence necessary to overcome obstacles and excel in their education.
The School Social Worker plays a proactive role in fostering an environment that promotes both socio-emotional development and academic achievement. In this role, emotional support is not just about resolving immediate crises; it’s about equipping scholars with lifelong tools for emotional regulation, self-awareness, and interpersonal skills. This emotional foundation allows scholars to approach their studies with confidence, fostering a positive, productive learning environment that encourages both personal and academic growth.
Reports To: Child Protection Officer
Responsibilities generally include:
- Individual Counselling: Provide one-on-one sessions for scholars dealing with emotional distress, academic pressures, behavioural issues, and family challenges. Develop personalised counselling plans to address each scholar’s unique needs, fostering emotional resilience and academic success.
- Group Counselling: Lead group sessions that focus on building essential life skills such as conflict resolution, stress management, peer relationships, and effective study habits. Create a supportive peer environment to encourage collaboration and empathy among scholars.
- Crisis Intervention: Offer immediate intervention for scholars in crisis (e.g., trauma, mental health breakdowns, or family emergencies). Work with school leaders and external agencies to ensure that scholars receive the care they need and a safe return to their academic routines.
- Academic Support: Collaborate with teachers and parents to identify scholars facing academic challenges, especially those impacted by emotional or social issues. Help develop strategies for managing academic stress, improving focus, and creating better study habits to enhance academic performance.
- Preventive Programs: Develop and implement school-wide programs aimed at preventing issues like bullying, stress, substance abuse, and poor mental health. Lead workshops and initiatives that promote positive behaviours, mental health awareness, and emotional resilience across the school community.
- Advocacy and Referral: Serve as an advocate for scholars’ well-being within the school environment, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met. Liaise with external service providers to connect scholars with mental health services, family support, or other necessary resources.
- Documentation and Reporting: Maintain confidential and accurate records of counselling sessions, interventions, and scholar progress. Prepare reports for school leadership and parents to track scholars' development and ongoing needs.
Please note this role is on an initial 24-month contract (2 years)
Requirements
Qualifications and Criteria:
- Education: NQF Level 8 (post-graduate diploma or honours) qualification in Social Work.
- Professional Registration: South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP).
- Experience: Minimum 3 years of counselling experience in a primary school setting, with expertise in supporting scholars’ emotional, social, and academic needs.
- Skills: Strong counselling skills with experience in crisis intervention, child development, and academic support. Excellent communication and collaboration abilities with scholars, parents, and staff.
- Languages: Speak, Write and Understand English. Speak and understand a minimum of four (4) South African languages.
Qualities:
- Grit: Persistence through challenges.
- Excellence: A track record of high expectations personally and professionally.
- Mission and Vision Alignment: Understanding of and passion for the SPARK Schools mission to provide excellent education at an affordable cost.
- Self Reflection: Finding the capacity to bring your best self to challenges and opportunities.
Values: Service, Persistence, Achievement, Responsibility, Kindness
Benefits
SPARK offers:
- fair market linked remuneration
- performance-based annual bonuses and increases
- above average/good annual leave
- life, disability and funeral cover
- employee wellness support
- educational support & study leave
- individualised professional development, support and mentorship
- employee discount on school fees
- opportunities for career growth
Compensation: Commensurate with experience/Market related CTC
Location: Rosebank, Gauteng
Position Type: Contract
SPARK schools is an equal opportunities employer and preference will be given to candidates from designated groups with due consideration of the company’s Employment Equity goals and targets.
SPARK schools encourages persons with disabilities to apply.
SPARK Schools may expire the posting of this advertisement at their own discretion.
Kindly note that should you have not heard from us within two weeks of the closing date please consider your application unsuccessful.
