Every day, Spurgeons counsellors step into schools to offer them a safe, steady space to talk, reflect and be heard.
One in five children and young people in England are now living with a probable mental health disorder (NHS Digital, 2023). Behind that statistic are real children carrying worries far bigger than they should ever have to face. Every day, Spurgeons counsellors step into schools to offer them a safe, steady space to talk, reflect and be heard.
Introducing James, one of our school‑based counsellors whose creativity, calm presence and commitment to young people shape the heart of his work.
What is your role at Spurgeons?
I work across both primary and secondary schools, supporting children from Year 1 all the way to Year 13. My role centres on providing 1:1 counselling sessions, but it also involves regular check‑ins with parents, school staff and other agencies to ensure each young person receives the holistic support they need.
If you could describe your typical workday using only three words, what would they be and why?
Creative. Busy. Safe.
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Creative - because every session is tailored to the individual. I adapt materials for different ages and often create activities on the spot to help young people explore whatever they bring to the room that day.
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Busy - because counselling sessions come first, and everything else fits around them.
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Safe - because once a session begins, the room becomes a sanctuary. No matter what is happening in the child’s world, I ensure they have a space where they can open up and feel heard.
Outside of the office, what’s a hobby or passion project that people might be surprised to learn you’re involved in?
Outside of work, I have recently discovered a love for tabletop gaming. Although I've always been a gamer, board games have become my new favourite way to unwind, and it’s a hobby I now share with my four‑year‑old daughter.
Our growing collection is getting so big, we're starting to run out of room!
What’s your favourite part about your role?
For me, the joy lies in working with children of all ages and watching their confidence grow.
It’s this transformation - from uncertainty to confidence - that makes the work so meaningful.
What’s something about your role that you think would surprise people?
Counselling in a school environment might sound hectic, but I find the sessions themselves incredibly grounding.
It encourages you to slow down and be present in the moment which I find carries on after the session has ended. It provides a sense of calm when around you there could be a sea of chaos!
School counselling services
Our school counselling services can be the solution you are looking for when it comes to helping with mental health.
