Introduction to the School Counsellor at Secondary

Hello, my name is Claire Ireland and I am delighted to be joining Bangkok Prep this year as the new Secondary School Counsellor.

I thought you would like to know more about my background, experience and qualifications. I am British and grew up in the North of England. I studied Psychology at University then qualified as a Primary Teacher. I emigrated to Switzerland with my young family and spent 20 years working in Swiss and international schools. At the International School of Lausanne I became the school counsellor, earning an MA in counselling in Geneva. Since then I have worked back in the UK, Malaysia and the Philippines as a school counsellor. I love my job as I know that young people can be really helped in a caring, confidential counselling relationship.

The student support team works to create a supportive and proactive atmosphere for all members of the Bangkok Prep community, I am thrilled to be part of this team. I work with students individually and in groups to help them become stable and confident emotionally, socially and academically. With my experience and qualifications I should be able to help the students at BKK Prep with the difficulties they encounter. Having spent my working life in schools I have a good understanding of the sorts of challenges they may face. Students will find we will work as hard reinforcing their strengths as well as addressing their weaknesses.

In my role at Bangkok prep I will support not only students but parents and staff. I’m available for individual meetings by appointment. I welcome contact from parents and am very happy to collaborate to find strategies for their children.

I can be contacted directly at the counselling office, via Firefly or email cireland@bkkprep.ac.th