Professionally qualified Careers Adviser offering bespoke career coaching and guidance - Virtual sessions and Face to Face Sessions in Central Scotland

Laura's CV

Career Objective

A fully qualified Careers Adviser with a great passion for helping others to access and explore the world of work, education and training. Upon completion of the Postgraduate Diploma in Career Guidance and Development, I was awarded the qualification with Distinction and also gained two additional awards for academic excellence. My work provides me with a great deal of satisfaction and I am truly committed to helping others to realise and unlock their potential. I am dedicated to continuous professional development, regularly undertaking courses and engaging in reflective practice.

Education

2016 – 2018 PG Dip in Careers Guidance and Development - Awarded with Distinction
University of the West of Scotland
Qualification in Careers Guidance and Development
Career Development Institute
Models of Professional Practice, Career Coaching and Development, Career Related
Policy, Career Development Theory, Reflective Guidance Practice, Labour Market Studies.
2013 – 2015 BA (Hons) International Tourism Management
Upper Second Class Honours (2:1)
Glasgow Caledonian University

Work Experience

July 2018 – Present Careers Adviser/Work Coach, Skills Development Scotland

My role as a Careers Adviser involves utilising a client-centred coaching approach to career information, advice and guidance (CIAG) with customers in a post-school setting. This includes facilitating the development of Career Management Skills through intensive one to one coaching and group interventions. My role involves assessing customer needs, assisting in the development of career plans and goal setting, and supporting customers through points of transition. Additionally, my post involves working closely with, and developing and maintaining relationships with partner organisations. Other elements of my role include:

• Adhering to professional standards such as the CDI Code of Ethics
• Maintaining and expanding professional knowledge and skills through Continuous Professional
Development courses
• Engaging in Reflective Practice
• Utilising Labour Market Information
• Contributing to the achievement of governmental policies such as Scotland’s Youth Employment
Strategy, Career Education Standard, Curriculum for Excellence, and Skills for Scotland: A Lifelong
Skills Strategy


Jan 2016 – July 2018 Trainee Careers Adviser, Skills Development Scotland

This post involved working towards the Postgraduate qualification in Careers Guidance and Development at the University of the West of Scotland. I gained a vast amount of invaluable experience in working people of all ages, including in primary and secondary schools, as well as working with post-school clients from 16 to adults. Additionally, I gained a wide range of experience with the different job roles within SDS, including School Career Coach, Post-School Career Coach and Work Coach. Throughout this position I developed strong coaching skills, excellent interpersonal skills, the ability to self-manage and an excellent understanding of the routes and pathways available to customers.

Achievements

2018 Court Medal for MSc/PgDip Career Guidance and Development
University of the West of Scotland
Awarded for highest overall marks across all modules for academic session 17/18
2018 Bob Abel Medal for MSc/PgDip Career Guidance and Development
University of the West of Scotland
Awarded for ‘Best Student in Careers Guidance’ for academic session 17/18

Skills and Qualities

• Strong work ethic
• Effective counselling and coaching skills
• CIAG sector knowledge and understanding
• Commitment to Continuous Professional Development
• ‘Can do’ attitude
• Ability to develop and maintain professional relationships
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Networking skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Self-management and team player
• Prioritisation
• Perseverance
• Excellent communication and listening skills
• Critical thinking and engagement
• Presentation and facilitation skills
• Effective planning and organisation
• Compliance with legislation and ethical codes
• IT and administration skills
• Self-discipline
• Receiving constructive feedback


Further Experience

Jan 2016 – Present Equality Champion, Skills Development Scotland
Additional role within Skills Development Scotland comprising attending both national and regional meetings, updating team, highlighting issues, arranging partner visits, updating national database with specific local activity.