Associate Director of University Counselling
Full-Time, Indefinite Term
Ashbury College is a leading not-for-profit independent day and boarding school for students in Grades 3 to 12 located in Canada’s capital and on the traditional, unceded territory of the Anishinàbe Algonquin Nation. We serve a diverse community, including students from over 60 nationalities from the National Capital Region, the diplomatic community, and international boarding and day students.
Our mission is to inspire students in a dynamic learning environment to be intellectually curious, compassionate, and engaged global citizens. Our strategic direction is centred on the highest standards in teaching and learning, whole-student development, access and inclusion within our pluralistic community, community engagement, and resource stewardship for long-term sustainability.
Located in central Ottawa, Ashbury College is seeking a full-time Associate Director of University Counselling who will contribute to enhancing students’ academic achievement, personal growth, and postsecondary readiness by providing informed, student-centred counselling and support throughout the university admissions process for our Grade 12 graduating class.
Minimum Requirements
- Ontario Certified Teacher (OCT) in good standing.
- Additional Qualifications in Guidance (Specialist preferred) and/or significant experience in university counselling.
- Experience working in university counselling and academic guidance in Canada and internationally.
- Demonstrated Knowledge of IB and OSSD graduation requirements.
- Proficient in the use of technology tools, including Microsoft Office Suite
Preferred Qualifications
- Independent School experience
- Familiarity with common application platforms (OUAC, Common App, UCAS).
- Awareness of global postsecondary admissions trends and evolving program requirements
- Knowledge of scholarship opportunities
- Understanding of academic and behavioural counselling principles at the secondary level
- Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to assess student academic profiles, identify needs, and recommend strategies for success.
- Capacity to research and apply new techniques for supporting student readiness.
- Excellent interpersonal skills marked by empathy, active listening, and clarity.
- Ability to engage students in open, supportive discussions and help navigate difficult decisions.
- Professional judgment, discretion, and confidentiality in all interactions.
Core Competencies
Ashbury College’s Core Competencies define the behaviours, skills, and mindsets that all staff are expected to demonstrate and continuously develop. They contribute to a safe, inclusive, high-performing, and service-oriented work environment. They guide how we work together and how we extend that same spirit of respect, attentiveness, and service to our students, their families, and the broader Ashbury community
- Integrity & Accountability
- Wellbeing & Inclusion
- Relationships & Collaboration
- Communication & Engagement
- Growth & Adaptability
- Planning & Preparation for Student Learning
- Effective Instruction and Assessment
- Cultivating a Supportive and Inclusive Classroom Environment
Specific Responsibilities Include:
- Provide individualized and group counselling regarding academic pathways, course selection, timetable planning, and IB/OSSD graduation requirements.
- Advise students on university programs, admissions requirements, and application timelines for Canadian, U.S., U.K., and international institutions
- Guide and provide students with personalized support for post-secondary and gap year applications
- Review and provide feedback on personal statements, supplemental essays, résumés, and portfolios.
- Prepare and/or contribute to letters of recommendation as required.
- Engage in case conferences or multi‑disciplinary discussions regarding student needs.
- Collaborate with teachers and grade teams to monitor student progress and address academic concerns.
- Maintain relationships with postsecondary admissions representatives to ensure up‑to‑date knowledge of program changes and admissions trends.
- Lead and support the coordination of university visits, information evenings, admissions events, and postsecondary tours as delegated by the Director of University Counselling
Ashbury College provides a competitive compensation and group health package, including participation in the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan. You are encouraged to visit us at ashbury.ca to learn more about our facilities, internationalism, community engagement, and school values and culture.
This posting is for an existing vacancy and will close on March 27, and applications should be forwarded on or before that date. Kindly note that only short-listed applicants will be contacted. We encourage all qualified candidates to submit their applications at their earliest convenience. Please note that the posting will be removed once the position is successfully filled.
We welcome applications from qualified individuals of all backgrounds, including those from groups that have faced historical and/or systemic barriers to equity. Joining Ashbury means contributing to a dynamic learning environment where your unique perspectives and experiences help shape a more inclusive future.
If we contact you about an employment opportunity and you require an accommodation, we will work with you to meet your needs.
The compensation range for this position is $78,200 - $128,000, and could be greater, based on qualifications and years of experience. To apply, please visit our Candidate Portal.
