The Student Life Counselling Team

29/10/2026

The Student Life Team is here to help students make the most of their college experience by providing access to the support and guidance they need to succeed.

As part of our wider student support services, our counsellors offer a safe and confidential space where students can explore challenges, develop resilience, and enhance their overall wellbeing.

Through professional counselling support, the team helps students manage their mental health, build confidence, and navigate the demands of college life.

We asked Esme, Marcus and Tom three questions so you can get to know the people behind our student wellbeing and counselling services a little better.

Meet Esme

What is the most rewarding part of being a counsellor at Highlands?

"[It] has to be the support from staff and how welcomed I have felt from the minute I took on the post. From day one, I've felt part of the team."

What's one thing you'd like staff to know about counselling?

"Counselling can have a significant impact on students' lives. Many young people don't always feel heard and may experience challenges in different areas of their lives. Counselling provides a safe, non-judgemental space where they can be listened to, supported and gently challenged. This can help unlock opportunities, build hope and give students the confidence to find their voice."

Fun Fact

I only learnt to swim at the age of 40, and I drove a tractor when I was 7 years old!

Meet Marcus

What is the most rewarding part of being a counsellor at Highlands?

"I never fail to be aware of the privileged position I am in; to have amazing young people share parts of their lives that few others get to hear about, and to play even a tiny part in their ongoing personal development. There is nothing quite like it."

What's one thing you'd like staff to know about counselling?

"We are not there to give advice to students. We are there to help facilitate greater awareness of themselves, their experiences and their own processes."

Fun Fact

"I once cycled from St Malo to Athens."

Meet Tom

What is the most rewarding part of being a counsellor at Highlands?

"Seeing someone work something out for themselves that changes the way they see things. I like to say that our job is to be a mirror. Talking, and being given the space to truly hear yourself, can often open the mind to acceptance or become a catalyst for change."

What's one thing you'd like staff to know about counselling?

"Counselling is not about providing answers or fixing problems. At its best, it provides the space that allows someone to find their own answers to life's challenges."

Fun Fact

I love the sea and the sound of waves. Having always lived on an island, I've developed a strong affinity with the ocean. This summer I became a regular at Havre des Pas Lido and I'm hoping to continue sea swimming well into the winter!