School counseling at Árbæjarskóli
The main goal of Reykjavík City's Education Policy, "Let Dreams Come True," is to provide the best service for children in the City's primary schools. It aims to meet legal requirements and the National Curriculum for teaching based on children's nature and needs. One of the Policy's guiding principles is to offer children appropriate support. It builds on their strengths and background so they can influence their learning, well-being, and environment.
School counselor role
School counselors advocate for students, protect their welfare and seek solutions to their issues. School counselors are bound by confidentiality regarding students' private matters, except as required by Act No. 80/2002 on Child Protection. All students and parents can seek help from school counselors.
School counselor duties
Key responsibilities of school counselors:
- Provide counseling and education on study skills and test-taking techniques
- Offer guidance on students' educational and career choices
- personal and social support for students
- advice and assistance with bullying and prevention issues
- welcoming new students
- Attend student protection council meetings
- Collaborate regularly with Töfrasel, Tían, Árbær and Grafarholt Service Center and the local health clinic
Classes and surveys
School counselors conduct relationship surveys in grade levels as needed and advise homeroom and subject teachers. They also hold various classes for small groups of students, such as ART classes, and classes related to test anxiety, study techniques and self-empowerment. They use the Cat-box tool. School counselors work with Ársel recreation center to provide social support for students, including introducing Ársel and organizing visits there.
Specialized services
Specialized services for students are provided individually or in small groups. Developmental therapists, special education teachers, general teachers, support staff, or other employees provide these services. Speech therapists are present at the school two days a week. A solution team operates at the school in cooperation with the Service Center. The solution team includes a school counselor and developmental therapist from the school, and two behavioral counselors from the Service Center. The team meets weekly, and staff can seek help with various student behavior issues.
Contact us
Guardians can schedule appointments by calling 411-7700 or via email.