Role of the Career Master/Teacher in School Guidance

Following the counsellor, the Career Master—also commonly referred to as the Career Teacher—plays a vital role in school guidance programs. Unlike the counsellor, the Career Master is usually a regular school teacher who has received additional training to provide educational and career-related information to students.

Scope of Responsibilities

While the Career Master’s duties are narrower than those of a counsellor, they are crucial for delivering essential guidance services, particularly in schools that do not have a full-time counsellor. The primary focus of the Career Master is educational and occupational information services, ensuring that students have access to accurate and up-to-date guidance for their academic and career decisions.

Training Requirements

A Career Master should be a trained graduate teacher who has undergone specialized in-service training in guidance and information services. Such training is typically offered by State Bureaus of Educational and Vocational Guidance, lasting between two to four weeks.
The training covers:

• An overview of guidance programs and their relevance.
• Methods for organizing and delivering information services.
• Non-testing approaches for student assessment.
• Procedures for maintaining and using Cumulative Record Cards.

It is important to note that Career Masters are not trained in formal testing or counselling techniques. Instead, they focus on knowing the resources available in the community and the agencies to which students may be referred if specialized support is needed.

Key Responsibilities of the Career Master

In essence, the Career Master/Teacher acts as the primary provider of educational and career information in the school. By offering structured support and resources, they help students make informed decisions about their learning and future career paths.

1. Forming a Guidance Committee: Establishing a team to oversee guidance activities in the school.
2. Setting up an Information Corner: Creating a space where students can access career and educational resources.
3. Orientation for New Students: Conducting introductory sessions to familiarize newcomers with school procedures and guidance services.
4. Preparing Newsletters and Bulletins: Sharing updates and educational or career-related information with students.
5. Maintaining Cumulative Record Cards: Keeping detailed records of students’ academic, personal, and social development.
6. Individual Consultations: Meeting students one-on-one when guidance or information is required.