Jamaica’s schools are facing unprecedented social and emotional challenges, from rising violence to complex family issues. As the education system grapples with these realities we must start to consider the role of guidance counsellors continuing to shoulder both educational and social work responsibilities.

A balanced, evidence-based approach suggests that while guidance counsellors play a vital role, introducing trained social workers could significantly strengthen student support — if implemented thoughtfully.

Guidance counsellors have a broad range of duties, including academic advising, career guidance, and providing support for students’ mental and emotional well-being. However, with a ratio of roughly one counsellor per 500 students, many are stretched thin.

The Jamaica Association of Guidance Counsellors in Education tell us that counsellors often find themselves dealing with issues far beyond their training, such as child abuse, family dysfunction, and trauma resulting from violence on and off campus.

In the past year, there have been more than 50 critical incidents — including stabbings, gang altercations, and even attempted abductions — reported in Jamaican schools. These events often leave students traumatised and in need of specialised support.

Schools have reported cases of sexual assault and neglect, requiring intervention that extends beyond counselling to include family outreach and coordination with child protection agencies. Additionally, many students face barriers to attendance rooted in unstable home environments, poverty, or abuse — issues that require in-depth case management and community engagement.

Social workers are specifically trained to address the complex social, emotional, and familial issues that impact student learning. Their expertise includes crisis intervention, case management, and connecting families with community resources.

Social workers are equipped to conduct home visits, liaise with external agencies, and develop comprehensive support plans that address the root causes of absenteeism and behavioural challenges. In the aftermath of violent incidents or tragedies, social workers can lead trauma-informed responses, helping students and staff process their experiences and recover.

Some may argue that Jamaica’s limited resources should be focused on expanding the number of guidance counsellors, rather than adding a new cadre of professionals. The cost and logistics of hiring social workers for every school, especially in rural or under-resourced areas could also be a concern. However, a phased approach — starting with schools facing the most acute challenges — could allow for careful evaluation and adjustment. Collaboration between guidance counsellors and social workers, rather than duplication of roles, would be essential. Clear guidelines and training on how these professionals can complement each other’s work would maximise the impact of both.

In countries such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom where social workers are integrated into schools, research shows improvements in student attendance, reductions in behavioural issues, better mental health outcomes, lower rates of suspension and expulsion, and stronger links between schools and families.

However, these systems also highlight the importance of role clarity and ongoing professional development to ensure effective collaboration.

Jamaica’s schools need a robust, multi-disciplinary approach to student support. While guidance counsellors remain indispensable, the addition of social workers could provide the specialised expertise needed to address the most complex social and emotional challenges facing students today. By piloting this model in high-need schools and fostering collaboration between professionals, Jamaica can build a more resilient, supportive education system — one that meets the needs of all its children.