The role of counsellor usually exists in mid-size or large organisations, as a support to the qualified person responsible for training (QPRT), where it would be unreasonable or impossible for the QPRT to support each ACA student through their training.
A counsellor should work closely with the student and must understand and have experience in giving feedback and impartial advice, listening, encouraging constructive discussion, and coaching.
A counsellor can be responsible for multiple students, but normally no more than four students. This is to ensure all students have ready access to their counsellor.
Who can become a counsellor?
A counsellor must:
- be a member of an IFAC full membership body, or other equivalent recognised body at the discretion of ICAEW.
Counsellors do not need to have direct line management responsibility for students but must be able to liaise closely with those who do.
Responsibilities of a counsellor
A counsellor is responsible for:
- Understanding the practical work experience, professional development and ethics requirements of the ACA and be aware of what they need to approve and provide feedback on.
- Maintaining regular contact with the QPRT at their organisation to ensure that they are up to date with ACA requirements.
- Conducting six-monthly reviews, when they cannot be undertaken by the QPRT.
- Discussing any training issues with their students as and when required.
- Confirming to the QPRT that students are fit and proper for ICAEW membership. A counsellor cannot conduct a final sign-off themselves.
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