Consultancy - Development of Pre-Service Teachers' Mental Health Manual and Revision of Curriculum
Organizational Context
UNICEF operates in over 190 countries, dedicated to saving children's lives, defending their rights, and helping them reach their full potential. We are committed to promoting the rights of every child, viewing it as a calling. UNICEF offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal growth, fostering a sense of purpose while serving children globally.
Job Purpose
This consultancy aims to address the critical and often neglected issue of adolescent mental health in Guyana. Recognizing that mental health is vital for adolescents' overall growth and future, this role will focus on developing essential resources. The consultant will revise the pre-service teachers’ HFLE curriculum to integrate mental health components and create a comprehensive manual. These materials will equip pre-service teachers with the knowledge and tools to identify mental health conditions in children, provide appropriate guidance, and foster social and emotional skill development. This initiative is a partnership between UNICEF, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Health, aiming to improve mental health literacy and support within the education system.
Responsibilities
The consultant will lead the review, assessment, and revision of the pre-service teachers’ HFLE curriculum to effectively incorporate mental health topics. This includes developing an accompanying manual designed to build pre-service teachers' capacity in recognizing mental health conditions in children, offering appropriate guidance, and supporting the development of social and emotional skills. The scope of work involves prioritizing key areas for inclusion such as the importance of mental health and wellbeing in schools, understanding child development, common emotional and behavioral disorders, and social and emotional skills building. The methodology will encompass an inception report with a desk review and workplan, followed by the revision of curricula and development of training manuals and materials, culminating in the presentation of final documents. The consultant will work under the supervision of the UNICEF Health Officer and Education Specialist, and in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.
Work Experience
Experience in curriculum development, mental health programming, and teacher training is required. Experience working with educational ministries and international organizations is an asset.
Skills
Curriculum Development, Mental Health Literacy, Teacher Training, Adolescent Psychology, Social and Emotional Learning, Report Writing, Project Management, Stakeholder Engagement, Needs Assessment, Material Development