Background
The Hans Foundation (THF), established in 2009, is a Public Charitable Trust that works towards creating an equitable society to enhance the quality of life for all through the empowerment of marginalized and underprivileged communities in India. The Hans Foundation works for the health and well-being of remote and under-served groups, with an additional focus on children, persons with disabilities, and women. THF also works for holistic Education and Livelihood development of our communities. Our Two-Fold Strategy involves identifying and working within Aspirational Districts and high poverty index in the North, North-East, and East regions within specific states, as well as catering to lower-income and migratory populations in cities, through urban programs.
Over its 15 years of existence, THF has reached more than 35 million beneficiaries through its programs. THF works with communities through the direct implementation of projects on the ground in addition to providing local management and monitoring support to not-for-profit organizations in India funded through THF USA and RIST.
Background of the Project: UNNATI: Moner Class
The Hans Foundation believes in promotion of mental wellbeing and inclusive education for all including children with disabilities in order to provide equal opportunities for growth and development. Under Samagra Shiksha, there is strong emphasis on inclusive education, student retention, holistic development, and equitable learning outcomes. However, a significant number of students in government schools face:
o Emotional and behavioral difficulties
o Learning disabilities and developmental delays
o Psychosocial stress due to poverty, family instability, migration, disability, or trauma These challenges directly impact attendance, academic performance, classroom behavior,
and continuation of education. At present, most schools lack on-site professional mental health and special education support. Teachers often manage these concerns without adequate training or resources. This project addresses this gap by introducing a structured, school-based support model involving a Psychologist and a Special Educator working collaboratively.
Goal of the project:
Overall Objective
To strengthen mental health, emotional well-being, and inclusive learning practices in
government schools through integrated support.
Specific Objectives
1. Early identification of emotional, behavioral, and learning difficulties
2. Provision of counselling and remedial education support
3. Enhancement of students’ emotional resilience and life skills
4. Support for Children with Special Educational Needs (CwSN)
5. Capacity building of teachers and parents
6. Creation of an inclusive and supportive school environment
1. GENERAL INFORMATION
o Location: Kolkata
o Type of Employment: Contractual for a period of 1-year, renewable basis
project requirements
o No. of position(s): 05
o Reporting to: Senior Project Co-Ordinator
2. DUTIES & RESPONTIBILITIES
a. Mental Health Screening and Assessment
Conduct regular mental health screenings and psychological assessments using culturally
appropriate tools to identify emotional, behavioral, and developmental concerns among
regular students and Children with Special Needs (CwSN).
b. Individual and Group Counselling Sessions
Provide individual and group counselling to address issues such as stress, trauma, anxiety, and peer relationships, ensuring a safe and supportive space for students. Establish Mental Health & Psycho-Social Case management systems in schools for the students who are in need.
c. Emotional Well-being and Life Skills Sessions
Facilitate different psycho-social support sessions on emotional well-being and life skills
including communication, coping strategies, decision-making, and self-awareness to support overall development.
d. Behavioral Intervention Planning
Develop and implement tailored behavioral intervention plans in collaboration with teachers and caregivers to support students with specific behavioral challenges. Create Individualised Care Plans (ICPs) with clear goals, strategies, and measurable outcomes for students who are in need.
e. Teacher and Parent Orientation on Child Mental Health
Conduct awareness and training sessions for teachers and parents to build their
understanding of child mental health and equip them with practical strategies to support
children.
f. Referral to Public Health Services Where Required
Identify students needing specialized care and coordinate referrals to public health services,
ensuring access to appropriate mental health support and continuity of care.
g. Other Duties
o Awareness Meetings
Organize and conduct awareness meetings in the community if needed to build
understanding of learning difficulties, disability inclusion, early intervention, and
supportive educational practices.
o Linkages with Health Departments, ICDS, and Child Protection Services
Establish and maintain coordination with health departments, ICDS (Integrated Child
Development Services), and child protection services to ensure access to
comprehensive support systems, referrals, and holistic care for children.
3. OTHER INDICATIVE REQUIREMENTS:
- Educational Qualifications
o Master’s degree in psychology (full time degree) with Post graduate Diploma
in School Counselling or Career Counselling from recognized institute
OR
o Master’s degree in psychology with post graduate diploma in Clinical/Rehab
psychology (full time) from recognized institute
OR
o Master’s degree in psychology (full time degree) from recognized institute • Functional / Technical Skills and Relevant Experience & Other requirements
(Behavioral, Language, Certifications etc.)
o Minimum 3 to 5 years of relevant work experience
o Experience with children with disabilities/disorders
o Desirable: State license to work as a school psychologist
o Good working knowledge of principles, methods and procedures for diagnosis and
treatment
o Strong written and verbal communication (in Bengali, Hindi and English) and
capability to relate and interact with multicultural teams.
o Strong understanding of state education policies and regulations
o Effective communication and counselling skills
o In depth knowledge and experience in individual, group and family psychology
o Problem solver and innovative
o Good organizational and time management skill
o Giving close attention to details and demonstrated ability to handle sensitive or confidential information
THF is an equal opportunity employer that encourages women, people with disabilities and those from economically and socially excluded communities with the requisite skills and qualifications to apply for positions. We do not discriminate in employment on the basis of caste, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or any other such matter.
