What does a chaplain do?
School chaplains are employed by Scripture Union Qld as a safe person for all people within the school community to connect with. Chaplains provide a listening ear, caring presence, and a message of hope for those in the community who may be facing a range of issues: struggling with confusing relationships, peer pressure, self-esteem issues, family breakdown, depression, suicide, self harm, bullying, drug issues and abuse or neglect.
Chaplains provide support for at risk students, the staff and families of the wider school community and can give the school community spiritual/ religious/ ethical/ moral support and direction.
Chaplains have a particular responsibility to set an example by their actions.
Students participating in any specific programs will require parental permission. These permission forms are available from our office.
While Scripture Union Qld chaplains are from a Christian faith background, they respect those who hold other beliefs and world views. Chaplains respect everyone's individual right to explore and pursue their own beliefs.
Our school chaplains have many roles in our school. In order to clarify their roles, here is a quick rundown of their job description as supplied by the Earnshaw State College Local Chaplaincy Committee.
Pastoral Care
Provide relevant support to students going through tough times such as divorce, family separation, loneliness, loss and grief.
Be a link between students and with outside community help and/or our guidance officer.
General Activities at the School
Conduct programs for students to develop social skills, conflict resolution and build friendships.
Facilitate events to promote a sense of belonging and community for all staff, students and parents.
Religious, Spiritual and Ethical Support
Provide information and guidance about spirituality, world views or ethics.
Link families with local churches and/or youth groups.
If you wish to speak with our chaplains about a specific issue, please contact the office for an appointment time or contact us via email.
Acknowledgement
This project is partly funded by the Australian Government Department of Education under the National School Chaplaincy and Student Welfare Program.