School Chaplain
The role of a state school chaplain is to provide optional pastoral care to support the general wellbeing of students and the school community. The role will reflect the specific needs of the students attending the school.
Chaplains may be involved in any of the following:
- Social and/or emotional support — assisting students to develop knowledge, understanding and skills that support learning, positive behaviour and constructive social relationships (e.g. through breakfast club or lunchtime group meetings).
- General wellbeing — supporting students and staff by promoting their physical, emotional, social and intellectual wellbeing (e.g. Rock and Water Program).
- Mentoring — acting as a role model for students and assisting in the development of supportive relationships for, with, and among students (e.g. one-on-one meetings or goal planning workshops).
- Community development — working with school-based support staff and community-based youth organisations and networks to support students for example:
- contributing to school newsletters
- arranging guest speakers or presenters (with school principal approval).
- Educational support — assisting with classroom activities, under the direction of a teacher, where involvement by the worker provides further support for those students who may be at risk of disengagement.
- Extra-curricular activities — participating in general school activities e.g. camps, excursions, sports days or coaching team sports.