CHAPLAINCY POLICY

The provision of a School Chaplain will support the active learning environment where staff, parents and community members work together to provide an excellent education for students. The programs and opportunities provided, promote and enhance the education of the 'whole' child, intellectual, physical, ethical, emotional and social development.

The role of the Chaplain, within the educational framework of the school, will enhance the Values Program, school connectedness and student wellbeing. The availability of a School Chaplain will provide another avenue of support to students, parents and staff (irrespective of their religious beliefs).

Implementation

The School Chaplain will work in close consultation with the Principal and Student Welfare Coordinator.

The School Chaplain will be available for:

Pastoral Care:
To work with and care for students, parents and staff in supporting our safe and caring environment. This may include:

• Providing support to staff and parents
• Offering confidential counselling, life coaching or involvement in crisis intervention and trauma debriefing
• Responding to requests for assistance and discussing personal concerns with students, staff and parents
• Promoting a sense of care and community within the school
• Willingness to offer a spiritual perspective

Resource Provider:
To work as a link between the school and the community. This may include:

• The initiation of activities that will enhance interpersonal relationships and reinforcing high self esteem and positive values
• Providing support to the school's Values Committee
• Providing a support mechanism for staff in their relationship with school families
• Liaising with staff in the delivery of health and social education courses, e.g. in the areas of grief, self esteem, values and relationships
• Providing assistance and support for school activities such as excursions, camps, sport and Student Council

Referral Role:
The Chaplain will accept referrals from:

• Teachers
• Parents
• Principal

Following consultation with the Principal, students may be referred to appropriate support agencies in the wider community.

An annual review will be conducted by the Principal in consultation with the School Council. The policy will be reviewed as part of the School's review cycle.