Is participation voluntary?
Yes. Participation in chaplaincy activities is voluntary. The service respects the beliefs and values of all families and does not seek to persuade students towards a particular religious belief.
Parents and carers are consulted and consent is required for ongoing one-to-one chaplaincy support and activities with spiritual or ethical content, in accordance with the school's procedures. Families may decline their child's participation.
Our chaplain works with teachers and other members of the student support team. If you would like to discuss chaplaincy support for your child, please contact the school office to ask about the referral and consent process. For specialist student support, our Guidance Officer may also be able to assist.
More about our chaplaincy service
Chaplaincy services provide spiritual, ethical and personal support to school communities. SU Queensland chaplains provide positive adult role models for students. Chaplains are present in schools at the invitation of the Principal, in consultation with the local community and with the support of the P&C Association.
A school chaplain is a safe person for young people to connect with at school and provides a listening ear, caring presence and a message of hope. Chaplains run positive, fun activities for students and assist in fostering supportive, caring school communities.
Working with other members of the school's support team, the chaplain cares for students struggling with issues such as difficult relationships with other children or family members, poor self-esteem, family breakdown and depression.
The partnership between the school and the chaplaincy service, supported by local churches, businesses and community organisations, provides a network of local support and assistance. These positive relationships help young people to face difficult issues and provide hope, connection, meaning and purpose.
The chaplaincy service is available to everyone in the school community, regardless of their religious beliefs. Involvement is voluntary and parents have the right to refuse permission for their child to participate in chaplaincy activities.