|
Welcome to our School Chaplain, Alistair – or Pastor Al, as many of our students call him.
The role of the School Chaplain involves:
Spiritual Support
SU QLD respects every individual’s right to explore and pursue their own beliefs and worldview.
SU QLD is a Christian organisation, and whilst all staff and volunteers hold a Christian worldview respect is shown to those who hold other beliefs and worldviews. Staff and volunteers never attempt to manipulate others to adopt a Christian worldview.
SU QLD staff and volunteers are often involved in discussions and activities where individuals are discussing their own thoughts, beliefs and worldviews. Staff and volunteers personally model their own faith positions or beliefs, whilst always respecting those of others. They avoid implying that their beliefs are superior, but can explain reasons why they hold those beliefs.
Community Networking
As an inter-denominational Christian organisation, SU QLD works with a broad cross-section of Christian churches and other religious and community groups. Time is dedicated to networking and involving members of the local community in services, where possible and appropriate.
Role Modelling and Mentoring
Staff and volunteers operate with high ethical and professional standards appropriate for the context and the communities we are a part of. As a Christian organisation SU QLD aims to reflect the values and lifestyle demonstrated by Jesus.
Holistic Approach
Whilst giving particular attention to supporting spiritual and ethical needs, SU QLD further seeks to support individuals’ inter-related physical, social and emotional needs. Staff and volunteers should reflect Jesus’ example of caring for people in their areas of genuine need.
Working With The Marginalised
As a Christian organisation, SU QLD aims to reflect Jesus’ own priority for those who are struggling, marginalised or disadvantaged. This can be offering support in acute situations as well as engaging in preventative strategies.
SU QLD Chaplaincy Services
School Chaplaincy Services are well defined and regulated by Education QLD. The Chaplaincy Service is the entire range of activities coordinated by the Local Chaplaincy Committee (LCC).
The Chaplaincy Service may incorporate a wide variety of programs and services delivered by a diverse team of people. An employed chaplain is often involved in coordinating the team and delivering services.
Healthy Chaplaincy Services
The chaplain and LCC shall work together to ensure that a balanced service is delivered.
Core functions of all SU QLD Chaplaincy Services
- Support students exploring their spiritual beliefs.
- Pastorally care for students and be a role model to them.
- Engage with local Christian churches and other religious groups and with parental consent, connect students with resources and programs provided by these groups.
- Nurture and assist Christians in the school community.
Other recommended activities include:
- Provide educational opportunities where appropriate on spiritual issues/ content.
- Participate in the various other school community functions.
- Work with at-risk students.
- Promote social justice and equality issues.
A balance service covers all of the core functions and opportunity is provided for the recommended activities where possible.
Healthy Chaplains
A healthy chaplaincy service requires a healthy chaplain. Healthy chaplains:
- Maintain their personal and spiritual well-being.
- Foster positive relationships with the school community.
- Build and maintain high profile and visibility in the school community.
- Understand and comply with policies and procedures of the school.
- Engage and network with local churches and religious groups.
- Understand and comply with policies and procedures of the SU QLD.
- Maintain a positive working relationship with the school administration, LCC and SU QLD.
- Negotiate with the LCC on an annual basis a strategic operational plan and a professional development plan.
- Engage in professional supervision.
|
