School Chaplain

The aim of the school chaplaincy program, at St Monica's Primary School, is to provide pastoral care, guidance, social and emotional comfort and support for the general well-being of the studetns and families asscoiated with the school. The National School Chaplaincy and Student Welfare Program is funded by the Australian Government Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations. Funding provides for an additional part-time staff member for 2 days per week (10 hours).The National School Chaplaincy Program is a voluntary program that assists school communities to support the wellbeing of their students, including strengthening values, providing greater pastoral care and enhancing engagement with the broader community.

The Role of the School Chaplain

Brendan Drake is employed by the school for 2 days a week (20 hours) This position is funded by the Federal Government National School Chaplaincy and Student Welfare Program. (NSCSWP).  Brendan's role is to provide students, their families and staff with support and/or appropriate referrals, in difficult situations such as during times of grief or when students are facing personal or emotional challenges.
  1. Supporting students and staff to create an environment of cooperation and mutual respect, promoting an understanding of diversity and the range of cultures and their related traditions.
  2. Supporting students, their families and staff of all beliefs and not seeking to impose any beliefs or persuade an individual toward a particular set of beliefs.
  3. Attend in-service activities as required by the principal.
  4. Extra-curricular responsibilities as agreed by negotiation with the Principal.
  5. Visit classrooms on a regular basis informally and formally.
  6. Mentor students with behavioural/emotional needs.
  7. Interact with the students in the playground.
  8. Be available if any student needs someone to talk to about an issue he/she may have

How the service links into other school support services and networks

Teachers can refer students directly to the Chaplaincy service when they see fit. Parents also are able to request that their child be able to talk with the chaplain. The Chaplain will offer referrals to, for example; CatholicCare Counsellors and outside agencies, when and if the need arises.

How to access activities such as arranging for one-on-one sessions

Parental Consent is required before students are able to work with the Chaplain on a 1:1 basis or in small group sessions. Parents are welcome to contact the Chaplain by phoning the office. 

Complaints handling

If Parents and Carers have any complaints they are welcome to discuss the matter with Lisa Harris, School Principal. 

Community consultation

Parents and students are given the opportunity to have their say by completing a survey which is conducted at the end of each calendar year.

Acknowledgement

This project was funded by the Australian Government Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations under the National School Chaplaincy and Student Welfare Program.