"State School Chaplains: What do they do?" Part II

Ok, I'm back with part two of an info series- filling in the 'blanks' that many people
have about what STATE SCHOOL chaplains do, seeing as their role is somewhat
emerging, and has been modelled differently to suit the 'secular' philosophical environment
of state schools (N.S.W.)



Below, I publish some General Guidelines which Scripture Union Queensland have provided. With a large state school chaplaincy programme (albeit with very different accountabilities & structure than the variable pattern in our state system)- these guidelines are useful.

The series of 'example' roles are grouped under FOUR broad areas of activity:
(1) General (2) Pastoral care (3) Networking with Providers (4) Maintaining Qualifications.

These generic guidelines would form a good starting point for a job description, as particular items can be deleted, or expanded, in line with the employing groups philosophy of ministry, and limitations of the host school community & culture.

Schools Worker/ Advocacy /Chaplain

GENERAL ACTIVITIES IN LIFE OF THE SCHOOL:
Ø Participate in school camps, excursions, sports days, speech nights, form meetings, assemblies, and school committees.
Ø Facilitate groups, events activities with voluntary student participation lunchtime groups, breakfast clubs etc.
Ø Visit students who are absent from school (including school refusals, hospital visitation, bereavement).
Ø Public prayer formal school functions.
Ø Coach sport teams.
Ø Assist with special needs and behaviour management programmes.
Ø Participate in and develop adventure – based learning/outdoor education programme.
Ø Provide resources support for teachers.
Ø Facilitate parenting programmes.

PASTORAL CARE:
Ø Pastoral care and personal support for students, staff and parents of school community, within a Christian framework with School Guidance Officer (Councilor) and other support staff.
Ø Support following Critical Incidents
Ø Assist in the development and support of the schools care programme.

NETWORK WITH SUPPORT SERVICES:
Ø Local Christian churches and other agencies and organizations in local community to provide broad range of support services to school community.
Ø Co-ordinate involvement in the school by external programs eg. Auslife seminars. Also liaise with the SRE teacher.

QUALIFICATIONS:
[Social work, counseling, education, social services, youth work, Bible College, theological training.]
Ø Have proven experience in the qualities listed below
Ø Committed Christian active in their local church.
Ø Relational – as this is people helping role.
Ø Good communicator – applies the teachings of the Bible to real – life situations and communicates this in a relevant way.
Ø Express faith and beliefs appropriately sensitive to the religious and cultural beliefs of others.
Ø Work with all church denominations and have an understanding of theological issues.
Ø Able to work both independently and as a member of a team.