Chaplaincy Services
Chaplaincy Services provide spiritual, ethical, and personal support to school communities. SU Qld 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.
What does a School Chaplain do?
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.
What will Chaplaincy look like at Palm Beach State School?
The chaplain is here to support Palm Beach State School by reinforcing the school values, promoting healthy self esteem, positive friendship groups and continuing to build the encouraging school community. This happens through
One off events; Chappy Week and Kids4kids (in May)
Ongoing; Chappy Room chill out zone at lunch breaks, one on one support where requested and parental permission is provided, classroom support, community garden involvement, coordinating 'Companions', 'Friendz' and 'Empowered' programs, attending excursions, camps and special events.
Will my child be involved?
Involvement with the Chaplain is entirely voluntary and students choose whether or not they want to be a part of the activities that are offered. Parents will be consulted if their child wishes to be involved in ongoing one-to-one meetings with the Chaplain or in any program or group involving spiritual or ethical content. Parents have the right to decline permission for their child to be involved in any Chaplaincy activity or event.
"I am Chappy Sophie and I get the privilege of being Palm Beach State School's Chaplain. A School Chaplain is
a safe, trusted adult who supports the wellbeing of students by
offering a listening ear, a caring presence, and a message of hope.
Chaplains help create a positive and supportive school environment by
running inclusive, fun activities and building meaningful connections
with students.
As
part of the school’s broader support team, the Chaplain plays an
important role in caring for students who may be experiencing challenges
such as difficult peer or family relationships, low self-esteem, family
separation, grief, or emotional distress.
The
Chaplaincy Service is a valued partnership between the school and the
wider community, supported by local churches, businesses, and community
organisations. This network of care provides students and families with a
sense of connection, support, and encouragement during challenging
times.
Importantly,
the Chaplaincy Service is available to all members of the school
community—students, staff, and families—regardless of belief.
Participation in chaplaincy activities is always voluntary, respectful,
and inclusive. Please don't hesitate to contact the office for more
information. " - Chappy Sophie.