Chaplains in Queensland schools:
build positive relationships with students
work closely with other support staff and services to nurture and care for students
support at-risk students through behaviour management programs
support staff and families from the wider school community
provide spiritual support and direction to the school community.
Our school chaplain is Angeline Pang.
I commenced work as the Chaplain of Salisbury State School in September 2012 and I am loving it! I work three days a week, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. What a privilege it has been for me to work alongside the Principal and Staff team as they seek to bring the best out of each child and provide students with a positive school experience.
School chaplaincy is a service that provides spiritual, ethical, and personal support to the school community of students, parents and staff. Chaplains are present in schools at the invitation of the Principal, in consultation with the local community and with the support of the Parent and Citizens Association.
Together with the school student support team including the Guidance Officer and Welfare officer, I facilitate and provide pastoral care and personal support for students, staff and parents of the school. We provide a safe place for students to talk about their struggles such as family problems, confusing relationships, friendship issues, peer pressure, self-esteem issues, bullying and stress and anxiety. We listen and we care.
Part of my role is to give spiritual support and direction for the school community, which includes nurturing students with a faith background, and helping students explore their spiritual beliefs.
While exercising my role from within a Christian framework and promoting positive Christian values, I am sensitive and respectful of people who hold beliefs and values different from my own. I am available to all students, staff and parents within the school, regardless of religious affiliation. All chaplaincy activities and events are non-discriminatory and open to all students.
For me to have the opportunity to journey with these young people who are the leaders of tomorrow is an immense honour and privilege.