School Chaplains Association
“Service Commitment Action”
A Note From Bernard Stuart, Chaplaincy Co-ordinator
Welcome. I look forward to sharing your experiences. I would welcome in any comments, thoughts, concerns or questions which you would like the association to address. I look forward to seeing many of you at the next, or any, Diocesan meeting.
In unity,
Bernard
Weblinks which you may find useful
www.tcf.org.uk (offers support for bereaved parents and their families)
www.seasonsforgrowth.co.uk (Grief Education Programme)
www.rainbowsgb.org (please also visit the 'Rainbows' page on this website)
Profile of the School Chaplain
The School Chaplains' Association was established in 2006 in response to the ever increasing and demanding role the School Chaplain plays not only in the school environment but also in the wider community. The Association represents all the interests of School Chaplains. At present there are upwards of 20 members of the association spread throughout the Diocese and meetings are held on each half term.
The School Chaplain has traditionally been a member of the clergy or religious community, appointed and/or nominated by their local Bishop or Superior. Presently, the number of clergy and religious in Chaplaincy is decreasing while the number of graduates with theological and pastoral training entering the realm of Chaplaincy is increasing.
The Chaplain is nominated by our bishop, and employed by the Governors of an individual school. At present a primary aim of the Association is the appointment of Chaplains on a permanent basis in all High schools and Colleges within the Diocese.
The primary role of the School Chaplain is that of a ‘faith presence' in the School context. They work closely with all members of staff in carrying out this responsibility and also extend this to the local parish community. This role is wide and varied ranging from organising retreats/prayer exercises for students, meeting students on an individual basis, taking an active part in all areas of school life. The Chaplain themselves follow a code of conduct. The role of Chaplain is a professional one and a privileged responsibility.
The Association is privileged to work closely with the ACCE (www.acce.org.uk) and the Diocesan Department for Formation.