The Importance of School Chaplains in Supporting At-Risk Students

School chaplains are an invaluable resource for Australian schools, providing support to over 1.2 million participants annually through nearly 175,000 programs. These programs range from social, emotional, and spiritual support to educational assistance and extra-curricular activities. In 2017, chaplains had more than 230,000 formal pastoral care conversations with students across the country, with a focus on supporting those with disabilities, Indigenous backgrounds, in state care, from culturally diverse backgrounds, as refugees, and in the juvenile justice system.

Without school chaplains, the burden of providing this critical support would fall on teachers and school counsellors, who are not specifically employed for these duties. By partnering with local churches and providing ongoing professional development, GWFC Chaplaincy ensures that their chaplains are equipped to handle the diverse needs of students and are able to build strong relationships over an extended period of time.

The importance of addressing the social, emotional, and spiritual needs of students cannot be understated. By providing a safe and supportive environment for students to discuss these issues, chaplains can make a real difference in the lives of young people. Whether through one-on-one conversations or group programs, chaplains are a valuable resource for Australian schools and communities.