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. Our school chaplain (or ‘Miss Em’), Emma-Lee Collard, is an employee of SU QLD, Australia’s largest employer of school chaplains. Chaplains are a safe and trusted person for young people to connect with at school, providing a listening ear and caring presence for social, emotional, & spiritual needs. This support and pastoral care extends to all staff and families, and additionally provides a link to the surrounding community.. This position is funded through the National Student Wellbeing Program (NSWP) with the support of a Local Chaplaincy Committee. Chaplaincy is a voluntary service available to everyone in the school community regardless of their religious beliefs. The Chaplain does not provide religious education in the school and does not initiate discussion pertaining to Christianity or spiritual matters. Such discussion is at the instigation of the parent or student, and is dealt with in a sensitive manner.
Our chaplain provides a broad range of services including:
- Support and assistance for the students, staff and parents of the school community.
- Student development programs that aim to develop self-esteem, resilience, teamwork, leadership, goal setting skills, motivation, and life skills.
- Participation in the classroom addressing various issues such as values, tolerance, self-esteem, peer pressure, ad relationship development through “Rhythm 2 Recovery”.
- General involvement in the life of the school community, and liaising with community groups.
Miss Em is at Clover Hill Monday's & Tuesday's, and can be contacted through the school administration or by email ecoll286@eq.edu.au