In our area, 4 chaplains serve in our local public schools. Christopher McWhirter-McWhitlock, Unley High School, Denby Tamms, Unley Primary, Margaret Hayman, Blackforest Primary, Nion Derwick, Goodwood Primary.

Our chaplains are highly valued by their schools. In general, chaplains provide support to the Wellbeing services of the school. A chaplain role is flexible which means they can fill gaps when they arise. They work with students one on one, assist teachers, engage parents, run social development programs and lunch time clubs. Each chaplain and school are also unique. Amongst many other contributions, Margaret assists with the school’s new playgroup. Nion runs a social skills lunch-time cooking program. Denby is involved in the ‘Wednesday hump day hangs’ to encourage staff connections. Chris has supported e-sports programs.

Four local churches provide $15600 to supplement the government funding for additional hours. Currently, the church’s funding increases each chaplain’s hours by 50%. We hope to see the number of partnering churches increase to support further requests for chaplains and hours. With our chaplains our churches also supported their schools through staff morning teas, food hampers, program funding, social support funding.

All chaplains are keen to engage more volunteers in their school communities. This could be as mentors, at breakfast programs, or short-term opportunities like teaching children crafts, skills.. If you are interested, please be in contact.

In Him,

Jason