Chaplaincy at Russell Island State School
Chaplaincy
Services provide spiritual,
ethical, and personal support to school communities. SU Qld Chaplains provide positive adult role
models for students. 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.
What does a School Chaplain do?
A School Chaplain is a safe person for young people to connect with at
school and provides a listening ear, caring presence, and a message of hope. Chaplains run positive, fun activities for
students and assist in fostering supportive, caring school communities.
Working with other members of the school’s support team, the Chaplain cares
for students struggling with issues such as difficult relationships with other
children or family members, poor self-esteem, family breakdown, and depression.
The partnership between the school and the Chaplaincy Service, supported
by local churches, businesses and community organisations, provides a network
of local support and assistance. These
positive relationships help young people to face difficult issues, and provide
hope, connection, meaning, and purpose.
The Chaplaincy Service is available to everyone in the school community
regardless of their religious beliefs.
Who is the Russell Island State School
Chaplain?
Ann-Marie McCann (Chappy Annie)
What will Chaplaincy look like at Russell
Island?
Chappy Annie will be available to all students and parents/caregivers on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays during the school week between the hours of 7.30am and 3.30pm.
Will my child be involved?
Involvement with the Chaplain is entirely voluntary and students choose
whether or not they want to be a part of the activities that are offered. Parents will be consulted if their child
wishes to be involved in ongoing one-to-one meetings with the Chaplain or in
any programme or group involving spiritual or ethical content. Parents have the right to refuse permission
for their child to be involved in any Chaplaincy activity or event.
How can I contact the Chaplain?
Please feel free to contact Annie through the school office on 3400 9333, via email ann-marie.mccann@suchaplaincy.org.au or alternatively you can drop in and see her at the school. Her “Chappy Lounge" is located in the Heritage building at the top of the stairs.
Disclaimer
The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent the views of the Australian Government Department of Education.
Acknowledgement
This project was funded by the Australian Government Department of Education under the National School Chaplaincy and Student Welfare Program.