The following case studies highlight the unique way in which school chaplains help students through support and programs.
All identifying information has been removed.
Lizard lounge
Tony, like all school chaplains, has a passion for reaching young people in need. The difference with Tony is that he does it with a roomful of reptiles. Tony’s ‘Lizard Lounge’ has become a sanctuary for students at the high school.
Affirming self worth
A young person’s years at school are meant to be among the best times of their life. Sadly, for many young people, this is not the case. It can be a time of pain and rejection, which can often cause problems well into adult life.
Helping to process
When Brendan was in Grade 7, he found himself locked in a losing battle against anger and frustration. But in his corner, he had a constant source of support and someone he could trust – his school chaplain, Jodie.
A safe space
Families are not built to break, but sadly they do. Kate’s parents separated when she was 7 years old, and she was left feeling alone in the world. However, Kate found someone to lean on – her school chaplain, Theresa.
Communicating acceptance
For most of Paul’s life, he was isolated from his peers by his inability to communicate. Diagnosed with Down Syndrome, school was a lonely place. He and his mum, Leanne, had escaped domestic violence in another state.
Building acceptance – religious diversity
When Khadra and her young family migrated to a small rural community from South Africa in 2013, she worked hard to integrate her children into a new and foreign culture.
Supporting families
When Bethany’s battle with heart cancer began, chaplain Amelia was there to console Narelle through her fears for her mother, and support Dean in his daily struggles with an ongoing debilitating medical condition.
Safety and acceptance
School chaplains have a heart to care for the social and emotional wellbeing of our young people and families, and students and parents of LGBTIQ+ students know that they will be safe talking to their chaplain.
