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Department of Education, Science and Training
Hi! My name is Jenny Bill and I am your School Chaplain. My qualifications include holding a Bachelor Degree in Science, majoring in Psychology; and a Diploma in Counselling Children and Adolescents. Primarily my role in the school is to promote well-being and spirituality. My beliefs and values are based and founded upon a Christian perspective.
In 2007, the Australian Government responded to the call that the services of a School Chaplain be made more broadly available with the introduction of the National School Chaplaincy Programme (NSCP). The NSCP is designed to assist schools and their communities to support the spiritual wellbeing of their students and complements any existing services in schools, such as counsellors, youth workers, and social workers. However, there are also clear differences between the NSCP and existing services, including the voluntary nature of the school chaplaincy service and the focus on spiritual and religious advice, support and guidance.
Funded through the NSCP, I am employed part-time by Scripture Union Queensland (SU Qld). Working in a state school, I hold a “blue card” and follow and uphold NSCP, Education Qld and SU Qld policies and practices, and code of conduct. I participate in many of the general activities in the life of our school (such as “hanging out” with the children during both breaks, occasionally helping out in classrooms, participating in assemblies, speech nights, sports days, school committees, school camps, special programs and/or events, coordinate our school’s care group, etc.). I provide pastoral care, practical assistance, life skills, relate with local churches in Hervey Bay, engage in community networking, and so on. From time to time, in consultation with the School Principal and SU Qld, I may introduce a program or advertise an upcoming event. Consent forms will be provided to interested students relating to the program or event. Students who do not return a signed consent form will be unable to participate.
Although I am an active member of St. Joseph’s Catholic community, I am sensitive to and respectful of people who hold beliefs and values that are different from my own. I am available to all students, teachers and staff, and parents/guardians within my school community. Respectfully, I look forward to meeting with you and your family, at your discretion.
CONFIDENTIALITY
Everyone has the right to a private conversation with the School Chaplain.
However, in cases of illegal activity, actual harm or abuse, or potential harm or abuse, the Chaplain is required to practice responsible confidentiality by reporting these cases to relevant people (e.g. the School Principal).
This is in the best interest and care of student/s and other members of the school community.
(This is Education Qld and SU Qld policy).
Jenny Bill
School Chaplain
BSc (Psych); Dip(CCA)
Disclaimer
The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent the views of the Australian Government Department of Education, Science and Training.
Acknowledgement
This project was funded by the Australian Government Department of Education, Science and Training under the National School Chaplaincy Programme.
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