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 organizations, 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 Mt Gravatt East State school chaplain?
Hi, my name is Allison van Zanten and I have been at Mount Gravatt East State School since the beginning of 2017. I have a background in theology and the arts (theatre, acting and music). I live in Tarragindi. I am married and my husband's name is Piete. I feel very privileged to work in such a fantastic school community, and I look forward to growing relationships with staff, family and students.
What will chaplaincy look like at Mt Gravatt East State School?
My role as the school chaplain is to provide social, emotional and spiritual support to students, while enhancing Mount Gravatt East’s overall wellbeing strategy.
“Spiritual health is one of the overall variables that influence an individual’s overall health”
– Department of Education and Training, Queensland Government.
I also seek to contribute toward educational goals by visiting classrooms regularly and being present at sports days, swimming carnivals, school performances, etc. I will be connecting with students through lunch time activities such as skipping and craft, providing a free Breakfast at our "Top Up Station" Monday to Friday, and running social and emotional programs that focus on resilience and life skills. I will also actively network with local businesses and organizations in the greater community who provide support and volunteers for different chaplaincy programs.
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 program 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?
Allison will be at Mount Gravatt East State School on Thursday & Friday. You can contact the Chaplain through the office or via email allisonv@chappy.org.au.