Our children and young people need help

More than ever before, young people in Australia are experiencing family problems, confusing relationships, friendship issues, peer pressure, self-esteem issues, bullying and depression. Children of all ages at certain times will feel lonely, hopeless, confused, misunderstood and helpless. And our teenagers have their own unique issues; with abortion rates, binge drinking, self-harm, and mental health problems on the increase.

In all of these times, the guidance of a mature, caring and supportive adult can greatly assist a young person’s capacity to cope.

School chaplains are part of the solution

The authors of The Millennial Adolescent (ACER Press, 2007), N Bahr and D Pendergast, have stated: “People who have had a strong connection with a strong positive role model during adolescence are much more resilient throughout their life.”

Our children and young people, more than ever, need positive role models and strong values. As adults, we want our kids to develop skills and strategies to break negative cycles in their lives. That’s why our children and young people need school chaplains.


School chaplains are unique:

  • They are a support conduit – connecting students (and school staff) to specialist services in the community such as welfare groups, counselling services, medical services and community groups in consultation with School Principals.
  • They build relationships with students (and staff). They are a trusted adult in the playground and in the classroom – offering a listening ear to students who want to share their problems and experiences.
  • Their role is to contribute to the spiritual and emotional well-being of the school community.
  • They are seen by students as an adult who is not a part of the school’s authority structure.

What do school chaplains do?

Schools overwhelmingly approve school chaplaincy

The Importance of Spiritual Well-being in Education

Australia Youth Statistics

Further resources