Chaplaincy services provide students, staff and parents with social, emotional and pastoral support by providing an additional adult role model in the school, and enhancing engagement with the broader community. Chaplains provide a listening ear, caring presence and message of hope as students seek to deal with a wide range of issues such as friendship issues, family problems, peer pressure, self-esteem issues and managing emotions.
Chaplaincy services are inclusive of, and show respect for, all religious and non-religious beliefs and other stances represented in the school community. All activities and events provided are optional, non-discriminatory and equally available to students of all backgrounds, and are provided at the discretion of the school principal, in consultation with the school community.
Our school chaplain, Chappy Cassie, joined the Shorncliffe community in 2023. Cassie completed a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy in 2020, followed by two years of professional experience working as a registered OT across a variety of health settings, before following her calling into school chaplaincy. Chappy Cassie brings a unique understanding and appreciation of mental health and wellbeing, child development, inclusion and diversity to her chaplaincy service. She is passionate about providing a friendly, supportive, holistic and fun chaplaincy service, alongside her dedicated Local Chaplaincy Committee, to foster inclusivity and a positive culture in the school community.
Cassie is at school every Tuesday and Wednesday 8am to 4pm and her chaplaincy service includes:
- One-on-one social and emotional support for students, staff and families with a focus on wellbeing
- Optional spiritual support for students, staff and families who are seeking support for matters pertaining to grief and loss, faith, religion, and “big" questions about life
- Lunch time supported play
- Social skills and life skills programs and whole class/year level sessions
- School camps and events
- Food hampers
- Links to community support, youth groups and SU Qld holiday camps
Students can be referred to Chappy Cassie via classroom teachers. Cassie provides a consent form outlining the chaplaincy service which needs to be returned before commencing ongoing meetings. For parents and carers seeking support, please contact your child's classroom teacher.