Chaplaincy Services provide spiritual, ethical, and personal support to school communities. 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 organisations, 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 Summit State School Chaplain?
Susan Johnstone is the chaplain at The Summit. In the past she has worked at a crisis youth shelter, been a teacher aide, and an indigenous liaison officer for the Granite Belt cluster of schools. She has been working in children’s ministries for almost 20 years. Susan is married with three children and is passionate about encouraging children to live happy lives, reaching their potential.
What will Chaplaincy look like at The Summit?
The chaplain assists with sporting and cultural programs, general classroom support, attends school excursions, and runs programmes that help students develop social and life skills. Students may request to see Mrs Johnstone on an individual basis for support in personal matters (Consent forms are available from the office).
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 programme 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?
Mrs Johnstone visits The Summit School on Mondays and Tuesdays. Appointments can be made through the office or directly through Mrs Johnstone.