Beyond Belief

Where once a school chaplain was a visible Christian presence who gave spiritual guidance, these days they are also to be found providing valuable support aimed at pupil wellbeing

- Elizabeth Ivens

What is a school chaplain?

A chaplain is a member of the clergy attached to a private chapel or institution like a school, university, hospital or the military. They provide a listening ear and give spiritual support to everyone throughout the school, including pupils, parents, staff and alumni. They welcome those of all faiths – and none – and are often part of the teaching staff.

Chaplains from across the country will meet in Liverpool this month at their Biennial School Chaplaincy Conference to discuss and reflect on their work.

By far the greatest number among them will be chaplains from independent schools, with around half of the estimated 250 chaplains from the sector expected.

A chaplain and their chapel – in some cases for several centuries – have been at the heart of our independent schools, a personification of the vision and values of a school: yet chaplaincy has in the past been called “the hidden ministry”.

A role now more vital than ever

And with e Bloxham Project – the last detailed school chaplaincy research in 2011 –finding that while “its potential impact on the lives of the young is considerable, the Church needed to do more to recognise that”; today’s chaplains are adamant that their role is more vital than ever.

Gordon Parry, Director of the School Chaplains and Leaders Association, one of the organisers of this month’s conference, says: “ e chaplain’s role now has to embrace a social culture that is a mixture of multi-faith or no-faith among pupils and their parents – and, indeed, many members of sta . is has produced a shift in emphasis.”