Championing our Chaplains

By Andy Callow (Principal) 

The school years can be tough. Navigating friendships, the learning journey, identity issues and spiritual frameworks are just a few of the realities that face our students and in order to access their best and true selves - they need help.

We have the most dedicated and passionate staff at Belgrave Heights Christian School, teachers and learning assistants who genuinely care and walk alongside each student as they discover new levels of learning and depth of character.

Teachers provide a structured space for our students to settle in and launch themselves forward. This is invaluable and so important, but the role of a teacher can only extend so far. To be effective in managing a classroom, teachers must be an authoritative figure, creating and enforcing boundaries to provide an environment that enables all students to learn.

When students run into difficult times - when they find themselves facing problems in relationships, mental health struggles, tackling tricky questions about faith - they need a safe place to be heard.

Enter our chaplains.

These courageous and caring people are there when your children need to find their voice. They sit and listen, ask questions and provide empathy when our students need it most.

But even more than that they are champions themselves in the realm of faith, hope and love. Their presence reminds us of what is truly important and can so often be missed in times of turbulence. And their position creates pathways for students to engage, explore and navigate their own growing faith.

We are so grateful for the selfless work that our team of chaplains has invested over the past year and truly value the service that they provide.

We honor the efforts of Anthony and Dreana, who served us in their roles in the chaplaincy team and wish them well as they move forward. Matt Edwards is remaining in his position as the Junior School chaplain and we are excited to announce that early next term Drew Nicholls will be starting as Senior School chaplain and Courtney White will be starting as Middle School chaplain.

Drew comes to us with ten years experience as a youth pastor, and Courtney is, of course well known to many of our students having supported them through her roles in Admin and First Aid.  

I would love you to join with me in celebrating the role of our chaplains, welcoming these new team members and supporting them as they do such valuable work in the lives of our students.