School Chaplain

From the Chaplain 

What a wonderful start to the New Year (apart from the past 5 days in Lockdown!) Hoping that this time did not adversely impact your families greatly. Please contact the school if you would like a chat or support in any way.

Sam, my monkey puppet and I, would like to thank the students, parents and staff at Mullum for your warm welcome, and we look forward to seeing your smiling faces at the gate each Thursday and Friday.  It’s wonderful to be back after being here two years ago for a Term, and a privilege to be a part of this amazing school community.

A little bit about myself.  I have lived and worked in the Ringwood area for 40 years, and have a background in youth justice, homelessness, volunteering, parenting and well-being in schools. I have two adult children who attended local schools, a grandson in Perth and soon to be twin granddaughters.  I love watching the footy (Go Cats!) and tennis and spending time with family and friends.

To date I have been visiting the classrooms, and having a “Stillness” session. This encompasses many aspects including mindful breathing; listening to music; sharing thoughts and feelings and listening to and playing the singing bowls. In our discussions, the values of Mullum Primary – Be kind; Be honest; Be Curious; and Be Respectful, are modelled and reiterated.

One of my roles is being available to spend time with students one on one, and if you feel your child would benefit from this, please call the school and a referral may be made, and a permission slip sent home for you to sign. If required, I can also assist you in referring your family to appropriate local agencies.

I look forward to meeting you over the weeks and months ahead. Feel free to contact me via the school office, or speak to me before or after school on Thursday and Friday at the gates.  I may not be here for the next two weeks as I hope to visit our daughter and grandson in Perth, who I have not seen for over a year now.  

Marg Patching