The role of a School Chaplain (Chappy) is to provide social, emotional, and other forms of support to the school community, particularly to students. Chappies offer a listening ear, a caring presence, and hope, helping young people navigate challenges such as friendship issues, family breakdown, bullying, mental health struggles, and more.
At Pomona State School, the Chaplain supports students, staff, and families by:
- Building trust and offering non-judgmental, compassionate care
- Being a positive role model and safe adult to talk to
- Providing spiritual support if requested
- Supporting wellbeing through conversations, activities, and encouragement
- Assisting in times of personal or community crisis
- Helping connect families with local community groups and services or organizing the provision of basic needs
Chaplain Matty Bateson started in July 2025 and generally works on most Tuesdays and Wednesdays, employed through SU Australia and supported by the National School Chaplaincy and Student Welfare Program (NSCSWP), along with community donations and school fundraising efforts.
Voluntary Participation & Consent
Participation in Chaplaincy programs is voluntary. Parents and caregivers are asked to provide consent for their child's involvement via a form available at enrolment or upon request. This ensures families are informed about:
- The scope of Chaplaincy Services at the school
- Their right to give or withdraw consent at any time
- The range of optional programs linked to Chaplaincy
For more information or to discuss your child's participation, please contact the school office at (07) 5480 8222 or admin@pomonass.eq.edu.au