The school operates a chaplaincy service two days per week (Tuesday and Friday). This is possible due to the support of the Commonwealth Government and generous community support from the school's P & C Association, fundraising and community donations.
Our school chaplain Ben Paroz is employed by Scripture Union through the Mount Samson Local Chaplaincy Committee (LCC). This LCC meets approximately once per term. Community members who are keen to donate to chaplaincy or assist as part of the LCC are encouraged to
contact the chaplain at the school.
Our school chaplain Ben Paroz is employed by Scripture Union through the Mount Samson Local Chaplaincy Committee (LCC). This LCC meets approximately once per term. Community members who are keen to donate to chaplaincy or assist as part of the LCC are encouraged to
contact the chaplain at the school.
What does a school Chaplain do?
School chaplains are in the prevention and rescue business: helping students find a better way to deal with issues ranging from family breakdown and loneliness to depression and suicide. They provide a listening ear and a caring presence for kids in crisis and those who just need a friend.
Working alongside other caring professionals in state schools, chaplains care for young people's spiritual and emotional needs through pastoral care, activity programs, community outreach and adventure-based learning.
School chaplains help students feel a sense of belonging in the school and help students deal with personal issues such as self-image, personal crises, loneliness, grief and loss. School chaplains provide encouragement and support for students who are struggling with a variety of issues, and offer a friendly listening ear for all students, staff and parents, in the good times as well as the bad.
School chaplains run lunchtime clubs and craft groups, and organise games and visiting bands/ performances. Many chaplains are also involved in school activities such as camps, sports, induction programs, leadership programs, and school ceremonies.
Who is your School Chaplain?
Our school chaplain Ben Paroz or 'Chappy Ben' is at the school Tuesdays and Fridays. Prior to becoming a chaplain Ben has worked as a teacher. He began work at Mount Samson State School in Term 4 2018. Ben thoroughly enjoys his role as a pastoral carer, listener and friend to the students, staff and parents.
How to Contact 'Chaplain Ben'
You can see the chaplain about school issues at Mt Samson on Tuesday or Friday. You may book an appointment through the office, or see the chaplain in person in his room in A block or out and about. School chaplains are not qualified counsellors, but offer a listening ear.
Permission is required for a student to work one-to-one with the school chaplain. The chaplain is available to support children with a broad range of issues, like friendships, bullying, separation and divorce and death/loss of loved ones.
Go to Support and Resources, Forms and Documents, and the Chaplaincy folder to download the latest consent form for your child.