Non-Faith Schools Increasingly Employ Chaplains

More non-faith educational institutions are employing chaplains to provide emotional assistance to pupils. According to the Centre for Chaplaincy in Education, this increase is attributed to the stresses experienced by young individuals following the Covid 19 pandemic and the influence of social media. The total count of chaplains appointed in schools across the UK saw an increase from 200 in 2014 to 900 in 2022. In Norfolk, the Synergy multi-academy trust employs a chaplain who serves four of its high schools. Reverend Keith Rengert states that the chaplain’s role differs significantly from that of a teacher. He remarked, “I sometimes say to the ones whose behaviour is challenging, I can’t give you a detention but I can get you one.” He added, “I’m a bit apart from the system.” Students are offered chaplaincy assistance when they face behavioural difficulties, struggle with academic demands, or encounter issues within their home environment. Although faith holds personal significance for Reverend Keith, he emphasizes that he does not impose it on the students. He stated, “I’m a chaplain in non-church schools because I’m a Christian.. I don’t expect anyone to share my faith, that’s entirely up to them. “If there is a faith discussion then it is instigated by the child.” Among those who have benefited from the chaplaincy program at Reepham High is 12-year-old Evie. She commented, “It’s really nice to have someone who is not a teacher or a parent that you can just go to and talk to about whatever is on your mind.” Evie explained, “Last year I was struggling with coming up to high school and the amount of homework and to keep having hospital trips for JIA – which is an arthritis that affects children.” She reported improved management of her school life due to Reverend Keith’s assistance. Chaplains may represent any faith, though most in Norfolk are Christian. The Church of England notes that faith chaplains have provided ministry to schools for centuries. It proposes that the role should encompass “building a bridge between the school and church,” and between the school and the broader community, including other denominations and faith groups.