We are seeking to appoint an inspirational Chaplain who feels called to make a significant contribution to the faith journey of every member of our school community. The successful candidate will be a practising Catholic with a strong personal faith and a passion for encouraging young people in their faith, and the ability to lead and develop the spiritual, liturgical and prayer life of the school community. St. Catherine’s is a highly successful, oversubscribed girls’ school with high quality accommodation and resources. We have a beautiful Chapel on site which students actively use every day.
To be a successful Chaplain at St Catherine’s, you will:
have a strong faith commitment and a clear vision for Catholic education. You will equally ensure that the example and teachings of Jesus Christ are at the centre of what you do
have the ability to create a nurturing environment with a commitment to bringing out the best in all students
have an acute awareness of the importance of knowing each student well and plotting their individual paths both academically and pastorally
be committed to enhancing the ethos and culture of the school through determined and ethical leadership so that it becomes highly professional, transparent, efficient, secure and a fun place to work and study
thrive on working in teams but be able to work independently
constantly challenge yourself to become a better practitioner and leader
Role Overview:
The Chaplain plays a vital role in ensuring that the Catholic ethos of the school is maintained and spiritual values safeguarded, liturgical celebrations are promoted, the pastoral needs of the school are met and links are made between school, parish and home.
Key Responsibilities:
To work to support the students and staff in their own personal, spiritual and social development and manage the liturgical activities of the school.
Duties and responsibilities:
1. All members of staff have a responsibility for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All staff in their behaviour and what they say, have a responsibility to be appropriate and respectful towards students; students have an equal responsibility to be appropriate and respectful towards staff.
2. To support the development of the school ethos, based on Gospel values in accordance with Catholic principles.
3. To ensure that the beliefs and practices of every member of the school community are valued and respected.
4. To lead the chaplaincy teams.
5. To organise and manage masses and services.
6. To organise the school liturgical year services.
7. To organise the Sacrament life of the school, including Reconciliation.
8. To play a leading role in increasing and developing the use of the chapel.
9. To provide INSET as required for staff in support of acts of worship and understanding of the Catholic ethos.
10. To produce and disseminate materials for weekly prayer, seasons of the liturgical year, and special days and occasions.
11. To work closely with the RE department and accompanying students on their faith journey.
12. To organise and lead retreats throughout the school.
13. To work closely with the Head of Year in responding to students identified needs.
14. To attend appropriate meetings of students, parents/carers and staff.
15. To build up strong links with feeder primary schools and parishes.
16. To maintain the focus and understanding of Catholic Social Teaching across the wider daily life of the school.
17. To enable staff and students to become stewards of creation in the school environment.
18. To be responsible for a budget in this area.
19. To seek out grants and opportunities which support the wider development of the broad spectrum of chaplaincy work.
20. To present opportunities for students and staff to put their faith into action.
21. To maintain the relationship already developed with external groups who offer opportunities to our students.
22. To have due regard to the school’s Equal Opportunities policy.
23. To have due regard to the school’s Health and Safety policy.
In return, we will offer you:
· an incredibly supportive group of colleagues and leaders
· a personalised training and development programme
· intensive leadership coaching and career advice
· the chance to perform on a wider stage through the diocese, the LSU group of schools and our London networks
For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Mrs Marie Foucher (Deputy Headteacher)