SCHOOLS could use funding for chaplains instead of education programs or support staff under a controversial move being considered by the State Government. The move would give Independent Public School principals the power to boost school chaplaincy hours at the expense of literacy and numeracy programs, or other staff including guidance counsellors and psychologists. The Queensland Teachers Union and Australian Secular Lobby are against the plan, arguing that the mainly Christian chaplains have no place in state schools. Most chaplains in state schools are employed by Scripture Union Queensland, which says its chaplains are trained to provide important social, emotional and spiritual support to all students - and not to evangelise kids. A document obtained under Right to Information reveals the states 80 Independent Public Schools could soon use discretionary funds - currently used for literacy and numeracy programs, support staff or professional development - to pay for chaplains instead. Currently the Chaplaincy Services in Queensland State Schools procedure states that school funds provided by the Queensland Government for educational purposes cannot be used for chaplaincy services, states a briefing note to Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek. The flexible use of discretionary schools funds to support chaplaincy/student welfare services can be explored further as part of the review of the chaplaincy procedure. Mr Langbroek confirmed the move was part of the review, which was expected to be finalised for 2014. The State Government already provides up to $11,000 a year for school chaplains, while the Federal Government also provides funding. Australian Secular Lobby spokesman Hugh Wilson said state schools should be free from religion. Mr Wilson said the move would be absolutely disgraceful. Scripture Union Queensland CEO Peter James said chaplains were trained in youth work and pastoral care, which complemented psychologists and guidance counsellors.
Posted on: Tue, 05 Nov 2013 19:44:04 +0000