If this program ceases, Moree Secondary College will lose its chaplain who supports both teachers and students.

Under questioning from Senator Brett Mason, the Estimates Committee heard the Minister representing the Minister for Education, Senator Kim Carr, refuse to guarantee the chaplaincy program would continue beyond this financial year.

About two years ago the Federal Government allocated a budget to allow for part time chaplains to be placed in schools that didn’t already have them. The Christian Secondary College in Moree, both the Carol Avenue and Albert Street campuses, have been using the chaplain services of Tim Barklay since the start of this program. Mr Barklay is a teacher who previously taught in Walgett for four years. He would like the initiative to continue as it’s an important support for the students.

“The role supports both staff and students in the day to day running of the school, to make sure everyone’s happy, being given a fair go, instilling morals and spiritual support,” Mr Barklay said.

“Prime Minister Rudd should stand up and be counted on his much marketed Christian status and keep the School Chaplaincy program going,” the Nationals’ Senator Ron Boswell said.

Mr Barklay has experienced success as chaplain. He has helped to reduce the suspension rate, increase attendance and improve the attitude of a student by working with them on personal development to make the right choices and learn the consequences of their actions.

Mr Barklay said the strength of the program is chaplains can build relationships with students, from a non-teacher, zero-discipline role. So students can build a real relationship with an adult beyond the student teacher one.

See our opinion on page 6.