School Pastoral Worker

Hi! My name is Jenny Bill and I am your School Pastoral Worker. I am married with 3 boys and we all moved from Adelaide to Hervey Bay in 2000. My qualifications include holding a Bachelor degree in Science, majoring in Psychology; a Diploma in Counselling Children and Adolescents; a Diploma in Youth Work; and a Certificate in Mental Health Social Support. Primarily my role in the school is to promote well-being and spirituality. My beliefs and values are based and founded upon a Christian perspective.

I am employed part-time by Brisbane Catholic Education for 13 hours per week (Tuesdays and Fridays) and funded by the Australian Government Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations through the National Schools Chaplaincy & Student Welfare Program (NSCSWP). I hold a “blue card” and follow and uphold Brisbane Catholic Education, NSCSWP, and the Australian Counsellors Association’s policies, practices, and code of conduct. The NSCSWP is a voluntary Program that assists schools and their communities to support the spiritual wellbeing of their students. This might include support and guidance about ethics, values, relationships, spirituality and religious issues; the provision of pastoral care; and enhancing engagement with the broader community. I participate in many of the general activities in the life of our school (such as “hanging out” with the children during both breaks, occasionally helping out in classrooms, participating in assemblies, whole school masses, class liturgies, retirement home visits, sports days, school committees, school camps, special events, our school’s care and concern group, etc.). I provide pastoral care, practical assistance, life skills, community networking, and so on. From time to time, in consultation with the School Principal I may introduce a program or advertise an upcoming event. Consent forms will be provided to interested students relating to the program or event. Students who do not return a signed consent form will be unable to participate.

I am an active member of St. Joseph’s Catholic community, however, I am also sensitive to and respectful of people who hold beliefs and values that are different from my own. I am available to all students, teachers and staff, and parents/guardians within Star of the Sea school community. Respectfully, I look forward to meeting with you and your family, at your discretion.

CONFIDENTIALITY

Everyone has the right to a private conversation with the School Pastoral Worker.

However, in cases of illegal activity, actual harm or abuse, or potential harm or abuse, the Pastoral Worker is required to practice responsible confidentiality by reporting these cases to relevant people (e.g. the School Principal).

This is in the best interest and care of student/s and other members of the school community.

Disclaimer

The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent the views of the Australian Government Department of Education, Science and Training.

Acknowledgement

This project was funded by the Australian Government Department of Education, Science and Training under the National School Chaplaincy Programme.