Person Specification and Job Description

ST JOSEPH’S CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL A S p e c i a l i s t A r t s C o l l e g e H e a d t e a c h e r : M r K J o n e s M A , N P Q H

LAY CHAPLAIN

PERSON SPECIFICATION AND JOB DESCRIPTION

Person Specification

 The post-holder will be expected to have the following attributes:  Be a practicing Roman Catholic who has an understanding of the Church, its teaching and mission in the world and be able to relate and interpret this especially to the particular needs of the 11-18 group.  A degree in theology or religious studies, or other experience or qualification that can bring knowledge and understanding to the role of chaplain.  The competence and confidence to lead large or small, formal or informal, groups of pupils and adults.  Have an awareness and appreciation of the educational environment.  Experience in working with young people and a commitment to supporting students’ overall development.  A knowledge and understanding of liturgy and worship and have the skills and confidence to lead small groups or the College community at particular celebrations.

St Joseph’s Catholic High School Shaggy Calf Lane, Slough Berkshire, SL2 5HW

Tel: 01753 524713 Fax: 01753 579128 Website: www.st-josephs.slough.sch.uk Email: [email protected] ST JOSEPH’S CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL A S p e c i a l i s t A r t s C o l l e g e H e a d t e a c h e r : M r K J o n e s M A , N P Q H

 Have common sense, enthusiasm, energy, vision and creativity, with the skill to motivate students and staff.  Be comfortable enough with their faith journey to support and encourage others at whatever stage they may be at in their own journey of faith.  Be able to reflect on experience and be open to change.  Have strong listening skills; be able to empathise with people and communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.  Be able to deal with difficult situations. Maintaining appropriate confidentiality and being sensitive to the needs of individuals whether they are students or members of staff.  Be able to work under pressure, plan and be organised and yet be flexible if the need arises.  An awareness of the need for personal development and a willingness to participate in INSET and appraisal.

Job Description

The role and responsibilities of the chaplain include:  Supporting, and providing resources for and developing the prayer life of the school.  Maintaining a high profile presence around the school and at school events.  Preparation of school liturgies in collaboration with students and staff (especially the music department).  Care of the Chapel and Sacristy.  Devising and running a retreat programme. (Currently only year 7s)  Devising and running a chaplaincy programme including taking responsibility for charities within the school.  Offering support and first level counselling as needed by individual students, staff and parents (especially in times of personal and family crisis such as bereavement).  to work/cooperate with chaplaincy provision of the schools within the Slough Catholic partnership  Taking part in diocesan chaplaincy support events and nationally becoming a member of the Association of Catholic Chaplaincy in Education (A.C.C.E)

Further notes:

St Joseph’s School is a Voluntary Aided Catholic comprehensive in Slough. We provide a Catholic education for students aged 11-18. Our school has the gift of a many cultures in the community.

It is important to recognise that the chaplain is not expected to do everything by themselves but need to involve other staff and students, and to encourage and support them in adopting leadership roles.

Tel: 01753 524713 Fax: 01753 579128 Website: www.st-josephs.slough.sch.uk Email: [email protected]