School chaplaincy that supports students and whānau to live their best life.

Information for schools

 
 
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We want to partner with your school to achieve great outcomes for our kids!

Lifewalk chaplains are all volunteers who understand that not every student begins the day on an even playing field – there are many challenges that children and young people face. 

We can walk alongside students who need a little extra support, encouraging them to engage in all aspects of their school experience. When social/emotional competence is low, this can affect academic engagement. In response to this, we can provide individual support to students, offering them a listening ear – with empathy and compassion and without the judgement. 

Many of our chaplains are also trained to facilitate programmes such as Seasons for Growth, which is used by many schools and organisations throughout NZ, helping students to learn about the effects of grief, change and loss.

 All Lifewalk volunteers are

  • Given comprehensive training by a Lifewalk facilitator
  • Police vetted, and these are updated regularly
  • Placed within a school by a Lifewalk rep to ensure the right fit for your school’s unique culture and needs
  • Required to attend regular supervision for ongoing support and best practice
  • Provided regular opportunities to attend Professional Development

Paper work

Schools love us! Here’s what some of them have to say:

We believe the best proof of our work comes from principals who have experienced working with a Lifewalk volunteer. We encourage you to ask your networks about their own experiences, and read some of the comments below from schools where we are currently placed.

 
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“Deb brings lots of benefits to Elm Park.

She’s able to talk to children who might not open up to others, and if there’s anything deeply concerning she shares with them that she’ll share it with me. It’s an amazing thing for children to be able to express that. If they’re carrying that load with them and not sharing it with anyone, the impact can be tragic. We want our children to feel that this is a safe place for them and that they can go to someone if they need to. I think what Deb does is amazing. She touches base with me all the time and is an important part of our team. We don’t receive funded counsellors at our school, so having someone like Deb is just amazing!”

Trish Plowright, Principal – Elm Park Primary

 
Families, whānau, iwi, hapu, local communities and non-government organisations all have important roles to play in improving wellbeing
— childyouthwellbeing.govt.nz
 

“Since Sue has been with us she has been outstanding. It’s amazing to have her in Ōtāhuhu.

She comes and fits in well with the students, staff and parents and is always willing to help in any way she can. The teachers know they can trust her and ask for help if they need extra assistance in the classroom. We see her on the school grounds talking and laughing with the kids. Everyone here respects her. She is part of our team. If you’re considering a Lifewalk chaplain for your school, I say go for it. It’s an additional service to have in support for the school especially for the children who want another trusted friend and face to speak to.” 

Jason Swann, Principal – Ōtāhuhu Primary

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 There is an increasing demand for Lifewalk chaplains in schools across Aotearoa. If this service is something you believe will benefit your school community, we’d love to hear from you.