Access Christian Ministries

ACCESS ministries chaplains support school communities through pastoral care of students, teachers, families and the wider local community. School chaplaincy has been recognised as one of the most significant youth-focused ministries for young people that is taking place in Australian schools. In Mildura & District there are 2 full time chaplains and 2 part time chaplains supporting over 3,000 students collectively.

Chaplains fulfill a unique role in school communities:

· They are active in promoting student wellbeing, particularly through the provision of pastoral care and counselling

· They encourage reflection about the spiritual dimensions of life

· They have an educative role in the areas of beliefs, values, morals, ethics and religion

· They work to facilitate the connection of students into the school network and wider community

In Victoria, School Chaplaincy has been managed by ACCESS ministries (formerly CCES) for over 50 years. We currently have around 160 chaplains in primary and secondary state schools. Chaplains respect the range of religious views and cultural traditions of the school community. Chaplains have the highest standards of professional qualifications and take part in on-going training and accountability structures.