The National School Chaplaincy Program aims to support the wellbeing of students and school communities through pastoral care services and student support strategies. This evaluation assessed the delivery of the program, the effectiveness of the program, how the program fit with other investments by State and Territory governments, and any possible evidence-based improvements. 

The evaluation drew on desktop research and a public consultation platform. It includes recommendations for short term and medium to longer term action. Overall, the evaluation recommended the Australian Government undertake a comprehensive review of the program’s role in the medium to longer term. The evaluation also made five short term recommendations. 

Key findings

• Chaplains play a valuable role in supporting student wellbeing and school communities.
• The flexible and generalised nature of the Chaplain role offers benefits but also comes with risks.
• The religious affiliation of the Chaplain role is the most contested and unique aspect of the program.