Job Description

The Heart of the School: Chapel Life & Ethos


Southwell School operates with a proud Anglican ethos, but we warmly accept students from all backgrounds, placing our values-based education as a top priority. Our Chaplaincy is central to this mission:

Inspiring Worship: The Chaplain conducts services for students and staff on most school days. At Chapel Services, the Chaplain inspires and challenges students with stories from many faith traditions. Prayers for wisdom, compassion, healing, and comfort are offered, and separate Girls’ and Boys’ Chapel Choirs lead the worship.

Developing Potential: The Chaplain plays a crucial, positive role in developing the full potential of the students—spiritually, emotionally, and intellectually.

Faith in Action: The Chaplain also teaches Religious Education classes, helping students at each age level to understand aspects of Christian tradition and how faith relates to everyday life. Topics covered include belonging, caring, forgiveness, gratitude, service, remembrance, and hope.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

  • Pastoral Care & Support: Provide compassionate pastoral care and emotional support to students and families within the school community. Be a trusted confidant and guide.
  • Religious Education: Teach engaging and age-appropriate Religious Education classes that help students explore and develop their own faith journeys. Encourage open discussions and foster understanding of Anglican traditions and values.
  • Chapel Services: Lead daily morning chapel services, creating a welcoming and respectful environment for worship and prayer. Organise and conduct occasional Sunday services.
  • Community Engagement: Actively participate in school events, fostering strong relationships with students, parents, staff, and the local community. Encourage and lead community outreach initiatives that reflect the school's values. Maintain good networks of relationship with other school chaplains within the region.
  • Spiritual Leadership: Serve as a spiritual leader within the school, offering guidance and support to students and staff. Be a visible and approachable presence within the school community.

Quality in Education

We are looking for an individual who meets the following criteria:

  • Must be an Ordained Anglican Priest and able to teach Religious Studies.
  • Proven experience in pastoral care, particularly with children and young people (Primary and Intermediate age).
  • Strong communication, organisation, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to engage, lead, and inspire in both religious and educational settings.
  • A firm commitment to the values and ethos of Anglican education and Southwell School.

Why Join Southwell School?

Joining our team offers you the opportunity to:

Be part of a supportive and caring school community where the Chaplaincy is central.
Make a lasting impact on the spiritual and personal development of our young students.
Work within a collaborative environment with a strong focus on holistic education.

If you are a dedicated Anglican Priest ready to lead with faith and care, looking for a meaningful role where you can shape the lives of young people, we invite you to apply.

Job Details

Job Location

200 Peachgrove Road, Hamilton

Job Classification

Pastoral Care, Wellbeing and Student Support

Job Status

Full-Time

Contractual Status

Permanent

Start Date
24
April
2026
Educational Requirements

Bachelor's Degree

Experience Required

3 – 5 Years

Certifications Required

About the School

Waikato
Year 1 to 8
Anglican
Co-educational

Southwell School

200 Peachgrove Road, Claudelands, Hamilton 3214

Principal:

Keryn Bindon

Email:

office@southwell.school.nz

Phone:

07 855 2089

School roll:

639

Established

1911

How to Apply

Application Instructions

Applications must be emailed to Mr Damian Mills, hr@southwell.school.nz, and should include a cover letter and current curriculum vitae. For further information about our school visit - southwell.school.nz

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Closing Date
11
December
2025