Karol Torpey
Chairperson
A chairde,
Welcome to the website of the School Chaplains’ Association (SCA).
It is a privilege to take on the role of Chairperson, and I’m looking forward to working with our Executive, our members and the wider educational community over the coming year.
Having worked in post-primary chaplaincy for over 20 years, I know that no two days in a school are ever quite the same. Our work can take us from celebrating achievements and sharing in the good moments of school life to sitting with someone who is struggling, supporting a young person through a difficult time or simply being available when somebody needs to talk. Much of what we do happens quietly, without much fuss or recognition, but we know the difference it can make to have someone there when they’re needed.
School chaplaincy is rewarding, challenging and, at times, demanding. It is also a role that can feel quite solitary. We may be part of a busy school community, surrounded by people all day, yet the particular nature of our work means that having others who understand the role, the challenges and the realities of it is important.
That is where our Association has a vital part to play.
The SCA brings chaplains together, provides opportunities for learning and professional development, shares information and resources, and advocates for the recognition and support of chaplaincy in our schools. I hope that, during my time as Chairperson, we can continue to strengthen those connections, ensure members feel supported and represented, and work together to raise the profile of the work we do.
Alongside information about the Association and its work, this website brings together resources that may be useful to chaplains in a variety of situations. Whether you are looking for practical guidance, exploring a particular aspect of your role, navigating a challenge in your school or simply looking for a new idea or perspective, I hope you will find something here that is helpful to you. Chaplaincy looks different in every school, and the needs of our members vary too. If this website can offer a little guidance, save you some time or help you feel better equipped for a situation you are facing, then it is doing its job.
Through our annual Conference, gatherings, CPD opportunities, newsletters and other communications, the Executive also works to keep members informed and connected. If you are new to chaplaincy or would like to learn more about the Association, I encourage you to explore the website and get in touch with us.
I look forward to working with you all over the coming year. We may work in different schools and in different circumstances, but there is much that connects us. By sharing our experiences, supporting one another and speaking with a collective voice, we can continue to strengthen school chaplaincy and the contribution it makes to the lives of young people and the wider school community.
Thank you to everyone who contributes their time, energy and experience to the Association. I look forward to what we can achieve together.
Le gach dea-ghuí,
Karol Torpey
Chairperson, School Chaplains’ Association
