School chaplain departs Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School after 18 years service

After 18 years of service, Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School has said goodbye to their school chaplain.

Starting at the school in 2005, the Rev. Canon Geoff Chadwick made a “significant contribution” to the school’s religious and philosophical studies curriculum throughout his nearly two decades of work.

Encouraging students to think philosophically about religion, Mr Chadwick said it was the connections with the school community he would miss the most.

“The school staff are so supportive of one another and this is evident when a staff member is noted to be flagging — there is always someone there to help you,” he said.

“The school has enabled me to continue to learn, the teaching of philosophy and theology together has helped me to improve my own knowledge and understanding.”

To commemorate Mr Chadwick’s departure from the school, BCGS acknowledged Mr Chadwick’s contribution through a special ceremony held by the Bishop of Bunbury the Right Rev. Dr Ian Coutts.

Dr Coutts said the students have “benefitted greatly” from Mr Chadwick’s teaching over the years.

“He is unique among the clergy, holding not only a degree in theology, but also science, and students have benefitted greatly from the combination of his logical but continually inquisitive mind,” he said.

“He has served under three heads of school and engaged with every aspect of BCGS — participating in round square regional conferences and outward bound camps, has been an integral part of the music program, playing the clarinet in the band, and has worked in boarding.”

The former chaplain is set to take up the position of Archdeacon of the Anglican Diocese of Bunbury in the new year.