Chaplain Raelene Hicks has taken the old adage “the way to a boy’s heart is through is stomach” quite literally by introducing a popular breakfast programme at Tom Price Senior High School.

Raelene has introduced a series of initiatives such as this and a “rock and water” programme to help students remain focused, respect themselves and respect each other.  She says her role is mostly about mentoring, pastoral care and supporting particular students who are identified by student services.

“My work within student services has involved mediation between students who have been in conflict with other students, providing extra support for students who find school life difficult and linking students with like-minded peers when they have been bullied or are in a difficult situation,” Raelene said.

“The breakfast programme started to ensure students had the best possible start to their day. It also gave us an opportunity to get to know students better in an informal setting,” she said

“We regularly have between 30 and 40 students for breakfast, but on days when we advertise pancakes our numbers swell to about 70. It is fun for the students, but there is a serious side to do with nutrition and wellbeing.”

Students clamour for breakfast at Tom Price high school

The rock and water programme uses physical activities to build self confidence, resilience and positive self esteem.

“We have started this programme with year 9 boys, but we hope to teach these skills to all students at our school.”

Rio Tinto is providing $24,000 over three years to assist with the employment of chaplain Raelene Hicks at Tom Price Senior High School.

Raelene Hicks at breakfast time