At the end of this term, the School farewells our School Chaplain, Reverend Canon Geoff Chadwick. He was farewelled by students and staff in a service held in the School gymnasium- the exact same location he was welcomed to the School as Chaplain in 2005. In a celebration, led by The Right Reverend Dr Ian Coutts, Bishop of Bunbury, students and staff thanked and acknowledged Canon Chadwick’s special contribution to the School community.

Bishop Ian noted Canon Chadwick’s length of service and his significant contribution across many areas of the School community, saying that, “he is unique amongst the Clergy, holding not only a degree in Theology, but also Science. Students have benefitted greatly from the combination of his logical but continually inquisitive mind.”

“Prior to commencing as the Chaplain, Canon Chadwick had already been working at Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School as a relief teacher. He has served under three Heads of School and engaged with every aspect of Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School – participating in Round Square Regional Conferences and Outward Bound, has been an integral part of the Music program, playing the clarinet in the band, and has worked in Boarding.”

The Religious and Philosophical Studies (RaPS) curriculum will be a part of Canon Chadwick’s legacy; created and refined throughout his 18 years of teaching at the School. RaPS provides students in Secondary School with the opportunity to think philosophically about religion, its place in history and provide them with the opportunity to have honest and open discussions about the big questions of life and faith.

Many staff and students enjoy lasting memories of his involvement in some of the milestones in their personal lives. Since 2005, Canon Chadwick has officiated at more than 1200 services including baptisms, marriages and funerals; many involving current and past students and staff as well as members of the local Anglican Gelorup Community Church.

For Canon Chadwick, these memories will stay with him, along with the experiences he has enjoyed on camps and relationships developed over the years with the staff.

“The School has enabled me to continue to learn. I enjoyed my eight Outward Bound camps, which helped me realise there is more to me than I know. The teaching of Philosophy and Theology together has helped me to improve my own knowledge and understanding.”

“It is the relationships that I have cherished the most; particularly those with staff. 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.”

Canon Chadwick will take up the position of Archdeacon of the Anglican Diocese of Bunbury in January 2023. As the Cathedral school in Bunbury, we anticipate further strengthening our ties with the Bunbury Diocese though our ongoing association and friendship.