A school in Clevedon has appointed its first pupil chaplains.

The decision was made by St. Nicholas Chantry School earlier this year, following similar examples in other church schools around the country.

The recruitment of chaplains involved the pupils nominating themselves, demonstrating their adherence to Christian, school and Trust values.

Then, the selected chaplains were informed of their roles at the local church during last December’s Christmas carol service.

The Reverend Mike Haslam from the Diocese of Bath & Wells provided vital training last term.

Helping the chaplains plan and conduct their debut assembly, the tale of Esther was selected for its powerful message of providing support when needed, as Rev'd Haslam highlighted with the quote, "Who knows if perhaps you were made Queen for such a time as this?"

The training will not stop there.

This term, Rev'd Clive Jennings from Christchurch and other experienced chaplains from nearby schools and locales, will provide further support and training, aiding the pupils to evolve their skills.

This term will also see the newly appointed chaplains continue to lend a helping hand within the community, including lunch at Christchurch, volunteering at the 'Little Fish' baby and toddler group and the Clevedon Foodbank.

To guarantee their services are utilised during break times, the Year 5 and 6 Chaplains will don tabards specially designed for them by Christchurch.

This ensures pupils will benefit from their listening ears, advice, and support at all times.

The pupil chaplains await their upcoming pilgrimage to Taunton Minster with fellow chaplains from across the diocese.