St. Bees School is of a Christian foundation, and historically the Christian Faith has been at the heart of the life and work of the School.
Today the Chapel occupies a regular place in the school schedule. Tuesday morning is a Senior chapel, Wednesday morning a Junior chapel, and Thursday morning is a whole school chapel.
These short and focused chapels are regarded as being an opportunity to encourage student and staff reflection in light of the Christian faith.
The Chaplain is primarily responsible for leading the chapels, with assistance from interested members of staff, and teaching the bulk of the Religious Studies curriculum from 1st Form to 5th Form. Along with his duties at the school the Chaplain is also the Priest-in-Charge of the Priory Church, an active and historic church which is at the heart of the village of St. Bees.
Right: Rev. Clifford Swartz
As time allows and occasions arise the Chaplain also supports the pastoral care of the school. There is regular opportunity for preparation for confirmation, and the Chaplain supports the ongoing work of staff who lead Christian Unions and Christianity Explored style courses from time to time.