News from Norman Pierpoint College Chaplain 

It has been ten years since I completed the 730 C&G Certificate at Gt Yarmouth College - the record of which was still on the College database. Little did I know then that I would return as Chaplain Co-ordinator ten years later. My introduction to the College at the end of August was kindly organised by my predecessor Helen Farman who introduced me to the staff and guided me around the campus. Her insight and experience has proved very helpful to me in my early days at the College – so a big thank you to Helen for all her hard work over the years – I know she is held in high esteem by everyone at GYC.

 

Like any new person in a new job I found myself trying to grasp the practical outworking of the chaplaincy - with 400 staff and 6000-7000 students - where do I begin? With new students arriving they needed to be introduced to the chaplaincy. From beauty therapists to budding bricklayers across the college a short ten minute introduction was given outlining spirtitual guidance for all, care and support and the opportunity to meet others to share their faith.

 

I am currently spending a day a week at the Construction site campus in Boundary Road site working with Lisa Osborne a Learner Mentor.

There seems to be some real opportunities there to meet with students and staff at break times and as they learn their trades.

 

As part of the Black History month – a day of activities is being arranged at the College in October for about 120 students. I believe with all the exciting plans for the future of Gt Yarmouth College and the foundations laid re the Chaplaincy since 1995 we have a wonderful opportunity to serve God and make a difference to the life of the college.

 

It is early days for me in this new post but I believe with God’s help and strength the role of Chaplain Co-ordinator will encourage others in their faith, challenge others with no faith perhaps to explore the spiritual dimension of life and help bring together the college, community and church in Gt Yarmouth.

 

 

 

 By Norman Pierpoint Chaplain for Great  Yarmouth  College