John Wollaston Anglican Community School has welcomed The Reverend Ruth Chapman, affectionately known to students as ‘Rev Ruth’, as its new School Chaplain. With a background in parish ministry and school chaplaincy, and a passion for working with young people, she brings energy, humour, and inspiring faith to the JWACS community.

Finding Her Calling
Ruth grew up immersed in church life; her mother was one of the first women ordained in the UK in 1994. ‘In my early twenties, I ran far from ministry. I didn’t want to do ‘Mum’s job’!’ she laughs. ‘But it became clear this was where God was leading me. I applied for training at age 26 and, in 2013, I was ordained.’

From the UK to Perth
Ruth’s ministry journey has taken her from parish work to leading under-40s ministry in a large UK church, building relationships with local schools, and heading co-curricular activities at a boys’ boarding school. In 2023, she moved to Australia, joining St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School in Perth before arriving at JWACS this term.

First Impressions of JWACS
‘It’s early days,’ Ruth smiles, ‘but I’ve met really lovely, polite, and kind students. I’d love to see more energy and participation in Chapel, and that will come with time and trust.’

Life Down Under
Perth life has brought plenty of sunshine, literally. ‘The weather is much better than England!’ Ruth laughs. She enjoys Australia’s relaxed culture, quirky slang (‘servos’ and ‘arvo’ are favourites), and, as a coeliac, has been impressed by the quality of gluten-free bakeries.

Faith and Vision
For Ruth, chaplaincy is about making faith real and relatable. ‘I want Chapel to be fun, engaging, and a place where students feel they belong.’ She is eager to hear from students about what they want Chapel to be.

Beyond the Chapel
Outside school, Ruth enjoys rowing with Westies Rowing Club, cycling, swimming, and watching cricket. She has even competed in a few triathlons, before her knees decided running was overrated.