At Radford College, the role of Chaplain is much more than leading Chapel services or teaching Godly Play – it’s about walking alongside students and staff in moments of joy, curiosity and challenge. For Radford College Associate Chaplain, Reverend Andy Fleming, that journey into chaplaincy began years ago with a gentle suggestion from his sister and has since grown into a vocation that combines faith, teaching and pastoral care. In this conversation, he reflects on his early life, the evolution of his faith, his love of sport and what continues to inspire him in his work at Radford.

What inspired you to pursue chaplaincy and how did your journey lead you to Radford College?

Many years ago, my sister suggested that I might be suited to school chaplaincy. At the time, I was exploring faith and what it meant for me to live authentically in my faith. During my theological studies, it became clearer that chaplaincy was not only a good option but something I should pursue further. The timing worked out well, as I was ready to move into chaplaincy just as the Radford opportunity arose.

Can you tell us about your early life – where you grew up and any formative experiences that influenced your path?

I grew up in Berowra, the northernmost part of Sydney and the ‘gateway to the Central Coast.’ I feel like I had a fairly typical suburban childhood. I played lots of different sports, enjoyed hanging out with friends and avoided doing homework whenever possible. Growing up in a church family was formative, though. The minister at our church used to tell me he had all the ‘textbooks’ I would need for when I eventually went to seminary. I would just smile politely – little did I know!

What role has your faith played throughout your life and how has it evolved over time?

My faith has always been a significant part of my life, even in times when I tried to ignore it. It continues to evolve, leading me into wonderful and fascinating thoughts and experiences.

Many staff know you for your talents on the rugby field. Do you still play?

I wish I could still play! I still love the game, although I’m not directly involved anymore – it’s a young person’s game. I did some coaching after I stopped playing, but now I simply enjoy watching.

You previously taught health and physical education (HPE). Do you miss being in that space and what did you enjoy most about teaching HPE?

I miss wearing 'tracky-daks' (and still being considered professional). Being outdoors in the sun and fresh air was the best – much better than being stuck in a classroom. I really enjoyed seeing students have that moment of realisation when they could finally perform a skill and then watching their self-confidence grow.

Your role at Radford is varied, from teaching Godly Play to leading services and providing pastoral care. What’s your favourite part of the day?

I’m not really a ‘favourites’ type of person. That said, during Chapel services, I love hearing the students sing together – it’s incredibly uplifting to hear whole cohorts sing as one. The Year 2 students’ ‘wondering’ questions during Godly Play are also special, and they keep me on my toes with some tricky theological ones! Because chaplaincy is such a relational role, I find the most joy when I connect with students and staff about the things that really matter to them, especially on social issues. Seeing people genuinely care about helping others thrive and flourish gives me hope.

People would be surprised to know that…
People are often surprised to learn that I was a HPE teacher before becoming a chaplain.