As part of our 50 Years of Girls at Rugby School Celebrations, we are meeting with some of our female Rugbeians and staff at Rugby School to discuss their careers and time at Rugby. In this second feature, we speak with Chaplain, Helen Bryant who reflects on the experiences that shaped her journey from teacher to ordained ministry.

Could you please tell us a little bit about yourself and what lead you to your career as a chaplain?

My name is Helen Bryant and I am Chaplain at Rugby School and Bilton Grange (BG) - it is a thrill for me to even write those words as I feel so blessed to be here! Looking back, I think much of my previous career and when I was a child as chorister in my local church in St Albans led me to my current role as Chaplain. I did my degree in Theology at Durham and then pursued a career as a teacher of religious studies. After 18 years of doing that, I then began following my vocation to ordained ministry in the church of England - I am due to be ordained next year. It is this mixture of teacher and minister which has combined in my calling being lured out at a School Chaplain.

What do you enjoy most about being a chaplain?

I love chapel! Christian religious buildings have always had a special importance and resonance for me and at Rugby we have two. The BG chapel is also very special. Being able to look after these buildings and get them ready for worship and services is something I look forward to. To ready and create a space where people reflect, rest and just ‘be’ at the beginning and end of the day and to pray for them and with them brings me great joy. I also value deeply my interactions with staff and students. Each one is different and in each one I seek to give as much as I can. It can be fleeting or long, each is life giving.

What was the biggest challenge you faced within your career, and how did you overcome it?

I think my biggest challenge I have faced was when I decided to change career. To come out of teaching and follow my vocation to ordained ministry. I am lucky that I have had people who have helped affirm my calling and see that within me. It is not easy to change direction and trust yourself and the light your family to a faith you know but a path you cannot see. I have started studying again and am being challenged in many ways, but I am so glad that I trusted God’s call. It made a difficult decision more important and meaningful.

Whilst here at Rugby, are there any colleagues who have had a lasting impact on you, and what are some of your favourite memories from your time here?

Having so many supportive, intelligent and creative colleagues is wonderful! Both those who I work closely with in the day to day and those whom I interactive with across RS and BG. I feel I must mention Lisa Greatwood, the first female Assistant Chaplain who through her work in both Chapel and Christian forum laid the ground she has supported me, with prayer and encouragement. Often, though, it is unseen work and momentary interactions as a Chaplain that I often reflect on during Evensong. Speaking of Evensong though, a career highlight had to be BBC Radio 3 Choral Evensong. I just remember feeling so privileged that I, Helen, got to lead this service and pray with and for those involved and those listening. It was made all the more special that both my children were singing as well! The Confirmation services in April were also amazing.

This year marks 50 years since girls joined Rugby School - an incredible milestone. How do you feel that your time working at Rugby has influenced who you are today and the students?

I would say that working at Rugby School is only really the beginning in earnest for me. I do, however, think being here has made me braver and my trust and faith in God has grown because of it. I truly feel called to this place and hope that I can live out my calling here to the best of my ability and in God’s strength for the good of all.

What advice would you give to the girls currently at Rugby, or those wanting to join?

‘Don’t be afraid!’ - a warm, inclusive, caring and exciting environment awaits you where you can be yourself. It’s here waiting for you. Plus find where they opportunities are, being attentive to where your steps are leading you and don’t be afraid to step into them. Nothing that is for you will be against you.

What does it mean to you to be part of Rugby’s history, especially in this 50th anniversary for girls at the School?

I appreciate being part of the Rugby School family both past, present and future. When I sit in Chapel and look around, I think and pray for all those who have sat within the walls before me and for those feet that have worn the tiles, for those who share the space with me now and for those who will come after me.