Reflection and conversations at the Year 12 Retreat

Our Year 12s spent time at Hartzer Park in Bowral and Sydney recently for their Retreat, which was a time for reflection, setting goals for the year ahead and celebrating their connection as they start their final year at the College together. 

At Hartzer Park, the students focused on their inner selves, their emotions and the invitation to respond to situations and people, rather than react. They reflected on what their heroes teach them about God and shared conversations about the deeper questions of life, then wrote affirmations for one another in their journals. This afternoon they spent time creating a representation of their lives which they’ll keep as a memento of this time together. They also enjoyed outdoor time in the beautiful grounds of Hartzer Park, and evenings together working on the school dance and on a team challenge activity. 

In Sydney, they had a day of sightseeing, beach walks and an evening ferry ride on Sydney Harbour. Here are some reflections from the students. 

'My highlight from retreat was definitely having the ability to bond, share and connect with my peers. Tasks like the Deep Speak, reflections, bonding activities and prayer all contributed so greatly to an amazing and fulfilling retreat experience.' - Mia

'I got to make new friendships and strengthen the bond I already have with my friends. It was also a really fun experience exploring Sydney and Hartzer Park because I hadn't been there before.' - Layla

'I really enjoyed exploring Sydney and taking the ferry across the harbour, as it was my first time visiting the city. At Hartzer Park I really valued being able to learn more about my friends and peers and connect on a deeper level.' - Heidi

'My highlight from retreat was spending so much time with friends and getting to know people better. It was such a nice way to bring everybody together.' - Eve

'My highlight from retreat was the time we spent in Sydney, visiting a place that was new and understanding its history and looking at heritage buildings and having the freedom to explore. Catching the ferry and traveling the harbor was truly one of the most amazing nights, spent with hours of laughter, smiles and beautiful sites all around.' - Alex

'The highlight for me was the time we got to spend with our friends, building our friendships.' - Rhianna

'The standout of my Year 12 retreat was the chance to engage in deep discussions about life, purpose, and dreams. I found myself grouped with peers whom I rarely interact with, yet the conversations we shared were truly enriching, leading to the formation of meaningful friendships. Getting to know fellow members of the class of 2024 was a remarkable experience, fostering a sense of connection among us. Without a doubt, the Year 12 retreat stands out as one of the most memorable highlights of my final year in high school.' - Olivia

'The Deep Speak and affirmation sessions were the highlights of my time on retreat. It was really interesting to hear the stories and opinions of people I don’t usually spend time with. It was also heart-warming to read the personalised messages of affirmation and admiration that people had written for us.' - Charlotte

'On our second day at Hartzer Park, we split into two groups and passed our journals around the circle, allowing each person to write what they admire about us. Upon receiving our journals at the end, I was deeply touched by the loving words that everyone in my group wrote.' - Holly

Lenten Appeal update

Our Lenten Appeal fundraising is going very well, with more than $2000 raised so far. Thank you to students, parents and staff for your generous support of our Lenten Appeal activities. We still have a number of activities to come so please continue to get behind our wonderful students as they work to make a difference in the lives of those most in need.

We were privileged to have Traditional Custodian and proud Bunurong Palawa man Joshua at the College recently for a very special Welcome to Country. Joshua spoke of the gift that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander identity is in our modern world and led us in a memorable Welcome to Country.

An enormous thank you to Ms Susannah Symes and her Issoudun RE class who prepared our sacred space and led the school community in prayer to celebrate this special occasion.

Ms Megan Donohue
Deputy Principal Faith and Mission