Year 12 Retreat
Last week, our Year 12 students embarked on their much-anticipated Retreat, spending three days at either Mount Carmel Retreat Centre or Kiah Ridge Christian Conference Centre. The retreat provided an opportunity for students to step away from their daily routines and immerse themselves in learning, reflection, and meaningful activities centered around the theme "Living Life to the Full." This tied in beautifully with the grade’s overarching theme, "The Rest is Still Unwritten," encouraging students to embrace their journey ahead with purpose and positivity. Throughout the retreat, students demonstrated incredible support for one another, forming stronger bonds and embracing the experience as a united cohort. Their maturity, kindness, and willingness to engage fully were truly commendable.
A big thank you goes out to all the staff who attended and supported the students throughout this journey. A special acknowledgement to Mr. O’Neil, Mr. Sligar, and Mrs. Lapa for their dedication in planning and facilitating the retreat, ensuring it was an enriching and memorable experience for all. Their hard work and commitment made this retreat a great success, leaving a lasting impact on our Year 12 students as they continue their final year of school.
Below are short reflections from some of our students.
My retreat experience was both refreshing and enjoyable, offering numerous opportunities to connect and socialise with peers I might not typically engage with. It provided a unique space for meaningful conversations that I wouldn't usually have, and through sharing both joyful and challenging experiences, I developed a deeper understanding of the importance of kindness. This experience taught me that we should always be compassionate, as we never fully know what others may be going through.
A highlight of the retreat was activities like the newspaper fashion parade, which allowed participants to build confidence—whether through walking the runway, announcing the next act, or cheering on peers. Throughout the retreat, I felt supported, heard, comfortable, and more connected to my year group. The lessons and shared experiences I gained will undoubtedly shape my perspective moving forward, encouraging me to adopt a more positive outlook on life and reminding me that there is always a rainbow after the storm.
- Adelaide Bell, 12M
It was very enjoyable and I would definitely do it again! I loved the small group sharing alongside the agree or disagree statements. I learnt the reality of judging a book by its cover, and that you truly have no idea what some people are going through. I am taking the fact that your choices make a huge impact on others lives, even if you don't personally remember them. Every interaction counts.
- Scarlett Smit, 12P
From going to Retreat I have felt like I have changed as a person. I reflected on myself and how I can change in a better way and be more faithful and have also considered people more around me because you don't know what they have gone through. Overall, I have enjoyed going to retreat and I have learnt from the experiences.
- Nicholas Cooper, 12D
Well done Year 12.
