PASTORAL CARE – Year 12 Retreat

PASTORAL CARE – Year 12 Retreat

Kiah Ridge 
Recently Year 12 was fortunate to experience the Year 12 Retreat. Through a variety of different activities our cohort was able to bond with each other as well as the teachers. One portion of the cohort was based at Kiah Ridge, accompanied by the gorgeous landscapes and playful kangaroos. On the first day we were able to get to know our teachers and peers through a variety of presentations and discussions around the importance of a good support system during our upcoming exams. We ended our night off with a fun challenge of recreating the Friend’s introduction with all the girls putting an Urshies spin on the iconic routine. 

 
On the second day we deepened our understanding of our relationship with God through a self-reflection of the Beatitudes. This activity allowed us to focus on the meanings behind the Beatitudes as well as how it is reflected within our own lives. The afternoon gave us the perfect chance to grow closer as a sisterhood. We spent our free time bushwalking, playing childhood games and simply enjoying the chance to get to know one another better. We also began the countdown to graduation as we all created stars that will be displayed at our Graduation Mass. The night was full of laughter as we all got too competitive during our trivia night with a few teachers even trying to cheat their way to the victory.
 
The last day concluded with a bittersweet moment as we all joined together as a year group in a Mass for the last time before our Graduation Mass. The retreat left us all feeling rejuvenated, replenished, and with our stress noticeably lifted. Unforgettable memories were made, and the bonds between students and teachers grew even stronger.”
 
Isabella B
Year 12
Kedron

Retreat was honestly one of the most special and meaningful experiences for me. It gave all of us the chance to step away from the stress and chaos of Year 12 and just enjoy being together during what is really one of our last moments as a whole year group. I really enjoyed the talks and reflections we shared in our small groups as well as hearing from the teachers through their presentations. It allowed us to open up and connect with each other on a deeper level and learn more about one another in such a genuine way. One of the moments that meant the most to me personally was having the opportunity to share my testimony with the year group, which I’m so incredibly grateful for. It had such a huge impact on me and strengthened my faith even more, and I truly hope it was able to make a difference to others too. That moment is something I will always be forever grateful for. There were so many little moments that made the retreat so memorable, whether it was playing volleyball and soccer outside, laughing in the cabins over Uno, or simply having deep conversations with each other. The closing Mass was also such a special moment, especially when we had the opportunity to read through our affirmation books. It was such a beautiful way to end the retreat and left everyone feeling so loved and connected to one another. Looking back on it now, I think what made the retreat so special was how close it brought everyone together. It created such a warm and supportive atmosphere where everyone felt included, valued and connected. It made me realise how grateful I am for our year group and all the memories we’ve shared together. I truly think it’s something our whole year group will remember forever.

Gaia E
Year 12