From Sunday, 15 June to Friday, 20 June 2025, the Year 10 students of our College embarked on a powerful and transformative retreat experience in Perth, themed `My Journey’. This week-long retreat was not only a break from the classroom but a deeply enriching opportunity for students to reflect on their personal growth, faith, and future aspirations.
Hosted at Ern Halliday Recreation Camp in Hillarys, the retreat formed a vital part of the College’s Religious Education curriculum. Students participated in a wide range of activities designed to help them explore their identity, values, and spiritual journey. Through guided reflection, prayer, and group discussions, students were encouraged to consider the paths they’ve taken, the people who have influenced them, and the goals they hope to achieve.
A key highlight of the retreat was the opportunity to explore futures and possibilities. Students visited Curtin University and Notre Dame University, where students engaged with current undergraduates and explored potential post-school pathways. These visits sparked meaningful conversations about the future and helped students envision their next steps beyond secondary education.
Students also visited the Construction Futures Centre, participated in a STEM activity, and toured the Fremantle Dockers’ facilities, even getting a chance to watch the team train – an unforgettable experience for many and some first times seeing an AFL game and players up close!
With a focus on building community and character the Team-building challenges, escape rooms, and the “City After Dark” safety awareness activity helped foster a strong sense of camaraderie and mutual respect. Students also took part in Christian Service Learning and a Reflection Day led by 24/7 Ministry, focusing on discerning vocation and personal purpose.
Evenings were filled with shared meals, games, and quiet reflection, allowing students to bond and unwind. The retreat culminated in a visit to Optus Stadium to watch Fremantle vs. St Kilda, adding a celebratory close to the week.
The students were supported by a dedicated team of staff including Ms Brooke Bennett, Ms Clare Pigram, Ms Nat Giancono, and Mr Riley Duncan. Their guidance and care ensured the retreat was a safe, meaningful, and memorable milestone in the students’ secondary education journey.
We are incredibly proud of our Year 10 students for embracing every opportunity, displaying our College values, and making the most of this transformative experience. Their journey continues—stronger, wiser, and more connected than ever. This retreat is about more than just reflection – it’s about growth, trust, and community. It’s a chance for students to pause, reset, and move forward with clarity and confidence into their senior years of secondary education at our college.
