Pupils have the opportunity to attend a retreat at the Diocesan Emmaus Village which is run by the Youth Ministry Team. Pupils and staff take part in a variety of activities including teamwork tasks, games, challenges, presentations, faith sharing and times of prayer, reflection and the celebration of Mass. Everyone loves taking part in the retreat programme.

Year 7 Retreat

Year 8 Retreat

Secondary School Festival Theme 2023: Bold & Brave

We are all called to step out of the boat, to climb the mountain, to take a leap of faith knowing that Jesus is always with us.

Tension, conflict and crisis have become ingrained in the landscape of daily life, and feelings of unrest and unease can make us feel insecure and underprepared for the anticipated challenges in store. Overwhelmed by the obstacles ahead, it can seem easier to remain in the safety of screen time and social media, admiring the filtered adventures of others rather than daring to consider where we might be called to go.

2000 years ago, Jesus called an ordinary fisherman to step out of the boat and do what seemed utterly impossible. 2000 years later, Jesus calls each one of us to boldly trust in His power and plan for our lives, despite our own fears and self-doubt. We are created with potential for greatness, if only we are brave enough to push the limits of the boundaries imposed by ourselves and our world.

In Pope Francis' message for the Flame Congress, March 2023, he encouraged young people to "dare to be different... testifying to the beauty of generosity, service, perseverance, forgiveness… the pursuit of justice and the common good, love for the poor, and social friendship.” This year's Summer Festival 2023 has encouraged our young people to be Bold & Brave, equipped with gifts of the Holy Spirit and empowered, knowing that they are loved unconditionally by God.

Fortitude: “the gift through which the Holy Spirit liberates the soil of our heart…frees it from sluggishness, from uncertainty and from all the fears that can hinder it, so that the Lord’s Word may be put into practice authentically and with joy.” Pope Francis

Year 11 Retreat

Year 11 pupils had the opportunity to spend two nights at the Youth Village, this included times of prayer and reflection and time spent in masterclasses on English, Maths, Science and RE. We also managed a trip to Starbucks for coffee and cake. A great time was had by everyone.