Year 10 Emmaus Retreat

The Year 10 Retreat, held on Monday, 18 and Tuesday, 19 May at John Dunn, provided students with a valuable opportunity to step away from the busyness of school life and reflect on one of the most important aspects of their wellbeing – relationships. Led by the Youth Mission Team, the retreat created a supportive and engaging environment where students could explore their connections with others, themselves, and their faith.

Across the two days, students participated in a range of thoughtfully planned activities designed to highlight the importance of healthy, respectful, and authentic relationships. The Youth Mission Team brought energy and relatability to each session, encouraging students to be open, reflective, and willing to engage in meaningful conversations. Through a mix of small group discussions, interactive games, and personal reflection tasks, students were guided to consider how they build and maintain relationships in their daily lives.

A central focus of the retreat was understanding the qualities that underpin strong relationships. Students explored themes such as trust, communication, empathy, forgiveness, and respect. These ideas were not only discussed in theory but also applied through real-life scenarios, allowing students to reflect on their own experiences and consider ways to strengthen their interactions with peers, family members, and teachers.

The retreat also created space for students to reflect on their relationship with themselves. Sessions encouraged students to think about self-worth, identity, and the importance of positive thinking. By recognising their own value and strengths, students were reminded that healthy relationships begin with self-respect and self-awareness.

Faith was another key element woven throughout the retreat. Students were invited to consider how their relationship with God can guide their actions and decisions, particularly in the way they treat others. Moments of quiet reflection, prayer, and guided contemplation allowed students to pause and connect on a deeper level, fostering a sense of calm and perspective.

One of the highlights of the retreat was the opportunity for students to strengthen their connections as a year group. Being away from the usual school setting helped break down social barriers, enabling students to engage with peers they might not normally interact with. This contributed to a stronger sense of community, unity, and belonging within the cohort.

Feedback from students indicated that many appreciated the chance to slow down, reflect, and have open conversations about topics that are not always discussed in a typical classroom setting. The Youth Mission Team was instrumental in creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, ensuring that all students felt comfortable participating.

Overall, the Year 10 Retreat was a meaningful and enriching experience. It reinforced the importance of relationships in shaping a positive school culture and personal wellbeing. Students returned with a deeper understanding of themselves and others, along with practical insights that will support them in building stronger, more respectful relationships moving forward.

Jas Singh

Head of year 10