Thursday and Friday of Week 5 saw the Year 11 cohort gathering at Dzintari Latvian Campsite, near Normanville, for the inaugural Year 11 Retreat. The Retreat began with a motivational presentation by Sam Ghamrawi from Sekseed, covering topics such as motivation and time management. During Thursday afternoon and Friday morning, the students rotated between activities including a beach hike, team-building games and free time. The free time gave the students a valuable opportunity to relax with friends and engage in a range of activities of their choice, including table tennis, board games, puzzles, basketball and football. A number of students also demonstrated impressive music talent, making excellent use of the on-site piano.
On Thursday evening, the students took part in a hotly contested quiz night, with Team Black Scribble emerging victorious. Students then had more time for board games, chatting with friends, sports and enjoying a massive bonfire (complete with toasted marshmallows).
Whilst the Retreat provided students with important opportunities to 'switch off' and refresh at a busy time of the semester as well as to connect with friends, students and staff alike also enjoyed opportunities for quiet reflection. We were treated to a magnificent sunset during our devotion on Thursday, and we also took part in a Reconciliation and Diversity themed reflection on Friday.
Thank you very much to all of the staff who attended Retreat. Their support of the students and the activities was much appreciated, and made this event possible.
Judy Harris
Year 11 Leader
