LIFE Week Year 12

This year in LIFE week, the Year 12’s had a varied schedule. They began the week with pilgrimage. Joined by the Year 11’s, they walked the penultimate section of the Camino Salvado. There were some particularly stunning landscapes to admire and I think it’s safe to say that whilst there were some sore feet at the end of the day, there was also a real sense of accomplishment.

The following day, students arrived at the College with their bags packed ready for the Retreat experience in New Norcia. The theme for Year 12 is taking the long view and this is what our Retreat was all about. We began the day walking once more and concluded it by walking into New Norcia whilst the monks rang the bells for us. It was a moving end to the day and very powerful. This was followed up with a foot washing liturgy in which two students had their feet washed by Abbot John.

The next two days were spent immersing the Year 12’s in notions of the future, looking at the kind of adults they want to be. Some friendships were strengthened and some decisions made. The final day of the week saw the 12’s head off to various universities and work placements. They had a chance to look at the area that they actually want to work in next year and then had some time for private study in the University libraries. Those on work placement spent a day in a profession that they are considering for their future. I believe some students had offers of part time work after this!

It was a pleasure to spend the week with this group of Year 12’s. They have come a long way since Year seven, participating in their 6th LIFE week and loving it. Well done Year 12.

Anita Walmsley
Assistant Deputy Learning
8 September 2015