What is a Retreat?
In literal terms, to retreat is to move backwards or away from something. This is not a sign of weakness or fear, but moreover a chance to think of alternate options or to create different strategies. At ATC, our Retreat Program allows students in every year level to step back from the day-to-day agenda of learning and reflect on their life. Our retreats are different for each year level, age appropriate, follow a particular Gospel theme and aim to be engaging for students. The topics covered get more challenging and complex for boys as they mature and travel on their ATC journey.
The Year 4 Retreat is at the commencement of the school year and boys learn about the three pillars of the College, participate in an Amazing Race to familiarise themselves with the campus and build connections with their House. The retreat focuses on the parable of the Good Samaritan and explores how we are all called to be ‘Good Sams.’ Here is a reflection from a Year 4 student:
The Year 5 Retreat unpacks the stories of our three founders – Jesus, Edmund and Ambrose. Who were these gentlemen and what are their legacies and lessons for us in 2023? Furthermore, students learn more about the four provinces of Ireland (our Houses) and the need for us all to be stewards of creation (Psalm 115). Here is a reflection from a Year 5 student:
The Year 6 Retreat is held in the final days of the year. Our ‘graduating’ Junior School leaders reflect on their school journeys and how they have matured. By exploring the most important things in their lives, students are able to demonstrate gratitude for their loved ones and understand that service and sacrifice are integral elements of being someone who supports their community.
Year 7 students have a dynamic retreat day where the focus and topics change each year depending on the cohort and the challenges they are faced with. It is an outdoor experience with a ‘Stations of the Cross’ format where students have 14 different experiences. Students are called to learn more about their lives, one another and how to be people of dignity and humility.
The COURAGE Retreat invites the Year 8 students to analyse the College Courage framework and understand how the see the virtues of compassion, respect, empowerment, and accountability in their lives. Through the power of storytelling and physical activity, the students will understand that Jesus built relationships with his disciples which allowed him to learn, lead and serve with them. Held in Term 3, the Year 8 retreat is led by Year 11 students which strengthens the bonds between the Middle and Senior School.
For the first time in 2023, the Year 9 Retreat was a co-educational experience. The Year 9 students travel to Brigidine College and engage in a day of spiritual connection and reflection with Brigidine students. This is an important ritual in encouraging healthy and respectful relationships for our young men. Using Matthew’s Gospel message of supporting the poorest and most marginalised, students will gain an appreciation of one another and how we all need people to support us in our lives.
The Year 10 cohort are the only group to have a retreat which is facilitated by an external organisation. Mr Michael Fitzpatrick runs a day which focuses on uniting the group and allowing them to identify their key strengths as individuals and as a collective. Michael uses the Prodigal Son as a powerful scripture relating to forgiveness, acceptance and love.
The Year 11 retreat is intertwined with the leadership camp which takes place at the beginning of Term 3. As the students learn more about their role as College leaders they are challenged to consider ways where everyone can feel included. From the youngest Year 4s to the tallest Year 12s, how can their theme and mission ensure ATC continues to be a place of inclusivity and acceptance – just as Jesus’ disciples epitomised.
The Year 12 Claddagh Retreat takes place in Term 1. The Claddagh retreat is highly confidential and as such the events and details cannot be revealed in detailed. Claddagh allows boys to see the connection, love and relationships which exist in their lives, now, and long into the future.
Every student and staff member at ATC is invited to engage in our spiritual retreats as they provide an avenue for personal and collective growth. Retreats allow students to experience faith in a meaningful and contemporary way whilst also promoting fun, connection and growth.
Mr Matt Warr
Dean of Faith & Mission
