The Year 8 retreat, organised by the NET team and Miss Oliver, with the theme being “Rise Up”, brought us all together in aroha and fun.
As we arrived, we knew we were going to have a fun day.
The retreat begun with the NET members introducing themselves, and they were approachable and humble. After introductions and formalities, they got us hyped and excited to participate in the day’s activities ahead.
We were split into small groups where we all had the chance to open up more and share about ourselves. It was such a great way to get to know others, especially because the groups were random, which meant we got to meet and talk to others that we wouldn’t usually.
The day’s activities were exciting and fun – we played “Heads and Tails,” and “Jockey Down, Jockey Up,” which were agility and quick-thinking games. It got everyone excited and energised.
One of the best things about the retreat was hearing the stories from the leaders, sharing with us their own experiences of what has shaped and transformed their path to who they are today. They imparted to us invaluable lessons that we can carry out in our lives.
As we returned to the auditorium after lunch, the place had completely changed. The room was transformed into a dark and quiet place, inviting us to be peaceful and reflective.
We sat there quietly for a moment, at peace with ourselves and in the present moment. We were then tasked with writing our own prayers of intention which were then placed across the room, so that the Leaders could share and pray for us. It was such a peaceful and relaxing way to close the retreat, to have quiet time to reflect on our long day.
Thank you to Ms Oliver, the NET team, and all the lovely senior students who organised and shared of themselves to make this day special for us.
