Retreats and Reflective Days
The spiritual formation of students is the responsibility of the whole College community.
Reflection Days enable staff and students to interact socially within a recreational context, bond and enhance relationships through a shared empathy of people’s life journey.
Year 7 students undertake their Reflection Day with ‘Just Motivation’, this day focuses on positive interactions, and students are challenged to:
- Believe in their own potential and self-worth
- Share their story and pursue their goals with passion
- Accept others for who they are
- Interact with other students in a positive manner
- Become a reflective practitioner.
Year 8 takes part in ‘Your Choicez’, a gender-focused workshop designed to support students as they navigate relationships within our contemporary world.
Year 10 has the valuable opportunity to engage in sessions from ‘Real talk’, which workshop ideas about engaging in positive relationships from a Christian perspective.
The Year 11 day is facilitated by the inspirational Chris Doyle. The theme ‘Planting the Seed’ expands on our student’s sense of self, encouraging them to reflect on their purpose as part of God’s plan and connecting them with the community. This valuable time together plants the seed for their Year 12 Retreat.
Retreat programs for Year 9 and Year 12
Year 9 participate in a series of gender focused retreat experiences facilitated by staff at seperate venues.
The boys take part in a camp in the Snowy Mountains. Sessions involve student outdoor challenges, teamwork and collaboration, reflecting on relationships with families, friends and God. The aim of the camp is to support and develop elements of masculine spirituality; resilience; positive relationships, strengths and self-awareness.
The Year 9 Girls Retreat at Feathertop Chalet, Harrietville, offers a unique opportunity to deepen spiritual and personal growth in a natural bushland setting. Guided by the theme ‘Hear Me’ and inspired by the life and example of Jesus Christ, students will reflect on their identity, relationships, and leadership potential. Through outdoor challenges and team-building activities, the retreat fosters inner growth, positive relationships, and a stronger connection with God. As part of the College’s Faith Formation Program, this experience supports our young women in becoming compassionate, confident, and faith-filled leaders.
The Year 12 Retreat is facilitated by Mr Chris Doyle and College staff, it involves students deepening their relationship with families, friends and God in a beautiful setting. The Year 12 Retreat is a key part of the College’s faith development and pastoral care program, guiding students as they reflect on the direction of their lives. Centered on the person of Jesus Christ, the retreat invites students to deepen their relationship with Him while discerning their goals, values, and life choices.
Inspired by the theme “Go forth and set the world on fire” from St Ignatius Loyola, the retreat encourages reflection on personal relationships—with God, family, friends and the Mater Dei Catholic College community. Led by Chris Doyle from Karis Ministries and College staff, students will engage in activities that foster prayer, forgiveness, healing, community building, and discernment.
Through liturgy, music, meditation, and meaningful discussion, students are called to respond to Christ’s invitation to live with purpose, love, and faith.