Year 13 Retreat

On Wednesday, February 4th, we had our Year 13 Retreat. We started the day with prayer, which was fitting, because the fact the whole Year 13 cohort managed to be there on time was a miracle. Then us Head Students, shared our visions of the year, speeches which embraced the three values of community, commitment and compassion as well as emphasising the importance of working together as a group to make St Peter’s the best place for everyone, not just the Year 13’s.  

A key part of the day is when we brainstormed how we want to leave our mark on St Peter’s as a year group, and despite many differing ideas they all came down to one thing, not huge one-off gestures but consistent daily actions and attitudes. 

We learned about MBTI personality types. It explained a lot, why some of us make colour-coded plans, some go off vibes alone and some volunteer before they even know what they are volunteering for. But is also showed something important, leadership isn’t one-dimensional. The loud leaders, the quiet encouragers, the planners and the chaos all need each other.  

My favourite part of the day was writing notes of affirmation for each other, sometimes it’s just simple words of kindness that make you remember how special everyone is to you, no matter how small their role has been in shaping you as a person. Sometimes we don’t say the things we think about each other, in a world so fast. Sometimes we just need to slow down and look at the people around us. That was the real reward of the day. Not just plans for the year but understanding of the people who we’ll lead alongside. 

As we begin our final year, we hope to contribute to a culture where students feel known, valued, and confident in who they are. Our leadership will not come from any one person, but from choosing, each day, to support one another and serve the wider St Peter’s community. 

Big shout out to everyone who made this wonderful Year 13 retreat possible, especially Mr Terry, and the brilliant Year 13 cohort we have!