TY Religion Retreat 2026

On the 23rd and 24th of March, our Transition Year students took off on an exciting retreat to Johnstone House. The year was split, with the first group attending on Monday and the second following shortly thereafter the next day. The trips began early on Monday and Tuesday morning as the buses took off at 9am sharp each day. 

The students arrived and were eager to get started. They were split into groups and the activities began. In the morning they participated in ice breakers, really getting to know the people around them better and learning a bit more about themselves. This element of discovery was further implemented through self-reflections and mindful conversation. After a morning packed full of activities, they enjoyed a quick 20 minute lunch break before getting straight back into it. 

Then came the highlight of the day, a half hour of meditation. The students were led to a room of blankets and pillows and were allowed a quiet and reflective 30 minutes to wind down and reflect on their values, memories and hopes for the future. 

All too soon, the day was over. The trip was thoroughly enjoyed by all students involved. They arrived back at the school at around 3pm the same day having found a new sense of self worth and a skill for meditating. A huge thank you to Johnstone House for giving our Transition Years such an enjoyable day out and to all the teachers who accompanied our students. 

Reporter: James Ward