From the Dean of Identity and Community
Good People of Hope,
On Monday 28 July, our Year 8 students stepped out of routine and into a day of formation anchored in the Gospel: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). Framed by the EREA Touchstone of Justice & Solidarity, the retreat invited students to live authenticity over popularity by standing with others; especially those on the margins.
We began together in ERPAC with an introduction to the themes and expectations, linking last year’s growth journey to this year’s call to show up for one another in practical ways. Old Boy Seamus Evans then shared his story of growing up with Tourette Syndrome and ADHD, learning to embrace differences and discovering resilience as a strength. His keynote challenged students to see their uniqueness as a gift and to be allies for one another.
Across the day, Ben Russell from Empowerment-Ed led high-energy sessions:
- Authenticity: navigating IRL vs socials, building healthy relationships and unpacking banter vs going too far vs bullying through role-play grounded in Scripture and the Touchstones.
- Vulnerability: House challenges (including Lauries Games and Lauries Has Talent) encouraged courage, team spirit and joyful participation. Staff supported groups and judged activities to keep momentum and inclusion high.
- Empower Self = Empower Others: a cohort choir challenge, a reflection on celebrating imperfection, the Behind the Mask activity and personal “I Am” statements drew the day together, helping students name strengths and claim actions they’ll carry into Term 4 and beyond.
Matthew 25:40 shaped our lens for the day: when we include, encourage and defend one another, we encounter Christ. The Touchstone of Justice & Solidarity reminds us that faith is lived in action and reflection- choosing empathy, calling out unkindness, and creating a community where all can belong.
Students left with practical skills and commitments:
- to be upstanders and good friends, not bystanders;
- to practise authenticity over performance online or in groups;
- to notice who might be on the edges and make space for them.
These priorities echo the retreat’s focus on respect, empathy, inclusivity and integrity. We’re grateful to have Old Boy (2007) Seamus Evans, Ben Russell (Empowerment-Ed) and our staff team for crafting a day that was engaging, age-appropriate and deeply formative for our Year 8 cohort.
If you would like to keep the conversation going at home, families might like to ask: What’s one “I Am” strength you named? and What action will show justice and solidarity this week? Together, we’re helping our Year 8s grow into young people who lead with courage, compassion and conviction; living the Gospel in the everyday.
Live Jesus in our Hearts; Forever!
MR LACHLAN HESHUSIUS
Dean of Identity and Community (Acting)