BBCET pupils reflect on faith and hope at Abbey retreat

Hope was the focus when students from a BBCET school took part in a spiritual retreat at Ampleforth Abbey.

Fifteen Year 11 students from St Cuthbert’s Catholic High School spent three days at Ampleforth, where they reflected on the theme ‘Journey of Hope’ with the help and guidance of Father Bede.

“The aim of the retreat was to give pupils an opportunity to step away from the pressure of exam preparation, and to reflect on what hope looks like in their lives – where it comes from, who nurtures it, and how faith can sustain it during times of uncertainty,” said Stephanie Christie, who is Head of Religious Education at St Cuthbert’s, and accompanied the group.

“Among the most impactful activities was the Bridges of Hope project, in which the boys constructed symbolic bridges, while discussing what helps strengthen their hope and what can undermine it.

“This exercise encouraged honest reflection, and highlighted the importance of community, perseverance, and support networks.”

Other sessions during the retreat explored the role of prayer in cultivating hope, while there were also some more active moments.

“Alongside the reflective components, the retreat included moments of enjoyment and bonding,” continued Mrs Christie. 

“Pupils and staff took part in the St Cuthbert’s Olympics, which brought plenty of competitive spirit, and made the most of an unexpected snowfall, adding light-hearted fun to the experience.”

The retreat concluded with a visit to the Abbey’s Marian Garden, where the students placed hand-decorated ‘Journey of Hope’ stones before the statue of Our Lady, Queen of Hope.

“This final act served as a quiet, powerful symbol of the collective journey the group had undertaken,” added Mrs Christie.

“The three days at Ampleforth Abbey offered the group a rare opportunity to pause, reflect, and reconnect – with their faith, with themselves, and with one another.

“As they returned to school, many expressed a renewed sense of calm and confidence, as they look ahead to their final months of Year 11.”