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Trinity Comprehensive School

School Retreat Thursday 17th January 2008
Trinity Comprehensive School, Ballymun

We arrived in Ballymun on a cold wet morning. But we were soon running around like crazy as we played an energetic game of ‘fruit basket’. Suzie opened up the day with ‘Life so far’. Using a creative photo album of her life, the class looked at their lives and the positives and negative aspects affecting their lives.

We gave the class the chance to articulate there creative side in small groups by giving them each a piece of playdough and requesting them to express different aspects of God. Some of the works of art we received back were extremely creative. It was interesting as individuals from each team presented their ‘god’.

Sarah Jane spoke on the choices we have in our lives and where faith fits into our choices. She asked the class to think what pressures they face as 4th year students. As I looked around the room I could see the class was absolutely captivated by her story, you could actually hear a pin drop in the room as she spoke. ‘Be careful what you wish for – always reach beyond your potential’

There were numerous video clips shown over the day. But one that hit home with the class just before lunch was ‘The Hoytt story’ where a father’s amazing feat of endurance helped fulfilled his disabled son’s ambition to compete in a triathlon. Everyone was inspired by the dvd.

Susan spoke after lunch about, on identity and the difficulties many of us face in life, she opened the floor to a question. What do think kids from Ballymun are known for? Some of the answers were astonishing, but very real.

After Niamh finished her talk on potential and giving your best. The class was spilt into three discussing groups where some of the following questions were asked:
Are you giving your best?
Do you think God is apathetic? Why?
And, If there were no restrictions, what is your dream for your life?
These questions were very well received and opened to creative discussions.

After discussing how the day went with one of the amazing teacher from Trinity School, we were all encouraged to know that her plans were to reinforce what the class learnt today over the coming weeks

- Andy