As part of strengthening the school’s Catholicity, we explore a range of opportunities to provide children and staff an experience which enhances their teaching and learning of Religious Education; spiritual fulfilment and deepening of one’s faith. One such experience is the week-long residential retreat to Rome. This is an annual event that involves 30 pupils (Years 5 &6) and 6 members of staff. Over the years, the school’s Chair of Governors (Brenda McEwen) and Parish Priest, Monsignor Paul Bruxby have accompanied the group.

Whilst in Rome, the group visits the Vatican and experience an audience with Pope Francis; St. Peter’s Basilica, St. Paul’s Basilica; St. John Lateran, Catacombs of St. Callixtus; the Venerable English College (training college for British priests); famous landmarks/venue (Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona and Campo Dei Fiori market) and Armando Lacchelli Farm.

Overall, this an experience of a lifetime that all involved feel blessed and spiritually uplifted.