It’s not that they weren’t engaging - they were. The facilitators were enthusiastic, the activities were meaningful, and there was plenty going on. The truth is, I was just shy. I often sat back, listened, and kept my thoughts to myself. From the outside, it probably looked like I wasn’t getting much out of the experience at all.

But years later, I can still remember those retreat days.

I remember the stories that were shared. I remember the moments of reflection. I remember the questions that stayed with me long after the day had finished. Even though I wasn’t the student putting my hand up or speaking in front of the group, something was happening beneath the surface.

Those experiences have shaped the way I approach retreat facilitation today.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that you never fully know what’s going on for a student during a retreat. Sometimes a student will take a big risk and step up in front of their peers. Sometimes they'll ask a thoughtful question that shifts the direction of a conversation. Or, their participation is far less visible - a note scribbled down during a reflection activity, a conversation with a friend as they walk out the school gate, or simply the willingness to sit with a challenging idea.

Yes, it’s awesome when every student actively participates in the day, yet meaningful growth can look very different from one student to the next, and sometimes the most significant moments are the ones that happen quietly, beneath the surface.

My name is Adam and as a Retreat Facilitator my aim is to create a foundational experience where students feel welcomed, challenged, encouraged, and invited to reflect. I want to offer a positive experience of faith and spirituality that meets students where they are at - but doesn’t just leave them there.

If this sounds like something that could benefit your students, I'd love to chat. Feel free to explore the programs below and get in touch.