Emmaus Partnership
Fourth Form pupils from one of the UK’s leading Catholic schools have been reflecting on moments enjoyed during their House retreat day in the Somerset countryside.
Founded in 1606, Downside School, Stratton-on-the-Fosse, Somerset maintains a Benedictine ethos that is just as strong today as it was when the School was founded.
On Wednesday 18th September each House at the school embarked on a unique journey: Barlow visited the peaceful village of Lamyatt, Caverel explored the beautiful Stourhead National Trust estate, Isbella discovered the historic National Trust Lytes Cary Manor near Yeovil, Roberts visited the stunning City of Wells, and Smythe spent their day in the quiet village of Witham Friary, near Frome.
Each retreat was guided by the pupil’s tutors, with support from members of the Chaplaincy team and guest speakers Alex and Owain, both OGs, who generously gave their time to share insights with the pupils that they were with. Throughout the day, the pupils deepened their understanding of their House Patrons and the Benedictine values that inspire them, fostering personal reflection and community spirit.
The hope is that these values will now come to life within the school community, as the pupils strive to put them into practice in their everyday interactions.
Andrew Hobbs, the school’s Head, says that the school’s distinctive culture: “is built on its Catholic and Benedictine roots and supports the exploration of faith and spiritual growth within an inclusive and welcoming community.
“At Downside, we feel that by working with families in a partnership built on trust, we provide the young people in our School with the strongest possible foundation for their education. Through belonging to a community in which each individual feels valued and included, pupils grow in confidence and are encouraged to develop their unique gifts, motivated by the joy of learning.”
