For many students, learning about school values happens within the four walls of a classroom. Yet some of the most powerful lessons are discovered beyond it. Recently, a group of Year 9 students stepped into a richer, more immersive experience by taking part in a memorable Religious Education Hikoi, connecting history, faith, and community in a way that textbooks alone cannot offer.
This thoughtfully designed learning journey provided students with the opportunity to explore the foundations of their school’s identity while strengthening their sense of belonging. For international education agents, experiences like this highlight how schools can blend academic learning with cultural depth, pastoral care, and values based education.
Leaving behind their usual routines, the Year 9 cohort crossed the bridge into a day of discovery. The Hikoi was not simply a trip but a carefully curated educational experience aimed at bringing the school’s heritage to life.
The first stop was the Pompallier Centre, where students were given rare insight into historical archives and records connected to Bishop Pompallier. This behind the scenes access allowed learners to engage directly with the past, offering a tangible link to the origins of Catholic education in the region.
From there, the group visited the Sisters of Mercy. Walking through the chapel and cemetery, students encountered the spiritual roots that continue to shape the ethos of their school today. This part of the Hikoi encouraged quiet reflection and a deeper understanding of compassion, service, and community values.
The final destination was the Cathedral, where students attended midday Mass. Father Chris shared meaningful insights into the relationship between the Cathedral and the Sisters of Mercy, helping students see how these connections continue to influence their everyday school experience.
Beyond its historical and religious significance, the Hikoi also played an important role in student wellbeing and community building. Spending the day together allowed students to bond within their Houses, fostering friendships and a shared sense of purpose.
For international students in particular, experiences like this are invaluable. They provide context, connection, and a sense of inclusion, helping young people feel part of a living story rather than simply observers in a new environment.
For agents supporting families in choosing the right school abroad, programmes such as the Year 9 RE Hikoi demonstrate the value of holistic education. Schools that invest in experiential learning opportunities are better equipped to support students academically, socially, and emotionally.
This Hikoi showcases how schools can:
These elements are often key decision drivers for international families seeking a well rounded education for their children.
The success of the day was made possible through the support of dedicated teachers and the generous hospitality of the sites visited. Their collaboration ensured that students received a meaningful and memorable experience that will stay with them throughout their educational journey.
The Year 9 RE Hikoi stands as a powerful example of how schools can integrate history, faith, and community into a single impactful experience. For international education agents, it offers a compelling insight into the type of enriching opportunities that distinguish schools in a competitive global landscape.
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