The QUEST Retreat is an important way of introducing our new Year 8s to the St Norbert College Community and philosophy.  This unique, special weekend event is designed to build unity and spirit.  The Retreat is an activity which builds community and friendship among the Year 8 class and exposes incoming students to the lived culture of faith in God within the St Norbert College community expressed through the vision of Christ and the charisms of St Norbert.

Year 11 students play a pivotal role in that they act as ‘Quest Ministers’. This means that each minister takes personal responsibility for the welfare of three little brothers/sisters for the term of the entire weekend retreat. The retreat is non-residential, so the Year 8s do not stay overnight at the Year 11student’s home, but having said that they do spend a significant period of time on the Saturday afternoon and evening at the senior student’s home. Whilst there, the Quest Minister will conduct a number of activities which will be fun, thought provoking and relationship building with his/her little brothers/sisters.

Much of the retreat is also conducted at the College and the Year 8 students will at all times be guided by their Year 11 Quest Ministers. All Year 11 Quest Ministers receive intensive training for their roles in this retreat.

For the Year 11 Quest Ministers, this retreat gives them a real opportunity to practise leadership skills and to foster healthy, supportive relationships with their younger counterparts. Importantly, the Year 8 students discover a source of real friendship and support from the older students. These friendships are often maintained throughout their time at St Norbert College and even on wards after.

Year 11 Quest Ministers play an important role in welcoming our new Year 8s to St Norbert College and ensuring that they are welcomed into the St Norbert College family.

Being part of Quest Ministry creates leaders and positively contributes to other leadership roles that senior students hold in the College.