Pilgrims of Hope

Year 9 Students Join Notre Dame Schools National Residential Conference

In June, four Year 9 students from Notre Dame Southwark were blessed with the opportunity to attend the 3-day Notre Dame Schools National Residential Conference at the peaceful and prayerful grounds of Buckfast Abbey, nestled in the heart of Plymouth, Cornwall.

This special gathering brought together students and staff from six Notre Dame schools across England and Scotland—Glasgow, Plymouth, Norwich, Liverpool and our very own Southwark. Each school shares the heritage and charism of the Sisters of Notre Dame, whose mission to educate with faith and love continues to shape generations.

This year, being a Jubilee Year, we are called to be Pilgrims of Hope—to journey together in faith, with open hearts and a desire to deepen our connection with God and each other. The purpose of the conference was to strengthen the bonds between our schools and explore how the voice of young people can guide the future vision of our Notre Dame family.

Our journey began on Wednesday as we departed from Southwark and travelled to Buckfast Abbey, where we were welcomed into a sacred rhythm of prayer and community. That evening, we joined the still very active monastic community for Evening Vespers, an experience that reminded us of the beauty of stillness and reflection in our busy lives.

Thursday took us further into our pilgrimage. We visited St Cuthbert Mayne Church in Launceston, a site of rich Catholic history, before moving on to Plymouth Cathedral, where we encountered a living connection to our own school’s story—Sister Anne McDowell, who taught history at Notre Dame Southwark over 50 years ago. Her presence was a powerful reminder that our community is built on deep roots of faith and service.

We ended the day with a joyful Fish and Chips supper by the sea, followed by a moving evening of prayer, reflection, and song, where students opened up about their experiences and shared personal moments of spiritual growth. It was in these quiet reflections and shared laughter that our bonds truly deepened.

Friday marked the final day of our journey. We visited the Monastic Museum, where we learned about the rhythms of monastic life, before celebrating Mass in the stunning Blessed Sacrament Chapel, surrounded by stained glass that seemed to speak of centuries of faith. It was a moment of true communion between us, with God, and with the wider Notre Dame community.

As we said our heartfelt goodbyes and journeyed back to London, we carried with us more than just memories. We returned with a renewed sense of belonging, a stronger connection to our spiritual identity, and a deep appreciation for the shared mission we hold as part of the Notre Dame family.

This pilgrimage has reminded us that even as individuals, we are part of something greater—a spiritual and educational legacy that calls us to act with love, listen with compassion, and walk together in hope.

My trip to Buckfast Abbey, Plymouth was a memorable and exciting experience filled with food, friendship, faith, and fun activities. Over the course of three days, I got to explore new places, deepen my spiritual journey, and make amazing memories with others...

On the first day, we were warmly welcomed and showed to our rooms .We had a delicious varieties of food, including pizza, noodles, and lots of snacks. In the evening, we played card games, laughed together, and began forming new friendships.

Each night ended with a time of reflection, where we could quietly think about the day and connect with our faith. We also attended a beautiful service at the cathedral, which was a calming and powerful experience...

Later, we explored Plymouth, where a tour guide shared the city's rich history. One of the most unique parts was using a smell box that let us experience what Plymouth might have smelled like during the Elizabethan and Victorian times-something I had never done before!...

At night, we played even more fun games, and continued bonding with new people. I especially enjoyed making new friends-mainly from Notre Dame Norwich-and sharing stories and laughs with them. On the final day, before heading home, we visited a museum and watched a really interesting projection that brought history to life. It was a great way to end the trip, leaving us with new knowledge and lasting memories.

Overall, this trip was not only fun but also meaningful. It gave me the chance to relax, reflect, and grow closer to my faith while exploring new places and forming strong friendships.

Francess Bangura 9A

Our trip to Plymouth was nice. Whilst on the train we got to see many animals: cows, sheep and horses. We got there and it was really hot!! The Abbey was huge. On our first night, we had a pizza party and played games and laughed loads.

The whole experience helped me realise how connected we are with other Notre Dame schools across the country.

Meeting Sister Anne was so inspiring – to hear about her teaching at our school decades ago made me feel really proud to be part of this legacy.
Mesoma 9N