Our Days of Reflection offer students the chance to step back from their regular routines and come together as a cohort to engage with one of the Saint Maur Essential Outcomes (SMEOs) through meaningful conversations, games, hands-on challenges, and group bonding. This year, the focus for Grade 10 was on what it means to be balanced learners. 

As our Grade 10 students prepare to begin their final two years of high school, the importance of finding balance becomes even more relevant. With increased academic expectations and growing personal responsibilities, they are learning to navigate how to prioritise what matters most, whether that’s academics, sports, music, friendships, or family obligations. One key takeaway from the day was the understanding that this journey isn’t a solitary one. They are walking a path that many have taken before, and one they will travel alongside their peers. While personal balance is essential, so too is knowing when to reach out for support. 

To put this theme into action, students took on a series of challenges requiring teamwork, communication, and creativity. They problem-solved their way across an “electric fence,” experimented with submerging a balloon using limited materials, and, perhaps most memorably, raced to build the ultimate cosy pillow fort in a friendly team competition.

The spirit of cooperation and camaraderie was unmistakable throughout the day, and we had a lot of fun! Grade 10 showed once again that with empathy, teamwork, and a willingness to support one another, they are more than ready to take on the IB years ahead, not just as individuals, but as a community.