YEAR 11 students at Bishop Challoner School recently took part in an ‘off timetable’ day packed full of workshops where the common theme was that of ‘relationships’.

They explored healthy relationships, consent, managing conflict, how to find your Ideal partner, and more.

The consensus amongst students beforehand was one of low expectations and the belief they were heading for a long boring day of lectures. However, by the end, they were pleasantly surprised at how interesting, informative and enjoyable the day had been.

One session centred on how you need to be careful in life but that if you do suffer a ‘life-altering’ occurrence, then the world is not over for you.

Emma Cole, who lives with HIV, delivered her talk; unscripted and from the heart. She was funny, inspiring and relatable and helped the students reflect on choices and consequences.

A number of students felt they benefitted from the peaceful environment in the meditation workshop; others, particularly the girls taking part, felt the ‘Positive Self Image workshop helped them value themselves more and gain body confidence, whereas ‘ideal partner’ helped students to realise what they valued in a partner.

Overall, the whole day can be considered a huge success as expectations were ‘flipped’ and the students learnt so much in ways they didn’t think possible.

Cara McGrath