In November last year, a group of our Year 12 students were blessed with the incredible opportunity to travel for Umrah shortly after completing their VCE exams. Organised by the College as a way to spiritually recharge and mark the end of their schooling journey, the trip to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah left a deep and lasting impact on all who attended.
Students performed Umrah together, visited the sacred sites of Islam, and took part in group discussions led by teachers. The journey provided moments of reflection, learning, and spiritual growth—allowing the students to reconnect with their faith after the intensity of their academic commitments.
Below is a heartfelt reflection from one of the participating students, capturing the profound effect the trip had on them:
Going for Umrah with my school was an experience I’ll never forget. As a Year 12 student who had just finished the stressful exam period, I believe it was the perfect opportunity for us to visit the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. Something that, for me, changed my perspective of life.
The first time I saw the Kaaba, I felt like time stopped. It was overwhelming, and I couldn’t look away. I wasn’t just standing in front of a building, I was standing in front of something so much bigger than myself. It made me realise how insignificant we all are. Doing tawaf with my classmates and teachers made me feel part of something greater, like we were all connected in our purpose.
In Medina, the peace was unlike anything I’ve ever felt. Visiting the Prophet’s mosque was humbling. I kept thinking about how much he sacrificed for us, and it made me reflect on my own life. And I questioned whether the gratitude we present to Allah is enough for everything we’ve been given?
The group Halaqah with my designated teacher and friends were very beneficial and powerful. Learning about our religion whilst in the Haramain, I realized how much we all needed this trip—not just for spiritual growth, but to reset and refocus.
This journey reminded me of what truly matters: faith, family, and being a good person. I returned home with a clearer mind and a heart full of gratitude, ready to face the challenges ahead with renewed strength and trust in Allah.
A special thank you to the school for organising this for us. Alhamdulillah for everything.
This journey was more than just a trip—it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that we hope will remain etched in the hearts of our students for years to come. May Allah accept their Umrah and continue to guide them in all their future endeavours.
