Unlock the potential of student retreats with this practical, inspiring guide. Designed for educators, ministry leaders, mentors and mission leaders, the Educator’s Guide to Student Retreats provides a personal and professional map to create student retreats as a space for spirituality, faith, meaning-making and growth.
Inside you will find a step-by-step framework for every aspect of student retreat facilitation: planning, using scripture, prayer, ritual and liturgy, as well as ideas for group work that can build trust. The guide also offers advice from experienced practitioners and ready-to-use resources. Whether you are new to involvement in retreats, a seasoned retreat leader, or a school principal, this guide is a much-needed resource that will continue to assist you in creating fruitful and meaningful student retreats.
Dr Jill Gowdie is a widely respected school and system leader. She was named in 2025 as one of the 35 leading thought leaders in Catholic Education across the US, UK, Ireland, and Australia. A published author, Jill is also a recognised speaker, writer, and facilitator in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the UK. Her qualifications cross the disciplines of theology, leadership, education, spirituality, religious education, governance, and journalism, and include a PhD in Educational Leadership. She is a member of several national and international committees and associations, and currently serves as President of the Association of Practical Theology in Oceania.
THE EDUCATOR’S GUIDES SERIES
‣ The Mission and Education Project of BBI-TAITE is divided into three series: the Exploratory Studies, the Monographs, and the Educator’s Guides.
‣ The Educator’s Guides are designed to provide easily accessible information on mission practice within Catholic Education.
‣ They are written by some of Australia’s leading Catholic educators who have accepted the challenge of writing at an introductory level in their field of expertise.
‣ Excellent mission work is currently being done by Catholic educators. The Educator’s Guides draw on and celebrate this work in a spirit of mutual support and dialogue.