From 20th–24th October 2025, Thornleigh Salesian College came together to celebrate Mission Week — one of the most meaningful and inspiring events in our school calendar.

This year’s theme, “Honouring Our Past, Inspiring Our Future,” carried special significance as we continued to mark our Centenary Year, reflecting on 100 years of Salesian education, faith, and community at Thornleigh.

The week began with a beautiful Opening Liturgy and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, offering students and staff a peaceful space for prayer and reflection. This set a reverent tone for the days ahead, reminding everyone of the spiritual heart of Mission Week.

Throughout the week, students and staff took part in a vibrant programme of workshops, talks, and creative activities exploring faith, justice, and community. The atmosphere across school was one of enthusiasm and compassion as students embraced opportunities to live out their Salesian Catholic values in action.

Guest speakers brought faith and social awareness to life in inspiring and thought-provoking ways. Harry Clarke, winner of BBC’s The Traitors and participant in BBC Pilgrimage, shared his journey of faith and resilience, encouraging students to stay true to their values. The Anthony Walker Foundation delivered a powerful workshop on equality and inclusion, while the Columban Justice & Peace Missionaries challenged students to link faith with social action.

Sessions with God and the Big Bang explored the harmony between science and faith, and NET Ministries led energetic retreats that helped students reflect on their personal faith journeys. The Jesuit Refugee Service UK shared moving stories of hope from refugees and asylum seekers, while Million Minutes inspired young people to take the lead in social action. Finally, The JJ Effect delivered a powerful message to Year 12 students about the dangers of knife crime and the importance of making positive choices.

The week was brought to a celebratory close with year-group celebrations of Mass and even a Silent Disco!

Mission Week 2025 was a powerful reminder of what it means to be part of the Salesian family — to live with faith, hope, and love, and to use our gifts to serve others. As we continue our Centenary celebrations, the week helped us to honour our past and inspire our future, strengthening our shared mission to make the world a better place.