Why it matters: The four-day pilgrimage gave students from Ipswich the rare opportunity to meet the Pope in person, with His Holiness personally blessing the school's prayer and gifting a zucchetto to the school community.
The big picture: The journey was arranged as part of the Jubilee Year of Hope and to mark the beginning of the school's 60th anniversary celebrations. Students were accompanied throughout by Fr Jude Belnas, who offered spiritual guidance and support.
The papal audience: The highlight came on the third day when Pope Leo XIV personally greeted a number of students, shaking hands and offering blessings. The school chaplain, Paul Gilbert, also had the privilege of meeting His Holiness.
Fr Jude Belnas introduced the group to the Pope, ensuring students and staff were warmly welcomed. The Pope blessed the school's prayer and received a zucchetto, which he blessed for the school community.
What they're saying: Year 10 student Olivier Ksiezarek said: "It was a day I will never forget. To meet His Holiness was an honour beyond words. I never expected to be so close and to shake the Pope's hand."
Fellow Year 10 student Noah Witkowski added: "It was the best day of my life – to experience meeting the Pope and to have a quick conversation with him. I am so thankful for this opportunity and to be here with Olivier, made it more special for us both."
The journey: The pilgrimage opened with a welcome Mass in the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, with Fr Jude Belnas celebrating Mass to set a prayerful tone for the days ahead.
On the second day, students visited the Basilica of St Mary Major, entering the Holy Door and standing before the tomb of Pope Francis. They venerated the reliquary of the Holy Cradle and prayed before the ancient icon of Salus Populi Romani.
The Vatican Museums left students in awe, particularly the Sistine Chapel where they gazed upon Michelangelo's frescoes. The guides were so impressed that the group was given special permission for a photo of the ceiling.
At St Peter's Basilica, students toured the Tombs of the Popes, passing the tombs of St Paul VI, Blessed John Paul I and Benedict XVI. Many paused in quiet prayer, with students of Polish heritage particularly moved by praying before Pope St John Paul II's tomb.
After the papal audience, students visited the Pantheon, standing beneath its iconic dome.
The final day: The pilgrimage blended history with joy on the final day. Students toured the Colosseum before passing by the Trevi Fountain with prayers for the future. A gelato-making workshop brought laughter and delight, while the evening ended at a bowling alley.
What the organisers say: Paul Gilbert, school chaplain and organiser of the pilgrimage, said: "It took a year to organise, but it was worth every moment. The students were exemplary throughout, and I am so pleased that so many had the chance to meet His Holiness. This was truly a trip of a lifetime, one that has created countless memories for our school community."
Headteacher Mr Corless said: "I am deeply grateful that our students were able to experience this in the Jubilee Year of Hope, and to meet His Holiness Pope Leo XIV in his first six months as Pope. It was a privilege for them, and I am equally thankful for the dedication and effort of the staff who accompanied the trip. Their commitment ensured that this was not only a spiritual journey but also a formative experience that our students will carry with them for the rest of their lives."
The bottom line: For St Alban's Catholic High School, the journey to Rome will be remembered as a milestone of faith, unity and joy – a moment when history, tradition and youthful spirit came together in the heart of the Church.
