Sixth Form Foxtrot

Quakerism Explored: In the Footsteps of George Fox

The annual Foxtrot weekend to the North-West of England is a chance for four of our Lower Sixth students to spend time with students form four other Quaker schools exploring the history and philosophy of Quakerism.

Joining Newtown School from Waterford and Lisburn School from Belfast were Sibford and Sidcot Schools from Banbury and Bristol respectively alongside Leighton Park’s representatives. The weekend ran from 10th to 12th October and included a walk up the very steep Pendle Hill, site of George Fox’s religious revelations, time at a number of significant Quaker buildings and a trip to the Quaker Tapestry Museum. This trip has always received great feedback from students and staff. It is a chance to learn about 17th-century Britain, to find out about Quaker history, to meet new friends from other Quaker schools and to have a ‘time out’ that is spiritually fulfilling. Students of all cultures and religions have represented us in the past and have always enjoyed the experience.

Stephen Taynton, Head of Philosophy, Religious Studies and Values, and trip organiser, reflected: “Our students were given a truly remarkable opportunity to deeply understand the essence of Quakerism. Our next goal is to bring this experience back to our schools and inspire our wider community.”

Taylor (Lower Sixth) commented, “The thing I most enjoyed about the trip was the opportunity to meet some other people and at the same time learn about Quakerism in close proximity to George Fox’s (founder of Quakerism) footsteps… I think Foxtrot is a very valuable activity because not only do you get a chance to visit some beautiful towns and villages in Lancashire with friends and  very nice people from other schools who are also passionate about Quakerism, you also get to enjoy the spiritual trio of trotting the footsteps of George Fox, walking up Pendle Hill and being inspired by the journey and the views. Personally speaking, when I was standing at the pulpit where George Fox used to stand and give other followers speeches, I felt inspired, with the rolling hills of Lancashire and it made me reconsider humanity and values of life. Last but not least, the trip fully converted me to become a Quaker and embrace the Quaker values.”

Fellow foxtrotter, Maiya (Lower Sixth) contributed: “I really enjoyed learning about the history of Quakerism on the Foxtrot. From visiting the tapestry to walking up Pendle Hill, I’ve learnt more about the values that Quakers truly hold. I think it’s a valuable activity because you get to learn a lot about the values that LP is formed on and meet new people from other Quaker schools.”

See more photos from the Foxtrot weekend here! Back to news