Lighting the Way for Young Hearts and Minds
Empowering young people through calm, connection, and creativity—right in their school or amidst nature.
About Shine Bright Retreats
At Shine Bright Retreats, we believe every young person carries a unique light within—a spark of potential, creativity, and purpose. Our mission is to help them discover, nurture, and radiate that inner brilliance.
Our Philosophy
We embrace a holistic approach that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. Our retreats are designed to encourage self-reflection, creativity, and connection—both within and with others. Through mindfulness practices, creative workshops, and guided activities, we aim to empower young people to shine brightly in their own unique way.
Our Team
Shine Bright Retreats was founded by Bernie Dempsey, a mother of four with a lifelong passion for holistic wellbeing and spiritual growth. Bernie holds a Diploma in Spirituality from Maynooth College and has dedicated many years to working with children and young people. Her gentle, intuitive approach creates a safe and inspiring space where young people can explore their inner world, build confidence, and connect with their authentic selves.
The Shine Bright team shares a deep commitment to spirituality and youth empowerment. Each member brings a wealth of experience and a heartfelt dedication to guiding young people on their journey of self-discovery. Together, we create nurturing environments where participants feel seen, heard, and valued.
What We Offer
Bring the calm to the classroom
Retreats That Come to You
A step back in time
Let the spirit of the past empower your present.
A day of reflection in Glendalough
Step into sacred ground
A full-day or half-day spiritual retreat experience brought to your school — no travel needed!
Fun, connection, and inner calm all wrapped into one powerful day.
A Typical Retreat Day Includes:
- Ice-breaker games & energisers
- Guided quiet reflection
- Open-hearted conversations
- Optional moments of prayer
- Creative expression & mindfulness
- Time to breathe and just be
- Explore how to support ourselves through times of stress, emotion and anxiety
Why Schools Love Us:
- Suitable for all secondary school year groups
- We come to you – no travel or extra logistics
- Designed to support wellbeing, spirituality & personal growth
- Fully inclusive: all faiths and none
- Run by experienced facilitators who are passionate about youth wellbeing
Our retreats help students build emotional resilience, self-awareness and confidence. Whether it’s a wellbeing week, exam season, or simply a chance to reset, Shine Bright Retreats offer a much-needed pause. We create a space to Connect, reflect and shine.
A day of reflection in Glendalough
Join us for a day of connection, calm, and spiritual discovery in the heart of Glendalough — a place of incredible natural beauty and deep spiritual roots. Founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century, Glendalough has been a place of retreat and reflection for centuries.
Let your students walk the same peaceful paths, guided through stillness, nature, and a sense of something greater.
What the Day Includes:
- A guided experience of the Monastic City
- A reflective walk through the glacial valley
- Opportunities for quiet reflection, connection, and prayer
- Group time to share, breathe, and grow
- Activities to promote mindfulness, spiritual awareness, and joy
- A chance to slow down and just be
A step back in time, Spiritual retreat,
St Endas Park
Reconnect • Reflect • Remember
Join us for a day of peace, history, and personal connection in the stunning grounds of St. Enda’s Park, a sanctuary of natural beauty and historical richness. Where Padraig Pearse lived and operated his pioneering irish-speaking school from 1910 to 1916.
What the day Includes:
- A guided tour of the Pearse Museum, Home and school, once home to Padraig Pearse’s progressive school, where nature and freedom were at the heart of learning.
- A walk among the follies, charming structures scattered throughout the park that ignite the imagination and evoke Ireland’s layered past.
- Time for meditation and reflection in serene surroundings.
- Space to breathe, connect, and have fun
- Activities to promote mindfulness, spiritual and social awareness
- A guided tour of the Pearse Museum, Home and school, once home to Padraig Pearse’s progressive school, where nature and freedom were at the heart of learning.
Contact Us
For information on the retreats or if you wish to us to deliver a bespoke retreat please Contact us at
- [email protected]
- 0876272848