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Spirituality and Excellence Loreto College Coleraine Voluntary Grammar School A Specialist School Loreto College Castlerock Road Coleraine BT51 3JZ Telephone 028 70 343611 028 70 357149 E mail info loretocollege coleraine ni sch uk Website www loretocollege org uk Facebook Loreto College Coleraine Instagram Loreto College Coleraine PRINCIPAL Mr Stephen Gallagher CHAIRPERSON OF BOARD OF GOVERNORS Mrs Deirdre McBride Admissions Number 160 Enrolment number 1000 Age Range 11 18 years 1
Spirituality and Excellence Contents Page A Message from the Principal 3 Mission Statement 5 Loreto Philosophy of Education 6 History of the College 7 Board of Governors 7 Aims of the College 8 Spirituality Dimension 9 The Loreto Prayer 10 Pastoral Care 11 Extra Curricular Activities 13 Extra Curricular Sport 14 School Shows 17 Music 18 Outdoor Learning Building Life Skills 19 Educational Visits 20 School Uniform 21 Student Leadership Team 22 Homework 26 Celebrating Academic Excellence 27 Curriculum 28 Post 16 Studies 30 Careers 31 Caf Loreto 32 Transport 32 Bus Timetable 33 Charges Fees 34 Inspection Feedback 35 2 Spirituality and Excellence A Message from the Principal Spirituality and Excellence Dear Parent Guardian and Prospective Pupil It gives me great pleasure to introduce you to our school prospectus which I hope along with our school website www loretocollege org uk will give you a glimpse into the life of our school Now in its 95th year Loreto College continues to go from strength to strength In recent years the Department of Education has increased the school s admission number from 120 to 160 This expansion allows for more young people to avail of our outstanding educational provision of academic excellence coupled with our warm Loreto ethos Although we no longer select students based on academic criteria the school remains a Grammar School and continues to build on its established tradition of academic excellence with students in recent years producing some of our best results ever Each year group comprises five traditional Grammar classes with two smaller classes offering a more vocational pathway Our pupil centred approach to the curriculum is designed to meet the needs and aspirations of all pupils promoting excellence in all areas of school life and maintaining high expectations and standards with regards to academic excellence uniform behaviour respect and manners The report following our recent school inspection ETI September 2024 is extremely positive The school is wholly pupil centred All staff work hard to ensure all of the pupils experience enjoyment and achievement in their learning The curriculum is a strength and an area for dissemination from which other schools may learn It is very well planned and is informed by the learners interests abilities and ambitions Curriculum pathways are fluid and are responsive to individual ability achievement and aspiration Nearly all of the pupils reported that they enjoy school and find lessons challenging and interesting Loreto College is a Catholic Grammar School Spirituality and Excellence underpin everything we do At Loreto our pupils are challenged and supported to help them achieve Every pupil is encouraged to strive for excellence in all they do Through stimulating and challenging lessons we aim to create a place of intellectual exploration and achievement one that will motivate our students instil high aspirations and help them develop the skills necessary for their future The college continues to achieve appropriately high academic outcomes for its pupils and this element of the school s work remains focused robust and is at the core of their work on a daily basis The pupils are well motivated articulate and display positive attitudes to learning They work well individually and collaboratively They approach lessons with positivity and engage confidently in their learning The school places high value on high academic outcomes the standards attained by pupils in public examinations are mostly in line with or exceed these expectations High academic achievement personal growth and living out the Loreto values characterise the outworking of the college s vision In 2022 the Department of Education announced a major Capital Build for Loreto College which will likely result in a brand new state of the art school being developed on our Castlerock Road site and planning for this exciting project is now well underway This means that Loreto pupils in the future will enjoy the very best of facilities and resources both inside and outside the classroom 3
Spirituality and Excellence Head Boy and Head Girl meeting Mr Paul Givan Education Minister One of our greatest assets in the school is our staff Our teachers are highly qualified subject specialists who work alongside our pupils encouraging and enthusing them in their subject areas All staff are committed to promoting excellence in all aspects of school life and our teaching staff have a proven track record of examination success As a Catholic school in the Loreto tradition Gospel values permeate the entire school experience and this links in closely with our approach to Pastoral Care We are proud of our distinctive Loreto ethos and the sense of community and common purpose that exists within the school We are aware that children learn best when they feel happy and secure Our pastoral system and positive behaviour programme ensure that each pupil feels valued and respected in a supportive and caring atmosphere Loreto College realises its vision through creating a supportive learning environment for its pupils to excel academically and develop spiritually as confident individuals who have selfrespect and show compassion for others The pupils thrive through their participation in a wide range of challenging and interesting lessons and enrichment and leadership opportunities In the questionnaires most pupils stated they are proud to attend the school and most of the pupils who met with the inspectors reported that they are proud to be part of the Loreto family denoting a college with a strong community of learning Almost all of the pupils feel they are treated with care and respect by the staff Our school ethos reflects a genuine concern for the well being of our pupils and we strive to help each individual to develop personally socially and academically We believe that mutual respect and the promotion of self esteem are central to the learning process and in developing these we seek the closest cooperation with parents and guardians The result is a friendly yet disciplined learning environment Parents responses to the questionnaires indicated high levels of satisfaction with all aspects of the provision Nearly all indicated that their child was happy in school and was making good progress Almost all indicated that they knew about the school s vision and aims and would recommend the school to others Above all the most important thing is that your child is happy and content in his or her new school Working in partnership with you the parents and guardians we encourage each pupil to be the best that they can be to set goals to aim high and to go all out to make those goals and dreams a reality Yours sincerely Stephen Gallagher Mr Stephen Gallagher Principal 4 Spirituality and Excellence Mission Statement The College is committed to reflecting the values attitudes and moral perspective which are consistent with a Christian conscience and with the teachings of the Catholic Church We seek to know and respect each pupil as an individual person within a caring school community The College acknowledges that parents are the first and foremost educators of their children The close partnership between school and home is recognised as an essential element of both pupil welfare and the success of the College We encourage pupils to strive for the highest standards in all aspects of their school life To facilitate this the College promotes a disciplined atmosphere in which mutual respect is fostered and within which effective teaching and learning can take place Although high academic standards are pursued they are not regarded as an end in themselves Pupils are guided towards an understanding that if knowledge is to become wisdom it must be combined with moral values and humility The College actively encourages initiative and positive leadership These qualities lead pupils to grow in freedom and to an awareness that they are personally responsible for the choices they make At the same time the College cultivates a sensitivity towards the needs of society and an awareness of the inequality of opportunity within the human family as a whole Loreto College strives to develop sincere free and caring citizens who are sensitive to the needs of others We encourage our pupils to approach life in a thoughtful reflective and discerning manner and to be both willing and able to play their part in the betterment of society Fill your mind with everything that is true everything that is noble Phil 4 8 9 5
Spirituality and Excellence The Loreto Philosophy of Education The Loreto Philosophy of Education embraces the following five core values and strives to make Loreto schools close communities where these values are lived out each day Spirituality and Excellence Freedom Refer all things in your life to God You will find inner peace and the freedom to respond creatively to the needs of others Joy Have an attitude of mind and disposition of heart that opens you to life Be optimistic hopeful courageous open welcoming good humoured and self accepting Sincerity Be such as you appear and appear such as you are 6 Truth Seek for truth reflect critically and seek answers to crucial questions Justice Be in right relationships with all created things You will live in integrity and wholeness The College welcomes pupils from other faith backgrounds Their participation and commitment to the life of the College bring enrichment tolerance and respect History of the College Loreto College Coleraine is a Catholic Co educational Voluntary Grammar School It is owned and maintained by the Loreto Trustees and managed by the Board of Governors The Board of Governors has responsibility for the overall management of the school in keeping with the Loreto educational philosophy and the requirements of the Department of Education This includes oversight of the curriculum discipline policy and admissions appointment of staff the management of school funds and the provision and maintenance of buildings The first school on the site was opened by a French order of nuns called the Ursulines and catered for both boys and girls at preparatory level and for girls only at secondary level In 1930 the Ursulines were succeeded by the Loreto Sisters Their foundress was Mary Ward 1585 1645 from York England She was a visionary devoting her life to Catholic Education establishing schools in England and Europe The first branch in Ireland was established by Frances Ball at Rathfarnham in Dublin it was called Loreto Today there are Loreto schools all over the world Not only do they share a common origin but the Loreto crest and motto Maria Regina Angelorum Cruci dum spiro fido are shared by Loreto students everywhere The Loreto Sisters have developed the College and its grounds into the excellent campus that it is today In 1977 it became co educational The College continues to evolve develop and adapt to change whilst preserving its core values of spirituality and excellence From September 2013 the school no longer admits pupils using Academic Selection but has retained its status as a Voluntary Grammar School In September 2017 Loreto College began a phased expansion and now has over 1000 pupils Members of the Board of Governors Trustee Representatives Mrs Deirdre McBride Chairperson Mrs Susan Kelly Mr Finbar O Harte Ms Maria Flannelly Term expires December 2025 December 2025 December 2025 DENI Representatives Mr Donal Sayers Mr Joe Diamond TBC December 2025 December 2025 Teacher Representative Mrs Siobhan Mullan Parent Representative Mr Dan Henry Vice Chairperson December 2025 Secretary Correspondent Mr Stephen Gallagher 7
Aims of the College What the College strives to achieve stems directly from the Loreto Educational Philosophy The aim of the College is to create a caring and community environment in which students can grow and mature spiritually intellectually socially emotionally and physically To facilitate this growth the College aims to provide a balanced and broadly based curriculum accessible to all students both in the classroom and in the many extra curricular activities which the College promotes More specifically the College aims to provide the environment in which students may experience and develop the Catholic faith promote understanding of and respect for the faiths traditions and cultures of others provide opportunities to pursue excellence in all areas of school life provide students with opportunities to develop initiative independence and critical thinking 8 provide opportunities for students to experience enjoyment and a sense of achievement foster a sense of self esteem prepare students for the world of work and leisure and guide them in the making of lifestyle decisions within a Christian value framework foster in students a willingness to help others and a desire for a just society educate students as citizens of the world who will aesthetically appreciate and actively protect their environment encourage students to play a full part in the life of their parish and local community encourage the development of physical and manipulative skills in both vocational and leisure contexts create a caring and disciplined environment which provides for the pastoral care of all students in an atmosphere of mutual respect encourage parents to be supportive of the College in the education of their children Spirituality and Excellence Spirituality Dimension In the midst of the hustle and bustle of school life we provide opportunities for our pupils to reflect on their lives individually or as a member of a class or group This reflection includes cherishing the Catholic Ethos and tradition of the College and promoting the spiritual dimension of the students lives Spirituality is seen as an integral part of school life and takes the form of formal Religious Studies classes and examinations as well as a range of other spiritual elements of College life These spiritual elements include Morning assemblies organised and presented by the pupils Celebration of Mass for pupils throughout the year Prayer services in accordance with the Liturgical calendar Class and group retreats St Vincent de Paul Justice League The Pope John Paul Award We are fortunate in Loreto College to have a wonderful Chapel at the heart of the school which is a place where students can quietly reflect on their lives away from the frenetic pace of school life Mass is celebrated during Advent and Lent and students often drop in for some moments of prayer and peace Our hope is that the pupils will make their own the faith that you the parents have handed on to them which has been an integral part of the history and tradition of the College over the last 85 years and which our students will cherish with love and charity 9
Our Loreto Prayer Our students say this prayer in school every day at registration or assembly Lord Jesus we are young and the world is opening up before us There are many paths that we could take help each of us choose the one that is right Stay with us be our companion on the road We ask for your blessing on our families and friends healing for those who are sick or troubled guidance for the decision makers of the world and a change of heart for those who hurt others and cause destruction For ourselves let us know clearly the work which you are calling us to do in life This day is full of promise and opportunity help us to use it well Keep us from any word that would hurt or belittle anyone May we be courteous and helpful to others and May our thoughts and prayers be pleasing to you Amen 10 Spirituality and Excellence Pastoral Care Pastoral Care in the College is an expression of the philosophy and vision of the school to In practical terms educate for wholeness and dignity All members of staff teaching and nonteaching are involved in pastoral care through all their contacts with students The school itself is a pastoral institution Form Teachers have a special responsibility this means Respect for the dignity of each person in the school Commitment to the fullest development of the unique gifts and qualities of all students to know the members of their form classes as Communication individuals Likewise Heads of Year seek to know each member of their year group and to monitor and encourage their development as Provision of an environment in which participation and collaboration between home and school they progress from Y8 to Y14 The Head of students may experience Year works closely with Form Teachers Senior Staff and parents to provide for the pastoral welfare of all students in his or her care and develop their Catholic faith Awareness of the home and local environment Effective liaison with external agencies in order to support students in any needful situation in which the students broader education takes place Policies and practices which promote wholeness dignity and growth Identification of the school support systems needed for the development of students in terms of wholeness and dignity and to deal with problems and difficulties 11
Spirituality and Excellence Pastoral Care is implicit and explicit in its expression It is an integral part of the school s ethos and curriculum Formal teaching of Personal and Social Education occurs in three weekly Form Periods in Key Stage 3 including Learning for Life and Work LLW and two weekly Form Periods in Key Stage 4 including LLW Classes follow a programme of Personal Development and Life Skills Each student is interviewed once a term by his or her Form Teacher Liaison with parents plays a vital role in the school s Pastoral Care Policy This takes the form of Open Evenings for the parents of years 8 11 and 13 as they begin their transition into a new key stage There are regular Parent Teacher Meetings and communication between staff and parents about the progress and development of individual pupils as required At Loreto College we aim to smooth the transition into each key stage through Induction Programs and assigning each class a Year 14 buddy Our year 8 students greatly benefit from being assigned a Year 13 Guardian Angel who helps to support them over their first year in the College This year our hands on approach to Pastoral Care has been celebrated with two prestigious awards The College has achieved the Take 5 for Wellbeing school status acknowledging our proactive efforts in fostering resilience and positivity This reflects our commitment to connecting with others learning new things staying active taking notice and giving to others Additionally AWARE NI has recognised the College s continuous dedication to promoting positive mental health by awarding us the Investors in Mental Health Award These accolades highlight our commitment to supporting the well being of our students and staff 12 Citizenship and Relationship and Sexuality Education form important aspects of the Pastoral programme It is the school s policy that Pastoral Care should be monitored and evaluated Dealing with Bullying The College will do everything possible to protect pupils from becoming either perpetrators or victims of bullying as outlined in our Addressing Bulling in Schools policy In the Pastoral Care Programme pupils are made aware of the various forms which bullying may take and the circumstances in which it tends to occur The Discipline Policy outlines the behaviour which is expected and all students staff and parents are encouraged to be vigilant in the recognition and reporting of bullying incidents Sanctions are administered in accordance with the Discipline Policy of the College Child Protection Policy The College will do everything possible to protect pupils from abuse or risk of abuse Because they are in regular and frequent contact with children members of school staff are particularly well placed to observe outward signs of abuse or to be aware of unexplained changes in behaviour or performance which may indicate abuse All members of staff are asked to exercise vigilance in their observations of pupils so that important signs are not overlooked The designated and deputy designated teachers for child protection are Mrs O McEwan Mrs S McCarry and Mrs F Pepin respectively A full copy of our policy on Child Protection is available on our school website Spirituality and Excellence Extra Curricular Activities The College encourages all of our students to participate fully in all aspects of school life to develop their special talents and to contribute positively to the outside community We offer a wide range of extra curricular activities with many clubs or activities taking place after school every day Activities range from Sports Games Drama Music Public Speaking Environmental and Social Justice Groups Yr8 10 Basketball Yr11 14 Senior Girls Gaelic All Years Cross Country Yr12 Economics Senior Music Band Group MONDAY Debating Homework Club Traditional Group Intermediate Level Yr10 Duke Of Edinburgh Yr9 10 Camogie Homework Club Maths Homework Club Senior Gaelic Football School Orchestra Yr8 11 Storytelling Club TUESDAY Yr12 Soccer Junior Camogie Jazz Group Lunchtime Period 6 Yr8 10 Girls Hockey Yr11 12 Netball Homework Club Yr9 STEM Club lunchtime Wk2 Junior Music Band Group WEDNESDAY Yr8 Soccer All Years Chess Club Pastoral Centre Senior Camogie THURSDAY Yr10 Soccer Yr10 STEM Club Lunchtime Wk2 Yr8 Boys Rugby Coleraine Rugby Club Coach Senior Gaelic Football Junior Senior Choir Yr9 Netball FRIDAY Harp Orchestra Music Room Sinead Close Yr14 Yr11 14 Basketball 13
Extra Curricular Sport Sport in Loreto is full of life You can get involved in our lively gaelic games club playing football hurling camogie and or ladies football You also have the opportunity to play soccer netball or get involved in cross country running with athletics very popular in the summer term You might just prefer to keep fit using our facilities for individual training Sport The following sports are available to pupils Archery Athletics Badminton Basketball Cheerleading Camogie Cross Country Dance Equestrian Fitness Club Gaelic Football Golf Gymnastics Hockey Hurling Netball Orienteering Outdoor Pursuits Rugby Soccer Swimming Tennis Trampolining 14 15
New GAA Games Promotions Officer for Loreto In September 2023 Derry GAA selected Loreto College as its new centre of excellence for the North Derry area and appointed Gavin McGeehan from Ballinderry as our new GAA Games Promotion Officer This appointment has brought a tremendous boost to the development of all Gaelic Games in the college and to the North Derry area We welcome the support of the local GAA clubs in helping us make this appointment possible Coming with tremendous experience Gavin has dedicated his career to nurturing young talent and has achieved remarkable success in coaching He has been an integral part of Derry s sporting landscape since 2014 serving as a Games Promotion Officer In this role he has tirelessly worked with both Primary and Secondary schools throughout the county imparting his knowledge and enthusiasm for sports He boasts a decade of experience within Derry GAA teams including Development Squads Minors U 20s and Seniors which underscores his profound understanding of the sport Gavin is the coach of the Derry Minor Team who are the current All Ireland Champions and has coached teams to Ulster titles in 2015 and 2017 GAA All Stars Award Aine McAllister and Maebh Boylan School Shows Loreto College has a very strong Drama department complete with its own fully equipped theatre The school produces a major musical production every two years Recent Shows West Side Story Beauty and the Beast Footloose Sound of Music Phantom of the Opera Guys Dolls Oklahoma Smaller productions are staged regularly by students from our popular Drama club 16 17
Music The Music department boasts a large number of high calibre musical ensembles which include School Orchestra Junior Choir Senior Choir Jazz Band an Irish Traditional group and our very own harp orchestra All students are encouraged to develop their talents and our practice rooms resonate with many a fledgling pop rock group Individual tuition is offered in all orchestral instruments as well as piano singing guitar harp and drums Loreto is very fortunate to have its own Traditional Irish Music Group Tigh Tara Individual Tuition in Music Instrumental and singing lessons are provided subject to the personnel resources available to prepare students for examinations Trinity College and Guildhall respectively The fee of 420 is payable in advance in two instalments These charges will not be remitted Junior Traditional Musicians Junior Choir Senior Choir Spirituality and Excellence Outdoor Learning Building Life Skills Duke of Ed Colour Run Loreto ECO Code I commit to doing my part in creating a Litter free environment I will endeavour to Organise waste by recycling and reusing I will Respect all school property I will spend time outdoors to Enjoy nature and actively learn about the world around us I will Think of others globally and be proactive in supporting those in need I will see each day as an Opportunity to try to reduce my carbon footprint in the hope of preserving the Godgiven gift of the world for now and for the sake of future generations to come Eco School
Educational Visits The College acknowledges the benefit of learning outside of the classroom and frequently organises educational visits for example History Trip Berlin Spanish Trip Theatre Visits London Geography Trip Rome Colosseum Geography Trip Beijing Geography Trip New York Geography Trip Los Angeles and Las Vegas French Trip Paris Religion Trip Rome Ski Trip Switzerland Bulgaria 20 Spirituality and Excellence School Uniform School Uniform Loreto College prides itself on the high standards of uniform and presentation of all pupils Boys Uniform School Blazer Black trousers Blue Shirt V neck pullover Tie Dark grey or black socks Black shoes Only formal black shoes allowed notrainer style shoes School Coat new in 2022 Uniform Scarf optional Sixth form tie for year 13 14 students only Girls Uniform School Blazer Uniform Skirt to be worn at knee length Blue Blouse V neck pullover Tie Magicfit socks knee length Silver Grey or black tights Black flat heeled shoes Only formal black shoes allowed no trainer style shoes School Coat new in 2022 Uniform Scarf optional Sixth form tie for year 13 14 students only Boys PE Uniform Jersey Top Shorts Trainers Loreto Short Socks Swimming Trunks year 8 Girls PE Uniform PE Uniform Girls Jersey top Shorts Trainers Loreto Short Socks Swimsuit year 8 Also Available Loreto Skinny bottoms boys or girls Loreto leggings girls Loreto half zip Loreto Sweatshirt 11
Spirituality and Excellence Student Leadership Team Student Voice and Leadership Leadership development is an integral part of Loreto Education It seeks to foster personal growth and bring about social transformation In Loreto College Coleraine we seek to develop dynamic leaders with wisdom vision and the will to influence and bring about positive change in society Our students are encouraged to develop their leadership skills through participation in activities such as Student Council Justice League Debating Senior Leadership Programmes Peer Mentoring Eco Committee and varied Shared Education projects Student Leadership Team HEAD BOY Con McLaughlin I am the Head Boy of Loreto College I study Chemistry Biology Religious Studies with the ambition of pursuing a career in Medicine specifically in the surgical field Although coming from St Brigid s a relatively large primary school in Ballymoney I was still slightly fazed by the volume of students and sheer size of the College but with good friends and attentive staff the transition from primary to HEAD GIRL Connie McBride I am very honoured to be the Head Girl of Loreto College I went to primary school in St Patricks and St Josephs Glenullin and I live in Aghadowey with my two sisters parents and pup Nora I play Camogie for Glenullin seniors and for our own Loreto team Here at Loreto there really is something f o r everyone and I have been very lucky to be involved in a wide number of extracurricular activities that have really shaped my time in the college From the Justice League to Cross Country and even a school musical the experiences I have had have really broadened my horizons The friends I have made here are friends for life and just by being 22 secondary school was very smooth Throughout my time here as a student many different opportunities have been presented to me from taking part in various sports and musicals leadership roles and other extracurricular activities I ve been forever satisfied with the opportunities offered by the College which coincide with the high level of education and excellence that it seeks to provide To give back to the College I now use the skills I learned over the years by leading a Literacy Mentoring group to support younger students in their learning a member of our school we become part of a big Loreto family which has a great sense of community I am now the leader of our School Liturgical team and the Health and Well being Committee These opportunities have helped me to work with students across all key stages and provide positive experiences for all students Moving to a new school can be daunting but I know it helps to recognise a friendly face in school and that is what us members of the Student Leadership team are for We want to ensure all our fellow students get to have the amazing Loreto experience just like we ve had Spirituality and Excellence DEPUTY HEAD BOY Ethan Devlin I am the Deputy Head Boy and the leader of the Environmental EcoCommittee I am from Magilligan and I attended St Malachy s Primary School in Coleraine Coming from a primary school with less than 200 pupils was daunting but the transition was made easier by the friendly staff here at Loreto Loreto demonstrates the family feeling that surrounds the whole school and is a great way for younger pupils to get involved in school life The pastoral care at Loreto is exceptional and ensures that every child gets the support they need to excel both inside and outside of school I truly believe Loreto is the best environment for a child to learn and develop in I am currently studying Maths Biology Economics and Sport at A Level with the goal of studying Finance at university Everyone s ambitions are fully supported at Loreto and the staff do their best to help everyone achieve their goals My time at the college has been flooded with joy and memories that will last a life time I have made most of my memories representing the College on the soccer and Gaelic field Sport at Shared Education Environmental Conference DEPUTY HEAD GIRL Sin ad Close I am the Deputy Head Girl I came from a very small primary school called St Patrick s and St Joseph s located in Glenullin I was very nervous about coming to Loreto as a first year because it was such a change However my nerves were immediately put at ease due to everyone being so welcoming Loreto has given me so many opportunities I have represented our school competing in the All Ireland final of the Siansa Gael Linn competition as well as playing in an All Ireland junior camogie semi final I have also taking part in the UKMT team Maths challenge I have really enjoyed taking part in our wonderful school shows West Side Story Beauty and the Beast and Oklahoma I am the director of our Harp orchestra and love organising Ceilis for our Health and Well being initiative using my traditional music skills I am currently studying Maths Chemistry Biology and Physics and hope to study Biomedical Engineering or Maths 23
Spirituality and Excellence Aisling McIntyre I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Senior Leadership Team where I can use my role to help set an example for younger students I came from a small school in Portstewart called St Colum s Primary The transition from a small school to Loreto seemed frightening but my fears quickly diminished when I was welcomed with open arms into Loreto I have now been given the opportunity to further broaden my knowledge by studying A levels such as Economics Maths and Geography Loreto has provided me with a multitude of opportunities for growth and development From engaging extracurricular activities to challenging academic programmes I ve been able to explore various interests and gain valuable skills Through participation in Sports and our Justice League I have formed meaningful connections with peers I also take the lead in our Numeracy peer mentoring to support younger students in learning Overall Loreto has equipped me with the tools and experiences necessary to succeed both inside and outside the classroom laying a strong foundation for my future studies where I hope to study Economics and Finance at University Jack Maguire I am proud to say I am part of the Student Leadership Team Back in 2018 I joined Loreto as a first year student from St Josephs Primary School in Dunloy and let me tell you it was daunting at first getting to know all your teachers and especially your way around the school However after a few weeks I knew my way around like the back of my hand I am happy to say I am the leader of the STEM Science Technology Engineering and Maths Committee I organise events for all STEM subjects using the brilliant facilities available in the departments Loreto offers a wide range of activities to entertain everyone from sports including football and hurling to chess clubs and drama performances I have had the opportunity to take part in several Open days and events the school have hosted such as our Spring Concert I am currently studying A Levels My subjects of choice are Maths Computing Technology and Physics In the future I would like to study Software Engineering at University I enjoy coding and taking on different projects both in and out of school that the 11 year old me would have only dreamed of doing Eddie Kilmartin I am delighted to be a member of the Student Leadership Team this year I came from a relatively small primary school called St Patricks and St Josephs in Glenullin Coming to Loreto seemed very scary at first but staff and students reassured and welcomed me so warmly that I soon settled in I have made great friends at Loreto and we have all reached our potential in some way 24 either through sport academic work or through music and drama with the guidance of so many brilliant teachers l lead the Sports Committee and my aim in this role is to ensure there is a place for everyone to do what they enjoy in a positive supportive environment I am currently studying Maths Chemistry and Geography for A level and would like to study Engineering in the future at university Spirituality and Excellence Jayla Harrison Before starting my journey at Loreto I was a pupil at Termoncanice Primary school in Limavady For me it was a big decision to decide on which secondary school to go to but after a short visit to Loreto s Open Day my mind was made up I am now currently in my sixth year of college life at Loreto and I can genuinely say that they have been the best 6 years of my life I am currently a member of the School Council and I am a Senior Prefect I am also proud to say that I have recently created a Social Justice committee which I plan on doing amazing work with Throughout my time at Loreto I have explored a wide variety of subjects made lifelong friends and made unforgettable memories Loreto has offered me an extremely supportive learning environment which has allowed me to excel in my education I am now studying four A Level subjects including Biology Chemistry Geography and Economics Although these subjects prove to be challenging at times I know that I have excellent teachers who can help me with my learning As well as academics the college has allowed me to experiment with other areas of curriculum including sports music and the arts Rotary Leadership For the past six years a student from Loreto College has won the coveted Youth Leadership Development Competition presented by Rotary International We are delighted to announce Tess Mullan as our most recent awardee pictured with Mrs Pepin My education at Loreto has always been exciting as it is expanded outside of the classroom with opportunities outside of school and subject trips I plan on studying Biomedicine at university and I am confident that Loreto will help me to strive to achieve my future goals Student Council with the Education Minister Paul Givan CoP Climate Change Conference 21 Rotary Leadership Senior Prefects STEM Club 25
Spirituality and Excellence Homework Homework is an extension of school work which is completed after school hours It has several educational purposes It reinforces work done in class It allows pupils to test their powers of recall and learning It prepares pupils for work to be done in the future It develops a habit of independent study Guidelines Parents Pupils The following is a guide KS3 Yr 8 10 11 2 2 hrs per night KS4 Yr 11 12 2 21 2 hrs per night KS5 Yr 13 14 3 hrs per night Pupils record all homework in homework diaries Parents are asked to check that these are maintained and that homeworks are completed Homework may take various forms such as writing learning research planning or drawing It may include coursework for assessment Celebrating Academic Excellence A Level Results In 2024 our A level results were impressive with all but one of our students gaining a place in their chosen University course Three students achieved an amazing four A grades or better Eleven students achieved three straight As or better One student Sean Faulkner who is Loreto College s Head Boy managed to achieve a wonderful three A grades whilst Emily Allen achieved an A and three grade As in her four A level subjects Sean is studying Medicine at Queen s University Belfast whilst Emily is studying English at St Andrews In the year group as a whole 74 students obtained 3 A level grades A to C and 60 of all grades obtained were A A or Bs GCSE Results In 2024 our GCSE students achieved outstanding examination results Despite CCEA s much publicised move to lower the grade outcomes and bring this year s results into line with pre Covid norms Loreto College students appear to have bucked the trend with the students far exceeding the results achieved back in 2019 Of all students in the year group 95 gained five grades A C or better with 88 attaining seven A C grades 87 of all grades obtained by students in the College were A C Among the very top achievers Mia Campbell and Dubhla Mullan each scored an amazing nine A grades and one A Zara Chan Stanislaw Sobocinska and Saoirse Tuttey each achieved 11 A grades or better in their GCSE subjects Of the students who attained 10 grade As or better Erin Molyneaux achieved 7 A s and 3 As Tess Mullan got 5 A s and 5 As whilst Anna Donaghy Eloise Higgins and Kyra Stockman each achieved 3 A s and 7 grade As The amount of homework set will increase as Study and revision should be part of a good pupils progress from Years 8 14 In Key Stage homework schedule 3 pupils may expect to get approximately 10 hours of homework per week Senior pupils A Homework Club runs after school on four spend a minimum of 15 hours on homework afternoons each week each week A pupil is never able to say I have no homework 26 27
Spirituality and Excellence The Curriculum The curriculum on offer at Loreto College is broad and balanced providing our students with the opportunity to study a wide range of subjects in line with the requirements of the Northern Ireland Curriculum Students are encouraged to develop fully their skills and talents and to become autonomous learners Key Stage 3 Pupils in Years 8 10 study a vibrant varied curriculum providing as wide an experience as possible In their form class groups the pupils study the following subjects every week with lesson totals based on a typical Year 8 timetable English 5 periods per week Mathematics 5 periods per week Science 5 periods per week Religious Education 4 periods per week Geography 3 periods per week History 3 periods per week ICT 2 periods per week Physical Education 2 periods per week The pupils also choose two languages from French 3 periods per week Irish 3 periods per week Spanish 3 periods per week In smaller groups the pupils also study Art Design Drama Home Economics Music Technology In addition to this Year 8 pupils have the opportunity to go swimming Coleraine Leisure Centre once a fortnight All Y8 10 pupils have a Form Period each week a Learning for Life and Work period each week and gather together as a form class every morning for Registration or Assembly Pupils entering Year 8 are assessed using GL s Cognitive Ability Test CAT to allow for appropriate arrangements for banding and setting in certain subject areas Spirituality and Excellence Key Stage 4 GCSE Subject Choices will be made at the end of Year 10 in consultation with Subject teachers Parents and the Careers Department All pupils study a core curriculum of English Maths Religious Education Science Careers General PE Learning for Life Work Non Exam Modules Pupils can choose from the following subjects Most pupils take a minimum of nine GCSEs Art Design Biology Business Communication Chemistry Systems Child Development Computing Digital Double Award Technology Science Drama Economics English Literature Food and Nutrition Further Maths French Geography History ICT Irish Music PE GCSE Physics Single Award Science Spanish Technology Occupational studies are also offered in a range of subjects and may include Bench Joinery Child Care Using Office Technology Computer Aided Design Contemporary Cuisine Patisserie and Baking Electrical Wiring Electronic Circuit Construction Sports Leadership Running a Leisure Event 2830 29
Spirituality and Excellence Post 16 Studies The College offers 25 A level and Vocational courses Most students study four subjects at AS level and continue with three to A level Students will choose three or four A Level subjects from the following Art Biology Construction Computing the Built Environment Business Studies Design Technology Chemistry Economics English English Language Literature French Further Maths Geography Government Politics Health Social Care History Irish IT Mathematics Music Nutrition Food Science Physics Religious Education Spanish Sport Theatre Studies Coleraine Area Learning Partnership CALP The curriculum at KS4 and KS5 is reviewed annually and tailored to meet the needs and interests of each cohort of students Additional subjects may be accessed via collaboration with our Partner Schools in the Coleraine Area Learning Partnership Academic Excellence at KS5 Enrichment for Post 16 A range of enrichment courses are also on offer to our A Level Students Sixth Form Enrichment program includes Personal Development Careers Sport Religious Education and Charity Outreach Year 14 students have preparing for university life modules helping them to prepare for budgeting study and cooking Justice League SVP Embedded in the Ethos of Loreto is the aim to encourage our Students to be Agents of Social Change The Justice League and SVP groups engage in various activities aimed at promoting equality These activities include fund raising visiting residential homes and discussion forums As a Loreto School we recognise we belong to a worldwide network As such we host our annual Mission Day to support Loreto Missions worldwide 30 Spirituality and Excellence Careers The aim of Careers Education in the school is to help pupils acquire the skills attitudes and values which will enable them to identify their gifts and to use them to select a fulfilling and worthwhile career Through a systematic and on going programme of Careers education pupils develop knowledge and understanding of themselves and others as individuals knowledge and understanding of the world in which they live the career opportunities available and the routes of entry to them the skills and personal qualities needed to manage their career development including the ability to make considered choices formulate and implement career plans and cope with the transition from school to higher education and adult life More formal Careers Guidance begins in Year 10 when pupils select their subjects for GCSE In Years 11 and 12 pupils have timetabled Careers classes They are also interviewed by a Careers Officer from the Department for Employment and Learning In Years 13 and 14 Careers is taught in small groups Contact with employers representatives from Higher Education and from other relevant agencies is provided through a series of fortnightly lectures by visiting speakers through attendance at University Open Days and through the Work Experience programme Year 14 Trial Interviews Trial Interviews are arranged for Year 14 during which each student is interviewed by a panel of professionals in each specialist area Do good and do it well Mary Ward 31
Spirituality and Excellence Caf Loreto In Loreto we take great pride in producing food which is nutritious appealing and attractively presented with the emphasis on healthier choices The canteen uses a Biometric cashless system with each pupil having a personalised account and is open for a light breakfast and for mid day lunch The main means by which parents can pay for lunches and other charges is ParentPay This means that money can be paid online from home completely securely Transport Transport is available from all areas to the school Many pupils are eligible for free transport provided that their home is more than 3 miles measured by the nearest available route from the school and that transport to the school is already available Application forms may be obtained from Education Authority If there is a suitable school within 3 miles of the pupils home free transport will not be provided to another school unless the school within walking distance has refused the pupil a place Senior prefects play a supervisory role on all school buses 32 Spirituality and Excellence Loreto College School Bus Timetable Morning Afternoon Afternoon Departure From To Service Departure Departure Departure Times No Time Times from Times from for after School Bus Station School Activities Agivey 116 08 04 15 30 15 40 17 05 Ardreagh 117 08 04 8 45 15 30 15 40 17 05 Articlave 134 08 25 15 25 15 45 17 15 Ballerin 117 07 56 08 23 15 30 15 40 17 05 Ballycastle 171 07 35 15 27 15 45 17 50 Ballykelly 134 143 08 20 15 20 15 40 17 30 Ballymoney 173 08 30 15 20 15 30 17 05 Ballerena 134 07 50 15 25 15 40 17 15 Castlerock 134 08 15 15 25 15 32 15 40 17 15 Downhill 134 08 15 15 25 15 40 17 15 Dungiven Feeney 124 146 08 00 08 10 15 20 15 40 17 15 Dunloy 113 173 08 00 15 20 15 30 17 05 Eglinton 134 143 141 07 45 15 20 15 40 17 30 Faughanvale 134 143 08 10 15 20 15 40 17 15 Finvoy 118 173 08 08 15 20 No Service 17 05 Garvagh 116A 08 05 15 20 15 40 17 05 Greysteel 134 143 141 07 50 15 20 15 45 17 30 Kilrea 116B 08 00 15 25 15 50 17 05 Limavady via Magilligan 134 07 35 15 20 15 40 17 15 Limavady 134 08 25 15 20 15 40 17 15 Loughgiel 133 173 07 55 15 20 15 30 17 05 Macosquin 117 08 15 08 25 15 20 15 40 17 05 Maghera 116 08 00 15 20 15 50 17 10 Magherafelt 176 116 07 25 15 20 15 50 17 10 Magilligan 134 08 01 15 25 15 40 17 15 Milltown 134 08 00 15 40 15 32 No Service Portglenone 115 116 07 35 15 25 15 30 No Service Portrush 140 08 05 15 25 15 50 17 20 Portstewart 140 08 05 15 25 16 00 17 30 Rasharkin 118 173 08 00 15 20 15 30 17 05 Ringsend 117 08 00 15 20 15 30 No Service Ballymoney via Loughan 178 08 20 No Service No Service 17 15 Mountsandel 178 08 45 15 33 16 00 17 00 Loughan via Mountsandel 178 08 36 15 33 No Service No Service 33
Spirituality and Excellence Charges and Fees Capital Fees The Board of Governors is required by the Education Reform NI Order to establish its own Charges and Remissions Policy This policy will operate for the incoming Financial Year and will be subject to monitoring and review The Board of Governors levies annual capital charge of 110 in respect of each pupil at the school for the purpose of meeting expenditure on the provision or alteration of school premises equipment provided in connection with the provision or alteration of school premises This fee is payable by 18th June for Year 8 pupils 4th September for Years 11 14 pupils 6th November for Years 9 10 pupils The wearing of the school uniform including blazer is compulsory as is PE uniform Parents who are receiving Income Support or Income based Job Seekers Allowance are entitled to assistance towards the purchase of school and PE Uniform Application forms can be obtained from the Education Authority Headquarters Examination Entries Approved Public Examinations The Entry fee is paid by the school for a pupil to sit once any GCSE ALevel subject A Level module or AS Level for which the school prepares the pupil Any other Examination Entry fees are the responsibility of the pupil Transport Transport will be provided free of charge where such transport can be classified as necessary to the education provided for the pupils eg Fieldwork in Geography Biology etc School Property Parents are asked to pay for repair or replacement of damaged fabric furnishing or equipment where this damage is the result of their child s behaviour Practical Subjects A charge will be made for ingredients and materials used by a pupil where parents indicate in advance a wish to own the finished product A charge will be made for ingredients and material used by a pupil for subjects such as Home Economics Technology or Art 34 INSPECTION FEEDBACK The Loreto vision inspires pupils to grow physically spiritually intellectually and emotionally in a caring environment guided by Gospel values This vision is the legacy of Mary Ward and the religious order of Loreto sisters who founded the school Today the college strives for spirituality and excellence for all members of its school community in every aspect of its work particularly the academic Pupils are encouraged to achieve highly care for others and be agents of social change In September 2024 the ETI carried out a full inspection of the school The inspection report is available on our school website and is extremely complimentary about Loreto College the quality of educational provision provided academic standards and the tremendous sense of community and our special Loreto ethos The curriculum out workings is a strength it is very well planned and is informed by the learners interests abilities and ambitions The pupils are well motivated articulate and display positive attitudes to learning They work well individually and collaboratively They approach lessons with positivity and engage confidently in their learning The school places high value on high academic outcomes the standards attained by pupils in public examinations Pupil participation in the attractive and wide ranging extra curricular offer is high with most of the pupils indicating that they enjoy or benefit from one or more activities are in line with or exceed these expectations The college quickly identifies and supports pupils who may need additional assistance Initiatives such as the daily free to all breakfast club and the sale of pre worn uniforms promote inclusivity and environmental sustainability The college grows a thriving community of learning through being a faith community a school community and through its external links and partnerships There is a clear and cohesive approach to planning the learning for pupils with SEN informed by the personal learning plans PLPs and allow individual subject teachers to identify strategies to support pupils across the curriculum by answering the question The College How can I meet continues to achieve high academic outcomes for its pupils and this element of the school s work remains focused robust and is at the core of their work on a daily basis The well planned progressive preventative curriculum addresses relevant and contemporary issues and is supplemented with a wide range of bespoke external speakers including a post 16 enrichment programme to help pupils take care of their emotional health and wellbeing and equip them to make informed choices their needs Careers education information and guidance CEIAG is provided through well The college fosters an inclusive ethos where pupils appreciate diversity and show care for one another The school is wholly pupil centred The Pastoral Centre provides a comfortable and welcoming space for learning support offering effective interventions in numeracy literacy and peer mentoring planned discrete careers lessons modules within the schemes of work in learning for life and work and special events
What Our Parents Say I feel that Loreto sets excellent expectations with I feel it is wonderful that my daughter has a guardian angel in school I also feel the interview with form teacher is a fantastic idea to check all pupils have settled well I cannot thank the staff enough for how well my daughter has settled into her new school She loves school and wants so much to please her teachers She loves them all Thank you so much Coming from a small primary school regard to uniform learning and behaviour class of 12 my child is so happy and confident at Loreto He has settled in well and developed great friendships He has never complained about going to school which is a great positive My daughter really enjoys school and it has been a joy to see her talents and interests being nurtured The school s strong academic focus has really motivated my child to work hard and enjoy the rewards I feel informed about the life I have to compliment the support staff and school office who are always all so accommodating They are efficient and reliable and always so friendly Nothing is ever a problem Messages are passed on promptly and There is a wide selection of extracurricular activities for creative children and those interested in sport and music This allows pupils to make friends outside of their form group as well As a school I once attended I am delighted high standards are maintained in all areas of the school through the text system and the school Facebook page I think that Loreto is providing an excellent allround education for my children in very trying times My child is so happy at school I am delighted our girls attend this school The pastoral care and you can tell they have the the professionalism of the staff is children s welfare and best interests to heart There is a wide selection of extra curricular activities for creative children and those interested in excellent I feel they support my girls achieve their desire to do well sport and music This allows pupils to make friends in exams and the education outside of their form group as well I like that the teachers are approachable in school and that they care for our mental health and wellbeing It is an amazing school with lots of subjects to choose from I like the wide variety of sports I have enjoyed The canteen provides a good service The quality of their food is not to be undermined it is delicious There is What Our Pupils Say Senior students look after younger pupils they help guide us to classes they hold open doors and respect us as they would with their year group I really like the fact that if you ever need to you can talk to any teacher about anything and they will try their best to help you through it without hesitation I enjoy the wide range of subject choices taking part in the always something for I like having group classes school show everyone and form classes to change things up every now and then I also like my form class with all my friends in it What I mostly like about school is seeing my favourite teachers and my friends having lunch and going to my favourite subjects mostly HomeEconomic practicals I really like playing camogie for Loreto I like the fact that you can talk to any teacher and they will listen and respect you and help you with any needs you I like that there is a counsellor in the school who can help students with what s going on in their life and I like that there is an eco committee I like the way the school cares about the environment have in the school Source Whole School Audit 2022
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