First Impressions
An account from a new member of staff of her first impressions at Loretto
I imagine my first experiences of Loretto have been relatively similar to those of a new pupil. From the very first day of arriving at Loretto I have felt' at home'. I believe this is the key to Loretto. It is small enough to be a home from home where pupils are known and treated as individuals, and yet large enough to provide students with the opportunities that any school would provide academically, in extra curricular activities and on the sports field.
Loretto is genuinely a very friendly, caring and happy community. Both staff and students work to create a friendly campus. New pupils are put to ease quickly not only with the help of their shadow but by a willing and helpful student population. In every aspect of school life each individual's progress is of great importance and the school provides the environment to help each pupil reach his/her full potential, in whatever field that may be.
In house we endeavour to create an atmosphere where pupils feel it is there home. They learn to live with such a wide range of people and develop real respect for each individual regardless of their nationality. They are encouraged to gain independence in mind and spirit. The students have a voice through the house council and have a say in how their house is run. The refreshing thing about Loretto is that their input is valued and acknowledged. There is a genuine depth of friendship that students have for each other. In boarding, they learn a sense of social responsibility and show a genuine concern and care for each other.
In the sixth form we aim to provide care, guidance and support balanced by opportunities for responsibility and individual freedom. The sixth form seem to be encouraged to develop an open yet respectful relationship with staff. The House staff provides the support for their pastoral matters and wellbeing and the Tutors are there to guide them through their two years of important study and of course help them with their UCAS forms. With this strong support network students can have confidence in their own ability to make a difference to their own lives. They provide the core of the student body which gives them the practical opportunity to develop qualities of teamwork and leadership. Often giving them invaluable insight into the virtues they may require for their future lives, tolerance, compassion and respect.
To sum up I have already seen the benefits of a co educational boarding school, particularly in 6th form, at Loretto. Leavers will depart with the best possible preparation for further education and their working lives. If they have thrown themselves into school life with energy and enthusiasm they will have got a great deal out of being here. They will have found out the true meaning of lasting friendship, learnt how to set the highest possible personal standards and have fulfilled their potential in all aspects of their education.