Sport Scholarships

Download a pdf our of Scholarships brochure and Application Form.

Sport plays a vital role in the life of pupils at Loretto. The School has a long tradition of producing competitive and successful teams in both major and minor sports. Loretto believes in the unique educational and social values that the experience of playing team sports provides, and considers participation in team sports to be very important.

There are a wide variety of sports and physical activities available at Loretto and the aim is to provide all pupils with the opportunity to participate in as many activities as possible. This contributes to Lorettonians being fit, healthy and having a positive attitude to sport.

Scholars' programme

Through our programme of scholarships, we aim to provide the elite sports person with the training opportunities, facilities, coaching and competition to enable them to fulfil their sporting potential.

● A minimum of 8-10 hrs of sport per week.

● Excellent coaching from in-house and external coaches.

● Access to representative sport through District and National squad programmes.

● Good quality facilities with a commitment to ongoing investment and development.

● Access to the School fitness centre and specialist strength and conditioning coach.

● Excellent video analysis facilities.

● A competitive but enjoyable and friendly environment.

● Strong links with clubs for further training and competitive opportunities.

● Regular domestic tours and international tours every three years to countries such as to Australia and South Africa.

Sports scholarships are awarded to boys who show outstanding ability or potential in rugby, cricket or hockey. Sports scholarships are awarded to girls who show outstanding ability or potential in hockey or lacrosse. Scholars will be expected to display a high level of commitment and motivation.

Cricket

Cricket at Loretto is undergoing something of a revolution and the School is embarking on a major development plan. Cricket scholars benefit from the expert coaching of Michael Powell (former Warwickshire CCC, England A and ECB level 4 coach) who is a full time member of staff at Loretto and in charge of co-ordinating the cricket programme. The School currently boasts 4 junior internationals alongside a number of regional representative cricketers. Loretto has strong links with the National Academy and NCL clubs.

Rugby

Rugby scholars can expect a high level of coaching from within the School and from specialist external coaches. Loretto regularly produces regional representative players and has produced Scotland U18 representatives in recent years. A rugby scholar can expect a closely monitored individual progress plan covering all aspects of the game, including skills development, strength and conditioning and psychological aspects. Well established links with Musselburgh and Haddington Rugby Clubs allows extra playing opportunities, particularly for younger players.

Hockey

Hockey scholars benefit from the expert coaching of Stephen Dick, who played at the Beijing Olympics with the British team in 2008. Loretto plays on a well organised and highly competitive circuit ensuring a good competitive experience. Throughout the season extra group and individual coaching and practice is available with our specialist coaches. The opportunity to play National League hockey is available through links with Inverleith Hockey Club.

Lacrosse

Lacrosse scholars benefit form experienced coaching from our resident American lacrosse coach.The lacrosse season is a busy one with players competing in both Scotland and England. Last year the 1st XII reached the National Finals in the North Small Schools Tournament.They also travel to the National Schools Tournament in March. Numerous girls train with and compete for Junior Scotland Lacrosse (8 competed in 2007).We currently also have one player competing at Senior Scotland level. Out of season, small group and individual coaching continues to take place. Loretto also has a good club link with Edinburgh Thistle Lacrosse Club.

Assessments

Scholars can be assessed 'in situ' where the Director of Sport or Head of Girls' Games would assess the performer playing in their regular environment (eg a school match). The applicant should produce a portfolio of playing experience and achievement. At interview the applicant would need to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of their chosen sport(s) as well as enthusiasm.

Exhibitions are also available in the minor sports played at Loretto.

Tom Cahn, Lower Sixth Form, Sport Scholar

"I joined Loretto from St Columba's school near Glasgow at the age of 13. I am a sport scholar and have greatly improved my overall performance as a result of the sports coaching and opportunities. I play for Loretto in all our major teams: rugby, hockey and cricket, playing schools around Scotland and further afield in the UK. I am currently getting ready for the rugby and hockey tour to Australia this summer. Loretto has a lot more to offer than just working in the classroom; with all the facilities the School has there are so many activities on offer after the school day."