Loretto School boasts its own unique history and traditions, much like the country it calls home. Here, students experience the prestige of a British education in tandem with Scotland’s distinctive and exciting heritage.
Following the British examination system, they are presented with a broad subject offering and the prestige of studying one of the world’s most respected curriculums. Whether sitting BTECs, GCSEs, or A Levels, they learn at a level that suits their individual needs, translating to academic excellence.
Their exceptional achievements are especially evident as they embark on life after Loretto — each year, leavers are presented with a wealth of opportunities at esteemed further education destinations, both within the UK and internationally. Although this year’s UCAS deadline has only just passed, students have already been offered an abundance of places at top institutions, including Oxbridge, Durham University, the University of Edinburgh, and Loughborough University. In an increasingly competitive world, holding such highly valued qualifications proves to be of the utmost importance.
Loretto School’s campus has 25 different nationalities represented. Source: Loretto School
The ultimate setting for living and learning
Features of Scotland’s landscape, including beaches, lochs, and dramatic mountains, inspire all who lay their eyes on them. Loretto’s prime location on the East Lothian coast proves to be an ideal setting for young people. Making the most of the school’s beautiful surroundings, an outdoor education programme is enjoyed by Lorettonians, encouraging each of them to develop an affinity with the natural environment whilst also being beneficial for their wellbeing and academic attainment.
Meanwhile, the campus’s proximity to Edinburgh means students are never too far from the hustle and bustle of Scotland’s capital city —- steeped in history, stunning architecture, and culture. Each summer, eight festivals take place in Edinburgh alone, including The Fringe – the world’s largest arts festival – meaning there’s something to suit everyone’s interests.
Just as beautiful as its locations are the country’s traditions. Days of celebration, including Burns Night and Hogmanay, ceilidhs soundtracked by the sound of the bagpipes, and culinary delights all add to the excitement of studying in Scotland. So proud of the nation’s heritage, Loretto offers regular opportunities for students to participate in cultural events — with these being brought to life with support from enthusiastic teaching and catering teams. Such events are key in integrating international students into the school community and wider country.
25 different nationalities are warmly welcomed to Loretto, making for a vibrant and diverse student body that also opens students’ eyes to the opportunities of the modern world.
“When I joined Loretto, I was warmly welcomed by the teachers and other pupils,” says Chelsea, a Fifth Form student.“They were kind and showed me around, what to do, and who to ask for help — that made me feel included like I’d been here a long time.”
Loretto School graduates go on to Oxbridge, Durham University, the University of Edinburgh, and Loughborough University. Source: Loretto School
Education in motion
For those passionate about movement, there really is no greater place to study. Since the school’s founding nearly 200 years ago, daily movement has been a top priority. Loretto’s founder, Hely Hutchinson Almond, emphasised the positive effects of exercise for young people and implemented regular periods throughout the day for students to be active. Revolutionising Scottish education, other schools began to follow suit.
Today, Lorettonians take part in a variety of sports. Whether it’s the main games of the season or something niche, the expertise of Loretto’s coaches ensures every student can flourish in their sport of choice. Perhaps best known for being the birthplace of golf, Scotland hosts over 500 golf courses. Loretto established the first golf academy within an independent school, ensuring young people can play to the best of their abilities and make the most of the country’s courses. Outstanding players are created with support from five PGA professionals and access to the academy’s facilities.
The school isn’t only committed to nurturing sporting talent. At Loretto, the potential of every child is realised, no matter where their passions lie.
“Everyone has their own strengths and is good at something. The wonderful thing about Loretto is that it allows pupils to find their place and what they are good at,” says Academic Deputy Head Dr. Michael Topping. “I think that’s the lovely thing about our pupils — they are happy because they enjoy what they are doing.”
An extensive extracurricular programme of over 70 different activities allows students to discover and develop their unique interests, whether academic, artistic, sporting, or a combination of all three. From astronomy to entrepreneurship, students are kept engaged and present in the real world, whilst also developing skills for life.
“The reason I came to Loretto was to open up my options,” says Jake, a Fifth Form student. “Teachers push you outside your comfort zone, but I think that’s good for every pupil. It gets you out there doing different and new things and discovering things you never knew you liked.”
Throughout history, Scotland has been at the forefront of innovation. Loretto is no different — combining tradition with modernity, in addition to the best of British education and Scotland’s remarkable culture, exceptional lives are created.
