On Tuesday, 2nd December, Loreto College marked a significant milestone with the blessing and official opening of two new buildings on our campus. This event brought together members of the Loreto community, including Sisters of the CJ (Congregation of Jesus), former leaders, colleagues past and present, and student chaplaincy representatives, to celebrate our shared heritage and future.
We were honoured to welcome Bishop John Arnold (Diocese of Salford) and Tom Stannard, Chief Executive of Manchester City Council, who led the blessing and formal opening of the St Vincent’s and Our Lady’s buildings. Their presence underscored the importance of education as a catalyst for growth and opportunity in Manchester and beyond.
Principal, Michael Jaffrain, addressed guests with a message rooted in Loreto’s enduring values:
“The principles Mary Ward articulated over 400 years ago continue to guide everything we do at Loreto. These values are woven into our curriculum, our relationships, and now into these new spaces that symbolise growth, faith, ambition, and above all, our unwavering commitment to young people.”
He added:
“These buildings are not just bricks and mortar; they represent belief in the future of Loreto education and its positive impact on the lives of our students.”
Tom Stannard highlighted how Loreto’s expansion aligns with Manchester’s education and skills strategy, praising the college’s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency:
“New educational buildings act as anchors for community regeneration, local employment, and city vibrancy. Facilities like these would not seem out of place on a top-ranking university campus.”
The ceremony concluded with a blessing by Bishop John Arnold,
“Let us ask God to bless this building.
Loving Father, we praise you for your glory.
Look on us with love and we gather here today. Bless this building,
which we dedicate to Our Lady / Saint Vincent,
in the service of your people and of this community.
Bless your people as they use this space, bring your peace and joy into their lives, and fill them with your happiness.
Father, we give you thanks and praise
for ever and ever
Amen”.
The event was accompanied by festive music from our talented student brass players. The warmth and light of the new buildings reflected the spirit of the occasion—a celebration of heritage, progress, and confidence in the next generation.
Loreto College has stood on this site since 1851, and these new spaces reaffirm our mission to be centred in God, rooted in Christ and animated by the spirit of Mary Ward. As we look ahead, we remain committed to Mary Ward’s vision and to empowering young people to achieve their full potential.
If you are interested in finding out more about Loreto’s long and proud history and how it all began, you can visit our interactive timeline taking your from 1585, right up to the present : 1585-1849 – Loreto
