Enrichment and Trips
Enrichment
These short courses are designed to work alongside your formal studies to expand your intellectual and practical skills and to broaden your college experience. One period each week is devoted to your choice of vocational, recreational, cultural or sporting options.
Courses include:
- Performing Arts – including choir, college production and orchestra.
- Science Club
- Creative Writing
- Team Sports
- Media Studio Skills
- Chaplaincy enrichment
- Webster Project – mentoring in primary school
- Loreto Volunteers
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
Many of our students come to us from high schools where the Duke of Edinburgh Award operates and they wish to carry on with the programme; others have no experience of the project but are keen to get involved. Loreto’s Duke of Edinburgh Award programme can cater for both groups.
We currently have over 150 students working towards the various levels of the award. Gold award students attended their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Presentation at St James’ Palace. They had the opportunity to meet Prince Edward who spoke personally to each award holder about their DofE experience. They were presented their awards by Ade Adepitan, the former GB wheelchair basketball player and Paralympic presenter. The day was a great occasion to highlight the determination and effort of all the students involved.
Students participating in the DofE programme have to demonstrate commitment, determination, reliability and, above all, initiative. They have to take part in a physical activity, such as swimming, rock climbing, football, badminton or any other sport and keep an accurate log. They must choose and develop a skill; for example playing a musical instrument, cookery, photography or jewellery making. They volunteer in a variety of capacities: in schools, playgroups, old people’s homes, Brownie, Guide, Cub and Scout groups, even at animal shelters. The students also go on expeditions up into the hills, where they learn the skills of navigation and the value of teamwork. The students on the programme tell us that, although they might have joined initially with a friend, they very quickly strike up new relationships with other students with whom they might not otherwise have come into contact. It can be a great social experience, as well as being an award recognised nationally and valued highly by employers and universities.
Trips and Events
Loreto students have the opportunity to get involved in many non-subject-based trips and activities throughout the year. Here are just some of the events Loreto students have enjoyed:-
- Higher Education visits
- United Nations Conference
- Careers Fair
- Music Showcase
- Theatre Performances
- Volunteer Work
- Mary Ward Day
- Debating Club
- Chaplaincy Team
- Art Exhibition
- Charity Events
- Lourdes Trip
- Fair Trade Group
- Musical performances
- Sporting Events
- Christmas Homeless Persons’ Party
- Exhibitions
International visits include:
- Germany
- India
- USA
- France
- Iceland
- Greece
- Costa Rica
- Spain
- Poland
College Ball
Every summer Loreto students and staff let their hair down in style. The students’ council organises a Leavers’ Ball in the prestigious Principal Hotel. Last year students and staff enjoyed a glittering evening, complete with a delicious meal, entertainment from magicians and a dazzling DJ set. It’s a chance for staff and students to say goodbye, look to the future and enjoy themselves. It’s also an excuse to buy a new outfit…!