Key Stage 5

Loreto Education - 'Vision and Values'

Loreto schools and colleges in England are centred in God, rooted in Christ and animated by the spirit of Mary Ward, the founder of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Our vision is that they will be educational communities where each person has the experience of being loved and valued as a sacred individual created by a loving God; communities where students enjoy an enriching and liberating education that helps them grow into the fullness of life and empowers them to be men and women of courage who are alive to the needs of humanity and committed to making a better world.

The curriculum

Our curriculum offer at Key Stage 5 is extensive, offering 25 different A level courses. The curriculum is supplemented by our varied enrichment programme, which includes EPQ, core maths, yoga, cooking and beginners Spanish. The majority of students study 3 subjects; in exceptional circumstances they may choose to study four. New subjects introduced for study in the sixth form include economics, government and politics, psychology and sociology. Our teachers are passionate about their subject areas and provide students with excellent learning experiences. Study skills are fostered by providing opportunities for students to engage in their learning outside the classroom, by undertaking independent research and by taking part in super-curricular activities. This ensures that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful in their post-18 choices.

A stimulating programme called Aletheia runs throughout Year 12 and 13 and all students are required to participate. The lesson is timetabled for three periods over the two weeks. The course gives students the opportunity for spiritual reflection, the chance to examine moral issues and debate. It incorporates time for personal reflection and development of faith. Although there is no external examination, students are required to keep a reflective log in the form of a booklet that will be assessed throughout the year. Key skills developed throughout the programme are desirable for any profession or further education pathways, such as debate, enquiry, service, understanding of beliefs and perspectives and awareness of others.