Loyola Preparatory School News Feed - Our Latest News

Celebrating Excellence: Our Outstanding CSI Inspection

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 10:46:37 GMT

We are incredibly proud to share the exceptional outcomes of our most recent Catholic Schools Inspection, conducted in February 2026. The report judged Loyola Prep to be Outstanding in all areas, the highest possible recognition, and a true reflection of the dedication, care and ambition that define our school community.

Supporting SEND Families: Why Recognition and Understanding in Schools Matters

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 08:48:34 GMT

We were delighted to welcome author and parent advocate, Suzan Izza, who spoke openly and honestly about her experiences of parenting a neurodivergent child. Her talk was not only informative but deeply reassuring, offering practical insight, empathy, and encouragement to families navigating similar journeys.

Bringing Learning to Life with Now Press Play

Thu, 5 Feb 2026 14:33:25 GMT

The boys thoroughly enjoyed their recent Now Press Play session, an experience that brings learning to life and captures their imagination from start to finish.

The Epiphany Box: A Moment of Reflection and Prayer

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 11:33:10 GMT

As part of our Epiphany celebrations, the Path Lighters have created a beautiful and thoughtful Epiphany Box, offering pupils and visitors a meaningful opportunity to pause, reflect and pray.

Reflecting on the End of Our Christmas Term

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 11:34:22 GMT

As we reach the close of our Christmas term, it is a perfect moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate the many wonderful experiences and achievements that have shaped the past months at Loyola. From the excitement of welcoming our newest Kindergarten and Reception boys in September to supporting our Rudiments boys as they prepare for their 11+ exams and take confident steps toward the next chapter of their educational journey, this term has been filled with growth, learning, and community spirit.

School Council Supports Noah’s Ark Food Bank This Advent

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 09:24:47 GMT

Last week, members of the School Council welcomed Marick from Noah's Ark Community Centre for a special meeting focused on how we could best support their food bank during the Christmas period. Marick shared with the boys the increased needs local families face at this time of year and highlighted items that are particularly helpful, including tinned fruit, mince pies, biscuits and other festive treats that bring comfort during the holiday season.

Remembrance Day With a Thoughtful and Creative Assembly

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 11:40:14 GMT

Last Tuesday, we came together for a moving Remembrance Day assembly, led with great maturity and respect by our Prep boys. The occasion was made even more special by the presence of two Beaver leaders, who joined us to honour the sacrifices made by so many and to help our boys reflect on the importance of remembrance in our lives today.

Harvest Festival Celebrations Highlight the Generosity of Our Boys & Families

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 11:19:03 GMT

This year’s Harvest Festival celebrations at Loyola were made all the more special thanks to the incredible generosity of our boys and their families. Throughout the year, we collect food donations to support those in need in our local community, with key collection times at Easter, through our Easter Egg Appeal, and most recently with our Cereal Box Domino Challenge.

Elements Boys Explore the Animal Kingdom at The Hive

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 14:17:23 GMT

The Elements boys recently had an exciting and educational day at The Hive in the Forest, where they combined hands-on science with outdoor adventure. The trip was full of discovery, teamwork, and fun, perfectly complementing classroom learning.

Drama4All Inspires Confidence and Creativity at Loyola Prep

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 15:07:02 GMT

Reception, KS1 and Prep boys had an absolutely fantastic time taking part in the Drama4All workshop from Perform! The session was filled with energy, imagination, and laughter, as the children threw themselves into storytelling, role-play, and performance. It was wonderful to see every boy—no matter how shy or outgoing—finding their voice and having fun while learning new skills.

Celebrating 75 Years in Buckhurst Hill — A Legacy of Excellence and Faith

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 14:39:00 GMT

Earlier this year, Loyola Preparatory School proudly celebrated 75 years at our Buckhurst Hill home — a milestone that marks not only our enduring presence in the community but also a legacy of educational excellence that stretches back well over a century.

Rudiments Enjoy a Meaningful Day of Reflection at Walsingham House

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 11:04:02 GMT

Last Friday, Rudiments enjoyed a truly special day on retreat at Walsingham House at Abbotswick, a beautiful spiritual centre run by the Brentwood Catholic Youth Service (BCYS). Set in the peaceful Essex countryside, the retreat offered the boys a chance to step away from their busy routines and spend time reflecting, praying, and growing in their faith together.

We Mark World Mental Health Day with #HelloYellow

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 15:33:18 GMT

On Friday 10th October, we came together in a sea of yellow to support Hello Yellow, a nationwide campaign led by the charity YoungMinds. The initiative raises awareness for young people’s mental health, while also fundraising to ensure no child or teenager faces mental health struggles alone.

Rudiment Boys Take on Leadership Roles

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 14:20:04 GMT

At Loyola Prep School, we are proud to announce the appointment of our Rudiment boys to their leadership positions for the year. As the eldest year group in our school, these boys have been entrusted with prefect responsibilities, house and sports captaincies, as well as the esteemed roles of Head Boy and Deputy Head Boy.

Successful Secondary School Fair

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 22:00:25 GMT

Last term, we were proud to host our annual Secondary School Fair, an event designed to support not only our own pupils but also families from the wider community as they begin the important process of selecting the right secondary school.

Celebrating Every Child: Sports Day at Lee Valley Athletics Centre

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 11:32:44 GMT

As the half term drew to a close, our school community gathered at the iconic Lee Valley Athletics Centre for a Sports Day to remember. This world-class venue, famously used as a training ground during the London 2012 Olympic Games, provided an inspiring backdrop for our pupils to shine—not in classrooms, but on the track and field.

Year 6 Boys Learn to Sail: Confidence, Teamwork and Adventure on the Water

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 11:31:01 GMT

This Whitsun term, our Year 6 boys took to the water for an unforgettable experience: learning how to sail. For many, it was their first time in charge of a boat — and it was a challenge they embraced with energy, enthusiasm, and a growing sense of independence.

Join Us for Our Secondary School Fair

Sun, 18 May 2025 12:09:30 GMT

At Loyola Prep School, we are delighted to be hosting a Secondary School Fair, bringing together some of the region’s most respected independent secondary schools.

PP2's trip to the Essex Fire Museum

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 12:10:30 GMT

Last week, the boys from PP2 had an unforgettable adventure at the Essex Fire Museum. It was a fantastic opportunity for them to learn all about the history of firefighting and the brave men who risk their lives to keep us safe.

Small School, Big Results: Our Unforgettable PGL Residential Experience

Thu, 15 May 2025 12:18:40 GMT

Last week, our staff had the privilege of joining our boys on their PGL residential trip, and what an incredible journey it was for everyone involved! From the moment we arrived, it was clear this wasn’t just about adventure activities — it was a powerful opportunity for personal growth, perfectly reflecting our school’s ethos of “small school, big results.”

Reception Leads Mass for the First Time – A Special Moment of Faith and Community

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 14:20:45 GMT

Recently, our Reception boys had the special opportunity to lead Mass for the very first time — a meaningful moment in their journey at our school and one that brought the entire community together in worship and celebration.

Easter Bonnets, Chocolate Eggs, and Changing Perceptions: A Joyful Day at Loyola

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 14:19:47 GMT

Each spring, the boys look forward to one of the most colourful and joy-filled events in the school calendar: the annual Easter Bonnet Parade. Amid bursts of laughter and splashes of creativity, the playground comes alive with vibrant handmade hats adorned with feathers, chicks, sequins, and spring flowers. This year was no exception – and to top it off, the Easter Bunny himself made a surprise visit, delighting the boys with a chocolate egg for each and posing for plenty of pictures along the way.

Digging into Discovery: A Roaring End to Science Week at Loyola Prep

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 09:48:23 GMT

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Travelling Natural History Museum for delivering a truly unforgettable experience for our boys during Science Week. The excitement in the room was palpable as the boys explored real dinosaur artefacts and fossils—each one a tangible piece of ancient history brought to life before their eyes.

The highlight for many? The unexpected thrill of holding a real fossilised dinosaur poo! It sparked laughter, curiosity, and endless questions—exactly the kind of reaction we love to see in our learners.

Rudiments Demonstrate Entrepreneurial Flair in Enterprise Initiative

Thu, 6 Mar 2025 12:38:13 GMT

Our Rudiments boys embraced their entrepreneurial spirit in an exciting Enterprise Initiative, raising an impressive £800 for Cancer Research UK. This initiative, designed to provide a dynamic learning experience following their 11+ exams, encouraged the boys to develop and launch their own businesses, gaining hands-on experience in entrepreneurship.

Skipping into Fitness: Sessions with Dan the Skipping Man

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 10:09:15 GMT

Before half-term, our boys had an exciting opportunity to take part in skipping workshops led by Dan the Skipping Man. These fun and high-energy sessions introduced them to a variety of skipping skills, helping to improve their coordination, fitness, and confidence in an enjoyable and supportive environment.

The Importance of PSHE at Loyola Prep

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 11:15:46 GMT

The PSHE Association defines Personal, Social, Health, and Economic (PSHE) education as: a school curriculum subject that helps children and young people stay healthy, safe, and prepared for life – and work – in modern Britain. At Loyola Prep, we follow the Jigsaw Scheme, which provides a structured approach to these essential topics. Alongside Jigsaw, we also celebrate special days that enhance our learning and actively participate in local events, giving back to our community.

Helping children & young people stay safe online

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 10:46:21 GMT

In today's digital age, ensuring the online safety of our children is paramount. As the internet becomes increasingly integral to their social development, it's essential to equip young people with the knowledge and tools to navigate the online world safely.

Why Reading Matters in the Early Years

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 13:23:58 GMT

In the early years of education, reading lays the groundwork for a lifelong love of learning. In her insightful article, Mrs. Sarah Fisher, our EYFS lead and reception teacher, emphasises the importance of reading in the Early Years Foundation Stage while addressing the challenge of engaging boys in this vital activity. Mrs Fisher shares practical strategies for parents and educators to create a reading-friendly environment that sparks curiosity and enthusiasm in young boys. Join us as we explore her expert advice on fostering a passion for reading that endures throughout their lives.

Learn more about our new Spanish teacher, Señorita Teeluck

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 13:06:14 GMT

Please join us in welcoming our new Spanish teacher, Señorita Teeluck. We asked Miss Teeluck to share her thoughts on her teaching approach:

New Year, New Starters

Thu, 9 Jan 2025 14:19:18 GMT

As we step into the new year, Loyola is excited to welcome new faces to our community. This week, we are delighted to introduce our youngest members to Kindergarten. The boys have made a wonderful start, quickly settling into their new school routines. Miss Stratton, our Kindergarten teacher, is already incredibly proud of their progress and is enthusiastically guiding them through their first days at Loyola.

End of term reflections

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 11:41:12 GMT

As the Christmas term draws to a close, it’s been a busy and productive time at Loyola. Rudiments have worked hard preparing for their 11+ exams, while our new Kindergarten and Reception boys have settled in well to school life. Across all year groups, the boys have shown great effort and enthusiasm in their learning.

Loyola PTA Christmas Fete 2025

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 09:36:25 GMT

This past weekend, our school community came together for the annual PTA Christmas Fete, and the event was nothing short of exceptional. The festive celebration was filled with joy, excitement, and a strong sense of community spirit, all while raising essential funds to support our school.

Exploring the Transition: Bancroft's School Visit Loyola

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 10:00:11 GMT

We are excited to announce an informative session with representatives from Bancroft's School, who will be visiting to speak with our Figures (Year 5) and Rudiments (Year 6) boys and answer any questions about student life at Bancroft’s.

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service to Deliver Knife Crime Awareness Programme at Our School

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 10:09:35 GMT

This Friday, 8th November, the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service (ECFRS) will be visiting our school to deliver an important educational programme. This initiative is a collaborative effort between Essex police and fire services aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of knife crime, a pressing issue in communities today.

Phase 2 of our lower playground improvements

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 10:14:39 GMT

This summer, our school undertook a significant project to resurface the lower playground, thanks to the support of our dedicated PTA. The aim was to create a safer and more engaging environment for our boys.

Engaging Young Minds: Learning About Parliament

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 10:17:25 GMT

Recently, a visit from an education and engagement outreach officer introduced our boys to the inner workings of Parliament, just in time for the new government’s budget announcement.

Harvesting Kindness: Boys Deliver Food Bank Donations

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 10:19:41 GMT

During our Harvest collection, we asked pupils and their families for donations for local food banks, and some boys from our School Council recently delivered half of the generous contributions—totalling an impressive 70.55 kg, the equivalent of a young female jaguar—to the Epping Forest Food Bank.

Outdoor Learning for Reception Pupils

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 10:27:38 GMT

As autumn transforms our surroundings, Reception pupils were fully engaged in the season's wonders. The vibrant colours and crisp air provided a perfect backdrop for outdoor learning, where the boys explored and discovered the changes in nature.