We are delighted to share this personal account from Lucy Wheeler, a Loyola parent and School Governor, who accompanied her son, Jude, on the Loyola Schola Cantorum’s pilgrimage to Lourdes in July 2026. Lucy reflects on the boys’ wonderful musical contributions, the moving spiritual experiences they shared and the lasting impact of this special journey on the Loyola community.
There is something special about the start of a new school year. New shoes, freshly sharpened pencils, familiar faces and plenty of excitement fill the corridors as the boys return to school ready for another year of learning, growing and discovering what they are capable of.
At Loyola Prep, every September marks a new chapter for our boys. Each year group brings its own opportunities and challenges, carefully building on the foundations laid before it. From a three-year-old taking their very first steps into school life to a Rudiments boy preparing for the next stage of his education, every year matters.
Academy 2025 was a truly memorable celebration of everything that makes our school so special. Across two wonderful events, our Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 pupils came together with parents, families and staff to recognise not only academic excellence, but also the character, determination and kindness that define our school community.
Last Friday, our school community came together in wonderful fashion to celebrate the 100th birthday of David Attenborough — a man whose passion for the natural world has inspired generations across the globe.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.