The Lorettonian eMag 2018/19

LTOHREETTONIAN
ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19
You’re never too young to start!

LORETTO WELCOME
SENIOR SCHOOL TO YOUR
eMAG
Linkfield Road, Musselburgh,
East Lothian, EH21 7RE, Today, nearly two thirds of people who read magazines favour digital editions.
Scotland, UK To meet the evolving needs and expectations of our readers, we are delighted
General enquiries: to introduce our first Lorettonian eMag. Our subscribers will have received it by
+44 (0)131 653 4444 email and it is also published on Loretto’s digital platforms. This enables you to
[email protected] read 'The Lorettonian' on any digital device, whenever you want and wherever
Admissions: you are.
+44 (0)131 653 4455 A digital edition also helps us reduce our environmental impact. Less paper
[email protected] copies produced means less natural resources consumed, and also means less
shipping, when this industry is responsible for more than 18 percent of some air
LORETTO pollutants. At Loretto, we are keen to participate in preserving our environment,
JUNIOR SCHOOL for generations to come.
Produced since the School’s foundation, The Lorettonian forms a rich testimony
North Esk Lodge, North High of Loretto’s life throughout the years and generations. We think our Magazine
Street, Musselburgh, East is an important part of Loretto’s heritage, and we will safely archive both the
Lothian, EH21 6JA, Scotland, UK digital edition as well as some print copies. These, produced in limited quantity,
General enquiries: will be available at the School for visitors to read. If you are keen to get a printed
+44 (0)131 653 4570 copy to keep at home, please let us know, we will be happy to send you one
[email protected] (while stock lasts!).
Admissions:
+44 (0)131 653 4455
[email protected]

THE LORETTO
GOLF ACADEMY

Millhill Lane, Musselburgh, East
Lothian, EH21 7RJ, Scotland, UK
General enquiries
+44 (0)131 653 4453
[email protected]
Admissions:
+44 (0)131 653 4455
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CONNECT WITH US

Website: www.loretto.com
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Twitter: @LorettoHead

CONTENTS

4 FOREWORDS

Welcome from the Headmaster and the Chair of Governors

7 SENIOR SCHOOL

Welcome from the Head girl and Head boy ; House reports ; Sport; Golf;
Creative and expressive arts ; Pipes & Drums ; Adventure & Leadership;
Activities and societies; From the Common room

60 SPECIAL FEATURE - 100YEARS OF REMEMBERANCE

Our pupils' memorial and recognition work

66 JUNIOR SCHOOL

Welcome from the Head of the Junior School ; Early Years ; Forest School ;
Year 7 Highlights ; Creative and expressive arts ; Sport ; Trips ; Activities &
Clubs ; From the Common room

86 THE LORETTONIAN SOCIETY

Welcome from the Chairman ; About your President ; Reunions & Events ;
Sporting events ; Gatherings ; Golfing Society ; Articles ; Points of interest ;
Life events; News ; 2019 Leavers ; The Commmitee

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 3

FOREWORDS

FROM THE
HEADMASTER

I WRITE THIS FOREWORD in the cocoon on my study in Pinkie House
on 11th November. Yesterday the School held its Remembrance
Service and today at the Nippers we held an Act of Remembrance
gathered around the Anderson shelter. In the hustle and bustle of
term time it is helpful to pause and to remember. I am always moved
at Remembrance as I look at our sixth formers and reflect that many of
them are the same age as the young men who lost their lives in two world
wars. One of the joys of our school community is the diversity of foreign
nationals we welcome to Loretto – currently from 26 different countries
– and few nations have escaped the tyranny of conflict at some point in
their histories. We remember all those who have given their lives in the
service of their countries.
Schools are also places of memories and where personal stories are
developed. All of us will be remembered one day and for most it is our
characters that will be recalled because these tend to shape what we do
with our lives. Loretto aims to help children find themselves and then
nurture strengths and interests. The pages of this publication provide an
excellent record of much of the stimulating activity that takes place in the
course of an academic year.
The best way, in my view, to judge a school is not on its exam results or
even its sporting prowess, but by the boys and girls who emerge as young
adults. By that yardstick, as well as the more traditional methods, Loretto
is very successful. I never feel more proud than on Speech Day when our
Upper Sixth formers bid farewell to the school and move on in life. The
strength of the Lorettonian Society means that most never do leave and
the relationships and strong affinity towards the school remains throughout
their lives. Gatherings of Old Lorettonians are invariably convivial and filled
with laughter and you will get a sense of this in these pages. So too the
Friends of Loretto and I am grateful to the committee of parents who seek
to welcome new families to the school and bind those already here to help
forge a very strong family atmosphere.
All of us involved teaching and working at Loretto have a strong sense
of the privilege that it is to watch children grow and develop. Education
can be a messy business at times, but as we look back and remember the
individual journeys that children have made into young adulthood there is
invariably a strong sense of satisfaction. Spartam nactus es, hanc exorna.

4 THE LORETTONIAN MAGAZINE ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19

FROM THE HEADMASTER

Dr Graham R W Hawley during
Prize Giving's Beating Retreat
THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 5

FOREWORDS

FROM THE CHAIR OF
GOVERNORS

D URING THIS YEAR’S Speech calendar and the astonishing range of busy, but those who left the School
Day, I mentioned that walking work created by pupils as they reflected after Speech Day will remain in touch.
through the School grounds upon the centenary of the First World Experience shows that there is often a
on an average Loretto day can War. short, and unsurprising, break in contact
be an interesting experience. Remembrance and service have been while the dust settles, but the OL Society
One moment, peace reigns with hardly a very much on my mind of late. I was is vibrant, both in terms of its own
person in sight and then, almost without abroad when Olly Middlemiss’ memorial activities and its strong interest in what
warning, the place is thronged by a noisy, service was held but know that many of today’s Lorettonians are up to.
animated crowd who all seem intent on his year group attended. I did attend the I cannot close without thanking Stephen
getting somewhere quickly. This seems service held in memory of Roy Martin Howard, who has retired after sterling
to involve making as much conversation QC, a long-serving Governor and Chair. service as our Bursar. He became part of
as possible during the transit. The sense I mention both because they drew the the Loretto family, and we will miss him
of community is immediately apparent. same response from family members and his very dry wit. I have been struck
That same sense of family is very obvious and friends - a sense that the Loretto by the number of positive comments
at Speech Day and other events, but it community had come together to about The Friends of Loretto and I thank
is always there. Lorettonians, and those celebrate the life of one of its own. those who have been at the heart of
who teach them or support them in other This is exactly as it should be and was, to establishing this initiative. Finally, I thank
ways, are never inactive and the pages my mind, perfectly encapsulated by the the staff, the Governors and the Trustees
of this year’s magazine reinforce this as fact that Simon Graham, himself a former of the Foundation, all of whom devote so
demonstrated by the huge amount of Chair, played the organ throughout Roy’s much time to the family that is Loretto.
effort required to initiate the Pre-School service. Those at Loretto are indeed
project at the Junior School, the sporting

Mr Peter McCutcheon at our
Pre-School Opening event
6 THE LORETTONIAN MAGAZINE ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19

SENIOR SCHOOL

SENIOR
SCHOOL

SENIOR SCHOOL

FROM THE HEAD BOY

O VER THE LAST few days it
has only really dawned on
me that we will be leaving
the comfort and safety of
school life and head out to
face the bigger world. There are so many
opportunities to grasp, Loretto has given
us the confidence to take them.

For many of the upper sixth and myself,
it is an exciting, if a little daunting new
beginning. What’s worrying me the most
is, I GUESS IT’S ALMOST CLOSING TIME
ON THE BANK OF MUM AND DAD! I
personally know this because my gap year
job takes me to New Zealand and they
have only bought me a one way ticket!

I will never forget my time at Loretto,
all seven years of it, it really is a special
place. There have definitely been ups and
downs, wins and losses, but the lasting
impression will always be of good times.

In the last few days before my fellow upper and many parents to cheer us on. The the bagpipes then go and do it. Your time
sixth and I become Old Lorettonians, I chanting was extraordinary, there was a at Loretto is so short, it will flash by in
really would like to thank the people that real “red wall“ of support. We still can’t the blink of an eye. Grasp the opportunity
have helped us in our journey through believe that the result was decided on when it presents itself and don’t let go.
School. These people know who they penalties. As many of you may have heard, the
are and many of them have put in an Within the school, we have a couple of school has a Borealis society. Every
outstanding effort, to motivate, enthuse large whole school events, such as song second year, a select group gets the
and encourage us to push for the goals fest. Most of us dread it, but in reality chance to travel on an expedition to
that we have set for ourselves. They have it’s a great fun evening. It takes weeks of an area in the Arctic Circle. This year
gone above and beyond, especially in the planning from the house captains and of myself and 11 others will embark on our
run up towards our A level exams. course the music teachers, for them it’s expedition to East Greenland, in fact we
One of my teachers spent three like herding cats, some tone deaf ones at leave (look at watch) in almost 16 hours
consecutive days, the week before my that! There is great competition between from now, leaving from School at 4am
final geology paper, helping me with the houses. You will be left in no doubt tomorrow morning. Ouch!
exam technique and the finer art of map that each really want to win! Before the We follow in the footsteps of the 1930-
work skills. I’m pretty sure she got a bit results are announced, all the houses 1931 British Arctic Air route expedition.
fed up with me. But I definitely feel like assemble in the chapel, where tensions It involves planes, helicopters, river
her guidance and hard work has paid off. are high and the chanting between crossings, ice climbing, wild camping,
Well, let’s hope so! houses is higher still. The atmosphere is motorboats and a lots and lots and lots of
Being in a small school definitely has its amazing, and it certainly does bring the walking. We will be fully self-supporting;
advantages. So many of us have been able whole school together. no TV crews to hand us a mars bar or
to represent the school in many different There is so much on offer here at Loretto, book a cosy hotel room when we have
ways. We’re not always successful, but so if you want to go and dance or learn had enough! It’s going to be a real
for such a small school we can certainly
pull our weight; our recent 6-1 victory
over Edinburgh Academy in the hockey
semi cup finals stands out in everyone’s
memory. This result took the first hockey
team to the Scotland schools cup finals
in Glasgow. The school support was
awesome, with two full buses of students,

8 THE LORETTONIAN MAGAZINE ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19

FROM THE HEAD BOY AND HEAD GIRL

challenge, but I know that it is going to FROM
be a lot of fun.

There is however a serious side to this THE
as we have several projects to work on,
one of which is to calculate the mass of
the earth using only a clinometer and
a stick, I honestly have no idea how on
earth that can be achieved, but good luck HEAD
to the physicists, I have been assured that
it is possible.

May I give some of you, moving though GIRL
the school some advice? You may not like
the sound of trekking across Greenland
but if you find something that you enjoy
and have a genuine interest in, but your AVING BEEN AT Loretto for
friends don’t, pursue it none the less! You seven years, being given
don’t always have to follow the crowd. I the chance to be one of the
hugely enjoyed my time in the CCF, even heads of school has given me
though, over the last two years I was the so many unique experiences,

Honly one in my year to do so.
Each of us have one or two people, I have had the opportunity to develop
hopefully with us today, who we really public speaking skills and become an
ought to thank above everyone else- our overall more rounded person.

parents. From all the Upper Sixth, thank Some of the highlights include the chance
you for giving us the opportunity to come to speak at open days, chapel services,
to Loretto. I am sure for many that it has countless doubles, and most memorably
been quite a sacrifice, but I speak for the the opportunity to deliver the Toast to
rest of my year when I say that we are the Laddies at the Burns Supper. Which,
truly grateful. whilst a nerve-wracking experience was

I would like to take this opportunity to say enjoyable not only to deliver, but to write,
congratulations to Ellen C. and Jack P. on as much of the year group was involved
taking over from Eleanor and Myself as in doing so.

next year’s Heads of school, I am positive An important take away from this
that they will do a wonderful job and very experience has been enhancing my
much enjoy the experience. organisational skills, as it is a big part

I would also like to say good luck to of the role from organising prefects to particular, both Angus and I were able to
everyone leaving this year, whether they attending meetings and much more. manage our time much more effectively.
I have been grateful to have such a strong
are a student or a member of the staff. I There have also been challenges of being support system of teachers, pastoral care
hope that we all remember happy times a head of school, the most notable being and my friends who have helped me
in this big friendly family. the ability to time manage, as especially throughout this challenging year.
by Eleanor Clynes
And to everyone in the upper sixth, I during the final year of school in which
hope that we all achieve the results that A levels are being sat, this can be hard.
we need in order to move on to the next It definitely took time to adjust to this,
challenge, good luck on your travels and however with the help of tutors in

never forget your time here at Loretto.

And before I leave you, I would like to pay Having had the opportunity this year to be
a little tribute to my Irish heritage. one of the heads of school has taught me a
May the road rise up to meet you, great deal and has been an absolute privilege
May the wind be ever at your back and is an experience that I’ll never forget.
May the sun shine warm upon your face
And the rain fall softly on your fields
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the hollow of his
hand.

by Angus de Burgh

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 9

SENIOR SCHOOL

HOUSE REPORTS

10 THE LORETTONIAN MAGAZINE ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19

HOUSE REPORTS

BALCARRES ASIAN CULTURAL EVENING
Our cultural evenings started with a
O NE YEAR AGO, I made Spanish night, organised by our Spanish
the big decision to join a girls. This was followed with an Asian
boarding school in Scotland, night, I am from Asia so I was excited
Loretto. I was looking and helped prepare for the night.
forward to a challenge full Sharing our different cultures, learning
of experiences. My biggest fear was from others, is exciting. We shared our
that I wouldn´t settle in, however, 5th culture, interesting facts and introduced
form welcomed me very well and I’m local foods. It was unforgettable. We were
impressed with the big effort the teachers very proud of how great the evening was
made. and that the boys in Seton were inspired
and copied us!

Now, one year later I know I made the by Jolie W.
right choice. My English has improved
a lot and I have been able to meet new GUARDIAN ANGEL WEEK
people and my now best friend. I have A week of kindness, unexpected nice
been in situations which have built surprises. Pupils returned from school to
my character, my confidence and my have chocolates and positive, inspirational,
independence. reassuring quotations all over their beds.
Loretto has become my second home, Drawing names from the hat, guardian
with lifelong friends and memories. I angels roles were issued! Lots of sneaking
really don’t want to leave, but I will return around, knocking on doors and running
to Germany with a big smile on my face, away. Gifts from grapes, hair bobbles to
because I have probably had the best packets of popcorn were given. The best
experience of my life so far.. Guardian Angels were revealed at the end
I willl miss wearing the bright red blazer, of the week and were gifted with a small
complaining about the Scottish weather guardian angel of their own!
and hiding my jewellery from Mrs by Alice M.
Swinton.
I would like to give a big thank you to LES MISÉRABLES
everyone who made this year so unique
and memorable. You’ve made me feel so
welcomed and I really appreciate it!

by Elisa L. Our seats were magical, at the very
back looking onto the stage. The singing
HOLM was phenomenal, the first gunshot of
the rebellion made the whole of Holm
KINKY BOOTS MUSICAL jump! Wow, the amount of tissues that
Holm house girls were kindly taken to were used. The actors were so emotive,
the Kinky Boots musical in Edinburgh. I they had the whole audience in the
personally loved it, especially with the palm of hand, even in the silence of the
element of drag queen! Everyone loved death scenes. A night to remember!
it! Being around friends whilst watching Holm family feel so lucky to have these
a musical added to the fabulous outing. opportunities.
Enjoying while laughing with your best by Alice M.
friends is the one thing that you always
want to do. OSCARS NIGHT
by Jolie W. To bid farewell to those leaving, dress up,
have fun, a presentation, a feast and a
disco! Leavers’ scrapbooks were made
and signed by the entire Holm Family. All
staff that help with Holm evening duties

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 11

SENIOR SCHOOL

received a gift, we celebrated cleaning the field with high spirits. A great evening houses. Some memorable moments
and housekeeping staff too. Time to to remember. include Hope House vs 1st team girl
forget our friends were going home but by Robyn B. Lacrosse in which the house taught all
to celebrate memories made, tears were those watching some new moves and
shed. tactics. We also played rounders, many
football matches, got an induction to
27 Oscars and awards such as “most ARBECUES, PIZZA NIGHTS, round robin basketball, and touch rugby.
table tennis tournaments and Some memorable sporting performances!
HOPEimproved room” and “loudest girl in gym sessions - you could say Looking back on the year, I think all would
life in Hope is pretty busy! say that it has been a privilege to belong
house” were handed out. Miss Duncan to Hope House, It has been an incredible
and house leaders recalled our greatest experience! A huge thank you to Mr
memories with Mrs Stokes, presented Harbison and Mr Outram, and also to the
her with a large scrapbook and voucher ladies that help run and clean the house:
Liz, Linda, Kathleen and Linda.
Bto thank her and wish her the best of I only joined Loretto in Lower Sixth,
luck. Amazing memories, will never be This year saw Hope grow in having grown up in the Algarve, Portugal.
forgotten. Any initial apprehensions at moving to a
numbers with an additional 38 boys new school and boarding for the first time
joining in Lower Sixth making a total were quickly allayed by the friendliness
by Robyn B. of 51 between Lower and Upper Sixth. of the students and staff. I was made to
feel so welcome by everyone in Hope.
This naturally brings with it a whole new As Head of House this year, I wanted to
range of nationalities and personalities to create the same atmosphere. That feeling
manage but adds to the fun of being part of inclusion, of being part of one big
EDINBURGH RUGBY of such a lively house. family, encouraging and supporting one
another regardless of our differences,
A daring group of pupils braved the cold, Saturday night socials always come with is what makes Hope House and Loretto
in February, to watch Edinburgh v Cardiff great excitement and many flexi boarders unique.
Blues accompanied by three willing, brave choose to spend the night in house to I’ve had a great two years here and will
teachers, Mr Woolley, Mrs Reid and Miss take part, whether it be a bbq or a movie miss being part of the boarding school
Duncan. Loretto pupils were exhilarated night. but I’m sure the new Heads of house
by the atmosphere. Due to Edinburgh Any occasion is an opportunity to will extend a warm welcome to the
having an unbeaten season at home, celebrate and have fun. At Halloween, newcomers next year and continue to
tensions were running high. all the houses got together for a night make amazing memories for years to
The home team had possession, scored packed with spooky games. The yearly come.
a try within seven minutes. 14 - 0 to trip to the Musselburgh Fireworks display by Mackenzie B.
Edinburgh at Half Time. Crowds were brought laughter and fun. Our Christmas
rallying going into the second half. outing brought us to Edinburgh for a PINKIE
Edinburgh had a tough second half with buffet dinner and a movie night at the
Cardiff dominating possession. They cinema, as well as walking about the city T HE 2018/19 ACADEMICyearin
scored their first try with a successful in all sorts of Xmas jumpers Pinkie house had its moments
conversion. Not long after they broke After christmas, the house dove into focused heavily on study and
Edinburgh’s defensive line leading to the revision for the all-important A - Levels, some very enjoyable, fun
blues putting themselves back on the with some well-deserved break times and events.
score sheet. Edinburgh put up a fight but social outings, such as Rugby Matches at
it wasn’t enough to keep the game at bay, Murrayfield and Climbing excursions .
ending in a 19-17 victory to Cardiff blues.

Although Edinburgh did not win this The summer term brought lots of sporting
didn’t dampen Loretto’s mood and we left games within the house and with other

The Christmas Dinner at Prestonfield
House was a spectacle in which the boys
thoroughly enjoyed themselves, and
the Christmas house outing to Bubble
Football allowed quite a few of us to let
off some steam.

The beginning of the year was marked
by the Burns supper, which the boys
attended diligently and enjoyed the
occasion.

There were a number of inter-house
matches between Pinkie, Hope and
Balcarres. One of the highlights being the

12 THE LORETTONIAN MAGAZINE ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19

HOUSE REPORTS

SETON

Seton has had many memories that will never be forgotten. Miss
Reid and Miss Cooper kicked off the year welcoming the old and
new boarders to all experience a fresh taste of Seton House.
With the continuous activities and social interaction between
old and new boys, all of us settled in perfectly. We knew how
to behave around the house as the staff had previously built
structure and boundaries... for sure we didn’t act up when
Tuesday takeaways were in danger.

lacrosse match against Balcarres in the Spring Term, where the During our journey in Seton house, we had many opportunities
boys secured a solid victory. to spend time on the Astro or at the golf nets, to take part in
Song Fest was another eagerly attended event for the boys, and many activities including pancake nights (a favourite), and of
one where a number of our Pinkie boys shone – most notably course to gather with the other Houses for fun times when
Seth V.R. his solo performance of ‘Say Something’. we forget about school work and exam stress for the evening
The Pinkie Sessions throughout the year were also well attended – especially for the Fifth Formers who have been working hard
and a number of boys made some unexpected, but talented on their upcoming exams in the summer.
appearances. Before the second term, we sadly had to say goodbye to Miss
Pinkie boys have performed well on the sporting fields with Cooper as she left to share her excellent knowledge in Drama,
a large number representing the vast number of 1st teams English and her great personality down south. Miss Cooper was
each term in such sports as Rugby, Hockey, Cricket, Football, a huge part of Seton and helped us out through thick and thin.
Basketball, Golf and Tennis to name a few. Replacing Miss Cooper as assistant housemaster is Mr Binikos,
The Sports Dinner in the Summer Term allowed many of who has brought laughter, smiles, early gym sessions and a
these boys to gather together with other 1st team players South African accent for the boarders. He was welcomed with
and celebrate their wonderful achievements and listen to the open arms and has settled in with ease. We are glad of his
inspirational talk given by Eilidh Doyle. Sports Day was yet arrival to Seton house.
another exciting event highly anticipated by the boys and very With a great new range of equipment such as pool tables, a
well attended with a large number of boys taking part. tennis table, an Xbox, board games, and a Giant Jenga, Miss
We have enjoyed plenty of social events throughout the year, Reid, has enabled Seton to always have something to do for
and when the sun has briefly come out we have made use of down time. She creates a positive atmosphere for the boarders,
the new house BBQ. allowing them to take their mind off work when needed and
Academic progress indeed was not the area neglected, with most make them feel at home. The TV room improvement with a
of the boys displaying notable effort. Special congratulations to more homely feeling with couches and beanbags was great
Jonathan Hawley and Oleksii Burov as permanent members of to enjoy the programmes (even so Miss Reid was sometimes
the Academic Endeavour list. worried that our IQs would dribble from our ears).
by Mr Jamie Mackenzie Miss Reid and Miss Cooper choose Cameron G. as Head of Seton
and introduced new positions of responsibility, ‘Assistants to the
Heads of House’, to Matthew O. and myself. We were delighted
to help Cameron in ‘House council meetings’ for ideas and
extras items and for all boys to feel free to contribute.
Like all Houses, Seton has its ups and downs, and we always
allow the ups to be acknowledged and experienced to the full!

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 13

SENIOR SCHOOL

We will forget the bad bits like failing to offering plenty of good ideas and being of tag, touch rugby, football, rounders
sign out, doing kitchen duties for being particularly effective at driving social and and frisbee, the junior girls introduced
late... all this makes way for an easy step House events. Schoolhouse pupils were us to the intricacies of “camouflage” (an
into the future in the Sixth Form and represented on the School Prefect body, advanced form of hide and seek)
beyond from the character built in Seton. the Charities Committee and acted as The Loretto Uniform Exchange has
by Evdokios D. Heads of Colour and Theatre. kindly provided us with the means of
Whilst it is impossible to do justice to all updating and expanding our outdoor
SCHOOLHOUSE individual achievements in this article, play equipment and we hope to add
it is worth highlighting how so many of giant chess, netball, quick-cricket and
S CHOOLHOUSE ENJOYED our pupils pursue their interests and unstructured play items to our repertoire.
ANOTHER memorable and expertise beyond Loretto and into the The benefits of play for Mind, Body and
positive year. We enjoyed wider community. Through them, the Spirit are plain for all to see.
celebrating the many and true Lorettonian spirit of contributing Perhaps the most memorable House
varied accomplishments of our to society as role models and leaders event this year was in December 2018,
170 or so pupils. Schoolhouse is unique is alive and well. It is no surprise to when we visited the King’s Theatre
in featuring pupils from every year group learn that several of our recent former in Edinburgh to see the Christmas
so as you can imagine there is a never a pupils are running clubs and societies at Pantomine. Once the boys and girls
dull day! university. Our pupils have represented realised that heckling was allowed (and
June 2019 marked the departure of local clubs and their country in activities that they might get a direct reply), they
Mr Stokes as Housemaster. The pupils as wide ranging as synchronised and elite really entered the spirit of the show. As
benefited daily from his irrepressible swimming through to the long-standing ever, they were a delight to supervise and
positivity, indefatigable support, nuturing Loretto sports of hockey, rugby, lacrosse great fun to be with.
outlook and straight-talking advice. Mr and fives. Pupils also pursued excellence Last but not least, Schoolhouse pupils
Stokes was also instrumental in the growth in soccer, netball and golf outside of enjoyed significant academic success. Our
of our football activity and basketball school. Schoolhouse pupils were at the pupils featured heavily on the academic
activities. Alongside his predecessor Mr heart of Loretto’s successes in debating endeavour lists each term. 5th Form and
Dickenson, he built a strong platform and Model United Nations, national U6th pupils coped well with their public
from which the House operates today. Mathematics and Science challenges, and exams and so many were richly rewarded
October 2019 saw the retirement of Oxbridge school essay prizes in several by meeting or exceeding their predicted
House Assistant Mrs Stroyan who had disciplines. Several pupils were eligible grades. These grades, combined with the
worked in various capacities at Loretto for the national Saltire Award thanks to Loretto’s famous values and ethos, means
since the 1990s. Her pupil-focused their charitable work in the community that our pupils remain well prepared for
approach, pragmatism, sense of humour over the year. A remarkably large cohort life beyond school.
and sheer experience will be missed. of pupils from all ages completed their by Dr David Adamson
LAMDA drama exams too.
The junior pupils still love to play out on
the Chapel Grass. In addition to the staples

Schoolhouse pupils contributed strongly
to all aspects of school life from music
to sports, school plays to positions of
responsibility, academic excellence,
debating, artistic flair, community
service, CCF and more besides. Several
senior pupils embraced positions of
responsibility within House and School.
For 2018-19, the pupil body was led
by Porsche M. (Head of House) ably
supported by Felicity Pike and Vanessa P.
(Deputy Heads of House.) They offered
a strong link between pupils and staff,

14 THE LORETTONIAN MAGAZINE ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19

SPORT

S P O RT
T HE ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 by the strength, determination and over Edinburgh Academy and Trinity
kicked off with a sports forum application of the pupils. saw the team win the East Shield. The
held in the theatre where In the Autumn term, some of my personal other standout result was the U15A team
a large number of parents highlights in the major sports include the beating George Watson’s college in a
were able to hear my and the whole school watching the boys' rugby thrilling penalty shoot-out on the Pinkie
school’s vision and strategy for improving 1st XV play our local rivals Prestonpans, Astro.
the provision of sport. the team were working under their new The Spring term also saw the first full
Our aim is to know and develop every head coach, Andrew Binikos. After being block for Head of Lacrosse, Mel Paton
child from ‘The Nippers’ towards piped onto the pitch, a very competitive and her assistant, Ms Sus Burn working
producing a competitive senior 1st match saw it come down to the final with the girls at Loretto. The weather
team in every major sport. To acheive passages of play, it took some heroic was not kind to us at points during the
so, our strategy is based on five pillars: defence from the visitors to deny Loretto term and we lost a number of matches
Enjoyment , Engagement, Team culture a try and victory on the final whistle. to the weather. There was marked
and identity, Inclusivity, and Motivation The girls' hockey programme were also improvements across all age groups with
to earn Colours. working under a new head coach in Mr improved work ethic and team culture
Over the course of my first full year as Head Callum Milne, there were some notable being clearly displayed. In the final home
of Sport, I have been really encouraged victories for the 1st XI and cup success match, the girls 1st XI ran out to a guard of
honour on Newfield to play Glenalmond,

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 15

SENIOR SCHOOL

There will always
be winners and
losers in sports, we
believe we have a
fantastic vehicle for
the pupils to learn
& develop qualities
that will benefit
them for the rest
of their lives.

the team produced a stellar performance given the pupils increased confidence on cricket. We will ensure we recruit the
that had the large crowd enthralled. An and game understanding which has best available candidate to continue to
early goal was disallowed which could transferred onto the courts. progress our cricket program.
have proved crucial as a late strike saw Across all of the cricket sides and age The sport department will be welcoming
the match end in a 7 – 7 draw. This was groups we have seen the hard work a new Hockey and Sports coach in August
a significant result for the team and a put in by Head of Cricket, Peter Steindl in Duncan Riddell. Duncan is currently
clear validation of all the hard work they pay dividends. The weather has been working at Belhaven, he is a current
had put in during the term. The U14 and relatively kind to us and we have been Scotland Hockey Internationalist and will
U15 teams both also recorded victories competitive in all matches. Highlights be working across all age ranges of pupils
over Fettes and Glenalmond to show how included Glenalmond U15A being bowled alongside Callum Milne in delivering our
competitive we can be. out for 14 and victories at U14 level versus hockey program.
The boys 1st XI in hockey had the Merchiston and Strathallan. The senior Over the course of the year, we have
benefit of playing some cup fixtures in boys 1st XI also found a way to win in a had a number of pupils selected for
the autumn term to give the side time number of matches when they looked to representative honours across a range
to work with new Head coach, Mr Milne. be up against it at certain points in their of sports, the school are very proud of
An enthralling cup semi-final versus matches. I have been greatly encouraged their achievements are delighted that
Edinburgh Academy at Pinkie Astro to see a number of girls playing in the A + their hard work and dedication is being
produced a 5 – 1 victory, booking the B teams at U14 and U15 age group, taking recognised on a wider scale. I have
team their place in the National Cup wickets and being strong, important selected a number of highlights which
final. The final versus George Watson's members of the teams. can appear to be focussed on results,
College saw over 150 Loretto pupils travel In Minor Sports, the school has had teams my team and I place as much importance
to watch the boys play in Glasgow. With competing in fixtures over the course of in the pupils being active, healthy and
the majority of pupils wearing their Red the academic year, in Basketball, Football, having fun. There will always be winners
blazers, they created a Red Wall, they also Fives and Boys Tennis. These sports and losers in sports, we believe we have
had a pre-planned song list to keep the are all growing at the school and will a fantastic vehicle for the pupils to learn
boys motivated. George Watson's won remain a focus for us to continue their and develop qualities that will benefit
the match on running penalties, leaving development. them for the rest of their lives.
our boys desperately disappointed, the At the end of this Academic Year, we are Finally, thank you for your support on
whole school were still immensely proud reluctantly losing our Head of Cricket, the touchlines over the past 10 months.
of their achievement to reach a national Peter Steindl who is moving onto new I wish you all a restful break over the
final. challenges. Peter has made a significant summer and look forward to catching up
The summer term, with new coaches in impression with the staff and pupils at with as many of you as possible in the
Tennis and Cricket, saw some notable the school in a short space of time. Peter next school year, cheering on Loretto at
results across all age groups. At U15 is seeking an opportunity that will allow the side of a sports pitch.
level we have seen victories versus him to have a fuller weekly exposure to by Mr Jason White
George Watson's College and Fettes cricket, he joined us with a background
and our senior U18 A & B sides beating in elite level coaching and playing and
Glenalmond, Fettes and Strathallan. he is seeking a return to an environment
Focussed training from new coaches, with 30 – 35 hours per week of hands
Hannah Watson and Callum Meston has

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CRICKET draw was achieved through some dogged GIRLS HOCKEY
resistance from Charles L. and Charlie F.
A BUSY CRICKET SEASON
is now complete for the IThe team had further wins against N THE AUTUMN term the girls
Loretto cricketers. The 1st started off the year competing
XI played well throughout Stewart's Melville College and Glenalmond against a number of different high
the season losing only one where Hamish M. scored an unbeaten 35 quality schools. Overall we were able
game, unfortunately the T20 Cup match guiding the team to a match winning total.
against Merchiston Castle School. To be The other highlight included the final
honest we had a below par day in the game against Strathallan. Playing away to put out eight girls teams during
field with some uncharacteristic poor from home the only Upper 6 player Jono the term.
fielding where a number of chances were H. signed off in style, taking 4 wickets with
squandered. With the bat only Jack J. his first bowl of the season and 54 with The 1st XI started of the year with a week
resisted scoring a fine 50. the bat. The celebration when he brought of pre-season at Loretto. This consisted
It was pleasing to get revenge a week up his 50 by his team mates exemplified of physical and skills training to prepare
later in a 40 over fixture where we had a the character and values of this squad the team well for the up and coming
most polished performance of the season of players- the joy they demonstrated in term of hockey. The girls put in a lot of
recovering from a tough start where we Jono’s success was pleasing to witness. effort and showed good knowledge and
lost 3 quick wickets. A good partnership The final win of the season was secured determination into the training which
between Freddie H.n (42) and captain by a partnership between debutant stood us in a good position for the games
Jack P. (57) enabled Loretto to score 172. Callum B. and Hamish M. to come.
Then the bowlers showed great discipline
and skill in bowling Merchiston out for All of the boys should be commended The first game was against a touring
42. Wickets were shared by all 4 bowlers for their efforts throughout the season. side from Argentina which proved to be
used, Jack J., Jack P., Kit M. and Freddie H. They worked hard at training, played the a fantastic opening game, and the final
The season started with a good win game in good spirit and represented the result finished 2-1 to Loretto with some
against Errantes Cricket Club, a team school with pride. Captain Jack P. led the fantastic play which showed encouraging
made up of university students from side well and contributed a number of signs for the term. Several games
around the country. A 50 from Jack J. and match winning performances. It was followed playing a lot of strong opposition
a 7 wicket haul from Freddie H. secured pleasing also to note that all members including George Watsons, St Georges,
a close win for the team. In many ways of the squad contributed at some stage Trinity Academy and Glenalmond. There
this victory set up a similar trend for the during the season. was a mixed bag of results from these
team throughout the summer where they by Mr Peter Steindl games but you could see the team was
consistently found a way to get across the improving on each performance.
line regardless of the situation.

The annual MCC match is always a
highlight for a schoolboy cricketer and
once again this game did not disappoint.
The team bowled and fielded very well
restricting the MCC team to 203-8. After
a good start from the openers Jono H.
(39) and Patrick B.the team lost several
wickets in clusters and were subsequently
put under pressure to save the match. A

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 17

SENIOR SCHOOL

For the Scottish
Cup Final, we had
pullled together
enough support-
ers to fill three
coaches, bringing
huge support to
Glasgow Green.

The following game in the calendar was The boys 1st XI started their cup run all Edinburgh final in Glasgow where the
the Scottish cup where we had been against Glenalmond College at Loretto boys would play against George Watsons
drawn against Robert Gordon's College which gathered a big crowd to come and College for the Scottish schools cup.
at home. This was a great occasion and a support the boys through the cup match. The final arrived and Loretto had managed
fantastic crowd was gathered around the The match was a close encounter but to pull together enough supporters to fill
Astro to give the team the extra support Loretto ran out winners 5-3 with some 3 coaches to bring this huge support to
needed. The game was very close and good attacking play and a couple of names Glasgow Green to hopefully help the boys
ended in a 2-1 victory for Loretto. The on the score sheet. This built confidence 1st XI bring home the Cup. A massive thank
girls moved onto the next round of the and good team morale and stood us in a you to Squad kit for the special design of
Scottish cup where they would play good position for the rest of the season. the cup final strips. The game started and
against a very strong Dollar Academy side. The next few games were against some Loretto went 1-0 down and it stayed like
In this fixture, sadly Dollar were far too very strong and well organised schools, this until half time. Loretto managed to
strong for this young Loretto team, but a Fettes College, Stewarts Melville and start to improve on their performance
good defensive performance was shown, Strathallan. There was a mixed bag of in the second half and got their reward
giving great encouragement for next year results in these fixtures but it was a with the equaliser. Further great chances
where we will only lose 3 players from good learning experience and the boys were created but the GWC goal keeper
the first team. A huge congratulations were starting to improvement on team was on fire and was letting nothing past
has to go to the girls captain Jess L. who performances. him. The game finished 1-1 and went to
captained the squad expertly throughout Next up was the cup quarter final running penalties. Once again the GWC
the term, leading by example. against Glasgow school of sport, we had goal keeper was outstanding and saved all
The younger age groups had a number of managed to draw another home fixture. of the Loretto penalties which gifted the
highlighted results. The U15 cup squad Once again the red wall was in force to final result to George Watson's College.
beating George Watson's College in the support the boys. This game was very Overall, it was a good year for the boys 1st
Scottish cup. The U14 team showed close and brilliant chances were created team, there was a dramatic improvement
excellent consistency throughout the at both ends, the final score finished 1-1, on performance as well as the attitude
term, ending with 2 narrow loses to this meant the game had to be settled of the team. This stands the team in
strong schools. This was a great term in penalty flicks. Loretto managed to an excellent position for next year’s
of hockey and left the school in a great score 6 in a row and when GSOS missed competition and hopeful of a successful
position going forward, to compete in the their final penalty this meant the Loretto season next year.
hockey competitions. made it through to the semi-finals where The junior hockey teams have played
they would play Edinburgh Academy at against many different schools throughout
BOYS HOCKEY Loretto. the term and had a successful term of
The semi-final flew round and the boys results. The outstanding junior team has
T HE BOY’S HOCKEY season of were very excited to play the fixture with been the U14 boys as they have played a
2018 has been a successful the home support once again. This game total of eight games and only lost 1 fixture
one. Loretto was able to put had an Edinburgh derby feeling, as EA throughout the year. I would like to see
out a total of 10 teams who brought a strong support over to Loretto some of the U15 boys putting in further
competed against top schools. so this created a brilliant atmosphere effort to see if any of them can push into
During the spring term we have entered for the Semi-final to be played. It was a the first team next year. Overall we have
national and district competitions where brilliant game but you could see a clear good strength and depth which stands
the school was well represented. understanding of tactics and desire us in a good place for the future years.
from the Loretto boys as in the end the A special mention has to go out to all the
Loretto boys ran away with the result in
a 6-1 victory. This result then created an

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team captains as they have lead the teams well throughout the RUGBY
year and shown great leadership skills.
by Mr Callum Milne T HE 2018 RUGBY season was competitive with Loretto
taking part in the Scottish Rugby Eclipse conference
LACROSSE where we were up against Robert Gordon’s, Fettes,
Bell Baxter and Glenalmond. The rugby team started
A GOOD PRE-SEASON TRAINING session kick-started off with a small preseason gathering, but with a lot
the season on a cold January afternoon and we of players missing and unable to make camp, the team hardly
had useful competitive trial games against Fettes had any time to prepare and get ready for the challenges ahead.
which helped shape the teams and give the girls This later proved to be costly for the team.
confidence for the term ahead. However the We started off our campaign in a triangular tournament where
weather proved to be our toughest opponent and it was hard we hosted Florida Day school from Argentina and Dollar Academy
to achieve any momentum in the first few weeks as a couple of at a sunny Newfield. We managed to have a really good game
Glenalmond fixtures, as well as our own Loretto tournament, fell against Florida Day School blowing them away and winning
foul of icy pitches. Despite fewer matches than we would have convincingly with the boys form Loretto playing some exciting
liked, the girls trained hard at Newfield tackling the elements and rugby. Next, we faced the challenge of Dollar Academy that
Mr Barker’s military fitness sessions with almost equal enthusiasm proved one step too far for our boys being beaten convincingly
and demonstrated a steely resilience that makes us proud. by a big, physical team that had just returned from a tour to
The firsts had an excellent game against Fettes narrowly losing South Africa. This put into perspective how much work we had
10-8 and then travelled to the National Schools Championships to do, as a team, in so little time.
in Surrey where they battled hard in a Glastonbury-esque wind, Our first conference game was against Robert Gordon’s where
rain and mud fest. Although the warm-up for one of our games wie had the journey of travelling to Aberdeen. Fatigued from
consisted of chasing our gazebo as it flew across several pitches, the journey, we got off to a slow start but managed to work
we had good competitive matches against teams such as St our way back into the game only falling away again in the last 5
Katherine’s and St Mary’s Calne, and dug out a hard fought minutes. This game did have its big moments where Harrison T.
victory against Charterhouse. Despite the atrocious weather imitated an American football tackle where he leaped through
conditions, team spirit and effort never faltered (the sing-a- the air like a salmon to “fold” one of the opposition boys in half.
long under the tent will be well remembered!) and the whole He then, in true sportsmanship, apologised to the boy as he was
experience brought the team together helping us provide a great being taken off the field.
showcase fixture on our return to Scotland against Glenalmond Within a couple of weeks the rugby season hit a downward
in front of the whole school where we drew 7-7. spiral as we were plagued with losing players to injury and other
We had some excellent victories during the season in the unforeseen circumstances. We lost our captain and Scotland
younger U14 & U15 age groups too which bodes well for the U18 player Nathan S. and our replacement captain William R.
future, and in late March the U13 beginners team travelled to To make things tougher for the squad we were missing Seth
the Fettes beginners' tournament to play against teams of their V.R., Harrison T. and Tom H. who were big game players for the
own age but also at U14 and U15 level. The girls worked really team and U6 boys in their final year of rugby. This meant that the
well as a team and fought fantastically hard for ground balls to opportunity opened up for the younger boys to make their mark
end up winning the tournament which was a great end to the in the team. The younger boys stepped up and showed some
season. Well done everyone. great courage and commitment to the team willing to put their
by Mrs Melanie Paton “bodies on the line”. Although all the results were not favourable
at times, this would hopefully be valuable experience for the

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 19

SENIOR SCHOOL

boys who still have another season at 1st themselves and the school proud. This victories over Fettes and Edinburgh
XV level. Again, the team was struck with did not go unnoticed. Academy, and possibly for some of their
injuries and the loss of Sam S. (Shoulder), Overall, with everything thrown at us, the defeats as well!
Charlie F. (Ankle), Marcus E. (Concussion), team has learnt a lot and will hopefully Not content with mere U16s fives, these
Callum B. (Concussion) and Archie A. (Eye move forward, in a positive manner. same four glovesmen bravely flew the
Socket) meant that the team were down We also fielded an U14 and U15 team. Loretto flag in the U18 Scottish Schools
numbers and boys had to put the team Unfortunately, we didn’t have an U16 singles tournament and in U18 matches
first and play out of position and field as team due to insufficient numbers. The too. While wins were inevitably hard to
many boys as we could get. U14 team had a successful season come by at that level, playing up has given
Nevertheless, the team had a fighting winning 6 games and losing only 4 games them invaluable experience, and has
spirit, refused to give up and can be really against some tough opposition. contributed to their great improvement.
proud of themselves for representing by Mr Andrew Binikos While special mention must go to Jack
Loretto the way they did. The boys Brodie for his exponential technical
were put in a really tough situation and OTHER SPORTS progress, all have good reason to be
had some tough challenges ahead. We proud of their efforts.
managed to get wins against Lomond, FIVES In the girls’ game, putting together
Bell Baxter and Merchiston 2nd XV in a This was a development year for our a squad remains a work in progress.
heated contest played away from home players - a year of laying the technical However, Louise W. and Robyn B. teamed
in snowy conditions. This was the best foundations for the future. Many of our up as a pair for the second-ever Scottish
performance of the season with the team Junior boys only began playing the game Schools Girls Championships this year.
never backing off against their opposition this year, yet they were able to master The event also included pairings from
and winning in the last 5 minutes with a the basics and begin to work on some of Edinburgh Academy, Fettes and the
try from Mathew C. who ran it in from the trickier skills too. They put in some Caledonian Club. Fairly inexperienced
40 yards out. encouraging performances against the as a pair, Loretto gave it their best shot
The game of the season was against Edinburgh schools, which we hope to but lost out in the early stages. They now
Preston Lodge on a Thursday afternoon build on next year. have a fair idea of how high the standard
down at Newfield where the school The Colts team were young for their level, of girls school fives can be- and there is
turned out a compulsory attendance to but nonetheless produced a lot of good no doubt that with practice they could
show their support on the day. Preston fives. Always upbeat and good-humoured, form the core of a good team next year.
Lodge, an unbeaten outfit, conference their enthusiastic and boisterous training The girls and women’s game in general
winners of their division also had 2 style no doubt paved the way for their is most certainly on the up and we hope
Scotland U18 representatives in their Loretto can play a strong part in this going
team managed to edge out Loretto 24- 29 forward.
who were leading for most of the game. For the first time in several years, Loretto
The game was played at a ferocious pace, were represented at the National Schools
physical and a great spectacle to watch Championships, which is held annually at
and although the boys lost, they did St. Paul’s School in London. Three of the

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enthusiasm, energy, interest and talent.
This should come as no surprise, really.

four members of the U16 boys team made the trip to the biggest tournament in There are around 4 billion football fans
schools fives, where they entered the Colts category of the competition. across the globe making it by far the most
There is always a buzzing atmosphere at the National Schools event, with so many popular sport in the world. It may have
schools competing and so many excellent players involved. There are always large been inevitable, therefore, that football
numbers watching and the Loretto boys were perhaps a little daunted by the occasion participation would grow in places where
at first. However, all three players began to settle after indifferent starts- and over a it might have been held at arm’s length.
physically demanding three days, they improved immensely as singles players, growing Moreover, the huge success of this year’s
in confidence and court-craft. Women’s World Cup Finals in France, with
Joe C. and Nathan G.-W. teamed up for the doubles tournament, and found a rhythm an estimated 1 billion TV spectators, has
and style that was good to watch and took them very close to progressing beyond confirmed the continual rise of football in
the early stages. every household and community, every
Although no silverware was won on this occasion, they have gained a great deal of street and school. This translates into a
experience- and as the boys left the courts to catch their trains, with palms bruised, great wave of healthy living, inclusion,
legs wobbly and arm muscles strained, they could be heard already discussing next confidence building and participation. All
year’s tournament! Many thanks to Mrs. Angela Westacott for supervising the trip sports for all will only lead to good things.
and being such an enthusiastic fives supporter. The past two years have shown that
Loretto has the distinction of being the only school in Scotland that hosts a ranking football does have its place at Loretto,
tournament in the annual fives circuit- the Scottish Open. This year all four members when dovetailed sympathetically into
of the U16 team decided to enter, and pit their wits against some quality school and the sports and activities programmes.
adult players- the latter including the current number 5 in the Open rankings list, Mr The wave of participation these past
David Butler. two years may have been modest when
In the singles, Nathan G.-W. made it to the quarter-finals, and in the process achieved compared to other schools but it has
a new ranking high of 23rd in the game, an impressive achievement that he is capable been growing and a welcome start,
of surpassing next season! thanks to the believers and modernists,
Loretto coach Mr Murby managed to reach the final after an 80-minute semi-final, the advocates of ‘all sports for all young
but was convincingly bested by the aforementioned 5th-ranked player! people’. Beginning in 2017, the afternoon
In the doubles competition, Josh F. and Joe C. ended up on opposing sides for the activities programme was sprinkled with
final, both partnered by strong players from the Caledonian Club. In front of a packed football participation for all year groups.
viewing gallery, the match went to the wire, and both pairs had several game-ball Admittedly, it focused on boys, but
opportunities at 15-15. In the end, Josh F. and his Old Lorettonian partner Mr Simon our girls were welcome and some did
Hodgson managed to make the breakthrough, winning 16-15. It was an exciting end play. Small moves, maybe, but moves
to a great weekend of fives - and it was great to see Loretto representation on the nonetheless.
court and school support from the gallery throughout. Several of our fellow independent schools
by Mr Richard Murby in East Lothian play in an inter-school
league, but we have played on an as-and-
when basis. This has been a welcome first
step, for sure. Over the past two years we
have been able to find regular fixtures
for our two senior teams, the 1sts and
2nds, as well as a single fixture for an U16
side. The senior sides have enjoyed wins,
draws and losses against Merchiston,
Fettes and Stewart’s Melville College.
The wins were clearly the most enjoyable
but it has never really been about that.
We have trained twice a week for every
week of the year and, with availability
dependant on the other sports, the boys
have just been pleased to play and give
their all. I have been proud of them. They
received high praise from all opposition
staff, none more endearing than from the
staff of Stewart’s Melville College who
complimented our ability, determination
and conduct. Loretto shone.

FOOTBALL We have exceptional footballers in every
It has been an exciting and rewarding two years for the football lovers at Loretto, where age group, girls and boys, and none more
the most popular sport in the world has been very much alive and kicking. Loretto is so than in last year’s 4th and 5th Forms. In
lucky to have so many enthusiastic players throughout the school, girls and boys, many their one U16 fixture last year they were
of whom enjoy successes with their local teams. We have a footballing abundance of exceptional, beating Merchiston 6-3. It
was the only time that they had played
together, against a school where football

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 21

SENIOR SCHOOL

is a games option. Truly outstanding.

Our football activities have encouraged
inclusion, have built confidence, have
helped year groups to blend, have
relieved the stresses of the week,
particularly during the exam periods,
have widened the activities on offer to
our young people, have improved fitness
and healthy living. Groups have been
encouraged to regulate themselves. My
whistle rarely left my pocket.

Football has been very much alive and the season despite their introduction of fitness to the sessions and all girls should be
kicking for the past two years thanks to proud of the improvements that they made.
the wonderful footballers at the school, On 6 June 2019, the senior teams faced Glenalmond in a grudge match where the
and to the believers, the visionaries, the girls fought hard and played every point with well thought out shots in order to win
modernists. My heartfelt thanks to them both the first and second team matches with scores of nine matches to love.
and long may it continue. Indeed, long The boy’s tennis team had a close opening game of the season narrowly losing to
may it continue to grow for girls and boys Musselburgh Tennis Club four games to five. This did not dampen spirits and helped
alike, embracing the popularity of the encourage the boys at training leading towards a successful season where the boys
sport in every culture and across every played hard to secure victories against both Merchiston and Glenalmond with some
demographic, building on the mammoth convincing play from some of the younger players.
and undeniable success of the Women’s As the season drew to a close, it seemed only fitting to end with a mixed doubles fixture
World Cup 2019. against old rivals Fettes. The sun shone at the School Astro as the boys and girls battled
by Mr. Jez Stokes it out on the courts. Despite the narrow loss, the teams played with aggression and
determination which we hope we can see again in some more mixed doubles next year.
TENNIS by Ms Susanna Burn
This year’s tennis season started well
with a victorious block fixture for our
junior teams against George Watson's
College with Loretto winning three out
of four matches. A rainy start to the
season meant we unfortunately had to
postpone fixtures against the Watson’s
senior teams and Strathallan whilst also
having to play a large majority of our
points in torrential rain. Our external
coaches made an impressive impact on
the overall standard of girls’ tennis over

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PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Anatomy, Teamwork, Movement patterns and Healthy lifestyles
have been the focus in Physical Education 2018/19.
The pupils have performed to a high standard in and out of the
classroom this year in PE. The practicals had pupils participating
in Hockey to Health-Related fitness and developing a diverse
range of tactics and strategies in many team-based sports. Their
hard work, enthusiastic attitude and playful nature has resulted
in some excellent team and individual performances!
The GCSE practical performances have been nothing short of
impressive this year and the commitment of pupils to their
chosen sports was evident. No GCSE year would be complete
without putting the pupils through their paces with fitness
testing for informing their coursework training programs. A
notable mention goes to Mairi F. for scoring the highest on the
bleep test for the girls and Evdokios D. for the boys, they have
set the bar high for the future GCSE PE pupils.
2018/2019 saw the first awarding year of our BTEC Sport
Courses. BTEC sport pupils now have the flexibility to study
the full range of qualifications from the Extended Certificate
to the Extended Diploma. The pupils this year were extremely
busy in and out of classroom. With multiple assessment task
deadlines mimicking what will be expected of them at university
and workplace to attending visits to the Surgeon’s Hall for a
tour and an Anatomy lecture. Pupils have also experienced
what it would be like to work as a Sport Scientist with a visit to
Napier University's state of the art Biomechanics, Physiology and
Human performance Lab with climate and altitude chamber. Did
I say the pupils have been busy.....! A number of our Lower 6th
showed their commitment to improving their coaching skill set
by completing the Level 2 UKCC Rugby qualification.
We are excited for the future of PE at Loretto and look forward
to building on the pupil’s progress made this year.
Thank you to all pupils, teachers and support staff for a great
year.
by Mr Gary Reid

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 23

SENIOR SCHOOL

GOLF

W WITH INDEPENDENT that the volume of golfers attending activities, through the week, remains
SCHOOLS golf getting robust.
more competitive, 2018 March – Thanks to strong performances in the previous year we qualified
proved to be one of the for all three of the senior national finals. During March Loretto were the
most successful years Scottish representative for the ISGA Home Internationals to compete over
we have ever had at the Golf Academy Bryn Meadows and the 2010 Ryder Cup course at Celtic Manor. A team
winning the National Championships consisting of Cameron G., Timothy C., Joseph C. and Greg M. travelled to
,at all age groups. Our success is never Wales in hope of challenge for the prestigious title.
taken for granted and after losing notable After a period of prolonged rainfall prior to the competition, damp
stalwarts such as Lou T. and Yannick A. and conditions met the players at Bryn Meadows. On a tough day where other
a whole host of other talented golfers, our teams struggled, we performed admirably, securing a twenty five shot
results this season are especially pleasing. lead. It would be an understatement to say that the character shown by
The development of each member of the players was flawless, and very much embraced with the values we try
the golf academy is very important and and instil into our young golfers.
matches our philosophy: talent is being With a commanding lead, after round one, it was off to the Ryder Cup
developed, if the right environment and course at Celtic Manor to play for the title. As expected there where a
opportunity is provided. Our training few nerves and an expected fightback from the other teams. After nine
centre and environment is still admired holes our lead had reduced and the competition had become tighter than
far and wide, it is the heart of our success. expected.
We have invested in the outdoor golf With our strongest player struggling to cope with the demanding conditions,
facility at Pinkie to enhance the practice up stepped our youngest player, Timothy C. to steady the ship and return
facilities outwith the indoor centre. a fine score and win the title for the School. A strong sixteen shot margin
Fourteen wins and ten second places was a nice way to win the first major team competition of the year.
demonstrate the depth of talent we have
within the Golf Academy, our philosophy
is working.

As golf continues to struggle with falling April – The team travelled to Kent to play in the ISGA Schools National
numbers of participants it is encouraging Finals at the Princes & Royal St Georges Golf Clubs. Competing against the

24 THE LORETTONIAN MAGAZINE ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19

GOLF

best eighteen schools in the country, a
three-man team of Cameron G., Timothy
C. and Joseph C. were selected to play in
the second major team championship of
the year.

Being a stone's throw from France more
pleasant conditions met the players, over
the challenging Princes course. Captain
Cameron G. led the team well, recording
a fine level par 71 and was joint leader
after day one. Added to a solid score
from Joseph C. we were one behind the
lead, in the team competition.

With all to play for over the prestigious June – Our Junior School golfers made the trip to the Macdonald Hill Valley
Royal St Georges Golf course, a fine Course, to play the Independent Association of Preparatory Schools Golf
morning for golf awaited. The team Championship. Having tasted success in previous years our team travelled
buoyed by their excellent play on day one with an air of expectation. Experienced campaigners Cameron and Alex
went with a spring in their stride. After were joined by Jamie who had excelled in the earlier Nipper Championship.
18 sparkling holes, Joseph returned a Rainfall seemed to cause problems at quite a few tournaments with a
score of three under par round over the couple being cancelled and others played in terrible conditions.
2020 Open Championship course and The day of the tournament was no different and more resembled a wet
moments later, Cameron posted a solid day in November than flaming June with the course practically unplayable,
score of two under par. Knowing we had at the beginning of the day. The staff at the course produced a miracle to
played well an anxious wait for the results remove the standing water from the greens and play commenced.
followed. Not only had the team won by
4 shots, Cameron recorded victory in
the individual competition with Joseph
finishing a commendable third place.

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 25

SENIOR SCHOOL

On a day umbrellas gave up, our team and Warwick. Fourteen wins and
played with a great tenacity smiling and On day one we played well against ten second places
joking as they plodded their way around. both Warwick and Whitgift, who we demonstrates the
After nine holes, a bowl of soup was a comprehensively dispatched. depth of talent
warm welcome when players stopped for Day two was effectively a semi-final we have within
lunch. Spirits were high in the camp as the against Reeds and we expected a tight the Golf Academy,
players' regaled stories of missed putts, match. At the turn it was all to play for our philosophy is
great shots and puddles. with all games fluctuating around all working.
Warm again, with nine holes to play, square. The nip and tuck nature of the
our team went out knowing they had matches went to the wire with all games
performed well but still had nine holes going down to the last hole. Much to
to play. All hit a great tee shot and they our disappointment, Reeds closed out
were off. As the conditions worsened, the all matches on the last green and the
course presented new challenges as the fine line was very apparent. In the final
ground crew struggled to keep up with Rossall came out victorious with Loretto
the deluge, ninety minutes later our capturing the tankard by shooting level
intrepid team returned to the clubhouse, par. Both Eilidh and Cameron shot a
full of enthusiasm recording scores well superb three under par to win the cup
below their handicaps. for the best pair.
Not knowing how other Schools had Loretto Order of Merit – Internally our
faired, we were delighted to learn that we order of merit was as keenly contested
had successfully defended the Under 11 as pervious years with the conclusion
IAPS Team Golf Championship. Alexander coming down to the last few holes after
who had recorded a fine score of 47 months of competition.
points won the Under 11 individual title Timothy C. was the victor narrowly
and was narrowly pipped on a count back pipping Cameron G. Our School stroke
for the national title. Our team not only play champion this year was Eilidh H.,
survived, but excelled. who played some magnificent golf over
July – With two majors captured, it was the two rounds to win with a sub-par
onto the HMC Foursomes final in early July total. Eilidh also went on to reach the
to try and complete an unprecedented final of the Scottish Girls Matchplay later
treble. After a gap of six years, the in the year at Blairgowrie.
finals returned to the spiritual home of Overall a successful year in many ways.
foursomes, at Rye Golf Club. With an Recognition should be given to our
average handicap of 4.4 we where up outgoing Captain of Golf Cameron G. for
against the very best eight teams in the his enthusiastic and diligent support over
country. the last year.
Blessed with a course in magnificent by Mr Ian Muir
conditions and a fresh coastal breeze, we
were ready for the familiar links challenge.
Our group consisted of Whitgift, Reeds

26 THE LORETTONIAN MAGAZINE ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19

CREATIVE & EXPRESSIVE ARTS

A RT by our
pupils
LONDON TRIP outside work of pavement art and sculptors, in Trafalgar Square.
On 19 September 2018, the L6 and U6 went on an Art and Overall, the trip was a great experience for all art pupils. It was
History of Art trip, to London, for the day. We had an early the perfect opportunity for the L6 starting A level, to gain some
morning start, to get the 7 o’clock train from Berwick Upon- inspiration and valuable ideas to help with our development,
Tweed, meaning we were reaching London at around mid-day. and also for the U6 to further their coursework development.
Our day started in the sunny buzz of London city, which was By Ella G.
organised by our art teachers, Mrs Buchanan and Mrs Scott.
We visited some fantastic galleries around London, including A MACKENZIE ARTIST IN RESIDENCE
the Modern Tate Gallery, the Tate Britain, The V&A, as well Last year, back in September, the award- winning artist Andrew
as a private viewing to see the artists Frida Kahlo and Thomas Mackenzie spent two weeks at Loretto helping us develop new
Cole in the V&A. techniques, with a wide range of materials, creating some
The galleries were amazing and full of so many high quality and magnificent pieces of art work. Andrew Mackenzie is a painter
famous work. It was so interesting to look around and to see whose work mines a territory between pure abstraction and
work that related to our current artwork in class. Not only did we representation. His work responds to the landscape and overtly
view some of our current artists that we were studying, as part acknowledges the constructs through which it is seen. He also
of our coursework, but the trip also allowed us to select new constructs drawings and etchings. At Loretto he taught us
artists which we could incorporate into our A level. We were also how composition is important as well as proportionality and
able to take photos, which were included into our sketchbooks perspective.
towards our A level. The lovely sunny weather made the trip
even better, meaning we had the chance to enjoy some of the

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 27

SENIOR SCHOOL
We spent a whole day exploring techniques outside
with him at Inveresk Lodge Gardens, adapting the
ways in which we draw and paint. We used various
techniques such as drawing with only a long stick
and ink, as well as drawing with our eyes closed
and drawing with only a rubber into charcoal. We
then followed him to the Art department where we
explored new ways in which we produce fine art,
using the techniques that Andrew had shown us.
by Daisy T.
CALEDONIAN CLUB COMPETITION
In March of 2019 my drawing of the Garden
shed still life was one of two works selected to
represent Loretto at the Caledonian club Schools Art
Competition in London. I then attended the private
view, which was a great experience , firstly, as I saw
my artwork displayed in a gallery next to many others
from Scottish schools, secondly, as there were people
from across the UK who came to visit the gallery
whom I had the opportunity to meet. I also had the
chance to meet the artist judging the works, John
Lowrie Morrison OBE. His artwork was also on display
at the Caledonian club which attracted more visitors
to view the students’ pieces of work. Jolomo, as he
is known as, gave me some helpful advice on my
artwork and the future of my art. I am very thankful
to him for taking time to have a conversation with
me at his event and also to the staff team at the
Caledonian club for making such a great experience
happen and making me feel welcome and providing
another opportunity for me to visit London, a great
artistic capital.
by Harper M.

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DRAMA

C REATIVITY, COLLABORATION AND
improvisation have been our ‘buzz words’
in Drama this academic year, both on and
off stage. In the classrooms and in the
theatre, we have been so impressed by
the range and depth of creative talent in the Senior
School. Whether it’s in achieving outstanding LAMDA
results, lively small class plays in 2 and 3f lessons, or
complex devised performances at GCSE and A level,
Lorettonians never shy away from a challenge and
always have fun!
The whole school production of Coram Boy was awe-
inspiring and a pleasure to be part of. It was great to
see pupils from every year group working together
both on and off-stage, to produce something that
will live in the memory for a long time.
We have enjoyed several trips to the theatre, with
‘Glasgow Girls’ being the firm favourite. Pupils
have been lucky enough to work with several
professional practitioners this year too, including
masterclasses from Mr George Dillon (Berkoff expert
and professional actor); Mr Jo Bowman (assistant
director, Citizens Theatre Glasgow) and Mrs Bethany
Tennick OL (professional actress and musician).
With so much creative talent in the school, we’re
really excited about the future!
By Mrs Helen Day

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 29

SENIOR SCHOOL

MUSIC

M USIC AT LORETTO has ranged from more traditional spring, pupils also reached the district final of
summer and Christmas concerts, to the Peter Wood Scholars’ the Rotary Club Young Musician of the
Concert and the ever popular late night Pinkie jam sessions. Year 2018.
In addition, this year SongFest was held in the Chapel whilst In March, once again we held the 9th
the theatre underwent refurbishment, and was split into two James Waterhouse Music Competition
rounds: Vocal in October and a new Instrumental Inter-Colour in the Spring which featured some highly talented
term which featured our most talented musicians. We have also started performers.
to include some lunch time concerts which give pupils more informal We have had another fine set of results
performance opportunities. with Trinity Rock and Pop examinations on
In addition to this we held a jazz masterclass with the Head of Jazz at the Drum Kit and guitar-11 Drummers and
St Mary’s Music School-Andrew Robb, combined with a jazz masterclass a Bass Guitarist. Pupils achieved 2 passes,
and improvisation session. We are also developing some more informal 7 merits and 3 distinctions. Examiner
concerts, held at lunch time, and these have included a GCSE performance Dominic Leitner was impressed with how
class and informal piano recital. everyone performed, and commented on
Forms 2 & 3 are full of vocal talent. The Junior Choir rehearsed every how polite all of the students were. Pupils
Monday and performed regularly at Chapel services, Speech Day and once achieved success at the Edinburgh
outside events. Performances off-campus included a Christmas programme Competition Festival, with Douglas Watt
outdoors at Dalkeith Country Park, and a concert at Harlawhill Day Care winning his Drum Kit class.
Centre in Prestonpans. More recently, pupils also achieved
Ensembles have continued to develop, and this has included the pleasing results in the ABRSM
amalgamation of our ensembles to form the Loretto Orchestra. This examinations. Highlights included
year has featured some orchestral mornings with the orchestral rehearsal cello Grade 8 with Distinction, grade 5
becoming a weekly fixture next year. Saxophone with Merit.

Pupils once again achieved outstanding results at the Edinburgh Competition Elspeth (F4) was offered a place in the
Festival, especially our percussion and drum kit players. One of our pupils prestigious National Youth Choir of Great
auditioned successfully for the National Youth String Orchestra, and another Britain’s Senior Choir course for 2019. She
pupil also joined the National Youth Choir of Great Britain. One of our attended the senior section of the Girls’

30 THE LORETTONIAN MAGAZINE ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19

CREATIVE & EXPRESSIVE ARTS

choir in the Easter and Summer Holidays.
Loretto pupil Laura performed with the
Senior section of the National Youth String
Orchestra during the Summer holidays,
including concerts at the Lake District
Summer Music, Monmouth Festival,
MusicFest Aberystwyth, culminating in
a performance in King's Place, London.
Oliver (F5) has just passed an audition
for the National Youth Choir of Scotland
(Boys) for 2020 which takes place at
Loretto during the Easter holidays.
Pupils have also attended a range of
concerts including a Queen Extravaganza
at the Usher Hall and a Junior Choir trip
to see Wicked.
Music technology grows from strength
to strength, with the incorporation of
GarageBand on Ipad and Logic Pro into
music lessons. Music technology AS level
is now also running as an option this year.
Our talented musicians have created
a Loretto account on SoundCloud, the
world's most popular music streaming
platform. To listen to their work, visit
https://soundcloud.com/lorettomusic
by Mrs Sarah Massey

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 31

SENIOR SCHOOL

EXPRESSIVE ARTS

review by Mr Simon Lowe performances by Ellen Robson and Mackenzie Burr, again joint
SONGFEST first place.
Heads of Colour and their helpers worked heroically to bring
groups of over 100 into some sort of musical agreement SOLO 1st =
about the Show Songs, each of which was a nine-minute Ellen R., Greenlees (Creep by Radiohead): 1st =
medley of tunes. With the Chapel as venue during the Mackenzie B., Langhorne (I’m Yours by Jason Mraz:):
Theatre refurbishment, there was limited space for elaborate
choreography, but costume, colour and enthusiasm certainly CLOSE HARMONY 1st
made for lively performances. These pieces were hard to Langhorne (One Day like This by Elbow)
judge, as all were so different and had their own strengths.
The adjudicator, James Skuse wisely awarded joint first places. SHOW SONG 1st =
Considerable finesse was in evidence for the solos and Greenlees: 1st =
close harmony items, with particularly powerful individual (The Lion King by Tim Rice & Elton John)
Langhorne:
(The Greatest Showman by Pasek & Paul)

32 THE LORETTONIAN MAGAZINE ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19

CREATIVE & EXPRESSIVE ARTS

INTERCOLOUR MUSIC of seasonal carols sung by both Junior and Senior Choirs, several
solo vocal and instrumental items, and congregational carols.
Almost every instrumentalist in the School took part in the heats,
including ensembles such as the Pipe Band and the String and JAZZ WORKSHOP
Percussion groups, gaining points for their colour. From these Our regular programme of masterclasses by professional
performers, the best 16 were chosen for the Final. Pianists ruled practitioners continued with a jazz workshop led by bassist
when it came to the top places, but there were also strong items Andrew Robb, Winner of 1st prize at The 2018 European Society
from brass, string and percussion players. of Bassists Jazz Competition and Head of Jazz at St Mary’s Music
School, Edinburgh. As well as working with GCSE composition
Elspeth O., Piano, Langhorne: 1st students to develop their musical ideas, he succeeded in
Seth van R., Piano, Tristram: 2nd coaxing solo and ensemble playing from a disparate group of
Oliver S., Piano, Greenlees: 3rd = Loretto instrumentalists, many with little or no experience of
Jolie W., Piano, Mackintosh: 3rd = jazz improvisation. The highlight of the closing concert was an
extended version of Herbie Hancock’s Watermelon Man with
The overall winner of this year’s InterColour Music & Songfest featured solos from all the participants.
was, by a considerable margin of points, Langhorne.

PETER WOOD SCHOLARS’ CONCERT

The best of Loretto music on an Autumn evening. An annual THE 9TH JAMES WATERHOUSE PIANO COMPETITION
treat to celebrate the donation of the Music School Concert 56 young pianists took part in this event on 23 March 2019.
Hall, a gift from the Wood family in memory of their son, offered Non-competitive Master Classes for younger performers and the
a varied programme of vocal and instrumental items. The competitive Foundation Class were taken by the distinguished
audience filled the hall to capacity and enjoyed a wide range of pianist and music educator Megan Beynon. A strong field of
items: a baroque trumpet concerto, stylish violin solos, including Intermediate and Advanced players competed in front of the
Ramiro Gallo’s vivid and virtuosic Rojo y Negro, vocal items from renowned concert pianist and teacher Martin Roscoe, whose
opera and musical theatre and a magnificent performance of inspiring adjudications were more like master classes in their
the first movement of Elgar’s Cello Concerto by Laura M. own right as he illustrated his comments with examples from
the keyboard.

CHRISTMAS MUSIC FROM LORETTO Nine Loretto pianists took part and gave fine performances,
On 6 December 2018, Loretto Pupils presented a short but on this occasion a very strong field from all over Scotland
informal concert of musical items at Inveresk Parish Church and other parts of the UK prevailed. Three pianists from each
in aid of Church funds. This event brought our singers and category went through to the evening Final.
instrumentalists together in a festive celebration. Foundation Class: Rhea F. - winner, Alasdair C., Elise R.
The varied programme opened with a rousing performance Intermediate Class: Viktor S.- winner, Helen F., William H.
from the Loretto Pipe Band, and included the Loretto string Advanced Class: Risako T. - winner, Emma S., Erin B.
ensemble featuring Elspeth O. as soloist on the violin, a number The standard was astonishingly high and the Advanced finalists

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 33

SENIOR SCHOOL

presented very different programmes which blended virtuosity CORAM BOY
in the zone well above Grade 8 with elegance and musicality. Set in 18th-century Gloucester and London, Helen Edmundson’s
The journey of practice and experience from 8 year-old Rhea stage adaptation of Jamila Gavin’s Whitbread Award-winning
F., who carried away the Foundation cash prize and cup to 17 children’s novel, Coram Boy is a multi-layered gothic drama full
year-old Advanced winner Risako T. was clearly laid out for of dastardly villains, cold-hearted aristocrats, devoted friends
the audience. Risako, a music scholar from Fettes, and the and passionate lovers set against a background of cruelty, music
Intermediate winner Viktor S. from St Mary’s Music School and murder. It was first performed in the Olivier auditorium
performed at Steinway Hall, London on 2nd May. of the National Theatre, London, on 15 November 2005. It
The generosity and support of the Waterhouse family over opened on Broadway in 2007, where it was nominated for six
the nine years of the competition was acknowledged by the Tony Awards. It tells a stirring tale of philanthropy, foundling
Headmaster, Dr Graham Hawley and warmly applauded by children and families both divided and, ultimately, reunited
audience and competitors. in an uplifting climax. With a large cast from all year groups,
vivid soundscapes, multiple locations and some spectacular
ORCHESTRA DAYS theatrical magic, this was a production not to be missed and
With a regular string group in place, it was time to bring other was enthusiastically received.
instrumentalists into a larger ensemble. In 18th-century Gloucestershire, the evil Otis Gardner preys
A series of orchestra days consisting of sectional and ensemble on unmarried mothers, promising to take their babies (and
rehearsals reminded everyone that an orchestra is greater than their money) to Thomas Coram’s hospital for foundling children.
the sum of its parts and enables even quite inexperienced Instead, he buries the babies and pockets the loot. Otis’s
players to enjoy making music and performing it at a level which downfall is set in train when his seemingly dim-witted but soft-
encourages them to practise and persevere. hearted son Meshak falls in love with a young girl, Melissa,
Audiences then also enjoy the sound of a large group playing and rescues the love child she has conceived with a young
ambitious repertoire. aristocrat and musician just before the baby becomes another
After some nimble reconfiguration of the timetable, the of Otis’s victims. The child is brought up in Coram’s hospital, and
orchestra rehearsal is set to become a weekly fixture in 2019-20. proves to have inherited the startling musical gifts of his father,
gifts that ultimately bring about his father’s redemption and a
JUNIOR CHOIR heartwarming family reunion.
Philanthropist Thomas Coram established his Foundling Hospital,
dedicated to the humane treatment of abandoned children,
in 1742 and it was funded by generous donations sollicited
by eminent cultural figures such as the artist Hogarth and the
composer Handel, whose music features in the production.

Forms 2 & 3 are full of vocal talent. The Junior Choir rehearsed DANCE SHOW 2019
every Monday and performed regularly at Chapel services, 86 pupils from Early Years to Upper Sixth showcased the full
Speech Day and outside events. Performances off campus range of Loretto dance, taking items from the many weekly
included a Christmas programme outdoors at Dalkeith Country classes and assembling them into a programme covering many
Park, a concert at Harlawhill Day Care Centre in Prestonpans. styles and moods. There were also two items by a team of

34 THE LORETTONIAN MAGAZINE ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19

CREATIVE & EXPRESSIVE ARTS

“Coram Boy was the first proper
play production I had been in
and I loved every single second
of it. I loved the feeling of all of
the actors being together and
one family 2nd form to U6!”

Alice M.

dancers from Kirsty Hamilton’s Live it Dance Studios. As ever, two NEW TO OUR FACILITIES
packed audiences enjoyed one of the most exciting spectacles Our 10 year leasing contract with Steinway came to an end in
of the School year. It can be difficult to fit essential regular 2019 after an extraordinarily happy and fruitful association which
classes into a crowded Loretto schedule: to keep ambitious and has seen concerts, visiting recitalists, nine James Waterhouse
thrilling events like this alive the nettle of regular attendance piano competitions, courses by the National Youth Choir of
and commitment must be grasped. This is the challenge for Scotland, Oxenfoord International Summer School and many
the future. others.

HIGHLAND DANCE A new era begins for our Music School with Yamaha and
After a dip in numbers last year, the Highland Dance troupe Bösendorfer, and we were thrilled to receive, in September
returned to vigorous health in 2018-19, with a mixture of 2019 two magnificent Bösendorfer concert grands and a suite
experienced and newer, rapidly improving dancers. of Yamaha pianos tailored to our concert, rehearsal and teaching
This enabled them to perform at Loretto Open Days, Speech needs.
Day and Beating Retreat on the last day of term and to appear New beginings also for Loretto Theatre. Since the major
in an exciting programme of external events, including a display renovation in 2003 the Theatre has been carefully maintained
at the EICA in December, a performance for a Senior Citizen’s and many improvements have taken place. However, the march
Christmas lunch at St Kentigern’s Church, Edinburgh, Beating of time and new technology finally caught up with the lighting
Retreat at Holyrood in May and an appearance on the third rig in June 2018, causing complete failure of the dimmer racks.
day of the Test Match between England and South Africa on The Bursar, Steve Howard displayed his customary pragmatism
Saturday, 8th July at Lord’s Cricket Ground, London. and recognised the need for an immediate solution to bring
this vital facility back into service and upgrade to a system
LAMDA EXAMS which would allow the use of much more versatile and energy
59 pupils from year 7 of the Nippers through to the U6 took efficient LED fixtures alongside our traditional analogue lamps.
examinations in Acting, Musical Theatre and Verse and Prose The contract went to Stage Electrics/Northern Light, who fitted
Speaking in November, January and June 2018-19. Zero 88 bypass dimmers, new wiring, a set of LED lights and a
The Nipper candidates start with Grade 2 and in the Senior new lighting board. The work was completed in time for this
School pupils progress through to Grade 8. reliable and versatile rig to be used for Coram Boy, the major
Results this year were really outstanding. All candidates passed drama production of the year. It has also made Loretto Theatre
and there were 39 Distinctions and 19 Merits, with significant much more attractive to external groups, who are increasingly
successes at the higher grades, including a mark of 96% for Daisy applying to Loretto Enterprises to use it in the holidays
T. in Musical Theatre Grade 7 Solo (Distinction & Silver Medal)
and Distinctions in the very demanding Grade 8 Musical theatre OLD LORETTONIANS IN THE PERFORMING ARTS
Duo exam for Amy F. and Erin O. (Gold Medals). Jamie Parker has already achieved multiple successes playing
major roles in film, television and onstage. Most recently, he
played the title role in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in
London’s West End for which he won the 2017 Olivier Award
for Best Actor. He went on to play the same role on Broadway.

Will Huggins is an actor and voiceover artist, frequently heard

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 35

SENIOR SCHOOL
on BBC Radio 4 over the past year.
Bethany Tennick, the youngest ever graduate of the Musical
theatre course at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland appeared
in Islander, which was named as Musical Theatre Review Best
Musical at Edinburgh Fringe 2019. Following its sell-out initial
run at the Fringe, the production will transfer to London’s
Southwark Playhouse, where it will play from 2- 26 October.
Maggie Service has just finished filming the role of Sister Theresa
Garrulous in the Amazon Prime mini-series Good Omens.
Cara Ballingall appeared in the UK national tour of The Lady
Vanishes, which was seen at the King’s Theatre, Edinburgh by
a group of Loretto GCSE drama students.
Rosie Everett is establishing a successful career as a singer /
songwritwer. https://soundcloud.com/rosie-everett

Jamie Parker in Harry
Potter and the Cursed

Child, photo credits
Manuel Harnan

36 THE LORETTONIAN MAGAZINE ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19

PIPES & DRUMS

PIPES & DRUMS

T HE EARLY MONTHS of 2019 them through the Musselburgh toon With the evident Irish theme to the year
were taken up with the and the Band got even more marching the tour Golf Polo Shirt had to be emerald
preparation and playing in the practice leading the East Linton Gala Day green for Lords. The performance was
indoor competitions at George parade. watched by an enthusiastic crowd and
Watson's and the Scottish The final Beating Retreat ceremony was amongst them were some very proud and
Schools Championships at Livingston. well received and the leavers of the Band energetic parents of our young pipers and
The boys and girls played well and all received their Pipe Band plaques on a drummers who ran around the stadium
improved over the two events in a very sunny evening. to cheer us on.
positive manner. Mid-March saw a mini- All this work went a long way to enabling Given that the band was so young I am
band playing at great height again at the the band to be ready to play at Lords for pleased with the high standard of playing
Royal Commonwealth Pool for the British the first Ireland test match. With extra we worked so hard to achieve, it all bodes
Championships at which we played a practices and a parade in July leading well for the years to come.
couple of Irish tunes for the event host the massed bands of East Lothian by Senior Pipe Major Colin Pryde
team Ireland. through Dunbar, for the Northern Irish
The summer term saw the band playing and Lothian and Borders Yeomanry who
for the Royal Company of Archers, playing were receiving the freedom of the county.

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 37

SENIOR SCHOOL

ADVENTURE
& LEADERSHIP

38 THE LORETTONIAN MAGAZINE ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19

ADVENTURE & LEADERSHIP

THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD expedition section.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE) The Silver Qualifying Expedition took place in the Hills around Dunkeld in
continues to be very popular at Loretto. June, straight after GCSE exams. Our pupils had good weather and really
This year, 28 L6 embarked on the Gold came together as teams to help complete the challenge. They all passed
award and 29 F5 on Silver, and 37 F4 and enjoyed being out in the hills after the exam season.
have already signed up for Silver over For the other sections our pupils have taken part in a wide range of
the coming year. activities. Some volunteered in local nursing homes and primary schools,or
The DofE award consists of four key helped as sports coaches, with a homework club in the local library, and in
sections, volunteering, physical, skill and charity shops. For the physical section, pupils took part in activities such
expedition. Gold also has an additional as fives, running, football, gym and more. For the skills section, activities
residential section. Overall the award included photography, cooking, engineering, drama, and debating. For the
develops independence, leadership, residential section, pupils enroled in Headstart courses, Cookery Course,
resilience, communication skills and Mountain biking course, sailing course, just to name a few!
confidence. by Ms Lucy Willmott
This year’s expedition for Silver and
Gold Practice Expedition went to the BOREALIS EXPEDITIONARY SOCIETY
Trossachs around Callander. This took With gruelling winter conditions on their pre-expedition training in the
place in March 2019 and the participants Cairngorms and an epic unsupported journey across East Greenland,
all did really well and coped with some 2019 was certainly an extraordinary year for members of the Borealis
very chilly conditions and tough terrain Expeditionary Society.
and navigation. They learned a huge Preparation for the 26-day Greenland expedition began in August 2018
amount and developed their skills, both with the 12-strong team meeting twice weekly to complete physical and
in navigation and camp craft, to help with expedition training. The group of Sixth Formers quickly established a
their qualifying expeditions. They also fantastic team ethic and each individual demonstrated a desire to be their
learned lots about teamwork and getting best no matter what the challenge.
on as a group! By Easter of 2019, the team were ready for their first challenge – a 60-km
In May, the Gold Qualifying Expedition traverse of the Cairngorm National Park, the UK’s only Arctic-Alpine high-
went to the Cairngorms National plateau environment. During the trip the team were trained in the use of
Park around Aviemore. For qualifying ice-axes and crampons, learning how to navigate across glacial terrains, as
expeditions, the participants are much well as various techniques to cross rivers as part of a group. The week went
more independent and are remotely extremely well, though it was the last 24 hours of the trip that provided the
supervised for most of the time, meaning conditions for the groups amazing team spirit and personal grit to shine
they are relying on their own skills through. With conditions on the hill deteriorating, the team decided to seek
and determination to complete their refuge at low elevation prior to their walk out the following day. In the early
route and need to problem solve when hours of the morning the team found their tents buried in snow. Realising
they encounter difficulties.Our pupils the severity of the situation, the team promptly broke camp and began
experienced some pretty miserable
weather (driving rain and low cloud for
most of the 4 days!) but did remarkably
well and all successfully completed their

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 39

SENIOR SCHOOL

their long trek out to Rothiemurchus, Ikaasatsivaq fjord. By the end of their expedition they had
often through waist-deep snow. Quickly The sense of wilderness and isolation travelled on foot for over 100 miles and
grasping the arduous nature of breaking was extraordinary. Everything about ascended a total of 8,348m in elevation-
trail in deep snow, the students adopted Greenland is immense – the fjords, the just 500m short of the summit of Everest
a system of quick-paced turn-taking, with landscape, the intense light. So began a and all with a 30kg rucksack!
the retiring leader always rallying the remarkable 15-day journey on foot across Throughout the expedition the whole
team on. For all, it was a truly amazing day East Greenland. Carrying the food and team worked effortlessly together, always
in the mountains and the determination equipment they would each need, the looking out for each other and always
and fantastic spirit of the team shone team navigated across powerful rivers, offering a hand when needed. They
through despite the adverse conditions. across high-passes and over dramatic showed a remarkable level of maturity,
Come the expedition and the team were mountain ridges. With unrivalled views spirit and determination. Without doubt
in high-spirits. Exams were over and the across the Greenland icecap the Borealis they can certainly class themselves as
culmination of much training and planning team undertook one of the toughest true Lorettonian’s in every sense. Well
was coming to an end. Little did anyone journeys to date. During the expedition done Borealis Team 2019!
know how epic their journey was to be! they successfully completed a Physics by Dr Richard Philips
On arrival in Tasiilaq in East Greenland the project to accurately weigh the Earth and Some personal reflections from the
team found themselves storm-bound for initiated a long-term climate project – the students at the end of the expedition:
three days. Once conditions improved, Loretto Arctic Flora Baseline Project – for
they journeyed 40 miles by speedboat future Borealis teams to return to.
to their drop-off point at the head of

“The expedition “If, as a student at “This expedition
has helped me Loretto, you are has allowed me
to develop my offered a chance to reflect on life’s
teamwork and to to go on a Borealis journey. I now know
recognise both my expedition, take it! what I want to do
abilities and my It will change your in life and the path
limitations.” life forever.” I wish to take.”

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ADVENTURE & LEADERSHIP

“This expedition has changed my views on nature and made me
truly realise how amazing and beautiful our planet is.
The trip has also allowed me to grow stronger mentally and
physically. I now realise that you can really push your way
through anything as long as you keep your head up, think
positively and enjoy yourself – even when times are hard.”

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 41

SENIOR SCHOOL

COMBINED
CADET
FORCE

T HE CADET YEAR got off to cadets attended a leadership course at
a flying start way back in Caledonia, Rosyth.
September, with a rather In April, three senior cadets headed off
large intake of Fourth Form to BarryBuddon camp,. one to attend the
students. Senior Cadet Instructors Cadre, and the
The Contingent strength now standing at Cadet Leadership Course for the other
91 Army Section Cadets, and, 29 Royal two, giving up a large part of their half
Navy Section Cadets. term break to participate, All returned
This would be the start of the journey wreathed in glory.
for the recruits through the training The recruit company took part in their
syllabus, and for the newly promoted first weekend field exercise in May, on
NCO’s to adjust to the responsibilities of the Castlelaw training area, putting into
leadership. practice and improving their basic field
The new intake took part in an Induction skills. This is the first challenge for our
weekend, here on Campus, the senior cadets, and a great one for instilling self-
cadets and staff introducing them to the reliance, and, teamwork, the recruits
concepts of drill, turnout, discipline and watched a demonstration of a Section
weapon safety. attack by the senior cadets.
October saw 12 cadets attend our Whilst the Army Sections had been put
own Senior Cadet Leadership and through their paces learning new skills
teambuilding weekend at Brathay in the Royal Navy section have been learning
Cumbria. basic sailing skills, culminating on a days
sailing at Port Edgar.

The contingent held its annual Dinner Earlier this term, the cadets made their
night at the end of November, here at choices for next year, this means that
school in the Old Library. This event some will remain with the Army Section
serves to introduce the senior cadets and continue from the basic to the
to the delights of a military mess night, advanced syllabus, some will transfer to
guided through the maze of protocol the Royal Navy section, and some will opt
by Lt Commander David Howie and the for other, worthy, non-uniformed service.
Contingent Commander Captain Woolley. And as I write, the Royal Navy section
Our guest speaker was 2Lt Dr. Richard are at camp, on Loch Ken, Dumfries and
Phillips invited to mark his contribution Galloway, whilst the Army Section are
to, and departure from, the Contingent. preparing for deployment to CCF Central
Throughout the Spring term the senior camp, BarryBuddon in Angus. Happy
cadets had the opportunity to practice days!
and improve their marksmanship by Mr John Dornan
skills on the indoor range, expertly
coached by Captain Woolley. RN senior

42 THE LORETTONIAN MAGAZINE ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19

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THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 43

SENIOR SCHOOL

ACTIVITIES
& SOCIETIES

WEEKEND ACTIVITIES Taking advantage of our proximity to Edinburgh,
there are frequent trips to the theatre, cinema,
museums and galleries.

Weekend Activities are an important facet of school life, allowing Outdoor experiences and leadership add value to
pupils to explore new experiences that are different from the the list. This year, Loretto’s pupils were given the
typical school day. They allow young women and men to forge opportunity to walk to raise money for the “Mend
friendships with common experiences whilst pushing out of Our Mountains” campaign, bag munros and camp
their comfort zone. They also allow boarders a structured overnight.
opportunity to get out of the House and School for a while, These trips have been bolstered this term by
and an increasing number of day pupils are taking advantage activities which responded to an online survey of our
of the programme too. pupil body and feedback from the Friends of Loretto.
The programme has been “rebooted” and formalised over the To mark the start of term, over 50 pupils climbed
last year into a blend of relaxing, social or fun activities and trips Arthur’s Seat in September to behold Scotland’s most
with a deeper educational value. Perennial favourites remain in famous panorama (in glorious sunshine, I might add.)
vogue such as mass outings to Murrayfield to watch Scotland In response to parent interest, Lorettonian pupils
play (… sometimes win!), the Sixth Form Christmas Ball, Burns and families returned to Bisley, Braidwood to shoot
Supper, Junior Christmas Feasts, Saturday night socials, shopping clays. Some were dead-eye veterans, but there
and popular outings such as laser tag and trampolining. were several greenhorns who absolutely loved the

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ACTIVITIES & SOCIETIES

experience and we will be running a repeat trip SPANISH LANGUAGE TRIP
next term. Meanwhile, the Lorettonian Society
consistently offer pupils the chance to develop their
fishing skills each year.

When combined with the longer expeditions and This year’s Spanish trip saw a group of 26 Fifth and Sixth formers return to
trips that are on offer in the holidays, as part of CCF the beautiful Andalusian city of Seville during the first week of the October
or within the DofE programme, Lorettonians are half-term. With direct flights from Edinburgh to Seville, the group were able
provided with a plethora of experiences to shape to enjoy relatively stress-free travel, and after a late afternoon flight, pupils
their education, forge interests and develop mind, were enjoying their first Spanish evening meal with their host families that
body and spirit. same evening.

Like so many people, our pupils may need a nudge to Each morning, pupils had four hours of Spanish language lessons in small
put down the phone and move out of their comfort groups at the Giralda Center, a language school in Seville. Their teachers
zone. But once the trip is underway, they recognise Juanma, Laura and Carlos proved to be excellent, and helped the pupils a
its value and grow in Mind, Body and Spirit. great deal with their understanding of Spanish grammar and vocabulary.

by Dr David Adamson After lunch with host families, pupils then enjoyed a series of cultural
visits and trips in the afternoon, always with a Spanish guide, who were
very adept at making sure the pupils could follow most of what they were
saying. Visits included the famous catedral de Sevilla and its Giralda tower,

THE LORETTONIAN ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19 45

SENIOR SCHOOL

the Alcázar, the Plaza de Toros and the Barrio de Santa Cruz. club run by Mrs Boyd and even a chemistry Top of the Bench
The weekend saw us go on two day trips, one to Córdoba to visit Salter’s competition where we were awarded second prize.
the famous mosque (La Mezquita), one to the seaside town of The sixth form have had the opportunity to visit CERN and learn
Cádiz, where we went to the Cámara Oscura and enjoyed time more about the Hadron Collider as well as attend lectures at
on the beach and along the sea-front. Edinburgh zoo, the RCPE, the Royal Hospital and enter the RSC
An added bonus for some pupils this year was the inclusion Analytical competition at Heriot Watt University. The Biologists
in the program of a visit to Seville FC’s stadium, and obtaining joined forces with the Geographers and went on a field trip to
tickets to go to see Spain v England, which, as luck would have Iceland to learn more about the ecology and biodiversity in this
it, was happening in Seville while we were there. This was an extreme environment.
unforgettable experience for all, and for the English amongst These experiences are to expand our pupils’ understanding
the group, a good result (3-2 win for the away team!). of Science outside of the classroom and there are also a
As always, this trip allows the pupils to experience first-hand so few students who have enjoyed successful placements with
many aspects of Spanish culture, food, family life, architecture residential STEM courses at major UK universities.
and history, providing countless opportunities to bring to life Lastly a team of mixed year groups went down to run a very
what they otherwise only see and read about in a textbook. busy and highly successful Science stall with bubbles of Carbon
Not to mention the linguistic benefits that only really become Dioxide and Dry Ice at Bang Goes the Borders in Melrose.
apparent once public exams are upon us. by Mrs Susie Ward
by Mr James Burnett

GENEVA PHYSICS TRIP

SCIENCE TRIPS & ACTIVITIES Over two days in September, a group of A level Physics pupils
were able to visit the Large Hadron Collider at CERN, the
The Science department has continued to fill the academic year European Organisation for Nuclear Research, in Geneva. The
with stimulating lessons, trips, competitions and lectures. The pupils were given a tour of the ATLAS experiment, one of four
uptake for Science A level remains strong and we are very proud major experiments designed to understand the very nature of
of the high achievements our pupils gain. matter and why it is that we only understand just 4% of our
The GCSE pupils have not only experienced a Masterclass in Universe!
Chemistry at St Andrew’s University, but have visited the Torness We were also able to visit the engineering test facilities and
Nuclear Power station to consolidate their learning in nuclear given an inspiring insight into what it takes to build a machine
fusion and also visited the Glenkinchie Distillery to complement capable of unlocking some of the great mysteries of matter and
their knowledge on fermentation. The lunch break on Skateraw cosmology. It was a tour de force, from the scale of a sub-atomic
beach was supplemented with a field lesson in Geology by Dr particle to the dimensions of the known Universe.
Phillips. Our Key Stage 3 pupils have been involved with Science by Dr Richard Phillips
Read what our pupils said:

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ACTIVITIES & SOCIETIES

“A brilliant insight into the
discovery of sub-atomic particles,
told by passionate people.”

“It was possibly the most
interesting and fun school trip I
have ever been on.”

“The depth of the physics
learning was amazing- we
discovered a whole new world
on a very small scale.”

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SENIOR SCHOOL

MEND OUR MOUNTAINS CONSERVATION SOCIETY

At the start of the Academic Year, in September 2018, a number In Conservation, we started off the year by harvesting the
of our pupils got involved in a series of outdoor charity events previous year’s crops. We had a successful harvest with a great
organised by Dr Richard Phillips, Head of Sixth Form, together yield of peas and potatoes as well as being able to make a display
with Mr David Howie, Head of Outdoor Pursuits, in support of of apples for the harvest service in October.
‘Mend Our Mountains’. Later on, when it started to grow colder, we left the garden and
This national initiative launched by the British Mountaineering moved to the beach where we conducted surveys on the levels
Council and Mountaineering Scotland aims to raise £1 Million of plastic that are being washed up on Musselburgh beach.
over the course of the year to restore the footpaths of some of We also did research on the problems and possible solutions to
our iconic British mountains and maintain access for all. the problems with plastics in our oceans, reporting our findings
In Scotland, a key focus is the Beinn a’Ghlo in the Highlands and to the rest of the team.
our School has a special connection to this Massif. On Christmas Once it started to warm up we went back to the garden to plant
Day 1892, one of our former Headmasters, Hely Hutchinson vegetables for next year’s team to harvest and we ended off
Almond, climbed the Massif and was so impressed by the the year with a barbeque where we ate some of our produce.
experience that he wrote about it in the second volume of the In conclusion, this year in Conservation has been fun and, as a
Scottish Mountaineering Journal. Almond was pivotal in Loretto’s group, everyone has learnt more about the problems we face
development and our focus on ‘Mind, Body & Spirit’, and it and how to solve them in the future.
seems a fitting tribute for our pupils to support the campaign. by Jasper P.-D., President of the Conservation Society
The series of outdoor events included the climb of the Beinn
a’Ghlo Massif by a group of our Sixth Form pupils who defied
the Scottish weather – wind, rain and sunshine – to achieve
what was their first Munro ascent.

Our adventurous group of Sixth Form pupils also took up the
challenge of descending a rock face by abseiling.

Our Junior School Pupils got involved as well. Our Year 7 had a
great trip up Arthur’s Seat, going all the way to the summit to
rise the #MendOurMountains sign.

Through these charity events and a bake sale that was organised
at the Senior School, our pupils raised an amazing £1450 for
'Mend our Mountains'. It has been great to see the next
generation of hill-walkers and mountain-climbers so committed,
to the future well being, of the hills and mountains we all love.

by Dr Richard Phillips and Mr David Howie

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ACTIVITIES & SOCIETIES

Dawn breaks and stays broken
For the saddest season.
Gold-sky medallion burns away
The beauty: committing
treason.

CREATIVE WRITING Pale-skinned petals curl up,
Dropping to their early death
It has been a busy year in Creative Writing. Highlights have When the stale air
included making mini-films, creating found and collage poetry, Chokes out its own heavy
visits from author, John Young, and poet, Hannah Lavery. More breath.
recently, we have used Loretto’s verdant grounds as the stimulus
for poetry based on the theme of summer. Above is a picture of A trawling spider suckles on
the group working on a collage poem taking inspiration from an A fat fly’s carcass, stuck to the
image of a mountain, and opposite is ‘Ode to summer’ written Dust-fogged windowsill of an
by Eloise W. Empty cabin in the woods.
by Alice S.
Human hearts turn bloodless
DEBATING SOCIETY In the intensity of heat.

This academic year has been one of great progress and Human flesh becomes the meat.
development for Loretto’s Debating Society. It has seen us branch
out and compete in the ESU Mace Competition, a different style Human lives slowly deplete.
of debating to our usual British Parliamentary. Rhys P. and I made
it to the second round of this competition after an exciting wild And not a single human being
card debate in which we won against a team four years more Greets another with a smile,
experienced than us. This was a performance that we were For the shark-like grins
proud of, especially when competing in an unfamiliar discipline. That evolution gifted us
Our junior teams have also competed this year, with particular Are really rather vile.
success at Heriot’s Junior Competition. We sent two teams
consisting of Leona Freeman and Joe C. as well as Tony T. and
Max T. The latter pairing deservedly earned a place in the second
round. Most recently, Rhys and I travelled to Durham University
for the annual Durham Schools’ Debating Competition. This was
our first time at the world’s largest competition of its kind and we
faced many strong competitors. We secured two second place
scores in the separate rounds and we hope to ‘break’ into the
quarter finals next year. I hope for even more Debating success
as our relatively young membership gains more experience.
by Charlotte D., Debating Captain

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SENIOR SCHOOL

MODEL UNITED NATIONS Autumn term, to represent Ethiopia against schools from all over
Scotland. They wrangled over issues ranging from the legalisation
Each year more than 400,000 pupils from primary school to of drone strikes to parent power in children’s healthcare; proving
university participate worldwide in Model United Nations themselves to be adept negotiators and skilled diplomats. The
conferences. These events are simply a role-play of UN meetings social events were also enjoyed wholeheartedly – ceilidh and
and follow UN protocol. candyfloss being enjoyed in equal measure!
The Model United Nations activity ran with great success this The year was rounded off with a stimulating conference at
year; seeing pupils from all year groups engage fully with world Hutcheson’s Grammar in Glasgow where the team (Liza, Alex,
issues at conferences up and down the country. In the Autumn Matthew, Tony, Antonia, Hugh and Rhys) were intellectually
term, the annual conference at North Berwick High School served stretched and inspired to question, formulate and extend their
as an introductory platform for some of the younger delegates own thoughts in the political arena. Issues ranging from human
who seized the opportunity, with both hands. We were delighted trafficking, free speech to trophy hunting were distilled through
that Charlotte was awarded best first time delegate. a global lens. The pupils also attended a lecture on Brexit,
The team (Matthew, Angus, Charlotte, Niamh, Liza, Fergus, Alice, delivered by a professor of International Relations from Glasgow
Antonia, Ala and Elise) set the MUN wheel in motion for the University, providing timely food for thought. All pupils were
year ahead and proved themselves to be adept negotiators actively engaged and were excellent diplomats throughout. The
and diplomats. pupils were a credit to themselves and Loretto School; offering
insightful ideas and opinions, distilled through a diplomatic lens
at all times.
by Mrs Rachel Delaney

The sixth form team (Ellen, Amy, Calvin, Elise, Eleanor, Siobhan
and Emily) also proved their worth at Robert Gordon’s in the

50 THE LORETTONIAN MAGAZINE ACADEMIC YEAR 2018/19