LORETO SECONDARY SCHOOL
Clonmel, Co. Tipperary
PRINCIPAL’S WELCOME
We are delighted to welcome you to Loreto Secondary School, Clonmel.
We are a small, all-girls secondary school located where the counties of Tipperary and Waterford converge at the scenic Mountain Road in Clonmel.
Whilst established in 1881 by the Loreto Sisters we are very much a school for the 21st Century. We combine the core values of our founder, Mary Ward, including truth, justice and joy with the educational developments of digital learning with a focus on inclusion.
Loreto Clonmel is an active, vibrant and inclusive school where our students achieve excellence in academics whilst also enjoying the opportunities to explore their talents for and interests in sports, global citizenship, art and music. Student leadership is developed and encouraged; student voices make an impact on our decision - making for the whole school community.
Our staff and students work and play in an atmosphere of mutual trust. Many of our staff members are former students who have returned as teachers, administration staff and special needs assistants. This shared experience brings a warmth and care to the school that is second to none.
We hope you take the time to explore our prospectus to get a real sense of the Love, Laughter and Learning that is at the heart of Loreto Clonmel and we look forward to welcoming your daughter to our Loreto family.
Anne Mc Grath and Niall Cox Senior Management Team
SCHOOL MISSION
Loreto Secondary School’s mission is to foster a caring Christian community where students can achieve academic excellence and grow holistically in a healthy environment, with a lived motto of “Love, Laughter and Learning” to ensure students thrive. The school strives to provide a supportive community where students are encouraged and can develop spiritually, emotionally, socially, creatively and physically.
BEGINNING YOUR JOURNEY AT LORETO
At Loreto, we aim to make the transition from primary school to secondary school a smooth and enjoyable experience for both students and parents.
Visiting Primary Schools
Each September, our team visits local primary schools to introduce our school to prospective students. Former students give a brief overview of life at Loreto Clonmel and provide information about our Open Night and Activities Days.
Activity Days
These provide an opportunity for 6th class students to spend an afternoon in our school. This will give your daughter an excellent insight into school life, allowing her to sample what a typical school day is like and to participate in practical subjects such as Art, Music, Home Economics, Graphics and Science. They get the opportunity to meet teachers and student and ask any questions they may have.
Open Night for Parents & Guardians
During our Open Night, parents and guardians are guided on tours of the school by our student leadership teams. This is an opportunity to ask questions, explore our facilities and gain a full understanding of the school environment and ethos.
New Beginnings Evening
After accepting your daughter’s place at Loreto Clonmel, we invite all new parents to a special evening in May called “New Beginnings”. At this event, parents are introduced to the First Year Head and relevant teachers, and are guided through the transition from Sixth Class to First Year. Topics covered include the school day, uniform and all aspects of Loreto life, ensuring families feel prepared and confident for the start of the school year.
CURRICULUM
JUNIOR CYCLE
The Department of Education introduced a new framework for the Junior Cycle on a phased basis in September 2014. The rationale underpinning the new Junior Cert is to enable learners to achieve their full potential and to contribute to Ireland’s economic, social and cultural development. As a progressive school, we are continually updating our curriculum and developing the programme we offer at Junior Cycle.
Core Subjects
English Maths
Gaeilge History
Science Religion
Optional Subjects (pick 4)
Business Studies French
German Home Economics
Visual Art Graphics
Music Geography
Wellbeing Subjects
LEAVING CERTIFICATE
We provide a wide variety of subjects for the Leaving Cert.
Gaeilge Economics
English Chemistry
Maths Biology
Applied Mathematics Agricultural Science
French Music
German Career Guidance
History Religion
Geography Physical Education
Home Economics Design & Communication
Business Art
Accounting Link Modules
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
A CARING & PASTORAL ENVIRONMENT
SUBJECT TEACHERS
Our Subject Teachers are often the first friendly faces students see each day. In every lesson, they create a classroom atmosphere where respect, encouragement and kindness are central. They are quick to notice when a student may need extra support and are always ready to listen, guide and encourage. Every small interaction – a word of praise, a gentle nudge or a listening ear – helps to build a positive, caring environment.
YEAR HEADS
Each year group has a dedicated Year Head who looks after the well-being and development of all students in their care. The Year Head works closely with Class Tutors, SPHE Teachers, Subject Teachers, and the Guidance Counsellor to make sure no student feels overlooked. They:
• support student needs, discipline, and academic progress
• act as a vital link between school and home
• foster a strong sense of community within the year group
Above all, Year Heads ensure students feel known, supported, and valued throughout their school journey.
SNA TEAM
Our Special Needs Assistants are a cornerstone of our caring school community. Warm, approachable and deeply committed, they provide both practical and emotional support to students each day. Whether working one-to-one or contributing to the wider classroom, our SNA team helps create a school atmosphere where every student feels safe, respected and included.
At the heart of our school is a simple belief: when students feel happy, safe and supported, they thrive – both in their learning and in their personal growth. Pastoral care is not something separate from what we do; it is woven into every part of school life. Our whole-school approach ensures that every student is nurtured, encouraged and given the space to flourish.
LEADERSHIP SUPPORT
Pastoral care is championed at the very top of our school. The Principal and Deputy Principal lead by example, promoting an ethos of kindness, inclusivity and positivity. Their presence ensures that the care of each student remains central to everything we do as a school community.
KEY ASPECTS OF OUR PASTORAL CARE SYSTEM
• Personal Support – Every student has a trusted adult in school who takes a genuine interest in their well-being.
• Celebrating Success – Achievements, big and small, are recognised and celebrated, encouraging confidence and self-belief.
• Learning Support – Tailored help is available for those with learning needs, ensuring everyone has the chance to succeed.
• Student Voice – Students are listened to and given space to share their concerns, ideas and hopes in a safe environment.
• Community Building – A strong sense of belonging is nurtured within each year group.
• Leadership & Responsibility – Students are encouraged to take initiative, develop talents and grow as responsible young people.
• Positive Assemblies – Year group gatherings provide opportunities to inspire, affirm, and celebrate together.
• Extra-Curricular Engagement – A wide variety of clubs, sports and activities enrich school life and promote well-being.
IN OUR SCHOOL, PASTORAL CARE . IS MORE THAN A SYSTEM – IT’S A . COMMUNITY BUILT ON KINDNESS,. RESPECT AND ENCOURAGEMENT.. EVERY STUDENT IS SEEN, SUPPORTED AND CELEBRATED FOR WHO THEY.. ARE AND WHO THEY ARE BECOMING..
GUIDANCE COUNSELLING
While every staff member plays a role in supporting and guiding students, our Guidance Counsellor, Ms. Martina Williams, is a key figure in the pastoral team. She offers:
• one-to-one student support and care
• guidance on career pathways, third-level education, and apprenticeships
• a confidential and professional service where students can feel heard and supported
Ms. Williams’ role is to ensure students feel confident in the choices they make for their future, knowing they are never alone on their journey.
NAOMH ROISIN – ASD CLASS
In September 2023, Loreto Clonmel opened its first ASD Class, called Naomh Roisin. This bright, spacious and welcoming space supports students who are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a neurological condition in which individuals process information differently from many of their peers.
Naomh Roisin provides both academic and personal support. Students who access this space not only receive assistance with their learning but also develop social, life and communication skills. Many students participate in activities such as Art, Yoga, Cooking, Gardening and Music, which help them build confidence and creativity. Additionally, students are taught techniques and strategies to manage stress and anxiety effectively.
Students in the ASD Class attend mainstream classes whenever possible, with Naomh Roisin providing the necessary supports to help them integrate successfully alongside their peers. The majority of learning takes place in the mainstream environment, supported by individualized or small-group interventions as needed.
During their time in Naomh Roisin, students benefit from an extended curriculum, including:
• social and life skills training
• sensory programmes
• stress management strategies
• L2LP programme (part of the Junior Cycle, where suitable)
Naomh Roisin aims to provide a nurturing, supportive environment where students with ASD can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, while fully participating in school life alongside their peers.
GINO –OUR THERAPY DOG
Meet Gino – We are so proud of Gino, our school therapy dog. Gino provides comfort and reassurance to students experiencing anxiety or low selfconfidence, helping them feel safe and supported in the school environment.
Therapy dogs like Gino can be especially beneficial for students who are nervous about school or have difficulty transitioning into new routines. By simply being present, Gino helps to boost emotional wellbeing, reduce anxiety and create a warm, caring atmosphere for all students and staff.
TRANSITION YEAR PROGRAMME
At Loreto, we are proud to offer an excellent Transition Year (TY) Programme. This optional oneyear programme promotes the personal, social and academic development of our students.
A key element of TY is the work placement programme. Each Monday, students engage in one of three varied work placements, giving them the chance to explore areas of personal interest. This experience not only opens doors to future career possibilities but also fosters a strong sense of accountability and responsibility.
Another highlight of TY is the annual musical production. Students have the opportunity to take part in a large-scale performance, whether on stage as actors, or behind the scenes in roles such as stage design, public relations, costume, or make-up. This project builds teamwork, creativity, and confidence. Throughout the year, students participate in a wide range of activities and programmes designed to broaden their skills, develop independence and prepare them for Senior Cycle. TY equips our students with a fresh set of life skills and strengthens their ability to adapt, collaborate and grow as young adults.
WHY TY AT LORETO?
The Loreto Transition Year equips students with:
• independence, leadership and teamwork
• practical experience through work placements
• opportunities to explore creativity, culture and enterprise
• preparation for Senior Cycle and life beyond school
A YEAR OF GROWTH, DISCOVERY & OPPORTUNITY
Below is a list of the various activities and programmes we carry out at Loreto:
Academic & Enterprise
• Mini Company – run your own student business
• Enterprise Education – develop creativity and innovation
• Credit Union Programmes – financial awareness and responsibility
• F1 in Schools – design, engineering and teamwork challenge
• Shared Reading – literacy initiative with younger students
Creative & Cultural
• Film Studies – explore film as an art form and create short films
• Media Studies – develop communication and digital literacy
• Junk Kouture – sustainable fashion design competition
• TY Musical – a large-scale production with opportunities in acting, stage design, PR, make-up and costume
Personal & Social Development
• Gaisce – The President’s Award
• Car and Driver Safety Programme
• Wellbeing Workshops & Personal Development
• Work Experience – three varied placements throughout the year
Sport, Adventure & Travel
• Rowing – teamwork, fitness and resilience
• Bonding Trips – friendship and group spirit
• Foreign Trip – cultural exploration abroad
• Outdoor Adventure Activities
CLUB, SOCIETIES & SPORT
At Loreto, our mantra of “Love, Laughter and Learning” extends far beyond the classroom walls. We pride ourselves on offering a diverse and wide-ranging extra-curricular programme, providing students with opportunities to explore interests, develop skills, and form lasting friendships.
The transition from primary to secondary school can be challenging, but participation in clubs, societies and sports helps students feel comfortable in their new surroundings and builds a strong sense of community.
We have a long and proud tradition in Gaelic football, achieving success at the highest levels. Involvement in sports and clubs promotes teamwork, confidence and personal development, while giving students a chance to enjoy school life in a fun and supportive environment.
Our dedicated teachers are committed to offering a range of extra-curricular and co-curricular opportunities for students. First-year students are invited during their first two weeks to attend a Clubs and Societies Event, which showcases all the various activities available in the school.
Sports
• Gaelic Football
• Camogie
• Soccer
• Basketball
• Hockey
Clubs & Societies
• German Club
• Drama Club
• Graphics Club
• Photography Club
• Green Schools
• Gaisce – The President’s Award
• Trad Group
• Badminton
• Volleyball
• Rowing
• Athletics
• Junior Choir
• Darts Club
• Junior & Senior Debating
• Sole Sisters
• Homework Club
• STEM Club
DIGITAL LEARNING
At Loreto, we are proud to be a one-to-one device school, firmly established in integrating technology into teaching and learning. Many schools are now moving in this direction, and we have already created a state-of-the-art digital learning environment that benefits both students and teachers.
Each student is provided with their own device, along with a school-issued email account giving access to Microsoft Teams and online textbooks. This enables students to complete classwork, conduct research, collaborate on group projects and submit assignments digitally.
Benefits of the One-to-One Device Programme:
• It supports effective communication between students and teachers.
• It encourages mobile learning and flexibility in how students learn.
• It develops strong IT skills and digital literacy.
• It provides ownership and accountability for each student’s own work.
First-year students receive IT workshops and oneto-one guidance to help them become familiar with their devices. Students enjoy the opportunity to work independently in class, fostering a sense of responsibility and confidence in their learning.
At Loreto, digital learning is an integral part of the classroom, complementing traditional teaching methods and helping students thrive in a modern, technology-rich environment.
SUPPORTING THE TRANSITION TO SECONDARY SCHOOL
Starting secondary school is a big step and choosing the right school is an important decision. At Loreto, we take pride in providing a caring, inclusive and welcoming environment. From the moment you and your daughter walk through our doors, you will feel the warmth and support that is at the heart of our school community.
Our students are kind, thoughtful and generous, and our dedicated support team works to ensure that every student feels included and supported. By communicating with parents and guardians before your daughter starts, we can understand her needs and interests and help make sure she settles in happily.
AT LORETO, WE ARE COMMITTED TO NURTURING EVERY .. STUDENT SOCIALLY, EMOTIONALLY.. AND ACADEMICALLY, SO THAT EACH.. GIRL FEELS CONFIDENT, HAPPY.. AND READY TO THRIVE IN HER .. SECONDARY SCHOOL JOURNEY...
Induction Days
• Our first-year students enjoy bonding activities and games to help them get to know each other and feel comfortable in their new surroundings.
• Parents are invited on the first day to help make the transition smooth and reassuring.
• Each class has a friendly, dedicated tutor, and the Year Head provides guidance and oversight for the year group.
• Our Sixth Year Leadership Team, the Cairde Team, visits first-year students during the first term to offer advice, support and a friendly face around the school.
Learning and Academic Support
• Students sample all Junior Cycle subjects in the early weeks, helping them make informed choices for their studies.
• Study skills workshops help first-year students develop good learning habits from the start.
• Study and Homework Club is available for extra guidance and support.
Extra-Curricular Opportunities
First Year Activity Days and a wide range of clubs and societies ensure that every student can find something they enjoy, make new friends and feel part of the school community.
STUDENT LEADERSHIP
At Loreto, students from every year group are encouraged to embrace leadership opportunities and play an active role in school life.
Our Cairde Leadership Team is at the heart of welcoming new First Years, helping them to settle in, build friendships and feel part of the Loreto community. The Student Council provides a strong and valued student voice, ensuring that all students are represented and that their ideas help shape school life.
In addition, our dedicated Facilities Leadership Team works tirelessly to organise and coordinate events that enrich the Loreto experience, while our committed Wellbeing Ambassadors play a vital role in promoting and supporting the wellbeing of our entire student body.
Through these initiatives, the voices, talents and leadership of our students are celebrated, ensuring that Loreto remains a vibrant, inclusive and supportive learning environment.
LORETO CLONMEL
A TRADITION OF LEARNING
Loreto Clonmel was founded in 1881. Six Loreto Sisters arrived on the 22nd August. The sisters occupied the house adjoining the Suir Island Mills and remained there for about seven years. In March 1889 a fire in the Flour Mills caused extensive damage to the Convent. In August 1889 the Loreto Sisters bought a residence in Coleville Road. This has been the location of Loreto Secondary School since then. In 2004 a new Complex consisting of a School, full size Sports Hall and outdoor play facilities, was officially opened on the Coleville Road site. Today, over 500 students attend the school.
We are proud to offer excellent, state-of-the-art facilities, including three fully equipped Science Laboratories, two Home Economics Rooms, a modern Graphics Room, two Music Rooms and a wellequipped Art Room. Our full-sized Gymnasium is a hub of activity throughout the year, hosting wholeschool events such as the TY Musical, Careers Evening, Music Concerts and the Model United Nations Conference, as well as catering for a wide variety of sporting events.
THANK YOU FOR READING OUR PROSPECTUS
We are delighted that you have taken the time to learn about Loreto. Our school is student-centred, with a strong emphasis on pastoral care and support. We provide one-to-one learning where needed, ensuring that every student can achieve her potential and do her very best. Our various social media platforms, Facebook, Instagram & TikTok, give a lovely insight into Loreto on a daily basis.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact our school. We will be happy to assist you.
AT LORETO, WE OFFER A WARM AND SAFE .. ENVIRONMENT, WHERE STUDENTS ARE ENCOURAGED.. TO THRIVE, FLOURISH AND ENJOY LEARNING...
