Saturday 18th October officially marked the opening of our newly developed sports hall and canteen with past pupil, Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD, cutting the ribbon and participating in a past pupils basketball match, highlighting the new sports hall’s role in promoting sports and physical activity within the school community. Both the new sports hall and canteen represent a significant investment in our students' wellbeing and educational experience, providing modern spaces for both physical activity and social interaction.

The opening ceremony was part of a larger community celebration, with past pupils, current students, teachers, parents, and friends taking part in events throughout the day. Visitors enjoyed guided school tours showcasing the new facilities and campus developments, music performances featuring current students, art exhibitions and sports activities taking advantage of the new sports hall.

Past pupils including Irish hockey player Sarah Torrans and former Dublin Ladies' Senior footballer and All-Star, Dr. Noëlle Healy all contributed to a memorable day full of fun. We were delighted to welcome back the class of 1975 who were celebrating their 50th year reunion on the same day, alongside the class of 2020 who, due to Covid, never experienced a formal graduation.

Throughout the day we heard from Mr. PJ Sexton, Chair of the Board of Management; Ms. Jackie Dempsey, School Principal; Holly Loughnane, Head Girl and past pupil Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill. Whilst Jennifer spoke about how sport taught her about resilience and how to succeed by consistently showing up and working hard, it was Holly who left us speechless by articulating what a Loreto College education has given her and her fellow pupils .

‘A kind of quiet strength born from sisterhood, a feeling of being forged in a community that believed in us, before we knew how to believe in ourselves’.

Holly went on to say,

‘these facilities are so much more than bricks and mortar, they are places to build confidence, discover strengths and create memories that will stay with us long after we leave. Whether we are playing music, sport or chatting with friends, we are encouraged to be bold, to be brave and to keep going together’.

Today are working across the school community to open doors and give outstanding educational opportunities to young girls who otherwise wouldn’t be able to avail of a Loreto College education through our Teresa Ball Access Programme. If you would like to give the gift of a Loreto education to a young person please donate today. 

To reserve your spot at our Festive Christmas Gathering for past pupils and donors on Sat Dec 13th 6pm-7.30pm click here.