Loyola is a member of the Ignatian Network, schools in Australasia together with others worldwide that share the spiritual and educational philosophy of St Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuit order. The school aims “to form leaders in service, in imitation of Christ Jesus, men and women of competence, conscience and compassionate commitment”. Loyola encourages the students to accept the challenge of the school’s motto, “Justice, Mercy and Faith”. The broad-based education places emphasis on skills in numeracy, literacy and communication. It also offers flexibility to meet students’ needs and interests and provide them with the skills to contribute to society both now and in their post-school years. Uniform is compulsory.
Facilities: The school is set on a very attractive site of 26 acres. In addition to general classrooms, Loyola has learning areas for science, technology and design and creative, visual and performing arts, hospitality (including a student restaurant) and languages. The gymnasium provides for a wide range of student activities. The well-equipped iCentre, that includes the Library and ICT support for students, is available for student use before and after class hours. Loyola has two chapels: one is a small, renovated country church ideally located in Loyola’s bush setting and the other seats 200 people.
Curriculum: In addition to core subjects in Years 7 to 10, students are offered a wide range of electives, including three languages (French, Italian and Indonesian). Computers are used across the curriculum. The school has introduced a student iPad program at Years 7-10. VCE subjects: Religious Education, English, ESL, Accounting, Art, Biology, Business Management, Chemistry, Dance, Economics, English Language English Literature, Food Technology, Geography, Health and Human Development, History, Information Technology, Italian, French, Indonesian, Legal Studies, Mathematics, Media, Music, Outdoor Education, Outdoor Environmental Studies, Philosophy, Physical Education, Physics, Product Design and Technology (Textiles and Wood), Psychology, Visual Communication, Studio Arts and Theatre Studies. VET and VCAL courses are also offered.
Sport: Years 7 to 9 students have Physical Education within the core subjects and all students are involved in a range of sports including house and inter-school competitions. Loyola is a member of the Association of Co-educational Schools and has 60 teams participating weekly in this competition.
Co-curricular activities: Loyola places special emphasis on co-curricular activities and makes available to students a range of activities beyond the formal courses of study. These fall broadly into one of four areas: community involvement and leadership, Christian service and spirituality, cultural and educational pursuits, and sport and outdoor activities. More than 50 activities are offered. Student options include choir and band groups, debating and drama clubs, St Vincent de Paul, mathematics club, robotics and an environmental action group.
Student welfare programs: Each student is assigned a mentor teacher who takes a personal interest in the student and is the first point of contact to assist in the development of self-esteem, conflict resolution and other aspects of personal growth. A well-structured discipline system, recognising the rights and responsibilities of all in the school community, is in place. Camps in Years 7, 8, 9 and 12 offer a chance for interaction and reflection beyond the school environment as well as valuable lessons in outdoor education.