We were delighted to welcome author and parent advocate, Suzan Izza, who spoke openly and honestly about her experiences of parenting a neurodivergent child. Her talk was not only informative but deeply reassuring, offering practical insight, empathy, and encouragement to families navigating similar journeys.
The boys thoroughly enjoyed their recent Now Press Play session, an experience that brings learning to life and captures their imagination from start to finish.
As part of our Epiphany celebrations, the Path Lighters have created a beautiful and thoughtful Epiphany Box, offering pupils and visitors a meaningful opportunity to pause, reflect and pray.
As we reach the close of our Christmas term, it is a perfect moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate the many wonderful experiences and achievements that have shaped the past months at Loyola. From the excitement of welcoming our newest Kindergarten and Reception boys in September to supporting our Rudiments boys as they prepare for their 11+ exams and take confident steps toward the next chapter of their educational journey, this term has been filled with growth, learning, and community spirit.
Last week, members of the School Council welcomed Marick from Noah's Ark Community Centre for a special meeting focused on how we could best support their food bank during the Christmas period. Marick shared with the boys the increased needs local families face at this time of year and highlighted items that are particularly helpful, including tinned fruit, mince pies, biscuits and other festive treats that bring comfort during the holiday season.
Last Tuesday, we came together for a moving Remembrance Day assembly, led with great maturity and respect by our Prep boys. The occasion was made even more special by the presence of two Beaver leaders, who joined us to honour the sacrifices made by so many and to help our boys reflect on the importance of remembrance in our lives today.
This year’s Harvest Festival celebrations at Loyola were made all the more special thanks to the incredible generosity of our boys and their families. Throughout the year, we collect food donations to support those in need in our local community, with key collection times at Easter, through our Easter Egg Appeal, and most recently with our Cereal Box Domino Challenge.
The Elements boys recently had an exciting and educational day at The Hive in the Forest, where they combined hands-on science with outdoor adventure. The trip was full of discovery, teamwork, and fun, perfectly complementing classroom learning.
Reception, KS1 and Prep boys had an absolutely fantastic time taking part in the Drama4All workshop from Perform! The session was filled with energy, imagination, and laughter, as the children threw themselves into storytelling, role-play, and performance. It was wonderful to see every boy—no matter how shy or outgoing—finding their voice and having fun while learning new skills.
Earlier this year, Loyola Preparatory School proudly celebrated 75 years at our Buckhurst Hill home — a milestone that marks not only our enduring presence in the community but also a legacy of educational excellence that stretches back well over a century.
Last Friday, Rudiments enjoyed a truly special day on retreat at Walsingham House at Abbotswick, a beautiful spiritual centre run by the Brentwood Catholic Youth Service (BCYS). Set in the peaceful Essex countryside, the retreat offered the boys a chance to step away from their busy routines and spend time reflecting, praying, and growing in their faith together.
On Friday 10th October, we came together in a sea of yellow to support Hello Yellow, a nationwide campaign led by the charity YoungMinds. The initiative raises awareness for young people’s mental health, while also fundraising to ensure no child or teenager faces mental health struggles alone.