St Aloysius College Full Digital Prospectus - Sept 2024

Page 1


PROSPECTUS 2026

AN EDUCATION BEYOND MEAURE

WHAT BEGINS HERE SHAPES LIVES FOREVER

WELCOME

TO ST ALOYSIUS’ COLLEGE

Thank you for requesting a prospectus and taking the first step in your journey with us.

We understand that choosing a school for your child is an important decision and we want to make sure that you, as a family, have all the information you need when considering St Aloysius’ College.

In admissions, we appreciate that every family is different, so whatever your circumstances, background or motivation for exploring an Aloysian education, we will ensure that you feel supported and involved every step of the way.

We value the opportunity to get to know your family and build a relationship that we hope will continue beyond your child’s time in the green blazer.

We look forward to helping start your story here at St Aloysius’ College.

AMDG

It is a great privilege to introduce myself as the new Principal of St Aloysius’ College.

Since arriving in Glasgow with my family from Melbourne, Australia, I have been struck by the depth of pride and affection that exists for this school. St Aloysius’ College is clearly a place where lifelong connections are formed, where generations of families, alumni and friends have shared in a mission of excellence, faith and service. I am honoured to now be part of that story and to lead the College into its next chapter.

My vision for St Aloysius’ College is clear, to be the leading school in Scotland, not for prestige, but to ensure that every young person entrusted to our care has the very best opportunity to flourish. That means pursuing academic excellence with rigour, while forming young people who are intellectually curious, spiritually grounded and socially responsible. It means celebrating diverse talents, nurturing character and preparing students not just for examinations, but for life beyond the school gates.

A Jesuit education calls us to seek the greater good, to educate “women and men for others.” That tradition is alive and well here and it will remain at the heart of all we do. As a former Jesuit school student myself, I have experienced the lifelong impact of this kind of formation. My goal is to ensure that the young people of today experience that same gift, to leave not only successful, but formed in conscience, compassion and courage.

One of the most vital ways we can preserve and strengthen this mission is by ensuring we continue our great history of being an accessible school to all. The support of OAs and our community will always mean that an Aloysian education is not limited by financial circumstance. Building a sustainable bursary fund will be a key focus of mine and I invite all members of our extended community to consider how they might support this important work, whether through donations, advocacy, or simply by sharing our vision.

OUR ASPIRATIONS

Our aspirations for our pupils are focused on the five principal concepts found in all Jesuit schools. These statements form the mission for staff at the College, who are dedicated to forming bright, well-rounded and empathetic young people. With these pledges, we invite families into a strong, educational community with people at its core.

Personal Excellence

Intellectual Formation

We believe in every pupil, helping them discover the confidence, motivation and opportunity to achieve personal excellence across all areas of life and learning.

Make a Difference

Perspectives and Horizons

We wish to inspire pupils to look beyond themselves and use their intellectual, religious and personal formation to make a difference in their communities and the wider world.

Faith And Values

Religious Formation

We encourage pupils to embrace Catholic values by choosing to live for the greater glory of God and the common good through their personal journey of faith.

Delight in Learning Magis Curriculum

We aim to shape each pupil’s appreciation of knowledge of all things by stimulating and igniting their passions, opening their minds to discover a deeper delight in learning.

Care and Respect

Pastoral Care

In partnership with families we create a positive environment where every child is known and loved by supporting and safeguarding pupils whilst promoting a culture of individual care and mutual respect.

KINDERGARTEN

Our Kindergarten offers a loving, nurturing environment where children aged 3 to 5 are gently prepared for Primary 1 - their first step into life in the Green Blazer. Rooted in Jesuit values, we provide a rich early learning experience that honours each child’s individuality and natural curiosity.

We believe children learn best when they are given the time and space to explore, play, and imagine. Through play-based learning, children begin to discover what they enjoy, what they are good at and how they relate to others. Whether they are building, painting, singing, or simply observing the world around them, they are learning in meaningful and lasting ways.

Children are taught by specialist teachers in Music, PE, Science and Modern Languages, and are encouraged to wonder, question and grow. Following the Ignatian principle of Magis - the call to seek more, to be more - we help children develop a love for learning and a desire to deepen their understanding of the world.

Nature is one of our greatest teachers. Regular visits to the forest, at our Millerston Campus, provide opportunities for handson exploration, helping children connect with the environment and recognise God in all things. These experiences nurture awe, care and a sense of responsibility for the

world around them.

Social and emotional development is woven into everyday life. Children learn to share, cooperate, and care for one another through play and group activities. Each child is supported by a dedicated Key Worker who monitors their progress and maintains close communication with parents, ensuring individual needs are met with kindness and care.

Our Kindergarten children take an active part in the spiritual life of the College. They begin each day in prayer and end with reflection, attend Mass, and even lead assemblies - planting the seeds of a faith that grows with them.

Everything we do in Kindergarten has a single aim: to accompany our youngest learners as they take their first steps on a lifelong journey of learning, faith, and discovery - one that begins in play and leads into the full adventure of the Green Blazer.

St Aloysius’ College Kindergarten works in partnership with local councils to deliver 1140 funded hours on a term-time basis

JUNIOR SCHOOL

Our Junior School pupils are surrounded by learning in a vibrant setting, helping pupils in the Green Blazer open their minds and uncover their talents.

The Junior School offers a stimulating and challenging curriculum, rich and varied in nature with an excellent foundation in core subjects English and Mathematics with Art, Science, Music, PE and Modern Languages taught by specialist teachers.

To best meet the needs of every child, our Junior School is split into two sections - Early Years and Juniors - with a special progression year for Primary 7 to ensure children are fully prepared for making the step into S1.

Our after school clubs and charitable focus support the curriculum in helping children

find the activities they enjoy, giving them the impetus to help others and find delight in learning.

The Junior School is privileged to help pupils along their Sacramental journey. Along with the Church, we work closely with chaplains and parents to guide and inform children as they prepare for each Sacrament. Our holistic approach to faith and values ensures that they appreciate the Sacraments and God’s gift in the greater context of learning and growing.

Our pastoral programme ensures that children are supported by, and feel comfortable with, staff who listen and with whom they can share their joys, cares and concerns. We place people at the heart of all that we do to ensure that we have a community of diversity, individual care and mutual respect for all.

SENIOR SCHOOL

Our vision for young people in the Senior School is to find a balance between study and service. We want each pupil in the Green Blazer to develop their individual talents and skills to their full potential and use their gifts to help others.

In Jesuit schools, the curriculum centres on the person rather than the material to be covered, which is why we offer a broad curriculum with true depth and value, allowing pupils to study almost any combination of subjects from S3 up. Pupils in S3 and S4 study National 5, S5 pupils sit Highers and in S6, pupils pursue a combination of Highers and Advanced Highers.

There are opportunities for pupils to expand their skillsets by taking education outside the classroom. We aim to build on the subjects they love through our wide-ranging co-curricular timetable, which offers something for all.

Faith and values are present in every classroom, and every teacher is responsible for helping young people grow in faith and love for Christ. Delivery of faith and values begins in the Chaplaincy, which coordinates the Christian formation of the College.

At St Aloysius’ College, learning is rooted in the Jesuit tradition of cura personaliscare for the whole person-encompassing

intellectual formation, spiritual growth, and pastoral support for every member of the community. The principles of Jesuit education are not confined to the classroom; they are woven into the fabric of the entire curriculum, shaping both what is taught and how it is delivered. Through thoughtfully designed and personalised programmes of study, students are guided toward a deep and lasting understanding of their subjects. With the support of expert and dedicated teaching staff, they are encouraged to strive for academic excellence, developing the critical thinking and independence required to succeed in national examinations and beyond. More than just preparing students for university, learning at St Aloysius’ College equips them to pursue their passions, embrace lifelong learning, and contribute meaningfully to the world around them.

SPORTS & PHYSICAL EDUCATION

We offer an outstanding programme of sport and physical education, an essential feature in all successful systems of education.

In addition to strengthening the body, Jesuit education recognises that sports programmes help young men and women learn to accept both success and failure graciously. Through sport we engender steadiness and level-headedness, selfreliance, self-control and readiness to place the needs of a team above individual

impulses; all of which are vital to the development of the whole person.

Our Sport and PE programme has improved rapidly in recent years and with our new state-of-the-art sports facility on campus, we aim to enhance sporting opportunities for young Aloysians of the future. The £8 million complex includes a sports hall, dance studio, viewing gallery and individual badminton courts.

Rugby and hockey remain our principal sports from P6 to U-18 level. Cross-country athletics and football are also offered at all levels, whilst Senior School pupils have the opportunity to represent the College in basketball and swimming. We do all we can to support our elite athletes, particularly when it comes to balancing their academic endeavours with those outwith the classroom. Our pupils have represented Scotland and Great Britain in a wide variety of sports, including tennis, athletics, rugby and hockey.

OUTDOOR EDUCATION

Outdoor education and programs like the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) play a central role in Jesuit education, aligning closely with core values such as cura personalis (care for the whole person) and magis (striving for excellence).

These experiences help students build resilience, leadership and teamwork, while also encouraging reflection and a commitment to service. By challenging students beyond the classroom, they support the formation of compassionate, self-aware individuals dedicated to justice and becoming “men and women for others”.

At St Aloysius’ College, outdoor education is an integral part of the 3-18 learning journey. From the popular weekly Kindergarten Forest Outdoor School to progressive, immersive outdoor learning and educational trips across every year group, our programme develops leadership, independence, and connection with the natural world. The College also offers dedicated weekly co-curricular sessions in climbing and paddlesports for both Junior

and Senior School students throughout the year, and is proud to be one of Scotland’s leading providers of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

MUSIC AND THE ARTS

At St Aloysius’ College, pupils are taught the art of self-expression through the development of the imaginative, the affective and the creative. These three elements of Jesuit education are essential to the formation of the whole person.

The expressive arts play a vital role in our pupils’ development, offering a powerful means of exploring, understanding, and responding to the world around them.

Through Art and Design, pupils find a creative outlet for self-expression, develop confidence, and learn to take bold, imaginative risks. In the Junior School, pupils are immersed in Art from Primary 1 through to Primary 7, introducing pupils to a variety of media and techniques, nurturing creativity from an early age. As pupils progress into the Senior School, they have the opportunity to specialise further, developing their talents across disciplines such as painting, fashion and textile design, graphic design, and expressive and design studies.

Our Music Department is an exciting place for all pupils to engage with music in

many different ways. We have a number of instrumental groups and performance opportunities throughout the year, as well as our Schola Choral Programme, which offers pupils the opportunity to join choirs singing liturgical music to the highest standards. We offer instrumental lessons with specialist music tutors during the school day, giving pupils the chance to learn to play for fun, or to challenge themselves by sitting graded examinations.

The Drama Department is filled with flourishing pupils and performers who develop their skills in acting and production, with an emphasis on nourishing individual areas of interest and working collaboratively with other pupils.

We offer the space and freedom within our new purpose-built drama studio to be creative when developing drama and

bringing stories and scripts to life on stage, while honing and refining understanding and application of stagecraft and performance skills. As pupils enter their senior phase, they also engage with a variety of challenging and stimulating texts and productions as both theatre-makers and audience members, developing their appreciation of theatre practitioners and contemporary theatre practice.

The Performance Arts Department often work closely together, particularly on our annual Junior and Senior School shows. These productions allow pupils to participate in a large-scale performance, either on stage or in a production role such as lighting, sound, stage crew or wardrobe.

CHAPLAINCY

“Forming young people through faith and reflection, ready to serve with intention “

“Ad majora natus sum.” These words, stitched onto every pupil’s blazer, remind us that each young person is born for greater things. Chaplaincy exists to help them discover what that might mean. Not just achievement, but character. Not just success, but service. Not just what they want to do, but who they are called to become.

Chaplaincy at St Aloysius’ College is part of the daily rhythm of school life. It is present in the way pupils are encouraged to think, to reflect, to ask questions, and to serve others. It is rooted in the Catholic faith and animated by the Jesuit tradition, offering pupils opportunities to grow in faith, compassion and a sense of purpose.

From the early years of the Junior School to the final days of Sixth Year, pupils are encouraged to become young men and women for and with others: young people

who look at the world with compassion, and who offer their time, talents and energy to the benefit of others. They are formed not only for personal success, but for the greater glory of God and the common good.

The work of chaplaincy is shaped by cura personalis, the Jesuit ideal of care for the whole person. This means taking seriously not only a young person’s academic progress, but also their emotional, spiritual and moral formation. It also reflects a wider truth. Formation is not the task of one group working for another, but is something we share. Pupils, parents, families, teachers, support staff, Old Aloysians, and Jesuits accompany one another, helping each other grow into the people God is calling us to be.

SAFEGUARDING

At the heart of our school community is a strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare and wellbeing of every child and young person in our care.

The Safeguarding Team works closely with staff, pupils, and families to create a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where all children, from Kindergarten through to S6, feel secure, valued, and respected.

Our Safeguarding Team, led by the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), ensures that robust policies and procedures are in place and that all staff are trained to recognise and respond to concerns promptly and effectively. We work in close partnership with external agencies and follow national and local guidance to maintain the highest standards of child protection.

Safeguarding at our school

St Aloysius’ College is not just about responding to concerns - it is proactive, embedded in our school culture, and underpinned by strong relationships. We promote pupil wellbeing through a whole-school approach that includes ageappropriate education on staying safe, positive mental health, and respectful relationships. Our pastoral care system ensures that every pupil is known and supported as an individual, and that their voice is heard.

We are proud to provide an environment where pupils thrive both academically and personally, knowing they are cared for, listened to, and safe.

Safeguarding Team;

Mr Ryan Ferrie - Assistant Principal & Designated Safeguarding Lead

Mrs Emma Todd - Safeguarding Officer & Registered Nurse

Ms Tina Campbell - Safeguarding Governor

Ms Gilda Catani - PA to Senior Depute Principal (Junior School) & Safeguarding Administrator

OUTREACH

At St Aloysius’ College, our young people are taught in such a way that they are not only academically skilled, but look on the world with empathy and devote at least some of their time, talent and energy to the benefit of others.

Junior School

In our Junior School, our active Eco and Pupil Councils, as well as our Charities Committee, help children to see the bigger picture of school life, how important it is to take care of the environment and, of course, one another within the community.

Senior School

In Senior School, our outreach programme encourages pupils to act on the Ignatian principle of ‘going where the need is greatest’. This call to action sees pupils involved in service and fundraising for a range of organisations throughout the school year.

Pupils in S4 and upwards can also choose to get involved in the College’s Children’s Fund which provides activities and an annual holiday for disadvantaged children. There is also an annual pilgrimage to Lourdes for children with special educational needs.

Our Arrupe Programme in S5 and S6 gives pupils the chance to volunteer in the community three hours each week. This could be in schools for children with additional support needs, care homes for the elderly, nurseries, community projects and initiatives which support asylum seekers.

CAREERS

Our dedicated careers service gives pupils the opportunity to fully consider which path is best suited to them. Most pupils continue their education at Scottish universities, however, significant numbers regularly gain places at Oxford, Cambridge, and other UK universities.

For pupils not attending university, we explore a range of options with them including Further Education Institutions and Modern and Graduate level apprenticeships.

DEVELOPMENT

Being part of the St Aloysius’ College community is a lifelong relationship. As they progress through school, our pupils benefit from the advice and guidance of our former pupils: our “Old Aloysians”. The OA connection continues beyond the Green Blazer, with the opportunity to become part of a global network of more than 8,000 OAs, and join our active Business Network, attend London dinners, events and anniversary class reunions.

OUR CAMPUS

Situated in the heart of Glasgow, St Aloysius’ College has sat proudly on Hill Street in the Garnethill area for over 150 years. Our main building was our first premises on ‘the hill’ and this was extended in 1908 to add further classrooms and the College Hall, with the campus growing considerably over the next century.

Our Performing Arts Centre houses the Music and Drama departments and is situated at the heart of our campus in our Convent building. The current Junior School building was added in 1998 with the Clavius opened in 2002 for our STEM subjects.

DID YOU KNOW?

Our Clavius Building was awarded the Best Building in Scotland 2004 by the RIAS

Our newest building, the sports complex, was completed in 2017 and provides stateof-theart sport facilities for our young people. Our Millerston Sports Campus also provides a range of outdoor pitches and tracks and viewing pavilion.

Being a city centre school makes us ideally positioned and we are well served by bus, train, and subway links.

SQA RESULTS 2025

We are proud to share this year’s SQA results across the College. Behind every grade is a story of dedication, hard work and the support of our staff, families and community.

S4 NATIONAL 5

76% of grades awarded at A 92% at A–B

96% at A–C

91% of pupils achieved 5+ passes

72% of pupils achieved 5+ A grades

35% of pupils achieved straight A grades

S5 HIGHER

64% of grades awarded at A 83% at A–B

96% at A–C

87% of pupils achieved 3+ passes

68% of pupils achieved 5+ passes

59% achieved 3+ A grades

34% achieved 5+ A grades

24% of pupils awarded Hanson Awards (for 3+ A grades)

35% of pupils awarded Academic Colours (for 5+ A grades)

S6 ADVANCED HIGHER

39% of grades awarded at A 68% at A–B

82% at A–C

27% of pupils achieved 3+ passes

9% achieved 3+ A grades

We are incredibly proud of all our pupils for their achievements this year and grateful to our staff and families who supported them every step of the way.

DEPARTMENTS

National 5 Subjects

Art & Design

Biology

Business Management

Chemistry

Classical Studies

Computing Science

Drama

French

Geography

History

Italian

Latin

Modern Studies

Music

Physics

Physical Education

Religious, Moral and Philosophical Studies

Spanish

Higher Subjects

Art & Design

Biology

Business Management

Chemistry

Classical Studies

Computing Science

Drama

Economics

English

French

Geography

History

Italian

Latin Mathematics

Modern Studies

Music

Physical Education

Physics

Religious, Moral and Philosophical Studies

Spanish

RE

Advanced Higher Subjects

Art & Design

Biology

Business Management

Chemistry

Classical Studies

Computing Science

Drama

Economics

English

Geography

History

Latin

Mathematics

Modern Studies

Music

Physical Education

Physics

Religious, Moral and Philosophical Studies

Spanish

GREEN BLAZER STORIES

Bella

I joined the College in Primary 6, and the transition was seamless. I quickly settled into life in the Green Blazer and embraced the wide variety of opportunities available.

Alongside receiving an excellent education, I have been fortunate to take part in debating and public speaking clubs, attending several competitions. These experiences have helped me develop invaluable communication skills that I know will stay with me for life.

However, my time at the College has meant so much more than just opportunities. Everyday learning is filled with moments of joy, contentment, and an enduring sense of belonging. There is a warmth throughout the school that is hard to define but can be felt everywhere. The sense of community and the level of pastoral care are unmatched, with teachers always willing to go above and beyond. This was especially evident during the busy exam periodteachers offered not only academic support through revision sessions and study groups but were also there whenever I needed advice or simply someone to talk to.

My Green Blazer has become a badge of honour-one I wear with immense pride. It represents not just the College itself, but also the people and the place that feel like home. I have made friends for life and know that the Aloysian community will always be there for me.

The motto “born for greater things” lies at the very heart of

the school: the belief that our education is a gift to be used in service of others. Whether through faith, academics, sports, or the arts, we are encouraged to give back and to strive to make the world a better place. This spirit reflects the school’s commitment to developing ‘cura personalis’-the care of the whole person-helping us to grow into rounded, thoughtful young people.

To anyone wondering if St Aloysius’ College is the right place for them, I can say with certainty that I have never once looked back. I have enjoyed every second of my time here. The College carries with it a timeless, intangible magic that I feel every day and I simply cannot imagine my life without it. My Jesuit education has given me a foundation I will carry forever: the importance of service, compassion and helping others-values for which I will always be deeply grateful.

“My Green Blazer has become a badge of honour-one I wear with immense pride. ” Bella Head Girl

“My Green Blazer has become a badge of honour - one I wear with immense pride.”

Brendan

I joined the College in first year of secondary school, and I have enjoyed every second since. I quickly found my feet as an Aloysian and embraced all aspects of College life.

Alongside receiving an excellent education and a better understanding of life, I have had the privilege of representing the College in rugby for the First XV and football for the First XI. These experiences have given me countless opportunities and memories I will always be grateful for. A standout moment was when our football team reached the final of the Independent Scottish Schools’ Cup (CISFA) in the 2024/25 season. Playing in a stadium filled with fellow pupils and staff was exceptional - a precious moment in my life. The support the College brought to that match was astonishing, and it was a testament to how proud we all are to be part of the Aloysian family.

In the summer of 2025, I was fortunate to take part in a once-in-a-lifetime rugby tour to South Africa. Competing against South African sides was thrilling, and it was inspiring to see the passion the country holds for the sport. For many of us, however, the highlight was Inspired Youth Day. We laboured on a farm before joining in fun activities with children affected by foetal alcohol spectrum disorder. It was a humbling

and moving experience - one that reminded me of the importance of positively impacting the lives of others. This reflects a central goal we all strive for at the College: to be men and women for others.

One aspect of the College I value deeply is its social, religious, and ethnic diversity. We come from across the west of Scotland and bring different experiences and perspectives with us. This diversity has enriched my time here and helped me gain a broader appreciation of the world.

Now, as I enter sixth year, I look back on my time at the College with immense fondness and pride. It feels like only yesterday that I first walked through the doors of the school. They say time flies when you are having fun - and I have certainly enjoyed every moment. While I look forward to the next chapter at university, I know I will be sad to leave. Yet, I also know that a big part of the College will stay with me forever: through the friendships I have made, the values I have embraced, and the lessons I have learned about living my life in service to others.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.
St Aloysius College Full Digital Prospectus - Sept 2024 by St Aloysius' College - Issuu