continuing the journey loreto

The Loreto Tradition in Education

Our unique characteristic spirit derives from the vision and spirituality of Mary Ward who founded the Loreto Order (Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary) over 400 years ago. She wished to pioneer a new role for women in the church and society. At a time when the education of girls was not considered important, Mary Ward set about founding schools for girls. She saw this as the most important means of realising her vision that: “women, in time to come, will do much”. Since then, and through centuries of committed service by countless Loreto Sisters, the order has specialised in the provision of education and is renowned worldwide for innovation in their field of expertise. In the past few decades in particular, the challenge of maintaining the highest standards in terms of the educational experience for our students has been taken up by lay teachers and management who remain committed to Loreto values and the maintenance of the famous Loreto spirit and sense of community.

Our students can avail of many opportunities to connect with other Loreto students across the country by attending Loreto sports competitions, debates, Student Council and Development Education conferences. The Loreto identity is strong and as we say ‘once a Loreto girl, always a Loreto girl’!

As a Catholic school founded in faith, we see the spiritual development of our students as being an essential component of our mission. Gospel values underpin all areas of school life and provide a moral context for all learning. In the context of a respect for cultural and religious diversity, the Catholic liturgical year provides regular spiritual landmarks for our students as we mark feast days and seasons with prayer services, displays and school Masses. Students take an active role by participating in and preparing these liturgies.

Our educational philosophy is derived from the life and mission of Mary Ward and her pioneering approach to education.  This philosophy is underpinned by Gospel values and her radical vision for her times.  She worked for the fulfilment of her vision that: ‘women in times to come will do much’ through her ministry of education.

Loreto welcomes students from all cultural and faith backgrounds and we are proud of the diversity that exists in our school.  In this regard, our aim is for the well-being and development of all students in our care.

Our educational philosophy is described in three key documents:

Continuing the Journey – A Loreto Education

Loreto Education (Kolkata) Guidelines

Mary Ward Compass

These documents can be accessed by clicking this link: link to key Loreto documents

They guide and shape how we lead, teach and learn in a Loreto school. They outline our vision and our aspirations for our students. For example, in ‘Continuing the Journey’, it is stated: during her time here, a Loreto student learns to assimilate:

• a sense of personal value
• a sense of personal destiny
• a sense of place in the historical context and scheme of things
• a generous sense of responsibility towards others
• a sense of the innate dignity of every human being created in God’s image

The story of the founding of the Loreto convent and school in Kilkenny is an interesting one with many aspects not widely known.  To tell this story it is necessary to start at the beginning with the founding of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (formal name of the Loreto Order), by an English woman, Mary Ward, in 1609.  She pioneered a new model of self-governance by female religious and, inspired by St. Ignatius, she wished for the freedom of her order to work outside the walls of the convent with the poor and to open schools for girls.  Her order met with early success and spread through Europe but unfortunately her radical approach did not meet with universal favour and her life’s work ended with the apparent failure of the closure of her houses and the suppression of her order.  Mary Ward ended her days in the Bar Convent in York with a small group of followers.

Nearly two centuries later, a young Dublin girl, Frances Teresa Ball, was sent to York to receive her education. She would later enter the novitiate of the I.B.V.M. and in 1821 she returned to Dublin to found the Irish branch of the Order which would be known as ‘Loreto’; named after the Italian town which holds the relic of the house of the Holy Family.

The Irish branch of the I.B.V.M. was destined to thrive and over the next century established schools across the globe.  Frances Teresa Ball had a strong desire to found a school in Ossory and particularly in the seat of the diocese. The annals record that in 1858, she attempted to buy a house in Kilkenny, but with no success.  They then founded a school and convent in Borris-in-Ossory having been invited by the local parish priest of the time, Father John Birch. Mother Teresa Ball did not give up her dream of founding a school in Kilkenny however and in 1860 the Loreto sisters had moved into a house in 30 Patrick’s Street.  This building was on the site of the existing Hibernian Hotel (built in 1905 and formerly the Hibernian Bank). We are told the ground floor was occupied by a Solicitor’s office. The schools were opened in October and were well attended, notwithstanding this, however, the nuns only remained a few months here, ‘the neighbours being too noisy and unsuitable and the premises were finally given up in March, 1861’. No doubt things are very different in Patrick’s Street now!

Meanwhile the school in Borris-in-Ossory had not grown significantly with only 120 or so students.  It is recorded that Rev. Mother Scholastica Somers, Frances Teresa Ball’s successor, had ‘then [in 1868] decided that a wider field of labour was more in accordance with the spirit of the Order and the aims of its foundress.’  Accordingly, Rev. Mother Ball’s original idea of establishing a convent in Kilkenny city was revived, and ‘recognised as a more progressive plan’. Therefore the Loreto Sisters withdrew from Borris, and set up their new home in Kilkenny City.  In 1868, Rev. Mother Scholastica Somers had purchased a house in Kilkenny that had previously been the town residence of Lord Clifden. This building, between St. Canice’s Cathedral and the current site of the school, is now the home of the Good Shepherd Centre.  Even though it is not well-known locally, this building had previously been used by St. Kieran’s College in its early years, providing an interesting shared history between the two famous schools. The annals record that the nuns first arrived on the 9th of September, bringing with them two students from Borris-in-Ossory which was being closed at that time. The first Mass in the Convent was celebrated on the 13th by a Rev. T. Kelly, later Dean of the Diocese. M.M. Patricia Hughes was the first Mother Superior, having also transferred from Borris-in-Ossory. The school opened its doors to students on the 5th of October 1868.  

According to an advertisement placed in the Freeman’s Journal at the time, the curriculum on offer was: English, German, Italian, French, Plain and Fancy Work, Arithmetic. The extra curricular activities were: Music (vocal and instrumental), Dancing, Flower Arranging, Drawing and Painting. The school, boarding and day, thrived on that site, with many expansions and alterations over the years. In the 1970s the decision was made to build a new school on the Granges Road. This new school was opened in 1980 and the boarding school was closed in 1984. Since the school’s arrival at the Granges road, many changes have also taken place with dramatic enhancements to the facilities over the years.

In the early days, dressing rooms for P.E. and games were added on at a time when the Gym was in the current canteen area.  These dressing rooms have since been converted into offices and subsequently Learning Support rooms. In the mid 1980s, the (in)famous, and now demolished, old ‘Mary Ward’ prefabricated classrooms were added, while in 1996 a new wing of classrooms, including a Science laboratory (now room 302) and a Music room, were constructed.  In the mid 2000s our current Gymnasium and all-weather Hockey pitch were completed, greatly enhancing our sporting facilities. In the Summer of 2011, construction began on a major extension and refurbishment programme which opened up the school to the Granges Road, providing another dramatic enhancement of our facilities while creating a new identity for the school. Due to complications created by the need to appoint a new contractor, the project was delayed and was not completed until the Autumn of 2013. This new ‘Mary Ward Building’ was officially opened by Noelle Coscadden, IBVM (then Provincial Leader) and blessed by Bishop Seamus Freeman in May of 2014. In 2018 our Special Needs Unit, Ionad Saoirse, was opened along with a new multi-purpose space, the Hughes Hall (named after the first Mother Superior of the Convent).

Loreto Empowering Women

The story of Loreto Education is one of the empowerment of women by providing quality education.  Whether that is in Ireland or in any of the Loreto schools across the globe.  This philosophy is best understood by reading about the newest Loreto school which is in South Sudan:  here

It is also apt to reflect on how the Loreto Sisters played their part in ending the ban on women attending University.  This fascinating story is told  here.

Mary Ward Award

The Mary Ward Award was introduced in 1992 (replacing the student of the year award). Each year, the Sixth (final) Year students select the student they believe best lives out the Mary Ward values of freedom, justice, truth, sincerity and joy. The award is presented at the end-of-year prize-giving ceremony.

Alumnae Awards

Each year, at the Christmas awards ceremony, a past pupil is inducted into the Loreto Alumnae roll of honour. This award was first presented in 2019 (as part of the sesquicentenary celebrations) . The purpose of the award is to acknowledge the achievements and contributions to society made by Loreto’s past pupils and to provide its current students with role models who can inspire them to live out Mary Ward’s prophesy that ‘women in time to come will do much’.

Loreto Students

Loreto schools aim to develop students who are well prepared to take their place in contemporary society, motivated by selfless generosity and aware of how fully they can contribute to the common good.

Recovery Messages and News

The Role of Continuing Care in the Journey to Sobriety

01/05/2024 10:06

Introduction

In the pursuit of sobriety and breaking the chains of active addiction, the role of continuing care provides ongoing and long term support indefinitely and as needed. For individuals struggling with addiction, continuing care offer a comprehensive and structured approach towards recovery, encompassing physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual aspects. Understanding the profound impact continuing care on the journey to sobriety is crucial in breaking the cycle of active addiction.

Table of Contents

Understanding Addiction and the Path to Recovery

The Vital Role of Continuing Care

Integration of pharmacological therapy and psychosocial rehabilitation, professional support and peer engagement.

• Nurturing the Journey Towards Sobriety and Recovery

Comprehensive Care and Individualized Treatment

Holistic Healing and Spiritual Well-being

Building Resilience and Coping Strategies

Embracing a Supportive Community

Empowering Individuals Towards Lasting Change

Addiction is a chronic brain disease that not only affects the individual's physical health but also permeates through their mental and emotional well-being. Breaking free from the grips of active addiction requires a holistic approach that addresses the underlying causes, triggers, and consequences of addiction. This journey to sobriety is often fraught with challenges and setbacks, underscoring the need for professional guidance and support.

Continuing care provides longitudinal care for individuals and equips them with the tools, resources, and environment needed to embark on the path to sobriety and recovery. Outpatient continuing care centres serve as safe havens where individuals can receive personalized care and evidence-based treatment interventions tailored to their unique needs. From detoxification and medication management to psycho-social-spiritual rehabilitation, the services offered by outpatient continuing care centres are aimed at fostering lasting recovery and minimizing the risk of relapse.

In the realm of addiction treatment, the integration of pharmacological therapy with psychosocial rehabilitation holds immense significance. Evidence-based pharmacological interventions, when combined with psycho-social-spiritual support, can significantly enhance treatment outcomes and pave the way for sustained recovery. By addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of addiction, individuals can develop the necessary skills and coping mechanisms to navigate the challenges of sobriety.

Central to the success of outpatient, continuing care centers is the provision of professional support and peer engagement. Treatment, which includes or encourages participation in peer support groups offers individuals a sense of community, understanding, and solidarity in their journey towards sobriety and recovery.. Various psychotherapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and motivational enhancement therapy, further complement the recovery process by addressing underlying psychological factors impacting addiction.

As the first step towards recovery, continuing care emphasizes the importance of abstinence and self-care, while also acknowledging the role of spirituality in healthy healing. While the physical and psychological aspects of addiction are crucial to address, the integration of spiritual care and self-compassion is equally vital in fostering holistic recovery.

By seeking support from healthcare providers knowledgeable about addiction, individuals can embark on a transformative journey towards sobriety, breaking free from active addiction and reclaiming their lives. The road to sobriety and recovery may be challenging, but with the guidance and care provided by continuing care centers, individuals can pave a path towards lasting recovery and renewed hope for the future.

In the journey to sobriety, continuing care centers serve as beacons of light, guiding individuals towards a life of healing, growth, and resilience. Embracing the support and resources offered by these centers is a crucial step in breaking the cycle of active addiction and forging a new path towards a brighter and healthier future.

Nurturing the Journey Towards Sobriety

Within the walls of outpatient, continuing care centres, individuals find a sanctuary where healing begins, and transformation takes root. The journey towards sobriety is not a solitary one but a collective effort that involves dedicated professionals, supportive peers, and the unwavering commitment of the individual seeking recovery.

Outpatient, continuing care centres offer comprehensive care that addresses the diverse needs of individuals grappling with active addiction. Through personalized treatment plans, individuals receive tailored interventions that target their specific challenges and goals. From detox programs that help individuals safely cleanse their bodies of substances to therapy sessions that delve into the root causes of addiction, each aspect of treatment is designed to support the individual on their path to sobriety.

In the journey to sobriety, a holistic approach that encompasses physical, emotional, social and spiritual well-being is indispensable. Continuing care centres recognize the significance of nurturing the spiritual self and fostering a sense of connection and purpose in individuals' lives. By integrating spiritual care, individuals can find solace, strength, and guidance in their recovery journey, transcending the confines of addiction and embracing a renewed sense of self.

Recovery from active addiction is not just about achieving sobriety but also about building resilience and developing effective coping strategies to navigate life's challenges. Outpatient, continuing care centres provide individuals with the tools and skills needed to cope with triggers, cravings, and stressors that may jeopardize their recovery. Through therapy, support groups, and educational workshops, individuals learn to identify and address underlying issues, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and cultivate resilience in the face of adversity.

One of the defining aspects of outpatient, continuing care experience is the sense of community and support that individuals encounter. Peer support groups, therapy sessions, and group activities create a nurturing environment where individuals can share their experiences, insights, and challenges with others on a similar path. This sense of camaraderie and connection fosters a strong support system that empowers individuals to lean on each other during times of struggle and celebrate victories together on the road to recovery.

Outpatient, continuing care centers serve as catalysts for profound transformation, empowering individuals to break free from the cycle of active addiction and embrace a life of sobriety and purpose. By equipping individuals with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to navigate the complexities of recovery, these centers lay the foundation for lasting change and renewed hope. With each step forward, individuals move closer to realizing their full potential, reclaiming their lives, and embracing a future filled with promise and possibility.

In the journey to sobriety and recovery, outpatient, continuing care centres stand as pillars of strength and sources of inspiration, guiding individuals towards a brighter tomorrow. Through compassion, understanding, and unwavering commitment, these centers illuminate the path to recovery, offering individuals the chance to rewrite their stories and embark on a journey of healing, growth, and resilience. With each day of sobriety comes a renewed sense of hope and the promise of a life transformed by the power of recovery.

In the journey to sobriety, outpatient care centers offer a beacon of hope, guiding individuals towards transformation. Within these centers, personalized treatment plans and holistic care empower individuals to heal and thrive. Supported by a nurturing community, individuals rediscover their inner strength and purpose, navigating challenges with grace and determination on the path to recovery.

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• Loreto Tradition

Mard Ward was a remarkable woman who pioneered the higher education of Catholic women.

Loreto Secondary School Balbriggan, founded in 1857 is a Catholic Voluntary Secondary School for girls. It is a member house of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (I.B.V.M). The Institute was founded in 1609 by the venerable Mary Ward (1585 – 1645). Mary Ward’s vision for her schools was strongly influenced by “Ratio Studurium” of Ignatius of Loyola. The Jesuit influence on Loreto Education has continued to this day in schools spread across the world.

The Irish branch of the Institute was founded in 1821 by Frances Ball, a native of Dublin. Her first foundation was at Rathfarnham and was called Loreto Abbey, from which title the members became known as Loreto Sisters and all subsequent foundations at home and abroad were called Loreto.

Presentation on Mary Ward, the founder in 1609, of the first groups of active religious women in the Church, the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary, known in Ireland and throughout the world as Loreto Sisters.

The Loreto community has schools around the world. We have particularly strong links with our sister schools in Kolkata, India.

Continuing the Journey outlines the guiding philosophy for all Loreto Schools.

No one school is like another – and yet, we are one coherent network of Mary Ward schools. The Schools Compass outlines the ethos that binds us together.

Also in this section

• Principal’s Welcome
• Deputy Principals’ Welcome
• The School Crest
• History of the School
• Mission Statement
• School Management
• School Plans & Reports

Continuing the journey

Conference history

The Continuing the Journey Conference has been running since 1986 and it’s remarkable journey has tracked the changes both in the world of psychotherapy practice but also in the theological and cultural shifts for the church. You can read more about its beginnings and also follow the different themes of the conferences over the years in the pages in this section.

The more recent years with the help of modern technology we have been able to archive recording of some of our plenary sessions, do listen and enjoy and reflect on how the times are changing!

Continuing the Journey: Year-Round Financial Literacy

Lead by Example

Children learn by observing the behaviors of adults around them. Set a positive example by demonstrating responsible financial habits like budgeting, saving, and avoiding unnecessary debt.

Involve Children in Financial Discussions

Engage children in age-appropriate conversations about money. Discuss household finances, identifying the difference between wants and needs, budgeting for expenses, and the value of saving for both short-term and long-term goals. Encourage questions and open dialogue to foster a deeper understanding.

Make Learning Fun

Incorporate games, activities, and real-life scenarios to make financial education enjoyable for children. Board games like Monopoly or online resources like financial literacy apps can help reinforce key concepts in a fun and interactive way. We also have interactive resources on our website as part of our youth program in partnership with The Art of Allowance.

Set Savings Goal

Encourage children to set savings goals and track their progress over time. Whether saving for a new toy, a special outing, or their college education, goal setting teaches the importance of prioritizing and planning for the future. Our Youth Accounts are a great way to help kids save!

Utilize Resources

Take advantage of the educational resources provided on our website. We offer money-smart resources for the whole family, including age-appropriate games and activities for kids of all ages. The Money Mammals™ are perfect for children under age 12, while the Adolescent$™ program is designed to help tweens and teens become money-smart and money-empowered.

Empowering Future Generations

Families can empower children to build a strong foundation for their financial futures by prioritizing financial literacy and making it a year-round focus. Whether through practical activities at home, community events at your favorite credit union, or ongoing educational initiatives, every effort equips young people with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in an increasingly complex financial landscape.

As we bid farewell to Credit Union Youth Month, let’s carry forward the spirit of empowerment and continue working together to ensure that all young people have the tools and resources necessary for financial success. After all, investing in their financial literacy today paves the way for a brighter tomorrow.

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Curriculum for Wales: continuing the journey

This consultation ended 13 November 2023.

Details of outcome

Summary of responses , file type: PDF, file size: 347 KB

Original consultation.

We want your views on guidance to replace the 'The journey to curriculum roll-out' section of the Curriculum for Wales Framework guidance.

Consultation description

We are consulting on:

• proposed updates to a section of Curriculum for Wales guidance intended to support schools (including pupil referral units (PRUs) and those responsible for the provision of education other than at school (EOTAS) in other settings) with the practical steps of designing, implementing and maintaining the ongoing review of their curriculum
• proposed revisions to this section to make it significantly shorter, more focussed and user-friendly for practitioners
• guidance on publishing a curriculum summary
• the intention that this updated version, Continuing the journey, will form part of statutory guidance

Consultation documents

Curriculum for wales continuing the journey: expectations for ongoing curriculum development and review , html, additional information.

Large print, Braille and alternative language versions of this document are available on request.

Related documents

• The Curriculum for Wales Framework guidance
• An easy read version
• A young person’s guide
• A guide for parents and carers

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• Staff Leaders
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Orla Forde Principal

Trevor franks deputy principal, ms i d’arcy, ms c. o’sullivan, ms c mccarthy, ms j gubbins.

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The following Teaching Positions are available from 2024/'25:

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The closing date for application is Tuesday, May 7th 2024 at 4pm.

Please submit your Application Form which can be accessed here to [email protected]

Please refer to these important Loreto documents for more information on Loreto Abbey Dalkey

• Continuing the Journey
• The Compass Document
• School Prospectus

Dalkey Diary Issue No 26

Dalkey Diary Issue No 25

Dalkey Diary Issue No 24

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