THERE is no mistaking pupils of Loretto School in East Lothian in their distinctive red blazers, proudly representing a revered educational institution that will celebrate its bicentenary in 2027.

The Musselburgh school welcomes pupils from a diverse range of backgrounds – 80% of them from Scotland and the UK and 20% from countries around the world. Indeed, there are currently 25 nationalities enjoying life at Loretto.

For Pete Richardson, Head of Loretto School, this vibrant, historic institution of just over 500 pupils, aged from three to 18, has a real family feel where its aim is to know and nurture every child, and shape young lives as they step out into the world.

Scotland’s oldest boarding school, sitting within an 85-acre campus, Loretto benefits from being quite a small school. “Our size and favourable class sizes are among our strengths as everyone gets to know each other,” says Mr Richardson. “This helps create that family feel.”

“Our location, in the heart of East Lothian on the east coast yet just a few miles from Edinburgh, is conducive to nurturing pupils as they discover new interests and develop their skills, both academically and outside the classroom.”

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Mr Richardson, originally from South Africa, joined Loretto from Gordonstoun in Moray last year, taking over as Head this summer. “We may be nearly 200 years old but while we are rooted in history and traditional values, we’re very forward-thinking and excited about what our third century will bring.”

“We’re very much in tune with the needs of modern families and have continued to evolve,” he points out. “We offer a flexible extended day in the Junior School, flexi boarding which is three nights a week, weekly boarding, full boarding and, of course, day options.”

Loretto has a particular strength for golf and attracts talented young golfers for that reason. East Lothian, known as Scotland’s Golf Coast, has the largest concentration of Championship links golf courses anywhere in the world. The Loretto Golf Academy was established as far back as 2002 and its Indoor Centre more recently, in 2015.

Of course, there’s much more to Loretto than its world-class golf programme and reputation as a sports school, with Mr Richardson pointing out that while the school strives for high academic standards – there was a 99% A-level pass rate in 2024 – the school also offers a rich cultural programme including music, dance and drama.

However, it’s not all about exam results and gaining a place at university. “It’s about encouraging and nurturing our young people, instilling confidence and resilience.”

Loretto will hold a Senior School Open Morning (12 to 18 years) on Saturday, September 28. If you wish to meet staff and enjoy a tour of the campus, contact the Admissions Team at admissions@loretto.com