Beyond the Classroom
At Loreto College, we recognise the importance of a well-rounded educational experience. Co-curricular activities bring balance, enjoyment and a sense of achievement, and we encourage all students to actively engage in pursuits outside the classroom.
Music
Building on our rich musical tradition, our co-curricular Music program allows our students to develop a love of music and an appreciation for the power it has to bring enjoyment to themselves and others through performance.
After completing the Year 7 Da Capo Program (Year 7 Curriculum Instrumental Music Program), Year 8 students can continue their instrumental studies as part of the Co-Curricular Instrumental Program. Within the Year 8 Encore Program, students will participate in workshops, instrument tutorials and ensemble rehearsals.
Students can book private tuition in a wide range of areas according to their individual goals and interests:
- Trumpet
- French Horn
- Trombone
- Euphonium
- Tuba
- Flute
- Oboe
- Clarinet
- Bassoon
- Alto Saxophone
- Tenor Saxophone
- Speech and Drama
- Violin/Viola
- Voice (Singing)
- Cello
- Guitar - Acoustic, Electric or Bass
- Percussion & Drums
- Piano
- Organ
- Music Theory
Our choirs, bands and ensembles cater for all skill levels, providing a clear pathway for students to progress as their abilities develop. The variety of ensembles on offer ensures that each student can find one that suits their individual needs.
- Junior Band
- Senior Band
- String Ensemble
- Flute Ensemble
- Drumline (Percussion Ensemble)
- Speech and Drama Ensemble
- Junior Choir
- Senior Choir (Loreto Blues)
- Special Events Choir
Performing Arts
We believe that young people can develop confidence, resilience and self-expression through experiencing performance in an encouraging and safe environment.
Our productions offer students the chance to perform on stage in principal, supporting or ensemble roles, or to be part of the backstage crew. Loreto College stages a musical every year, usually in collaboration with St Patricks’ College Ballarat, with recent productions being Beauty and the Beast (2018), Shrek (2019), A Chorus Line (2021), Chicago (2022), My Fair Lady (2023), Mary Poppins (2024) and Newsies (2025).
A lunchtime favourite, Improsports combines drama games with improvisation. The theatre is always full as our students come to engage in friendly competition with each other or to watch. Students can also choose to compete in the Royal South Street competition held each year in Ballarat.
A highlight of the year, this vibrant celebration of the Loreto House spirit involves all students and features performances in choir and dance as well as a visual arts component. The event is led by the House Arts Captains.
With more than 400 students participating, this is one of the most anticipated events on the annual calendar. Complete with lighting and sound, our theatre provides a professional setting for our students to shine, leaving audiences in awe of the high-quality performances.
Sport
At Loreto, we believe in the power of physical activity for enhancing a young person’s physical, mental and social wellbeing. We encourage every student to actively engage in one or more of the many sports or activities we offer.
Loreto College Ballarat is a member of BAS which provides our students with the opportunity to participate in an after-school sports program that provides structured competition across all year levels. Loreto students compete against other Ballarat schools in a range of sports, including Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Cheerleading, Cricket, Cross-Country Running, Football, Hockey, Lawn Bowls, Netball, Racquetball, Rowing, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Ultimate Frisbee and Volleyball.
Participation in these programs is free for students.
With our location overlooking Lake Wendouree providing the perfect position for a welcoming and convenient experience, Loreto College’s rowing program is one of the best in the State of Victoria. Starting in Year 8, students can join the rowing program which runs from Term 4 to the end of Term 1 the following year. Trials are held in Term 3, with camps and training held over the January school holidays.
Additional fees apply for participation in the rowing program.
All students have the opportunity to participate in optional weekly physical activities which are led by our PE staff and held during lunchtime. Options include spin and circuit classes and Run Club.
Other Co-Curricular Opportunities
With diverse offerings available to students, there are countless opportunities to explore their passions and make lasting connections.
Our Public Speaking and Debating program is open to all students, offering a supportive environment where they can collaborate and develop their skills. Students from Year 7 to 12 have the opportunity to participate in a variety of competitions, building confidence and teamwork along the way.
Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) is a group for those passionate about social justice, environment and fundraising. This group welcomes students from Years 7 to 12.
Socrates Cafe is a weekly gathering which welcomes students from all year levels to discuss philosophical questions and ideas. The word philosophy literally means "love of wisdom". In a broad sense, philosophy is an activity people do when they seek to understand fundamental truths about themselves, the world in which they live, and their relationships to the world and to each other.
In addition to a wide range of sports, the BAS program offers students opportunities to engage in a variety of co-curricular activities alongside peers from other Ballarat schools. Loreto College Ballarat currently takes part in the annual BAS Culinary and Chess competitions.
Participation in these programs is free for students.
Our Sincerity Club is a student-run diversity group that offers support for LGBTQI+ students, their allies and friends. Students across all year levels are welcome to come along and join in.
Loreto College's Art Club runs weekly sessions in the College Art Rooms for students from Year 7 to 12. The club is a place where students can work on their artwork, school projects, and discover new skills.
The Loreto Lark is a student-led newspaper and is perfect for students interested in writing, editing, digital editing and working with a team to create a publication.
If you love books, the Library Book Club is for you! Join us each week for a variety of fun activities in the Library. Everyone is welcome!
International, Cultural and Language Excursions
At Loreto College Ballarat, we offer travel opportunities that enable students to broaden their global perspective, immerse themselves in diverse cultures, pursue their passions, and develop independence.