Our Story
Loreto Convent School was founded in 1878 by the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary — the religious congregation established by Mary Ward in 1609. Mary Ward believed that women were equal to men in intellect and should be educated accordingly. Her conviction remains the school’s founding purpose.
For 148 years, Loreto has educated children of substance in the heart of Pretoria. The school offers a Catholic education from age three through to matric — co-educational in the pre-school and primary school (Grade RRR to Grade 7), and an all-girls high school from Grade 8 to Grade 12.
“Women in time to come will do much.”
— Mary Ward, Foundress — Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 1609
Our Tagline
Learning and Leading in Love and Justice.
Our Motto
Cruci Dum Spiro Fido — “While I breathe, I trust in the Cross.” The crest also bears the dedication Maria Regina Angelorum — Mary Queen of Angels.
Our Mission
Loreto Convent School exists to provide an education of the highest standard, grounded in the Catholic faith and the values of Mary Ward. The school develops young people of integrity, compassion, and purpose — learners who are academically excellent, socially responsible, and spiritually grounded.
A message from the Executive Principal
Welcome to Loreto Convent School.
Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions a family will make. I am honoured that you are considering Loreto — and I want to tell you what makes this school unlike any other.
Loreto Convent School was founded in 1878 on a single conviction: that an exceptional education, held to the highest standard, can change the world. That conviction came from Mary Ward, who declared in 1609 that “women in time to come will do much.” Four centuries later, her words remain our daily purpose.
Our results speak clearly. A 100% matric pass rate for 32 consecutive years is not a slogan — it is the product of a school culture that refuses to leave any learner behind. But results alone do not define us. What sets Loreto apart is the kind of young person who walks across our stage at graduation: poised, principled, and ready to lead.
Loreto is a co-educational school from Grade RRR to Grade 7 — boys and girls learning together in a warm, structured environment. From Grade 8, we are an all-girls high school. This is deliberate. In a single-sex environment, young women develop stronger academic confidence, clearer leadership instincts, and a deeper sense of their own voice. They are not competing for attention — they are commanding it.
Every learner at Loreto is known by name. Our school is deliberately smaller because we believe that pastoral care must be personal, not procedural. When a child struggles, it is noticed. When a child excels, it is celebrated. This is the Loreto difference.
I invite you to visit our campus, meet our staff, and see for yourself. The best way to understand Loreto is to walk through the gates.
I look forward to welcoming your family.
Mrs Suzette Truter
Principal, Loreto Convent School
Board of Governors
Loreto Convent School is governed by a Board of Governors responsible for strategic direction, financial oversight, and governance.
Ms Fatima Rawjee
Chairperson
Ms Angela Montana
Vice-Chairperson
Ms Katlego Daisy Mnguni
Finance Chair
Mrs Suzette Truter
Principal
Prof Derrick Kourie
Trust Representative
Ms Galeboe Moabi
Parent Rep (Primary)
Mrs Mahlogonolo Khalo
Parent Rep (High)
Ms Elizabeth Kuriakose
Staff Rep (Primary)
Ms Corné Hermann
Staff Rep (High)
Ms Gillian Jooste
Board Secretary (appointed)
Testimonials
“Loreto has a warm, caring community, and my time there left me with many happy memories. Sometimes I still laugh thinking about the things my little Grade 1 learners said.”
Karen Westhuizen
Grade 1 Teacher ·
4.5 years (2012–2015)
“At the recent Mother’s Day event, we parents were surprised to hear that our children do not want to be fetched early after school. They want to stay. Our children are in safe hands.”
Dineo Mogatusi
Grade R
Parent
“Loreto instilled a spirit of continuous learning and growing, both as a professional and as a person. It’s the best decision you will ever make by enrolling your child at Loreto.”
Laiza Ramano Khoza
Class of 2004 ·
HR Manager, FlowCentric
“Extra-curriculars are the highlight of my time at Loreto. Whether competing in sports or performing in the choir, these activities allow me to transform myself into an active person. Beyond the fun, Loreto has shaped me into an independent thinker while significantly strengthening my social skills.”
Millan
Grade 11 ·
Peer Cllr/Vice House Capt
“Loreto grounded my relationship with God more than most other places. I never forgot the teachings and ethos of service instilled in me. To this day I find myself still saying and mostly believing the words: ad majorem Dei gloriam — all to the glory of God.”
Ofentse Rasempe Lekwane
Class of 2005 ·
Tech Startup Founder
“My experience at Loreto Convent has been amazing — a place where learners feel valued, motivated, and inspired every day.”
Siphokazi
Grade 11 ·
RCL/Tutor/Peer Cllr
“Financial stewardship is about more than managing resources — it’s about creating sustainable foundations that enable our Alumni community to make lasting impact.”
Katlego Mabiletsa CA(SA)
Class of 2009 · CA(SA)
Alumni Treasurer
“My goal is cultivating a thriving alumni network that honours tradition whilst building a future of connection, mentorship, and shared success.”
Reabetswe Tlhoaele
Class of 2011 · LLB
Alumni Events Lead
“My time at Loreto impacted me unforgettably — I would not be the woman I am today had I matriculated anywhere else.”
Khanyisile Wistebaar
Class of 2012 · BCom (UJ)
Alumni Secretary
“Loreto builds character, has passionate teachers, and exposes your child to opportunities that will help them in tertiary.”
Onthatile
Grade 12 ·
At Loreto since Grade 1
“Having been at Loreto from Grade R to Grade 12, the school instilled a strong work ethic and a desire to constantly learn more. For any family considering Loreto — go for it.”
Metja Montana
Class of 2022 ·
Psychology Student, SACAP