St Aloysius' College Newsletter
Spring 2025
Dear members of our school community,
A warm welcome to our Easter newsletter.
We were delighted to receive a letter from Bridget Phillipson, congratulating us on our excellent outcomes for disadvantaged pupils in GCSE 2025. Our performance places the school among the very best nationally — a significant achievement that demonstrates what can be accomplished when ambition and commitment come together.
Further recent data released by the DfE (Department for Education) shows that our Vocational A Level progress score for 2025 places the school in the top 5% nationally, while our A Level progress score is in the top 25% of schools. Congratulations to our staff, our pupils and their families. We are very proud of what our young Aloysians have achieved and look forward to their continued success.
St Aloysius’ College has once again been a hive of activity this half-term, with a wide range of projects, trips and learning opportunities across all subjects. Highlights include World Book Day, with Year 7 students embracing the occasion in colourful character costumes, and a lively Year 10 Spelling Bee, where prizes were awarded to the top three participants. Reading for pleasure remains an integral part of a student’s success, and we encourage all students to take the opportunity over the Easter holiday to enjoy a good book.
Our proud tradition of nurturing sporting talent continues. Years 7 and 11 reached the semi-finals of the Islington and Camden Schools’ Football Cup, while Year 9 competed in the final. Year 10 have progressed to the Inner London Schools’ Cup final — a fantastic achievement.
Our Year 11 and Year 13 students are now preparing for their public examinations, which begin on Thursday 7 May. A range of Easter holiday revision sessions will take place during the first week of the break, with parents informed separately. We are also pleased to share that 60% of Year 13 students have received offers from Russell Group universities for Autumn 2026.
Easter is a time of reflection and renewal, and in that spirit we look ahead to the summer term of the 2025/26 academic year. With longer and warmer days approaching, we look forward to all that lies ahead. Please read on for a selection of highlights from a busy and successful spring half-term.
Thank you for your continued support. I hope you and your family have a restful holiday and enjoy the peace and blessings of Easter 2026.
Paula Whyte
Headteacher
Secretary of State praises "strong exam outcomes"
St Aloysius’ College has received a letter of congratulations from Bridget Phillipson, recognising the school’s outstanding outcomes for disadvantaged pupils.
The letter highlights the dedication of staff, the hard work of students and the shared ambition that underpins the College community, placing St Aloysius among the highest-performing schools nationally in this area.
Particular praise was given to the school’s commitment to equity and excellence, as well as its contribution to sharing best practice and supporting wider system leadership.
This recognition reflects a sustained, collective effort across the school, and stands as a significant endorsement of the values and standards that shape daily life at St Aloysius.
Exploring the Future: Sixth Form Subject Talks prove Big Hit
Earlier this year, Year 11 students took part in a series of engaging presentations led by Sixth Form subject teachers, offering valuable insight into post-16 study at St Aloysius’ College.
Spanning a wide range of subjects — from Biology to Politics, Art & Graphic Design to Sociology — each session highlighted the depth of expertise, enthusiasm and support that characterise the Sixth Form experience. Students explored different pathways, asked thoughtful questions and began to consider the opportunities that lie ahead.
The series provided a meaningful opportunity for students to reflect on their next steps within a familiar and supportive environment, where academic ambition is matched by individual guidance.
With a strong track record of success, dedicated teaching and a clear focus on future pathways, the Sixth Form continues to offer students the time, space and support to prepare for university, apprenticeships and beyond.
A Milestone in Reading: The STA Millionaires’ Club assembles
The programme recognises students who have read over one million words, using quiz data to track their progress and engagement. It is a significant achievement, reflecting sustained commitment, focus and a genuine love of reading.
Through initiatives such as this, students are encouraged to develop independent reading habits, with recognition ranging from certificates and badges to places on the school’s reading honours board.
A fantastic accomplishment, and a clear reflection of the power of reading to inspire and reward dedication over time.
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Robert Mahon as the new Headteacher of St Aloysius’ College. He will step into his role on 1st September.
Mr Mahon brings with him a wealth of experience in Catholic education, most recently serving as Deputy Headteacher at Loreto College, Hertfordshire. He also has a strong connection to St Aloysius’, having previously been part of the College’s leadership team as Assistant Headteacher.
His appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the school, building on the strong foundations established by Ms Whyte in recent years. With a clear commitment to academic excellence, student development and inclusive values, Mr Mahon is ideally placed to lead the College forward.
We look forward to welcoming him to the St Aloysius’ community and to the continued growth and success of the school under his leadership.
Year 13 Team Building: Immersive Football gets thumbs-up
Our Year 13 students recently stepped into the future of football during a team building session at TOCA Social, where skill, speed and teamwork were put to the test in a truly immersive setting.
Facing off against a giant virtual goalkeeper, students took turns to strike, react and refine their technique in a fast-paced and highly engaging environment. The experience brought plenty of energy and friendly competition, with students encouraging one another and rising to the challenge.
Beyond the action, the session offered a valuable opportunity to strengthen team bonds and enjoy a shared experience outside the classroom.
Made possible through a Jack Petchey Award grant, the visit was a well-earned and memorable highlight for our Sixth Form students.
Exploring Meaning and Tradition in Year 7 RE
In Year 7 Religious Education, students have been exploring the meaning of Passover and the Eucharist, developing their understanding of how these two important traditions are connected across the Old and New Testaments.
Through creative work and thoughtful reflection, students have engaged with key themes such as freedom, sacrifice and remembrance, considering how these ideas continue to shape Christian belief and practice today.
It has been particularly encouraging to see the depth of thinking and engagement in lessons, with students bringing these concepts to life in thoughtful and imaginative ways.
Year 13 Success: Student impresses prestigious London Uni
Congratulations to Hei Yi in Year 13, who has received an offer from Imperial College London to study Science.
The offer, requiring AAA at A Level, reflects both the high expectations of the course and Hei Yi’s outstanding academic achievement to date.
Known for her calm and focused approach to learning, Hei Yi consistently sets a thoughtful tone in the classroom. Her success is a powerful example of how dedication and quiet perseverance can steadily build over time before coming into the spotlight.
We are immensely proud of her hard work, commitment and ambition, and we look forward to supporting her as she works towards this exciting next step.
Find your feet. Go far.
The Year 7 girls showed tremendous spirit and determination in their recent football fixture against Ark Globe Academy. From the first whistle to the last, they worked tirelessly, giving their all and refusing to give up as they pushed to get back into the game.
Although the result did not go their way, their attitude, teamwork and resilience stood out throughout. It was a performance full of effort and commitment, reflecting a team growing in confidence and cohesion.
Well done to all involved — a fantastic display of perseverance and team spirit. St Aloysius’ Head of PE Mr King summed it up with words of encouragement: “Keep your heads up and keep working.”
Bringing Rivers to Life in Year 7 Geography
Year 7 students have been exploring rivers and the features of a drainage basin in their Geography lessons, developing their understanding through detailed and carefully presented work.
Particular praise goes to Alfie (7F), whose drainage basin diagram stood out for its clarity, precision and thoughtful presentation. His work clearly identifies key features such as the source, tributaries, confluence and mouth, demonstrating a strong grasp of the topic.
It is always encouraging to see students taking such care and pride in their learning — a fantastic example of focus and attention to detail. Well done, Alfie!
Talks and Presentations by former students planned this summer
Once an Aloysian, always an Aloysian: former students and staff are warmly invited to reconnect and get involved with today’s College life and its learners.
Members of the Aloysius’ Alumni Alliance receive regular newsletters and updates, keeping them informed about the latest developments, achievements and events at St Aloysius’ College.
Sign up to the growing Aloysius’ Alumni Alliance by emailing your full name and phone number to enquiries@sta.islington.sch.uk
Interested in mentoring, inspiring or supporting current students? We would love to hear from you via the same email address. There are already some exciting alumni projects in the pipeline for this summer, designed to inspire and enrich the current community of Aloysians.
Year 12 Attend Politics Talk with Sir Vince Cable
A group of Year 12 students recently attended a Politics talk at Channing School, delivered by Vince Cable, former leader of the Liberal Democrats and Secretary of State in the coalition government.
Drawing on his extensive experience in economics, public policy and national politics, Sir Vince offered students a thoughtful and wide-ranging perspective on contemporary issues, as well as insights from his distinguished career.
Students listened with focus and interest throughout, engaging with the opportunity to hear directly from a leading figure in British political life. The visit provided a valuable extension to their studies, bringing classroom learning into direct contact with real-world experience.
An enriching and inspiring occasion, made possible through our partnership with Channing School.
Leadership and Kindness Awarded across the College
Congratulations to our latest Jack Petchey Foundation Award winners — Nathan (Year 7), Connor (Year 8), Riley (Year 9) and Zayn (Year 10) — all proudly recognised by their peers for their positive contributions to school life.
What makes this award particularly meaningful is that it is both peer-nominated and peer-voted, reflecting the genuine respect each student has earned within their year group. Zayn, for example, received an impressive 37 votes from fellow Year 10 students — a clear indication of the esteem in which he is held.
The Jack Petchey Award celebrates far more than academic success. It recognises young people who demonstrate commitment, kindness, leadership and resilience — qualities these students embody in their everyday approach to school life.
London Air Ambulance: Insights into Work that saves Lives
Our Year 9 and 10 students recently took part in an inspiring talk from London's Air Ambulance Charity, learning about the incredible, life-saving work carried out across London.
Students found out how the service is organised and funded, how helicopters are dispatched, and how critical decisions are made when multiple emergencies occur at the same time.
The session sparked excellent discussion, with thoughtful questions about emergency response, decision-making under pressure and future career pathways in this vital sector. A fascinating and eye-opening experience for all involved.
Class of 2025 returns to College in Celebratory Mood
The event provided a fitting opportunity to recognise students’ hard work, dedication and growth over the course of their studies at St Aloysius’ College.
The evening was filled with smiling faces, warm conversations and a strong sense of pride shared by students, families and staff alike. Students received their exam certificates, celebrating the academic success achieved during last summer’s examination period.
The atmosphere was one of celebration, reflection and confidence in the journeys ahead. A memorable evening, organised with care by Ms Kisten, that honoured past achievements while looking forward to the future with optimism.
Year 11 Bow Out After Dramatic Cup Semi-Final
Our Year 11 football team brought their St Aloysius journey to a close in dramatic fashion in the Islington & Camden Cup semi-final against UCL Academy at Regent’s Park.
Led by Mr King, the team faced a significant challenge, travelling with several key players unavailable and supported by Year 10 students stepping up to the occasion. Despite this, Aloysius produced an assured and energetic first-half performance, controlling much of the play and limiting their opponents’ opportunities. UCL Academy capitalised on one of their few chances just before half-time to take the lead.
The response after the break was immediate and impressive. A flowing move involving Alfie, Renato and Ovie culminated in a superb equaliser, with Ovie curling the ball into the net to bring the game level. From there, Aloysius continued to press, showing determination and cohesion as they pushed for a winner.
In a tense final phase, a late goal was ruled out, taking the match to penalties, where UCL Academy ultimately progressed.
While the result was a difficult one to take, the performance was full of character, resilience and teamwork — a fitting reflection of a group who have represented the school with commitment throughout their time here.
Sixth Formers Step into the World of Enterprise
Five Year 12 students — Ibrahim, Alfie, Ayoub, James and Zaid — have been developing their entrepreneurial skills through the Young Enterprise Post-16 programme at Channing School, attending weekly sessions and collaborating with their peers on real business ideas.
Their efforts were recently showcased at the Young Enterprise Spitalfields Competition, where more than 20 teams competed for a small number of awards, reflecting an exceptionally high standard throughout.
We are delighted that the Channing teams our students worked alongside were recognised with two awards: Seeds&Greetings for Best Sustainability and Social Impact, and Interlinked for Best Customer Service.
A fantastic achievement that highlights the students’ professionalism, creativity and commitment, as well as the strength of this ongoing partnership.
Youngest Aloysians smoothly settle into Spring
Our Year 7 students have continued to settle into school life with confidence and ease as the spring term unfolds, building on a strong start to their journey at St Aloysius’ College.
Moments such as these, shared with Head of Year 7 Ms Jastrzab, reflect the sense of positivity, belonging and optimism that characterises daily life for our youngest students. As a growing co-educational community, it is encouraging to see pupils embracing new routines, friendships and opportunities with such enthusiasm.
With brighter days and milder weather approaching, Year 7 look well placed to make the most of the term ahead, continuing their journey with confidence and curiosity.
St Aloysius' College
Email: enquiries@sta.islington.sch.uk
Website: https://www.sta.islington.sch.uk
Location: St Aloysius' RC College, Hornsey Lane, London, UK
Phone: 020 7561 7800