Christian Service-Learning is a flexible student-centred program that provides students with an opportunity to develop the Mercy values of Service, Justice, Compassion, Integrity & Excellence through meaningful and active citizenship. It enables students to demonstrate competencies in critical thinking, problem solving, communication, self-reflection, community and environmental responsibility and cultural awareness. 

An anticipated element of Christian Service-Learning is experiential learning through the head, heart and hands. It is anticipated that through Christian Service-Learning students will encounter opportunities for self-revelation and the development of sound Christian values. 

Students in Year 11 at Mercedes College will participate in a minimum of 14 hours of Community Service at designated not-for-profit organisations during school time on a Tuesday afternoon and a minimum of 16 hours of volunteering in their own time. This will enable students to meet the WACE mandatory requirement of 20 hours of community service. 

Students are expected to demonstrate satisfactory achievement in the following outcomes:

• Identify meaningful ways in which to address a need in their community.
• Link faith and values to their personal response to this need.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the plight of the marginalised.
• Recognise that civic participation is a responsibility of all members of the community.

Before they graduate, it is hoped that every girl experiences Volunteering and will be able to learn from this real Christian service. 

In Year 12, students are encouraged to volunteer in their own time in worthwhile projects on and off campus. Students who complete a minimum of 30 hours of volunteer service in four areas over Years 11 and 12 may apply for the Sisters of Mercy Service Award.

Programme Coordinator
Mrs Margaret Ryan