Over the past few months, Mercedes College has welcomed Primary School students from St Columba’s in Bayswater and Padbury Catholic Primary School to hear the story of how the College began 175 years ago.
The tours, a new initiative this year as part of the 175th celebrations, promote the Mercy story at Mercedes College to Catholic primary schools in Perth. Students were split into three groups and enjoyed a range of activities for their half-day visit.
They were fascinated as they toured the Convent’s heritage building to see the many artifacts on display and hear how six Sisters of Mercy travelled from Ireland to Western Australia in 1846 to begin their Mercy ministry here in Australia. As they toured the school, students enjoyed seeing the beautiful artwork recently installed as part of the 175th celebration. Students created installation pieces representing some of the College’s history. Some of these on display included a papercut timeline of the Mercedes College story and memory boxes filled with 105 photos, cut and overlayed in a 3-dimentional form depicting reflections of time.
Serious Fun workshops exploring exaggeration in movement and an historical dramatic representation of the ship that brought the Sisters of Mercy from Ireland to Fremantle back in 1846, kept everyone laughing and engaged. While a percussion workshop exploring rhythm and timbre, saw students receive their very own drumsticks, lots of concentration and broken green buckets! Students also created a personalised badge which was pressed and for them to take home on site.
Teacher, Mrs Leesa Vinciullo who arranged the visit for the students said their experience was very enjoyable. “Being immersed in the rich history of the beautifully maintained buildings and grounds and being treated to a taste of the incomparable drama and music programs that Mercedes is renowned for, it is clear to see why Mercedes College continues to be the heart of Mercy education, here in WA.” “At the end of their visit, the students were so happy and wanted to stay the whole day!”.
Students received a ‘goodie’ bag to take away from their Mercedes College visit. For more information about the school tours please contact the College on 93231323.
Principal, Kerrie Fraser said the Mercy story is one of great significance across Australia and around the world and it is important we share this with our Catholic feeder primary schools.
