From the Principal: Term 2, Week 2 2026

Dear Mercedes College Families 

Welcome to Term 2 in our 180 Anniversary year. I hope all families enjoyed a restful and rewarding holiday break, with time to renew and prepare for the term ahead. It has been wonderful to welcome our students back to campus, with a strong sense of energy and enthusiasm as we begin a significant academic period for our senior students, alongside a busy and engaging co-curricular calendar. 

During the holidays, our College proudly celebrated its 180 Anniversary with the wider City of Perth through our involvement in the City of Perth’s Lotterywest Boorloo Heritage Festival. This special event provided a meaningful opportunity to open our grounds as a Community Day and to share our rich history and Mercy story with the broader Perth population. It was particularly pleasing to see the Chapel filled as the Mercedes College Alumni Choir performed a beautiful selection of pieces, showcasing the strength of our musical tradition with alumni from ages 80 to 18. Across the day, we welcomed more than 400 guests, each bringing curiosity and their own connection to Mercedes. It was a privilege to hear stories, memories and reflections that continue to shape the legacy of our College. 

I would also like to congratulate Mercedes student Milani on her selection in the National Indigenous Cricket Championships (NICC), representing Western Australia. As the youngest member of the team, Milani demonstrated exceptional skill and composure, competing alongside elite players. Her team achieved an impressive third-place finish overall. We are incredibly proud of Milani’s achievement and the dedication she has shown to her sport. 

At the beginning of this term, our Year 11 and Year 12 Drama students attended the Performing Arts Perspectives Showcase, a prestigious event celebrating the highest achieving performing arts students across Western Australia. We were especially proud to acknowledge 2025 alumna Kealey Ward, who was selected to perform her candidate’s choice monologue, an honour awarded to a small number of students across the state. Her performance was a wonderful reflection of her commitment to her passion, the strength of our Arts Program and Staff, and the talent nurtured within our community. 

Last week, students and staff gathered for our ANZAC Assembly, a meaningful opportunity to pause and reflect on the service and sacrifice of those who have served our country. The assembly provided a memorable opportunity to honour and recognise the bravery of those who have helped protect our freedom. We thank our guest speaker, Alumni and Mercedes mother, Ms Sally Edmondson, for sharing her story and adding her thoughtful and inspiring contribution to the event. We acknowledge all students and staff involved in creating such a respectful and moving commemoration. 

We were so proud to host Western Australia’s first TEDx school event, TEDx Mercedes College Youth. This thought-stimulating evening brought together 18 students from Years 8 to 12, who shared their ideas and passions with confidence and authenticity. The event showcased the voice, courage and insight of our students, and I commend each speaker for their willingness to step forward and contribute so meaningfully. 

As our Year 12 students continue their final year, they recently marked the milestone of 100 days until graduation, celebrating with creativity as they dressed as their future aspirations. It has been wonderful to see this cohort engaging so positively as they begin to look ahead to life beyond Mercedes, and we look forward to supporting them through their final months of school. 

We are pleased to share that the Hall transformation to our Technology Precinct is on track to be completed and ready for use from Term 1 next year. The renewed space will feature a seated café with a balcony overlooking the oval, creating a welcoming hub for students, staff and the wider community. It will also include new specialist learning spaces for Foods, Design, Children Family and the Community, and Technology. We thank our community for adapting so well to ensure this build progresses against its timeline.  

As we move further into Term 2, I wish all students every success in their learning and co-curricular pursuits. I encourage all students to approach the term with focus, balance and a commitment to doing their personal best. Thank you, as always, for your continued support of our College community.