Dear Mercedes College Families
Welcome back to Term 4, the final term of the 2026 school year. I hope our students, staff, and families enjoyed a restful break and had the opportunity to recharge. It is hard to believe how quickly this year has progressed. Over the holidays we saw our Year 12 students undertaking their Semester Two ATAR Examinations ahead of returning for the Valedictory Assembly and Graduation this week.
Our final day of Term 3 was a wonderful celebration of Mercy Day, bringing students and staff together through faith, service and community spirit. The day started with a morning Mass in the Cathedral and followed with Mercy Day stalls on campus, the House prayers reveal and student performances. The day reflected the traditions and values that continue to shape life at Mercedes College. I thank our staff, students and parent and family volunteers who contributed to such a memorable occasion while also supporting the important charity of Mercy Works.
On our Faith Professional Development Day last week, the staff undertook the pilgrimage In the Footsteps of Ursula Frayne. We walked through significant locations connected to our Mercy heritage in Fremantle and in the city. It gave us a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the faith, courage, and determination of Ursula Frayne and the first Sisters of Mercy. The experience strengthened our connection to Mercedes College’s history and mission and reminded us of the responsibility we share to carry this legacy forward. Ongoing professional learning is an important part of our commitment to providing a high-quality education, and days such as this allow us to reflect on how our shared values continue to inform the way we teach, guide and support every Mercedes student.
The first two weeks back have seen us return quickly to the busy pace of Term 4, with Week 2 being particularly significant for our Year 12 students. On Monday, we farewelled the Class of 2026 at their Valedictory Assembly, Graduation Mass and Dinner. It was a privilege to celebrate their achievements, reflect on their contributions, and recognise the friendships and memories formed throughout their time at Mercedes College. The Guard of Honour, where each graduate received a yellow rose from a Year 7 student, was a particularly moving reminder of the journey our students undertake from their first days at the College through to graduation.
I congratulate all our Year 12 students on their efforts throughout the year and on the commitment they have shown in concluding courses and preparing for examinations. As they now approach their WACE examinations, I wish each student every success. I encourage them to have confidence in the work they have completed, look after their wellbeing, and approach this final stage with resilience and determination. I wish the Class of 2026 every success as they pursue the many opportunities and adventures that await them. They will always remain an important part of the Mercedes College story.
Our Prefects gathered last night for their Thanksgiving Liturgy and Dinner, reflecting on their leadership journey and expressing gratitude to the staff and families who have supported them. As the 2026 Prefects prepare to conclude their leadership responsibilities, I thank them for the care, commitment and positive influence they have brought to our community. These moments of transition remind us that leadership is grounded in service and the relationships we build with others. They fulfilled their vision for 2026, which was #KindnessShinesBright.
Tomorrow, we look forward to another significant occasion on the College calendar, Presentation Evening. This event provides an opportunity to recognise our students’ dedication, achievements and contributions throughout the year, while celebrating the many ways they have embraced learning and leadership.
As we look ahead to the remainder of Term 4, there will be many opportunities to celebrate student learning, recognise achievement and come together as a community. For our senior students, it is a time of important milestones and new beginnings, while for the rest of our College it is an opportunity to finish the year with purpose and enthusiasm.
Thank you to our families for your continued support and partnership. The strength of Mercedes College lies in the relationships between our students, staff, families and wider community, and I look forward to sharing the final weeks of the year with you.
Warm Regards
Dr Lucie McCrory
PRINCIPAL
Nationally Consistent Collection of Data (NCCD)
All Australian governments implement an annual national data collection on school students with disability. This data collection does not apply just to students with an identified disability, but for all students in the College community that receive learning adjustments. Please click here for detailed information on NCCD.
Parent Code of Conduct
Our Parent Code of Conduct helps us identify how we interact and engage in partnership whilst keeping the best interests of students at the centre of our decision-making and care. Details of which can be found by clicking HERE.
