We have marked the halfway point of Term 3, and Mercedes continues to be a busy and vibrant community of care.
In my meetings with staff and students throughout the year, and in the perception survey at my commencement, the library space was identified as a safe place for students that would benefit from future visioning and investment. The College conducted a thorough process to research possibilities and over the last couple of weeks, I spoke with middle leaders and our staff about the intention to revamp our library space over the Christmas break. The vision is to create a more contemporary, collaborative, functional and innovative learning space for students and staff. Students will be asked for input later this term. The P&F have indicated that they wish to co-fund this revamp project.
We have been collaborating to review our Master Plan for Capital Development both this term and last. We hope to share updates on the future vision for the building program by the end of term. It is an exciting time for our community as we move towards a project that will transform a number of learning spaces, starting next year.
In staff news, Mrs Kathleen Cocks, our current Head of The Arts, has decided to retire in 2025 and will continue at Mercedes in a part-time capacity until semester two next year. Mrs Cocks will have spent 17 years in the community when she retires. The Arts, particularly the Musical Production, has flourished under her stellar leadership. Ms Vedette Lendich was Acting Head of Religious Education this year and last and has performed wonderfully. Next year Ms Lendich will take time to focus more fully on her role as Director of Faith and Mercy Charism. We look forward to formally congratulating these staff in due course. We have started the recruitment process for both middle leadership positions.
The College has been overwhelmed with interest from families wishing to explore Mercedes College as an educational community for their daughters. We are waitlisted for Year 7 2025, and Year 7 2026 is nearly at capacity. Our upcoming Open Day was fully booked within three weeks of it being released. If you have a sibling in your family and you have not yet informed us, we suggest that you submit an application at your earliest convenience to avoid any disappointments.
Over the past fortnight, our students have been engaged in a wide range of activities that showcase their passion for learning, social justice, and the Arts. It was a pleasure to commission our Year 7 Student Representative Council at a special mass on Wednesday this week. The young student leaders committed to living the mercy values of Excellence, Integrity, Compassion, Justice, Service and Hope as they work within their position of leadership.
Social Sciences Week brought a vibrant energy to our campus, with students participating in a variety of engaging events. From the Geography Quiz that tested their knowledge of the world, to a lively Song Association Game, and the challenging HaSS Escape Room. It was a week filled with both fun and learning. The History Golden Globes was a highlight, where students and staff came together to celebrate historical figures with creativity and flair. Additionally, our Politics and Law students had the opportunity to step outside the classroom and gain real-world insights during an informative excursion.
Our commitment to social justice was on full display over the last fortnight. The Social Justice Immersion saw our students actively involved in giving back to the community. They ran a hot chocolate stall to raise funds for Mercy Works, cooked meals for outreach programs, and participated in a Kindness Challenge, spreading goodwill throughout the school and beyond.
In the realm of the Arts, our students have been shining brightly. The Catholic Performing Arts Festival and ABODA (Australian Band and Orchestra Directors Association) performances have been nothing short of outstanding. The Festival continues until the end of August, with our Concert Bands and Choirs performing over the next two weeks.
Thank you to all who have contributed to these activities, whether by organising, participating, or supporting from the sidelines. Your dedication and enthusiasm make our College community truly special.
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.
