It has been an eventful start to the school year and I thank all families for preparing their daughters so well and attending the many events that have already occurred.
We began our events with the Year 12 Ball prior to the start of the academic year. Our students’ behaviour was exemplary and a fun-filled evening was had by all. It is always a key event and anticipated for many months.
When all students returned to the College our Opening Mass was held in the Cathedral. Many of the Sisters of Mercy attended and enjoyed a morning tea back at school after mass. We are fortunate to have the Sisters in attendance at key events.
Our Excellence Assembly provided an opportunity to acknowledge the achievements of our Class of 2022 and for them to inspire our younger students with their success. We were also fortunate to hear from ex-student Steph Audino who spoke with passion about her time at Mercedes and her journey to establish her career in couture fashion designs. The Class of 2022 enjoyed a gathering after the assembly.
Year 7 students engaged in a transition week with many activities designed to help them settle at Mercedes and take the step from primary to secondary school. The day in the Swan Valley with team building activities was very popular and an effective way of meeting other students in the year group.
Our Year 12 students were commissioned last week and have received their Senior badges. They have been asked to reflect on the characteristics of a young woman of Mercy as outlined in our Mercy Journey document. These characteristics are as follows. Our students form attitudes based on Gospel values and supporting the Mercy ethos. They should have a commitment to personal excellence and be accountable and resilient young women. Being selfless, empathetic and inclusive are also key characteristics we assist them to develop in their time at the College. They are role models for our Year 7 students. A bond between the two year groups is already growing and it was inspirational to see the Year 12 students form a guard of honour for Year 7’s first assembly.
On Tuesday a Careers Expo and Information Evening was held for Year 12. An overview of key information was provided and a speaker from TISC presented to those in attendance. Year 7 parents also had an information session. Paul Litherland was our guest speaker and spoke to parents about technology and on-line safety.
I hope your daughters have enjoyed the first two weeks of school. I look forward to seeing many of you at the P & F Sundowner this Friday.
Kind regards
Mrs Kerrie Fraser
