Daniela Paradiso
From 6–7 May, I had the great pleasure of visiting the three Mercy schools in Western Australia – Mercedes College, St Brigid’s College, and Santa Maria College.
Each of the schools is wonderfully unique, and it was a special experience to see this firsthand – from the expansive bush setting of St Brigid’s College in Lesmurdie, to the inner-city heritage precinct of Mercedes College, and finally Santa Maria on the banks of the Swan River. At each school, we were welcomed with a spirit of generous Mercy hospitality that made the visits even more memorable.
St Brigid’s College Principal, Veronica Parker, kindly gave me a front-row seat on the Gator as she drove me around the grounds, highlighting both the vastness and beauty of the bush setting. A particular highlight of the visit was spending time in the primary classrooms, where the children were so engaged and immersed in their learning.
Mercedes College, located in the heart of Perth’s heritage precinct, is one of Australia’s oldest Catholic schools and is both unique and stunning. Established by the Sisters of Mercy under the leadership of Ursula Frayne, who arrived in 1846, Mercedes is proudly celebrating 180 years of Mercy education this year. Together with the Trustee Directors of MMC, we toured the grounds, visited the statues of Ursula Frayne and the College’s first student, and concluded with afternoon tea shared with the Sisters of Mercy from the local Perth community. The crocheted Ursula Frayne tea cosies were a charming touch to the afternoon
Our visit to Santa Maria College coincided with Boarders’ Week and it was an absolute privilege to be invited to the College assembly, planned by the 152 boarders. The assembly was deeply moving, as the students shared stories, videos, dance and music presentations reflecting on their homes and journeys. Many parents had travelled significant distances to be present for the assembly and it was truly an honour to share in such a meaningful and heartfelt occasion.
