Located in the heart of Chatswood, Mercy Catholic College has educated students since 1890. The school offers a Catholic education for girls in an environment that exemplifies the school motto, ‘Strive for better things’. The life of the College is based on Gospel values where the worth of each individual is recognised irrespective of ethnic background, academic ability or social opportunity.
Facilities: Two tennis/netball courts, close to local ovals, fully equipped and computerised library, computer rooms, access to wireless technology, music/drama area with practice rooms, design and technology and food technology areas.
Electives Years 7 to 10: Commerce, Geography, History, Visual Arts, Textiles and Design, Food Technology, Computing Studies, Music, Drama, PD/Health/PE, French and Italian.
Electives Years 11 and 12: Mathematics to 4-Unit level, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, General Science, Ancient History, Modern History, Geography, Economics, Society & Culture, Visual Arts, Music, Information Technology, Legal Studies, Business Studies, French, Italian, General Studies, Food Technology, Drama. Vocational Education (VET) courses are available.
Sport: Netball, touch football, tennis, cricket, swimming, hockey, soccer.
Extracurricular activities: Debating, Mock Trial, public speaking, Tournament of Minds, instrumental tuition, concert band, choir, dance group, yoga, annual musical production, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme. The curriculum is supported by the opportunity for students to be involved in competitions such as the Australian Mathematics, English, Chemistry and Science Competitions.
Welfare and personal development: The College recognises the individual and focuses on the particular learning style of girls, preparing them to be women of influence and leadership in the future. Specialist help is available from ESL and remedial teachers. Pastoral care, a peer support program, work experience and a full-time school counsellor are also features. Students are encouraged to develop their leadership skills from Year 7 onwards, as they represent their Year groups in various committees such as sport, social justice, media and the Student Representative Council. The College believes that contemporary education needs to provide students with a view to the world and therefore runs a social justice program so that students can fulfil their role as global citizens.
Special features: The College has a strong sense of community and works closely with parents, encouraging them to be involved in various organisations and committees such as the College Board, the Parent Association and the Activities Club. A gifted and talented program for more able students commences in Year 7. The College continues to assist students to achieve impressive School Certificate and Higher School Certificate results. The College also has a number of specialist teachers to devise individual learning programs for students with special needs.