I am sincerely humbled to have this unique opportunity to share with you some of my experiences as a parent of children attending Our Lady of Mercy College. My husband and I have three children attending the College, with my eldest son recently graduating Year 12, my second son in Year 10 and my daughter almost ready to complete her first year in high school.
My journey with the College began back in 2016 when my eldest son began his secondary schooling in Year 7 of the then Bunbury Catholic College, Australind campus. At that time, the College was much smaller but brand new with beautiful facilities. Along came my son, a country boy from a small school in Harvey, and wow, was he excited! But boy, was I nervous and anxious. After the first week at school, he settled in quite well and made some great friends, most of whom have now become his life-long friends. He also met some wonderful teachers, who welcomed him with open arms, and most of whom are still here today and have continued to guide and support him through, until the end of Year 12.
Over the years, the school has continued to grow and develop, creating its own identity and becoming the wonderful College you know and see here today. I feel it is developing into one of the best education facilities in this region. With a soon-to-be-open world-class gymnasium and performance centre, state of the art facilities, Christian fellowship programs, sporting and music opportunities, ATAR and general path streams, tutoring and support programs, there really is something to cater to every child’s needs and dreams.
I can speak on behalf of my son, who has now graduated, that he was able to follow his dream of a career in furniture design and cabinet making – with the support and guidance of his teachers, his mentors, he was able to achieve this and more! He has completed many projects in the workshops, including a hall table, cubby house for a local school, even a pool table. He has recently taken up an apprenticeship in furniture and cabinet making at a local studio. Today, I give my thanks and appreciation to the school and want to articulate that if your child has a dream, no matter what it is, they will be supported and guided here at the College.
Over the years, I think the most important things that have stood out to me as a parent are the dedication, care and nurturing teachers and staff provide to each child. Staff go over and above to provide the care and quality teaching that your child deserves, and there is nothing too big or small to handle. There have been countless times that I have needed to communicate with a teacher, chat with them or ask questions regarding an assessment or event coming up at school. I have been relieved to find that communication is always open. Teachers are approachable and happy to hear from you and will address any issues timely and professional.
I have found that teachers work together with the students and their families towards a common goal: for your child to strive and achieve the best that they can be; for your child to become the best version of themselves! Your child will receive the best care and education they deserve, and, parents, you can rest assured knowing that once your child enters these school gates, they will be well looked after, noticed, respected and recognised for who they are!
There are also many opportunities for parents to take an active part in their child’s secondary education – whether through the P&F, volunteering at the school Café or attending sporting events, parent information evenings or assemblies; parents are always welcome.
The opportunities for your child are boundless here at the College, no matter what their interests may be. My second son, Jordan, loves his sport, and there have been many times over the years that he has represented the College at sporting events such as basketball and football carnivals. He recently enjoyed the year 10 Explorus Adventure camp. The camp is an excellent opportunity for the students to get to know their peers better, learn life skills, try new things such as abseiling, canoeing and hiking, and be resilient when times get tough! I know this time away was a valuable time for him.
In her first year here, my daughter has grown in leaps and bounds – she has had so many great on-campus and off-campus opportunities, representing the school at various events.
This year, some of her favourite things have been working in the technologies departments – the arts, woodwork and cooking and of course, the great highlight is the use and ownership of her very own laptop device! She has taken part in leadership opportunities as a homeroom representative and has thoroughly enjoyed participating in the Christian Service Learning program that the school endorses. She has had nothing but support from her Head of Year, Miss Teagan Doyle, her teachers, and the friendly admin and technology departments staff.
For this, I say a big thank you. Thank you to all the staff for the support and care you have given. Thank you for all the wonderful opportunities you provide for my children and the children past, present, and future.
To all future families, I hope I have helped shed some light on the questions or concerns you may have, and I wish you and your children all the very best on their journey at Our Lady of Mercy College.
Thank you,
Mrs Coralee Italiano
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