Message from the Principal – Christine Harding
Welcome to the community of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic College Burraneer. Striving for excellence, we are the only specialist all-girls school in the Sutherland Shire.
Dear Parents and Carers,
Term 2 has begun with a wonderful variety of rich learning experiences, both in and beyond the classroom. These activities highlight the dedication of our teachers and the enthusiastic participation of our students. It is inspiring to see such strong collaboration and engagement across our school community.
May – A Marian Month
May is traditionally a month dedicated to honouring Mary, the Mother of God, whom we lovingly call ‘Our Good Mother’. In his final moments on the cross, Jesus entrusted Mary to the care of his disciple John, saying, “Behold, your mother” (John 19:27). In this moment, Mary became mother to us all. She continues to be a guiding example of what it means to live a life centred in Christ.
“From Mary we learn to surrender to God’s will in all things.
From Mary we learn to trust even when all hope seems gone.
From Mary we learn to love Christ, her Son and the Son of God.”
ST POPE JOHN PAUL II
This weekend, we celebrate Mother’s Day, a special time to honour and give thanks for the mothers who have guided, supported and shaped our lives. Within our community, we recognise that this day is celebrated in many different ways and may include grandmothers, aunties and other mother figures who play a significant role in our families. We are also mindful that Mother’s Day can be a difficult time for those who are grieving the loss of a mother or a significant maternal figure. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mother’s Day Breakfast
It was fabulous to see over 270 in attendance for our Mother’s Day breakfast. The morning was filled with a wonderful sense of community and belonging. We wish all mothers, grandmothers and significant women a very happy Mother’s Day this Sunday.
Sydney Catholic Schools HSC 2025 Awards
I am delighted to share some outstanding news from the recent Sydney Catholic Schools Awards Ceremony. Our school was honoured with two significant awards for our 2025 HSC cohort, presented by Executive Director Danielle Cronin.
The College received:
- Highest Median ATAR across all secondary Sydney Catholic Schools
- Highest Learning Growth for the 2025 HSC
These achievements are an exceptional milestone for our community and a remarkable way to mark our inaugural HSC year. They reflect the dedication, expertise, and commitment of our teachers, whose HSC experience and genuine care for students have made this success possible.
We are incredibly proud of our students and staff, and we look forward to building on this strong foundation in the years ahead.
Executive Director of Sydney Catholic Schools
Danielle Cronin
ANZAC Day
Our Year 12 Student Leaders commemorated ANZAC Day at the Cronulla Dawn Service, representing the College with dignity and pride. They showed deep respect throughout the ceremony, honouring the legacy of those who served.
Led by Mrs Treeves and the HSIE faculty, the College gathered for a solemn ANZAC Assembly that honoured the courage and sacrifice of those who have served. A moving slideshow paid tribute to the families within our own community, displaying the names of relatives who have participated in the defence forces.
They shall grow not old,
as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them,
nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun
and in the morning
We will remember them.
We will remember them
Lest we forget
Student Leaders Archbishop’s Luncheon
Our College Captains, Sophie and Amelia, recently attended the Archbishop’s Student Leaders Gathering at St Mary’s Cathedral. Each year, the Archbishop invites emerging young Catholic leaders to reflect deeply on important themes, and this year’s focus was “Trust in the Lord: For True Peace and Strength.”
It was a wonderful opportunity for our captains to hear directly from the Archbishop and to meet, connect with and learn from other student leaders across Sydney Catholic Schools. The experience offered valuable insights and inspiration as they continue to grow in their leadership roles within our community.
Debating
Congratulations to our Year 7, 8, 9 and 10 debating teams, who have just completed Round 3 of the Catholic Schools’ Debating Association competition. The girls have been training during Thursday sport under the guidance of Ms Kamp, and it has been wonderful to see their skills and confidence grow throughout the season.
Silver Duke of Edinburgh Hike
We are immensely proud of our Year 10 students for their outstanding success in the Silver Duke of Edinburgh hike to the Blue Mountains. Accompanied by Year 10 boys from De La Salle Caringbah, they exhibited remarkable resilience and teamwork. Congratulations to all our resilient Year 10 Duke hikers on your successful completion of the Silver practice Hike. participants for their fantastic achievements. Special thanks to Ms Peric and Mr Hoban for supporting the girls on their hike.
Wednesday Afternoon Learning
Our Wednesday afternoon learning sessions have been hugely successful this year, with a strong number of students attending each week. Over the past three weeks, specialised Mathematics, Science and English teachers have been available to support students. In addition, our 2025 Year 12 HSC High Achievers have been assisting, particularly with Year 11 and 12 students as they prepare for their HSC.
We are very proud of the positive learning and growth culture that is developing. If your daughter would benefit from extra support with her studies, please encourage her to attend each Wednesday from 3:00–4:00pm in the College Library.
Christine Harding, Principal