Mercy Education – The Values That Shape a Meaningful Education
Being part of a Mercy school means being part of something bigger – a legacy of faith, learning and compassion that has shaped young minds across Australia for over 175 years. Governed by Mercy Education, schools like Santa Maria College are grounded in the vision of Catherine McAuley and the enduring mission of the Sisters of Mercy.
A Legacy of Compassion and Excellence
The story began in 1846 when Ursula Frayne and her fellow Sisters of Mercy arrived in Australia to establish the first Mercy school. Their vision was clear – to provide a holistic education that nurtures academic achievement while fostering compassion, courage, and a deep sense of service.
That vision continues today in every Mercy school. With a strong focus on values and innovation, students are supported to thrive academically and grow into ethical leaders ready to make a difference.
Why Choose a Mercy Education?
Families who choose a Mercy school are joining a community built on shared values and high expectations. Here’s what makes a Mercy education distinctive:
- Academic Excellence with Purpose – Students engage in rich, challenging learning that inspires critical thinking, creativity and ethical decision-making.
- Empowered Leadership – Young people are encouraged to lead with confidence, courage and compassion, developing the skills to influence change.
- Faith in Action – Founded on Catholic tradition, Mercy schools live out their values through service, social justice and strong community connections.
- Modern Learning Environments – Innovative facilities and real-world learning experiences help students succeed in a changing world.
- Inclusive, Supportive Communities – Each student is known, valued and supported to become their best self.
The Real Impact: Student Success Stories
A Mercy education is not just about academic results, it is about shaping lives.
“I never imagined I could lead a team of dedicated students that would make a real difference. Thanks to Mercy Education, I was given the support, mentorship, and encouragement to turn my ideas into action.”
A National Network of Mercy Schools
Mercy Education governs thirteen schools across Australia, including:
Western Australia:
- Santa Maria College
- Mercedes College, Perth
- St Brigid’s College, Lesmurdie
Victoria:
- Academy of Mary Immaculate, Fitzroy
- Catherine McAuley College, Bendigo
- Emmanuel College, Warrnambool
- Mount Lilydale Mercy College, Lilydale
- Our Lady of Mercy College, Heidelberg
- Sacred Heart College, Geelong
- Sacred Heart College, Kyneton
- St Aloysius College, North Melbourne
- St Joseph’s College, Mildura
South Australia:
- St Aloysius College, Adelaide
In addition to these, Mercy Education partners with affiliated schools that share the same ethos, further extending the impact of its mission.
Looking Ahead: Living the Mercy Tradition
Mercy Education is more than governance, it is a collective commitment to nurturing faith-filled communities where young people grow into thoughtful, courageous, and compassionate leaders.
Whether you’re a student, parent, staff member or alumni, being part of a Mercy school means being part of a living tradition; one that continues to transform lives and inspire a better world.
- CatherineMcAuleyLegacy, CatholicSchoolsAustralia, FaithBasedLearning, Featured, MercyEducation, MercySchools, SantaMariaCollege
Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.
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