The former Australind campus of Bunbury Catholic College began a new chapter this week, operating for the first time as Our Lady of Mercy College (OLMC). 

Students returned to the school in new uniforms and brimming with enthusiasm. 

Foundation Principal Rob Crothers, who joined OLMC following six years at the helm of Nagle Catholic College in Geraldton, said staff were also very excited. 

“There‘s a real buzz amongst the staff,” he said. 

“They are relishing the opportunity to create their own unique identity and to be creative and flexible in meeting the needs of the students.”  

With head boy Joel Cronin and head girl Sienna Garner, Mr Crothers signed an agreement at the College’s first assembly on Tuesday, in which staff and students agree to ‘Work in Partnership’ to foster the well-being of all and to enhance school spirit and culture. 

Our Lady of Mercy College’s guiding philosophy is centred in ‘Embracing Life, Nurturing Faith and Inspiring Learning’. 

Mr Crothers said students would be encouraged to embrace all aspects of life. 

“Meeting challenges head on, taking calculated risks, learning from failure and success, developing resilience and tenacity are critical attributes for all young people,” he said. 

“Nurturing their faith and belief in themselves helps young people to develop a healthy spirituality and affinity with creation.” 

A focus on natural curiosity will be utilised to inspire deep learning driven by curiosity and focussing on issues relevant to the students. 

“Our students will be guided to become problem designers who will focus on what can be done and then seek to implement solutions,” Mr Crothers said.  

“Our focus upon the global competencies of collaboration, citizenship, character, communication, creativity and critical thinking will ensure that our students are well prepared to be successful in the future.” 

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