History and Origins

Mission Statement

We endeavour to provide a caring, safe and disciplined environment in which all students are challenged and supported to reach their educational and personal potential. It is our aim that students leaving our school should be well adjusted, responsible and enterprising individuals capable of meeting the challenges of a changing society. We strive to further the Christian and moral development of each student within an atmosphere that reflects the Mercy ethos and long tradition of education.

Ethos

The school spirit is enshrined in our school crest “Misericordia” (Mercy to all).

Pastoral Care

The school is supported by a strong Pastoral Care team consisting of Teachers, Class Tutors, Yearheads, Chaplain, Guidance Counsellor, Anti-bullying Co-ordinator, Deputy Principal and Principal.

Class Tutor/Yearhead

Each junior class is assigned a Class Tutor. The Class Tutor is a person who supports and encourages the positive behaviour of the tutor group in a firm and fair manner. Each year group is assigned a Yearhead. The Yearhead builds a sense of belonging by promoting class and year group spirit, by getting to know students, by engaging students in school activities and encouraging team work. The Yearhead acknowledges student effort and achievement.

Chaplain/Anti-bullying Co-ordinator

The Chaplain (who works on a voluntary basis) and the Anti-bullying Coordinator play an integral role in the Pastoral Care system in the school. The Chaplain provides spiritual direction and support for students. The Pastoral Care work involves preventive intervention, support in times of personal difficulties especially bereavement and advice on positive selfdiscipline. Achievement is acknowledged and affirmed. There is an emphasis on empathic listening in a non-judgemental way. Meaningful feedback often enables students to clarify goals, offers re-assurance and communicates a sense of hope.

Career Guidance Counsellor

The Guidance Counsellor undertakes career, educational and personal counselling. Counselling is offered on an individual and group basis as part of a developmental learning process and at moments of personal crisis or difficulty. The Guidance Counsellor provides support on an individual basis for self –referral and for students referred to him by teachers and school management. An annual career exhibition is organised by the Career Guidance Counsellor.

Awards

1. Merits in the Student Journal Merits are awarded for good behaviour, academic progress and good application to work.
2. The Award’s System recognises student effort, academic achievement, attendance and achievement in extra curricular activities.
   

Student Book Scheme

A sale of new and second-hand books is organised in the school each August. Booklists are provided by the school during the summer holidays. The school operates a grants’ scheme towards the cost of providing school textbooks for eligible students.

Spiritual Development

The school seeks to promote the spiritual and religious growth of the students by creating a Christian atmosphere. It leads them to maturity within the context of the Christian faith, which should inform and colour their lives during their school days and continue to guide their conduct all their lives. The Chaplain and Religion Team form an integral part of school-life, yet we acknowledge that spiritual and moral development is not the exclusive responsibility of religious education. Each subject offers opportunities for promoting and consolidating gospel values. To best promote and foster the religious growth and development of the students, opportunity for prayer, celebration of the sacraments, retreats and meaningful liturgies are provided during the school year.