Our Catholic faith sits at the heart of our educational offering – it provides the framework within which we strive for academic success.
This is being lived at Our Lady of Mercy College (OLMC) Parramatta, where academic excellence is not pursued in isolation—it is deeply rooted in the school’s faith tradition and Mercy charism. The College’s recent recognition for exceptional student growth in NAPLAN assessments is a testament to a holistic approach where spiritual values and high-impact teaching go hand in hand.
A culture where every student is known and supported
OLMC attributes its strong NAPLAN results to a sustained, whole-college commitment to high-impact teaching, targeted intervention, and a culture where every student is known, challenged, and supported. This culture is underpinned by the Mercy values, which shape a learning environment where excellence and wellbeing are inseparable.
Principal Lucie Farrugia recognised the work of the staff in this approach “teachers work collaboratively, analysing student progress and designing evidence-based learning experiences that address the needs of each learner. The consistency of this approach, combined with purposeful professional learning for staff and strong partnerships with families, has enabled students to achieve exceptional learning gains over time.
Data-informed practice guided by faith
NAPLAN data is just one of several tools OLMC uses to monitor student growth and strengthen teaching and learning programmes. The College undertakes rigorous data analysis, examining cohort trends, individual profiles, and longitudinal patterns. This information is used to identify strengths, tailor classroom instruction, inform intervention programmes, guide faculty planning, and support teachers’ professional development.
By integrating these insights with classroom assessments and teacher judgement, OLMC ensures every student receives the targeted support needed to achieve her personal best. This process is not merely technical; it is animated by a faith-driven commitment to the dignity and potential of every learner.
Community pride rooted in shared values
Ms Farrugia said that the OLMC community’s response to being named a school “making a difference” has been one of immense pride and excitement.
“Families, staff, students, alumnae, the sisters, and board members have all expressed how affirming it is to see the College recognised at a state level for its impact on student learning growth. Parents see this recognition as confirmation of the strength of the educational experience their daughters receive, while students feel proud to belong to a college where effort and progress are celebrated.”
“Ultimately, the inclusion by ACARA has reinforced OLMC’s shared commitment to a contemporary Mercy education and strengthened the sense of belonging and collective achievement across the community” Ms Farrugia said.
Faith and charism: The foundation of success
OLMC Parramatta’s story demonstrates that faith and charism are not peripheral to academic achievement—they are its foundation. This is true of Catholic schools across the country and what we know makes a Catholic school unique.
Our Catholic faith brings something special to our schools. It inspires a culture of excellence, care, and aspiration, ensuring that every student is empowered to thrive academically and personally. Beyond lists and results, our schools demonstrate how faith-based values and academic excellence can work together to create a flourishing school community.