Catherine McAuley Westmead was established in 1966 by the Sisters ofMercy and offers a comprehensive education for more than 1000 girls in Years 7 to 12. Inspired by its founder, Mother Catherine McAuley, the school aspires to a God-centred way of life, which respects and affirms the dignity of each person.
In embracing its Catholic Mercy heritage and charisma, the school commits to excellence in girls’ education; empowers young women to be actively involved in social justice; values diversity and inclusiveness; builds community through hospitality; and fosters the development of the whole person. The school is committed to the vision of Mother Catherine McAuley “To Perform the Ordinary, Extraordinarily Well”.
Facilities: Excellent sporting facilities including an Olympic pool (part of the Morley Centre), a large hall/liturgy space and a gymnasium with two international-standard basketball courts, a weights room, netball and tennis courts, hockey and soccer fields, well-equipped specialist rooms including computer rooms, a drama studio, a hospitality kitchen and a multi-purpose area, access to the latest learning technologies and mobile computer labs.
Electives: There is a wide curriculum with NSW Board-developed courses in all Key Learning Areas. Catherine McAuley caters for students with special learning needs and offers an enrichment program for talented students. Language support is in place for those from other language traditions. The school has a careers adviser and offers a vocational program.
Sport: The school is a major participant in interschool competitions. Sports offered include basketball, netball, softball, hockey, soccer, swimming, tennis, volleyball, touch football, cross-country, athletics, bowling and water polo.
Extracurricular activities: Academic competitions, Mock Trial and public speaking, debating, Tournament of Minds, choral singing, music ensembles, creative arts evenings, drama productions, modern dance, hospitality, foreign travel, philosophy, St Vincent de Paul group and Amnesty International.
Welfare and personal development: The school recognises and values the uniqueness, potential and dignity of each person. The home-room structure is the basis of a strong pastoral environment. A peer support structure also provides students with opportunities for friendship and communication. A full-time school counsellor is part of the pastoral team led by the assistant principal.
Special features: Religious education is compulsory for Years 7 to 10 based on “Sharing our Story”. Years 11 and 12 choose either studies of religion or religious studies. The life of the school is celebrated in the various liturgical events that characterise a Catholic school.