Chair College Council

Mercedes College has a strong community spirit, and team of volunteers we can all be proud of. ’’

College Council Chair

Thanks to our founders, the Mercy Keys have long guided teaching and learning practices at Mercedes College. As values, the six Mercy Keys - compassion, loyalty, justice, integrity, responsibility, and mutual respect – guide who we are, informing and guiding decisions at all levels, including our College Council.

This year the focus Mercy Key has been Loyalty. The Fleur de Lis on the top pocket of every blazer – and the name of this publication – includes the phrase: Loyal en Tout, meaning loyal in all or loyal to everything. Students at Mercedes learn that loyalty is the core of friendship – with themselves and others – and central to all values.

Through our efforts planning, and now overseeing implementation, the Council shows its loyalty to our founders vision, ensuring future generations of children can play in open space, enjoying the beauty and serenity of the gardens and grounds, growing spiritually and emotionally, and learning in well equipped classrooms and spaces with access to technology and equipment unknown when we were at school. With investment in facilities right across the campus, including the Design and Tech Hub, Junior School Playground, and high performance Arts and Sports Precinct, Mercedes College will continue to provide a world-class education for children from 5 years of age to 18 years of age when they graduate ready to take on the world.

A key aspect of Council’s work is the strategic oversight of Mercedes College, with the Archbishop of Adelaide the final authority, with Andrew Balkwill the school’s operational leader. This year, Council has decided to reduce the number of subcommittee, further to an external review of the existing structure. A streamlined approach with clear reporting and terms of reference will ensure responsibilities are met and resources used well, with three Standing Committees: 1) Finance and Infrastructure, 2) Faith and Education 3) People and Culture. Community connecting home, family and school

Mercedes College has a strong community spirit, and team of volunteers we can all be proud of. By participating and contributing where and how they can, our community plays an active role in how children learn in and beyond the classroom, as well as helping create great memories by supporting special events. At the start of Term 1 it looked like we were in for a tricky year, yet with COVID restrictions lifted we are again coming together and playing an active role in our children’s experience of school. Special mention to the more than 250 volunteers who give their time and energy to support Mercedes College. Volunteering – be it scoring a match on the weekend, helping on the BBQ at an event or wrapping the lucky dips for children to enjoy at a Christmas celebration – is a great way to do something for others, and show students just how easy and fulfilling it is to be active participants in the world. Thank you to everyone who shares their skills and knowledge with our wonderful students, giving their time generously and supporting our annual fundraising efforts. Everyone’s contribution is valued at Mercedes College, and I trust in return, your experience is rewarding. As the College Council Chair, thank you to my fellow Council members, the College leadership and the wider community for your passion, contribution and commitment to Mercedes College long delivering a world-class education and outstanding pastoral care. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and happy New Year – see you on the other side of the summer holidays for another exciting year. Alf Ianniello Mercedes College Council Chair