Our Lady of Mercy Catholic College Burraneer has opened the doors of its new dedicated senior student hub, Coolangatta House.
Formerly a heritage listed cottage adjoining the school grounds, the house has now been refurbished as a learning centre for the College’s Year 11 and 12 students.
Coolangatta House was officially opened and blessed on Wednesday in a ceremony led by Bishop Richard Umbers and Fr James McCarthy, alongside Sydney Catholic Schools Interim Executive Director Peter Turner.
The house has been designed specifically to assist with the learning and wellbeing of senior students, and will support the College’s unique HSC Enrichment Program.
It will be a place where senior students can retreat to on campus to both unwind and focus, and work more closely with the College’s expert HSC teachers.
The house features bespoke learning areas, including small group spaces and quiet study areas, giving seniors flexibility to learn the way that works best for them.
With kitchen facilities and a large outdoor space, it will also be a hub for social interaction where weekly wellbeing meetings will be held to offer students the chance to catch up, support one another and build their confidence.
Coolangatta House has already proved a hit among students at the College, with the current crop of Year 11 students enjoying their new sanctuary on campus.
The house has also welcomed students from De La Salle Catholic College Caringbah, with Year 11 students from the College joining Our Lady of Mercy students at the house for regular study groups and peer support.
Christine Harding, Principal at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic College Burraneer, said the opening and blessing of Coolangatta House was a proud moment for the community.
“This event was truly momentous, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to all who have continuously supported our College,” she said.
Mrs Harding said that Coolangatta House will be an invaluable asset to the senior student experience at the College.
“This beautiful building complements our state of the art school facilities and is a vital part of our HSC enrichment program, empowering our graduates to live lives of success, significance and purpose.”