About Us

A strong tradition

We commit ourselves to the vision of Venerable Catherine McAuley to perform the ordinary extraordinarily well.

When a new Catholic school for girls was opened at Westmead in 1966 under the charter of the Sisters of Mercy, it was a fitting tribute to name the school in honour of Catherine McAuley. The values of the Sisters of Mercy still guide the school and its community in the 21st century, as the school motto encourages students “to strive for higher things”.

In embracing our Catholic Mercy heritage and charism, we:

• commit to excellence and innovation in girls’ education
• empower young women to be actively courageous and involved in social justice
• value our diversity and inclusiveness
• build community through hospitality
• foster the development of the whole person.

The perfect location

The school is located opposite a large hospital/medical research complex which has grown in both size and status since the school was founded. This has created demand for student places and provided opportunities for the school and students to participate in and learn from the work of these institutions. Catherine McAuley Westmead is part of a Catholic educational community which includes Parramatta Marist High, Mother Teresa Catholic Primary School and Sacred Heart Primary. The centre of this community is the Sacred Heart parish. Each member of the community has its own distinct and unique charism, however, all are connected in worship and learning in the Catholic tradition.

Excellent facilities for learning

Our learning programs are supported by an exceptionally well equipped campus and contemporary, versatile learning spaces, including:

Dedicated educators

Whether teaching or in the office, the dedicated staff at Catherine McAuley Westmead are part of a system committed to transforming the lives of every student, every day.

Innovative learning and teaching

Our approach to learning prioritises the skills required for young women to actively participate in a dynamic world as autonomous lifelong learners who are connected, adaptable, discerning and articulate. The learning and teaching strategies we employ are responsive to the needs of our diverse learners.

Acting with compassion in all we do

The charism and heritage of Catherine McAuley lie at the very heart of our school. Our core Mercy Values of mercy, justice, excellence, integrity, courage and hospitality underpin all that we do.

All students take part in religious education classes, liturgical and non-liturgical prayer, and learning experiences designed to nurture and enhance each student’s faith development and understanding.

Alumni

The Catherine McAuley Alumni Association was formed in 2006 to provide opportunities for past students to meet together and share their memories of their school days, as well as offer their expertise in mentoring and encouraging our present students. Any person who is an ex-student or past or present member of staff of Catherine McAuley is eligible for membership of the Association.

Catchment Area

There are currently 1200 students enrolled in the school, with over 350 of these in Years 11 and 12. Students attend from both the local area, including the local parishes of Winston Hills, Girraween, North Parramatta, Westmead, Wentworthville, Harris Park and Parramatta, and a wider geographic area.