“Goodness above all” is not just a motto here. It is a guiding principle at Marist Sisters’ College Woolwich. This independent Catholic school has been shaping young women since 1908.
Marist Sisters’ College sits in the leafy suburb of Woolwich. It is a Lower North Shore gem overlooking the Lane Cove River. The location provides a serene backdrop for learning and growth.
Let’s step back to the early 20th century. A group of Marist Sisters from France, England and Ireland sailed to Sydney. Their mission was to establish a college for girls. In 1909 Marist Sisters’ College opened its doors. It welcomed 12 boarders and 20 day pupils. For a time the college also enrolled boys in the primary grades.
The early days weren’t without challenges. During the war in the Pacific, the college had to evacuate. In 1942 students and staff relocated to St Anne’s in Mittagong. Only a small group remained at Woolwich.
In 1963 a decision was made to move the primary school. By 1969 there were over 500 girls at the college. The dedicated staff consisted of both religious sisters and lay teachers. As the college grew, the Sisters moved to Marian House. The former convent was then converted into classrooms.
The college continued to evolve. In 1998 the staff and administration areas were renovated. Original features were carefully restored. The student population was close to 800.
2010 marked a significant turning point. After 26 years Sister Fidelis McTeigue SM retired. Christina Trimble became the first lay principal. Today Dr Anne Ireland leads Marist Sisters’ College.
Marist Sisters’ College is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a community. The college fosters critical thinking and independent learning. Students are encouraged to be team players and capable networkers. The Marist spirit permeates every aspect of college life.
The college offers a broad curriculum. Key learning areas include English, Mathematics, Science, and HSIE. Students can explore Creative Arts, Languages, and Technical and Applied Science. The college also provides Vocational Education Training.
There are six houses at Marist Sisters’ College. Each house is named after a famous Marist. These houses are Chanel, Chavoin, Colin, Jaricot, Marcellin and Perroton.
Marist Sisters’ College boasts many facilities. These include heritage-listed buildings and a chapel. Modern facilities cater to the needs of today’s students.
The college encourages participation in various activities. Students can participate in STEM, sports and the arts. The Newman Selective Gifted Education Program is also available. Effective teaching and wellbeing programs support the girls.
Graduates are known for their academic excellence. They actively participate in the arts and public speaking. They build positive networks and engage in community outreach. These ventures extend both in Australia and overseas.
Marist Sisters’ College aims to develop a “compass for life” in every girl. This compass has four key dimensions. These are sisterly relationships, identification of gifts, leadership experiences and courage. The college nurtures curiosity and imagination. Each girl is encouraged to make a valuable contribution to the world.
The college maintains a strong connection with the Catholic Church. The Parish Priest regularly presides over liturgical celebrations. These include Feast Days, House Patron Days and Graduation Mass.
Marist Sisters’ College is a unique place. It is where girls learn, explore, discover and grow. The strong family atmosphere nurtures each student’s individual needs. The college prepares young women to meet the challenges of the future. It equips them to be global citizens.
Before we move on, take a moment to appreciate the enduring legacy. The Marist Sisters’ College Woolwich continues to thrive. It empowers young women to make their mark on the world.