A new course for disengaged New South Wales high school students is helping young people rediscover the joy of learning, thanks to a partnership between Catholic Care Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains and Nepean Community College. Source: Catholic Outlook.
Since July, students aged 15–17 who had stepped away from school have been gathering at Catholic Care’s Mamre House and Farm in Orchard Hills for learning sessions three days a week.
Their commitment has already caught the attention of families, with parents calling Catholic Care to share how excited their children are to talk about what they’ve learned.
“Seeing them show up and engage so wholeheartedly is inspiring,” Lisa Malcher, Catholic Care’s Community Engagement & Development Coordinator, said.
The course helps students return to school, explore vocational education pathways or find employment. But more than skills, it offers a place of belonging, encouragement and hope.
Mamre House has a long history of nurturing in Western Sydney, thanks to the faith and generosity of the Sisters of Mercy Parramatta.
Reverend Samuel Marsden purchased land at South Creek in 1798 and later expanded the property, naming it Mamre Farm. He helped pioneer the Australian wool industry there, leaving a legacy in both agriculture and community development.
The property changed hands in 1840, where it stayed for more than a century. In 1975, the NSW Government bought Mamre Farm and leased it to the Sisters of Mercy, who established Mamre as an employment and training centre.
As Mamre returns to its educational roots, Sr Mary Louise Pinto RSM said she was “delighted” to hear the news.
“Young people have enormous potential, and I am excited to know that this new generation of young people will have the opportunity to grow and complete their schooling.”
Helen Emmerson, Executive Director of Catholic Care, said the vision of restoring Mamre House as a place of training and education for the vulnerable has been many years in the making.
“My vision is for Mamre to once again be a centre of training and opportunity, just as the Sisters of Mercy dreamed when they first established their mission here,” Helen said.
“We want people of all ages, including those who have struggled in school, to find a place where they feel supported and encouraged to take steps toward a brighter future.”
FULL STORY
Mamre House opens doors for young people returning to learning (By Belinda Gadd, Catholic Outlook)
