Cerdon Catholic College Merrylands students outside of school hall

Our Story

Transforming the learning of each student every day.

In All Things Christ

Cerdon is proud to be part of Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese’s system of 80 Catholic primary and secondary schools operating across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains providing more than 43,500 students with a high-quality, low fee Catholic education.

At Cerdon we aspire to great heights. Our students are constantly challenged to achieve academic excellence in positive learning environments. We promote personal faith development; a strong commitment to social justice and a preparedness to make a real difference as global citizens.

Aspire to Great Heights

As a school, we believe in and strive for:

a Christ-centred community, with special regard for Mary and her life as an example for young women

a quality education to prepare women to make their place in an ever-changing world

effective teaching and learning which respects the talents and needs of individuals, and challenges them to reach their full potential

a dynamic and diverse curriculum which extends beyond the classroom and encourages students to be responsible for their own learning

shared leadership and collaborative decision-making within the school community

the fostering of positive relationships in an atmosphere of care and respect for all people

the creation of, and active concern for, an appealing environment which is safe and conducive to learning

a community enriched through a sense of pride and belonging

Student grinning while learning at Cerdon College Merrylands

Our School Crest

The school crest consists of a white shield on which is depicted an 'M', representing the place of Mary in our lives. It is through Mary that we come to know Christ. Passing through the M on our badge, is a single stalk of wheat representing Christ, the bread of life. The ears of the wheat are red, symbolic of the blood Christ shed to redeem us.

Our School Crest

Cerdon Catholic College Merrylands Crest

Testimonials

Student playing guitar at Cerdon College Merrylands

"Cerdon College has a great culture and learning experiences."

(Parent)

Students learning photography on camera at Cerdon College Merrylands

"I appreciate that the school empowers the young women in moving forward in their lives.”

(Parent)

Dedicated teacher and student from Cerdon Catholic College Merrylands

“Cerdon has teachers who go above and beyond to create learning opportunities.”

(Parent)

Our History

Cerdon College, named after the birthplace of the Marist Sisters in France, began in 1960 with 50 students and two classes. Cerdon was officially opened and blessed on Sunday 26 March 1961, by Cardinal Gilroy.

The growth of the Cerdon community is the story of extensive building projects and an ever-growing staff and student population, under the leadership of Sister Doreen McOscar (Felician) from 1960 -1965, Sister Carmel Conran in 1966, Sister Joan McBride (Aquinas) from 1967 – 1979, and Sister Ann-Marie Webb from 1980 – 1994. These four women lived the vision and spirit of Mary and committed themselves, through their leadership, to imparting that spirit to the young women they educated.

Cerdon College was begun in the two buildings closest to Sherwood Road that continue to be used as classroom and laboratory facilities. The school site has continued to expand as the College has grown in size and as curriculum requirements have changed.

In 1994, the Marist Sisters made the decision to withdraw from the principalship of Cerdon College. The first lay principal, Mr Paul Dolan was appointed in 1995 and remained until 2005.

In recognition of the Marist spirit and tradition of Cerdon College, the Hall is named Chavoin Hall. The Library is also known as the Sr Ann-Marie Learning Centre to recognise the contribution to the school of the Marist Sisters and Sr Ann-Marie Webb, Principal for fifteen years.

Today, there are 1200 girls enrolled at Cerdon, receiving a quality education and living out the values of Christ in a caring and supportive environment.