This week, in a wonderful display of unity and collaboration, 18 students and 5 staff from St Mary’s College Broome embarked on an enlightening journey to Chisholm Catholic College as part of the City-Country Partnership Programme. The two schools, together with Sacred Heart in Highgate, are working together in a three-year partnership (2023-2025) which has been funded by the Yadha Muru Foundation. Throughout this year, several meetings have taken place and different members of staff from Chisholm Catholic College have visited Broome. These visits have been to model STEM pedagogy and together, the three schools have co-created STEM projects, which were exhibited in CEWA’s STEM showcase, held in our very own Br Ollie Pickett Recreation Centre on Wednesday.

A Warm Welcome

The staff and students from St Mary’s College Broome were warmly welcomed to Noongar country by Aboriginal Elder Josh (Vaughn) McGuire. Vaughn shared personal stories about his life and family, his connection to St Mark’s College and emphasised the importance of education. The traditional welcome to country and smoking ceremony was a meaningful gesture that not only honoured Noongar country but underscored the spirit of respect and inclusivity that characterises this partnership.

Learning and Sharing

Throughout the visit, students from both schools engaged in a variety of activities designed to promote cultural exchange and educational enrichment. Chisholm’s Aboriginal Education students joined the St Mary’s College students on an excursion on Tuesday to the WA Museum Boola Bardip & Art Gallery. Both formally and informally the students shared insights into their unique cultural backgrounds.

Building Friendships

One of the most impactful aspects of the visit, and indeed the partnership, has been the opportunity for staff and students to build lasting friendships. Through sports, group projects and social events, students bonded over shared interests and discovered new ones. The camaraderie that developed highlighted the universal nature of youth experiences, transcending geographical and cultural differences.

Community Engagement

The visit to Chisholm culminated in a community engagement segment, where students and their families from both schools shared dinner together. Coming together on a common goal further strengthened the ties between the two schools and left a positive mark on the broader community. Over dinner, students, their parents or extended family (and staff) from both schools expressed their gratitude and reflected on the enriching experiences they had shared.

Looking Ahead

Proposals for Term 4 and beyond are already underway with ideas and planning in place for future exchanges and ongoing collaboration, ensuring that the partnership continues to grow and benefit both communities.

The City-Country Partnership Programme has once again proven its value in fostering understanding, respect, and cooperation between city and rural schools. The visit from St Mary’s College Broome to Chisholm Catholic College stands as a testament to the power of education in bridging divides and building a brighter, more connected future for all.

Mrs Belinda Pietropaolo
Deputy Principal – Administration