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Prior to 1977, the Catholic education of students in this region was provided by three secondary schools; Our Lady of Mercy College, Forbes; Our Lady of Mercy High School, Parkes; and Marist Brothers' College, Forbes. In February 1977, these three schools combined to form one co-educational High School, with the name of Red Bend Catholic College, at the site of the former Marist Brothers' College, on the banks of the Lachlan River. This merger, as symbolised on the College Crest, brought together the great teaching traditions of the Mercy Sisters and the Marist Brothers. Since that time, the College has expanded in numbers, in teaching areas, and in facilities. The girls' and the senior boys' boarding accommodation, the swimming pool, the gymnasium, and the Design and Technology Centre have complemented the strong characteristic features of the main College building. These days the College educates 550 students and offers nearly 150 boarding places. Red Bend College is a Catholic school and as such aims to foster the full and positive development of all students within a Christian environment. Students are encouraged to acquire self-discipline and self-direction so that they can not only survive in, and contribute to, the wider society, but also develop those skills which are necessary for sound and sensible judgement. To effectively promote the students' active curiosity about learning, the College offers a challenging and diverse curriculum. The introduction of Dual Accreditation vocational courses into Years 11 and 12 offers more flexibility in gaining a Higher School Certificate suited to future career aspirations. Red Bend Catholic College is a place concerned about people. It relies on goodwill and co-operation in the important task of education. Education is a moral enterprise and involves choice and responsibility. Students are offered the choice of responsible values based upon a strong belief in God and an imitation of the life of Christ. The example of parents, teachers, ex-students and friends of the College is needed in this passing on of the Christian heritage to the young. We aspire to create an environment which enables individuals to develop spiritually, intellectually, physically, culturally and socially, so they may participate in society in a committed and responsible manner. |
