| Principal | Mr Michael Hanratty |
|---|---|
| Year levels | 7 to 12 |
| Enrolment numbers | 1162 |
| Boarding or day | day |
| Website | http://www.msb.nsw.edu.au |
| Phone | (02) 9980 0444 |
| Fax | (02) 9980 0466 |
| Postal address | 449 Pennant Hills Road, Pennant Hills |
Mount St Benedict College is a secondary girls’ school in the tradition of the Sisters of the Good Samaritan. Underpinned by Benedictine spirituality, the College educates young women in a Catholic community, aiming to assist students to develop their gifts and talents in order to make a difference in the world. The core College values are Pax, Hospitality and Stewardship. Students and community members are encouraged to recognize the presence of God in their lives and to develop their spiritual life in the Benedictine tradition of simplicity, community and balance. Personal spirituality and faith development are nurtured through prayer, liturgy and a program of Retreats and Reflection days, as well as a range of activities with a social justice focus.
The College fosters in students a desire for personal excellence and fulfilment through lifelong learning, reflection and sharing of their gifts in the service of others. Students are challenged to listen, question and discern meaning in the search for truth, understanding and wisdom. This is achieved through a broad, flexible and innovative curriculum that supports the needs and interests of each student. Following research and investigations into student engagement, in 2014 new approaches to teaching will be introduced in Years 7 to 9, including the introduction of Teaching for Understanding, Positive Education and a more integrated curriculum. Special programs are offered to girls with gifts in particular areas and learning support is offered to students with special learning needs. The latest technologies are integrated into learning activities, with students and teachers taking advantage of the benefits of electronic communication to improve student learning.
Mount St Benedict College prides itself on a pastoral care system which is based around nurturing respectful relationships and restorative practices. Students are encouraged to grow through challenging situations and take responsibility for their actions. Homeroom Mentors, House Coordinators and School Counsellors assist students to address issues of concern in their lives. The environment promotes girls’ development to allow them to affirm their strength as women of and for the world. All community members have opportunities to respond to injustice through reflection and action. The College has relationships with ministries and works of the Sisters of the Good Samaritan in Kiribati, the Philippines, Timor Leste and in Australia. A developmental camp program provides opportunities for personal challenge in an outdoor setting. Students compete in a wide range of sports and are able to access pathways to State and National representation. A strong co-curricular program encourages involvement outside the classroom, with vibrant musical ensembles, debating, Future Problem Solving, Tournament of Minds, Duke of Edinburgh and many other activities. In 2013 the Community Problem Solving Team in Year 10 won the World Championship in Indiana, USA.
Responsibility for the environment is a significant focus with students encouraged to become active stewards of the world. Set amongst a remnant Sydney Blue Gum high forest, the College has a bush outlook and is designed around a series of courtyards, which promote small group gatherings and provide pleasant surroundings for students.