The annual Golden Girls Luncheon at Santa Maria College celebrates more than 50 years of alumni connections. This year’s event welcomed over 100 guests, bridging generations with stories and heartfelt moments. Highlights included a musical performance, a principal’s address, and the participation of current students.
Golden Girls Luncheon 2024 – Celebrating Lifelong Bonds Read More »
The Mini Vinnies at Santa Maria College are bringing kindness into the school community! Over Terms 3 and 4, these students crafted affirmation cards with messages like “Believe in yourself” and “You are valued.” Now available in classrooms and soon in the library, these ‘Affirmation Stations’ offer students encouragement and positivity every day.
Mini Vinnies Spread Positivity Read More »
The Year 9 camp provided an unforgettable experience where the students embraced new challenges and responsibilities, from cooking and cleaning to navigating outdoor adventures. Highlights included caving, mountain biking, and bonding in small groups, building lasting friendships and returned with a deeper sense of resilience, confidence, and camaraderie.
Building Life Skills and Friendships at Year 9 Camp Read More »
Santa Maria College’s Year 9 Reflection Days provided students with hands-on cultural learning experiences at a Hindu temple and a Jewish synagogue. These visits, encourage respect for different faiths, fostering interfaith understanding, curiosity, and inclusion.
Exploring Faith and Culture: Year 9 Reflection Days Read More »
Inspire 2024 was a vibrant showcase of student creativity, with students from Years 7 to 11 presenting works across art, fashion, drama, music, and design. From whimsical sculptures to bold fashion statements, the exhibition celebrated the imagination and dedication of our talented students.
Inspire 2024 – A Celebration of Creativity and Vision Read More »
Financial literacy is a crucial skill for young women, equipping them with the knowledge to budget, save, invest, and make informed financial decisions. With tailored programs like Santa Maria College’s Future10 and practical guidance for parents, young women can navigate financial challenges confidently, aiming for secure futures. Accessible resources like Money Queens and She’s on the Money further support youth-focused financial growth, contributing to financial independence.
The Power of Financial Knowledge – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
We’re halfway through the term, and Week 4 was packed with excitement! With a variety of activities, every student had the chance to learn, grow, and have fun. Take a look at all the highlights in this week’s Weekly Wrap-Up!
Weekly Wrap Up – Week 4, Term 4 2024 Read More »
Elizabeth de Byl, the Head of Humanities & Social Sciences at Santa Maria College, brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the humanities to the classroom. With a diverse background in teaching, education, and the arts, Liz fosters a love for learning, encouraging students to understand and shape their world with compassion and insight.
Meet Liz de Byl, Head of Humanities & Social Sciences Read More »
Santa Maria College’s Year 9 Reason for Being Program empowers students to explore their purpose, build lasting connections, and develop values-based leadership skills. This transformative program focuses on personal growth, empathy, and community building through hands-on experiences like the Future City Project and activities that nurture resilience, compassion, and inclusivity.
Finding Purpose – Year 9 Reason for Being Program Read More »
Our Year 5 and 6 students showcased outstanding dedication and school spirit at the JIGSSA Athletics Carnival, undeterred by the competitive new format and warm weather. From track to field events, their energy and teamwork were evident as they represented Santa Maria College with pride and resilience.
Pushing Limits – Years 5 & 6 Shine at JIGSSA Athletics Read More »
We are proud to recognise our students’ accomplishments in the Australian Geography Competition. Representing our school on a national stage, our students demonstrated outstanding dedication to geography, earning high ranks and special honours. Their success highlights the College’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and curiosity for global issues.
Students Shine in The Australian Geography Competition! Read More »
A group of Year 11 boarders experienced an inspiring visit to Fortescue’s Solomon Mine, witnessing women in various dynamic roles, from electricians to site managers. The tour included insights into autonomous machinery, health and wellbeing facilities, and career opportunities in mining, sparking new career ambitions among the students.
Santa Maria Boarders Visit Solomon Mine Read More »
The Mock Trial Competition in Western Australia offers high school students a unique chance to experience the legal system. Organised by the Law Society of Western Australia, our Year 12 team excelled this year, reaching the grand final at the Supreme Court, where they presented a criminal case to Chief Justice Quinlan.
From the Classroom to the Courtroom Read More »
The 2024 Seeds of Justice Conference empowered Year 10 students to explore modern-day slavery and their roles in advocacy. Through sessions and speeches, including a moving keynote by Darren Reynolds of Every Daughter Matters, students engaged deeply in social justice, inspired to act beyond the classroom.
Seeds of Justice Conference 2024 – Empowering Students Read More »
Year 9 student Evelyn and her mother, Susan, took part in the first Kirup Camino, a 16km pilgrimage from Kirup to Balingup. This journey offered Evelyn the chance to reconnect with teachers and friends from her primary school while sharing a memorable bonding experience with her mother amidst Western Australia’s stunning landscapes.
A Mother-Daughter Journey – The First Kirup Camino Read More »
Meet Addison Opalinski, Head Boarder at Santa Maria College for 2025. Hailing from Carnamah, Addison is excited to foster connection, resilience, and a deep sense of belonging among her ‘boarding sisters.’ Through her journey, she embodies the values of Santa Maria’s close-knit community, guiding and inspiring fellow students along the way.
Meet Addison, Our Head Boarder for 2025 Read More »
Santa Maria College alumni Paola Anselmi (1983) shares her journey from medical studies in Italy to a thriving career in art curatorship, blending curiosity, creativity, and a passion for cultural development. Through mentorship, diverse academic interests, and community-focused projects, Paola offers invaluable advice for future generations pursuing a path in the arts.
Paola Anselmi on Art, Curatorship, and Lifelong Learning Read More »
Discover the inspiring career journey of Magenta Porter, a Santa Maria College alumna, who has navigated diverse roles and industries to establish herself in media strategy. Magenta reflects on the impact of her college education, shares advice for aspiring media professionals, and highlights the importance of passion and adaptability in pursuing one’s career dreams.
Magenta Porter (2015) on Life, Career, and Santa Maria’s Impact Read More »
Since graduating in 2010, Jasminka Zaneta has turned her passion for fashion into the vibrant brand, Zanetta. In this interview, she opens up about her journey, the obstacles she overcame, and the drive behind her creative vision. Jasminka’s story inspires with its message of dedication, creativity, and staying true to one’s dreams.
Jasminka Zaneta – From Dream to Fashion Label Read More »
Peta Christensen (Class of 1989) transitioned from journalism to a career in permaculture and sustainability, ultimately dedicating over two decades to community food projects in Melbourne. Her work at Open Table addresses food waste and food insecurity, creating spaces for people to connect. Inspired by her Santa Maria College values, Peta brings compassion to every project.
From Journalism to Food Justice – Peta’s Journey Read More »
Year 11 ACCESS students at Santa Maria College gain invaluable hands-on experience in diverse career paths through work placements, allowing them to explore roles in fields from floral design to real estate. Through this program, students develop workplace skills like communication, teamwork, and time management, shaping their career aspirations and readiness.
Connecting Learning to Life Read More »
Santa Maria College nurtures a strong sense of community and sisterhood among its students and alumni. From mentoring programs to international connections, the bonds formed at the school extend beyond graduation. This lasting sisterhood enriches lives, empowers young women, and celebrates the shared values of excellence, service, and compassion.
Building a Sisterhood – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Week 3 was an absolute blast this week filled with so many activities for all students. We can’t wait for you to see what they got up to in our Weekly Wrap Up.
Weekly Wrap Up – Week 3, Term 4 2024 Read More »
Annika, our Head Girl for 2025, embodies leadership through unity, empathy, and a strong sense of community. In this blog, she shares her vision for fostering connection among students, her leadership values, and her plans to bridge the gap between junior and senior students. Be inspired by her passion and dedication.
Meet Annika – Our Head Girl for 2025 Read More »
At Santa Maria College, we honour two exceptional educators, Connie Quattrini and Jennifer Jansen, for their dedication to Catholic education. Connie celebrates 40 years of inspiring students through languages, while Jennifer marks 30 years of fostering creativity and love for literature. Their passion continues to shape young minds.
Celebrating Dedication – Connie & Jennifer’s Milestones in Education Read More »
Jessica Smith (2009), turned her passion for digital art into a successful career as a concept artist in the video game industry. With guidance from her art teacher, Jan Withers, she pursued her love for Japanese animation, studied at the Concept Design Academy in Los Angeles, and now works with top-tier clients from Japan.
Student to Concept Artist: Jessica Smith’s Story Read More »
The 2024 Tribute Concert showcased the incredible talent of over 60 students from Years 8 to 11, with unforgettable performances covering pop and rock hits by artists like ABBA, Taylor Swift, and Coldplay. The event highlighted students’ creativity, hard work, and teamwork, making it a night to remember.
Students Celebrate Music Icons at Tribute Concert 2024 Read More »
Santa Maria College’s Year 9 Marine Science students were inspired by Jeff Hansen, Managing Director of Sea Shepherd Australia. His talk emphasised the importance of protecting the oceans, shared Sea Shepherd’s global conservation efforts, and encouraged students to take action in safeguarding marine ecosystems.
Jeff Hansen Inspires Year 9 Marine Science Students Read More »
Kaitlin, a Year 9 Eco Sister, attended the Healthy Rivers Forum with Coordinator Jo Priest. The event, hosted by MP Lisa O’Malley, featured speakers discussing environmental preservation, mental wellbeing, and innovative marine projects. Inspired and full of ideas, Kaitlin and Jo are ready to fuel new initiatives to protect the Swan River and its ecosystem.
Kaitlin Attends the Healthy Rivers Forum Read More »
Last night, Santa Maria College celebrated the graduating Class of 2024 with a Graduation Mass and Ceremony. These remarkable young women have shown courage and leadership, embracing their journey of self-discovery. We wish them every success as they step into the future with confidence and curiosity.
Celebrating the Class of 2024 – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
