As I look back on the past nine weeks, I am so grateful for who we are as a community and what we have achieved. Through the dedication of our staff and the enthusiasm of our students, we have established new connections, immersed ourselves in opportunities and worked through challenges.
What A Term! So Many Opportunities – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
How much is too much when it comes to activities for young people? How can we find the balance between doing, being, learning and resting?
How Much Is Too Much – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Joy is an attitude of the heart and spirit present inside us. It is an intense momentary experience of emotion, which triggers our emotions and satisfies our soul, our inner self.
The Science of Joy – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Women have broken down barriers and dismantled stereotypes; the number of girls in classrooms has improved, and growth has been seen in women in leadership positions, yet there is still more to be done.
Young People, The Future of Equality – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Our pursuit of diversity and inclusion at Santa Maria College has strong foundations in our Catholic faith, which teaches us that every individual is created in the image and likeness of God.
Our Journey Towards Embracing Diversity – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Reading is not just an escape into the wonderful realms of the magical world, fantasy or adventure; it is a foundational skill that influences many aspects of our lives and is an aspect of education where parent actions can have a significant impact.
Fostering a Culture of Reading – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Everyone has faith in something or someone, and most people live their lives based on some sort of belief system. Faith needs something or someone in which we believe, trust, and have confidence in. As a Catholic, God is the person we believe, trust and have confidence in.
Upholding the Catholic Teachings and the Legacy of Mercy – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
As we embark on a new year, I find myself reflecting on the journey of Santa Maria College and the path that lies ahead. In my role as Principal, I am honoured to lead our school into 2024 with a sense of purpose and commitment. This year, our focus will be to continue to enhance each of the five pillars of our strategic plan, reflecting our core values and our aspirations for the future.
My Vision For A Brighter Future In 2024 – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
In the iconic words of ABBA’s hit song, “Money, Money, Money,” the historical echoes where money was a man’s world
Empowering Girls Through Financial Literacy – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Discover the significance of values and their impact on our lives. Aligning our actions with our core values fosters personal growth and a brighter future. Explore the values that shape our relationships, society, and sense of self. Find inspiration to live authentically.
Values At The Heart Of Our Culture – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Explore the pivotal role of Emotional Intelligence (EI) in shaping academic success and personal growth. This document delves into the core facets of EI, including self-awareness, empathy, self-regulation, and social skills, to demonstrate how these competencies foster better focus, motivation, and stress management. Discover how EI is a crucial tool for students and professionals alike, contributing to memory enhancement and overall success.
Nurturing Emotional Intelligence – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Unlocking the Power of Creative Thinking: Dive into the heart of Santa Maria College’s commitment to nurturing creative thinking. Discover how we empower our students with tools and strategies, ensuring they are equipped for a future filled with innovation and challenge.
Cultivating Creative Thinking – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
The jump to high school is an exhilarating and challenging phase in a teenager’s life. With a multitude of changes, responsibilities and growth opportunities, it can take time to adjust, especially if you are moving from a small country town or primary school.
Transitioning To High School – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Explore the emotional journey and practical challenges faced by students transitioning from the structured environment of school to the independence of adult life. This document delves into the bittersweet longing for past school experiences, the importance of maintaining friendships, the comfort of routine, the lasting influence of teachers, and the sense of belonging that school activities and events provide.
Memories, Challenges, Opportunities Post School – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Uncover the hidden effects of phone notifications on mental health, productivity, and learning. Learn about the risks, consequences, and practical strategies for managing the digital onslaught. A must-read blog for parents, educators, and teens in the digital revolution.
What Notifications Are Doing To Our Brains – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Mercy Day brings our community together to celebrate Catherine McAuley, the Sisters of Mercy and the story of how Mercy impacts the world today through schools, hospitals, aged care and community service organisations.
Celebrating Our Mercy Heritage – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Art education is not just a subject; it is a journey of self-discovery, a tool for personal growth, and a platform for innovation. It is a key to unlock the door to a world where creativity knows no bounds.
Unleashing Creativity: The Value Of Art – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Fostering a love for numbers among girls has significant educational and societal benefits. By encouraging girls to embrace numeracy, we empower them to excel in fields such as mathematics, engineering, and data science.
Messages Girls Need To Hear About Maths – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Sustainability is everyone’s responsibility, educators, students and parents; we all have a role to play in preserving and caring for our precious planet today and into the future.
Sustainability: Our Students Driving Change – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
In a world connected to technology, increasing mental health challenges, sport plays a significant role in conditioning both the body and mind to function at its best.
The Importance of Girls in Sport – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Nothing could be more uncomfortable for both the parent and the teenager than having ‘the talk’ about puberty, relationships and sex.
Guiding the Journey of Adolescence: A Guide to ‘The Talk’ – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
It is super common for friends to have fights or ups and downs. Some fights are small and easy to resolve,
I’m Having Friendship Problems Read More »
By fostering authentic connections among staff and providing a space for self-reflection, retreats empower individuals to better understand them-selves and others, resulting in a more united community.
Recharge, Reflect, Reconnect – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
By prioritising STEM education for girls, we can empower them to become the innovators, leaders, and problem-solvers of tomorrow.
The World Needs Girls in STEM – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Co-curricular activities play a crucial role in fostering well-rounded individuals who are primed for success in all aspects of their lives
The Benefits of Co-Curricular Activities: A Deeper Look – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Supporting young people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a vital aspect of our role as educators. By implementing these strategies and creating an inclusive, understanding environment, we can make a significant difference in the lives of students with ASD.
Supporting Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Schools – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
While traditional academic knowledge is still important, it is not enough for future success. The challenges and changes the contemporary world poses require a new generation of problem-solvers with a specific set of key attributes.
emPOWERING The Next Generation – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
here are lots of wonderful resources available, most of them free, to help you guide your anxious child
Helping My Child With Anxiety Read More »
Variation in our children’s traits, strengths and weaknesses is normal. If you are concerned that your daughter is struggling in a particular area or with a particular skill, despite behavioural intervention (such as tutoring), and your child’s teachers agree that she is struggling, speak with your GP, or one of our psychology team about a psycho-educational assessment.
I’m Worried My Daughter Has A Developmental Disorder Read More »
