The Try-A-Trade program gives Year 10 students practical experience across a range of trade occupations. Through hands-on projects and teamwork, students develop new skills while exploring education, training and career pathways that can help inform their future subject and career choices.
Year 10 Students Discover New Skills at Try-A-Trade Read More »
Year 10 student Lianne was recognised as the best entry in the Year 10 section of the PLEAWA Competition for her infographic on offshore detention in Australia. Her research explored the intersection of human rights, government policy and international law, demonstrating thoughtful analysis and effective communication.
Lianne Recognised for Outstanding PLEAWA Competition Entry Read More »
Santa Maria College alumni gathered to celebrate the opening of the College’s new Cultural Centre, reconnecting with classmates and celebrating the role of the arts in the community. The evening featured performances by current students and a 42-member Alumni Choir, highlighting the lifelong connections and shared experiences that continue to bring Old Girls back to the College.
Coming Home – Alumni Celebrate the Cultural Centre Read More »
The Parent Levy Professional Learning Grant at Santa Maria College provides funding for staff to undertake further study that aligns with the College’s Strategic Plan and Mercy values. The grant helps staff build new knowledge and skills that enhance teaching, student support and school improvement. In this story, Emma Wood, Head of Sport, shares how completing a Graduate Certificate in Education (Careers Development & Counselling) is already benefiting students and the wider College community.
Investing in Our Staff, Investing in Our Students Read More »
The August 2026 Old Girls’ Association President’s Report provides an update on upcoming meetings and alumni activities at Santa Maria College. President Mary Heavens outlines plans for the Pleiades Gathering, the inaugural Santa Maria College and Aquinas social event, and the Golden Girls’ lunch welcoming the Class of 1976.
From the President – August 2026 Read More »
The Santa Maria College Knowledge Walk is a permanent public artwork integrated into the ceramic floor tiles of the College’s Cultural Centre. Created by past student Ellen Norrish (2010), it features 87 drawings of historical objects, including photographs, songbooks, scripts, poems and sketches. The artwork preserves and shares stories from the College’s founders, staff and students.
Etching the Past into the Future Read More »
Santa Maria past student Sophia Whimp (2022) has built a successful home beauty business by combining creativity, resilience and a commitment to authentic client relationships. In this Q&A, she reflects on the lessons she learned at school, the challenges of starting a business at a young age, and the advice she has for students hoping to turn their passion into a career.
Sophia, Building Beauty, Confidence and a Business Read More »
The 2026 Punmu Immersion gave our Year 12 students far more than memories. Their reflections reveal how connection, service and learning from the Martu community shaped lifelong friendships, broadened perspectives and created an experience they will carry well beyond Santa Maria.
Walking Together – The Lasting Impact of the Punmu Immersion Read More »
Rae Cooper’s recollections provide a rare firsthand account of life at Santa Maria College during its earliest years. As one of the College’s first students, she shares memories of starting school in 1938, wartime experiences, school traditions, friendships and the Mercy Sisters who helped shape the Santa Maria community.
Reminiscences of My School Days at Santa Maria Read More »
Civics education helps students understand how they can participate in Australian democracy beyond voting. Through the Vote Like program, developed by Santa Maria past student Monique Ziegelaar (Class of 2013), Year 10 students explored advocacy, public campaigns and parliamentary debate, building their confidence to discuss issues and influence change.
Past Student Inspires Civics Education for Students Read More »
Santa Maria College honours alumni who have recently passed away by acknowledging their lives and extending condolences to their families and friends. Community members are invited to notify the College of other past students who have died so their memory can be recognised in future editions.
Remembering Our Santa Maria College Alumni Read More »
Mercy education in Western Australia began when Ursula Frayne and the Sisters of Mercy arrived in 1846 to educate girls and serve those in need. This week Mercedes College, St Brigid’s College and Santa Maria College continue that shared heritage through values such as compassion, justice, service and hospitality. The article reflects on a joint gathering that marked 180 years of Mercy in Western Australia and considered what this legacy calls educators to do now.
Mercy in the Past: Mercy for the Future – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Year 12 Geography fieldwork helps students apply classroom learning by investigating real examples of sustainable urban planning. During this Perth excursion, students examined urban infill, renewal, transport networks and sustainable development across several locations while developing observation, data collection and analytical skills required for the ATAR Geography curriculum.
Year 12 Geography Students Explore Sustainable Urban Planning in Perth Read More »
The Year 11 Father–Daughter Evening at Santa Maria College gave students and their fathers or significant male role models time to connect through shared experiences. The evening included an Adventure Quest through Fremantle followed by a celebration at Bathers Beach House, creating opportunities for teamwork, conversation and lasting memories. The event remains a valued tradition because it strengthens relationships during an important stage of secondary school.
Year 11 Father–Daughter Evening Strengthens Connections Read More »
Expressions of interest are now open for alumni who would like to join the Santa Maria College Old Girls’ Association Committee. The committee helps strengthen lifelong connections between past students through events and initiatives that build belonging, celebrate alumni achievements, and support the ongoing spirit of the Santa Maria community. Alumni from a range of backgrounds and graduation years are encouraged to apply.
Join the OGA Committee – Expressions of Interest Now Open Read More »
The joint Aquinas and Santa Maria alumni event will be held on Friday 18 September 2026. It is being organised by the Santa Maria College Old Girls’ Association Committee in partnership with Aquinas College and will bring together alumni from both Colleges for an evening of reconnecting, conversation, drinks, and light refreshments.
Save the Date – Joint Aquinas College & Santa Maria College Event Read More »
Expressions of interest are now open for alumni who would like to join the Santa Maria College Old Girls’ Association Committee. The committee helps strengthen lifelong connections between past students through events and initiatives that build belonging, celebrate alumni achievements, and support the ongoing spirit of the Santa Maria community. Alumni from a range of backgrounds and graduation years are encouraged to apply.
Join the OGA Committee – Expressions of Interest Now Open Read More »
The Santa Maria College Winter Appeal supports local organisations assisting people experiencing hardship during winter. Through donations from students, families, staff and alumni, the College community provided practical support to St Patrick’s Community Support Centre, St Vincent de Paul Society and The Shopfront, helping them meet growing demand for essential items and services while reinforcing the Mercy values of Compassion and Service.
Winter Appeal Brings Comfort, Dignity and Hope Read More »
Dr Carmen Lawrence spoke at Santa Maria College’s Sisterhood Series, sharing lessons from her journey from a Wheatbelt upbringing to becoming Australia’s first female State Premier. She discussed leadership, community participation, critical thinking and the progress women have made in public life. Alumni were encouraged to stay curious, engaged and guided by purpose.
Sisterhood Series Begins with Dr Carmen Lawrence Read More »
Santa Maria College’s Head of Visual Arts, Claire Rushton, brings deep experience, creative energy and a clear belief in the value of student voice. Read how her approach to art education helps students build confidence, skill and meaningful self-expression.
Meet Claire, Santa Maria’s Head of Visual Arts Read More »
Year 11 Materials Design & Technology students completed a design project that involved creating a garment for a celebrity client. Students researched their chosen celebrity’s style, preferences and needs before designing and constructing a wearable outfit. The project developed practical textile skills, pattern-making techniques and critical thinking while helping students understand the design process from concept to completion.
Designing for a Star – Year 11 MDT Students Showcase Creativity and Skill Read More »
Teachers choose education for many different reasons, including inspiring mentors, a love of learning, and the opportunity to support young people. In this article, experienced and early career teachers from Santa Maria College share what first inspired them to teach and what continues to make the profession meaningful. Their reflections highlight the importance of connection, curiosity, encouragement and community in education.
Santa Maria College past student Jessica Pinto (2016) has built a career centred on compassion, service, and global health. Inspired by her volunteering experiences at school, Jessica went on to become a Registered Nurse at Fiona Stanley Hospital and completed a Master of Public Health. Through her ongoing volunteer work locally and overseas, including a community health project in the Philippines, Jessica continues to embody the spirit of “Giving Back with Heart.”
Jessica Pinto (2016) – Giving Back with Heart Read More »
Santa Maria College in Perth has a long-established performing arts community centred on choir, ensemble, and performance. Madison Pinto (2024) shared how the music department was a formative space for her building resilience, empathy, and confidence.
Madison Pino – Can’t Stop the Music Read More »
Class of 2024 graduate, Ellie was recognised as the Young Volunteer of WA for her work with Citizens Advice Bureau WA and Lightbulb Skills. While studying Law and Commerce, she created a Criminal Injuries Compensation Handbook to make legal processes more accessible for people navigating trauma. Ellie credits Santa Maria’s Service Learning program with inspiring her passion for volunteering, advocacy and community impact.
Ellie Vrankovich – Creating Change Through Compassion and Advocacy Read More »
The joint Aquinas and Santa Maria alumni event will be held on Friday 18 September 2026. It is being organised by the Santa Maria College Old Girls’ Association Committee in partnership with Aquinas College and will bring together alumni from both Colleges for an evening of reconnecting, conversation, drinks, and light refreshments.
Save the Date – Joint Aquinas College & Santa Maria College Event Read More »
We are launching our 2026 Sisterhood Alumni Networking Series with an evening featuring distinguished past student Dr Carmen Lawrence. The event includes a special Q&A session exploring her career in psychology, politics, education, and social change. It will be held at Santa Maria College on Wednesday 10 June from 6.00 pm to 7.30 pm.
Sisterhood Alumni Networking Series with Dr Carmen Lawrence Read More »
Marie-Anne Keeffe (1986) is a past student of Santa Maria College whose school years helped shape her path in journalism, communications and leadership. The article shares how supportive teachers, a love of storytelling, and personal resilience gave her the confidence to build a career in media, public service and advocacy. It also highlights her advice to students about self-belief, kindness and persistence.
Marie-Anne Keeffe – A Life in Storytelling Read More »
LifeLink Day is an initiative of the Archdiocese of Perth that raises awareness and support for agencies assisting people in need across Western Australia. Santa Maria College students attended the Archbishop’s Forum for LifeLink Day alongside students from other Catholic schools, participating in presentations and workshops focused on leadership, compassion and service. Archbishop Timothy Costelloe encouraged students to model the values of peace, prayer and dignity in their daily lives.
Young Leaders Gather for LifeLink Forum Read More »
Olivia Taliangis’ dance journey is a story of persistence, mentorship, and growth. A Santa Maria graduate from the Class of 2022, she overcame self-doubt, completed a Bachelor of Performing Arts at WAAPA in 2025, and now works as a performer, choreographer, and dance teacher. Her story shows how trusted teachers and a strong sense of purpose can help a young person keep going when they are close to giving up.
Olivia Taliangis – The Girl Who Never Walked Away Read More »
