Through Our Eyes – Boarding Parents Share Their Santa Maria Experience
Boarding is not just about education; it is about growth, independence, and forming lifelong connections. But do not just take it from us. Here is what three of our country mums have to say about their daughters’ journeys as boarders.
Finding Confidence & Connection - The O’Neill Experience
Peta O’Neill, from Ongerup, has seen all three of her daughters thrive through their time at Santa Maria. For her, the benefits go far beyond the classroom.
“They have developed lifelong friendships and networks from all over the state,” Peta shares. “Boarding has given them skills to be strong, independent and confident young women ready for life as an adult.”
For the O’Neill family, boarding was not just a practical decision, but one that has enriched their lives. Peta reflects fondly on her own connection to the College community, saying, “I have also really enjoyed our boarding journey at Santa and have met so many wonderful people over our time. Thank you, Santa Maria.”
A Life-Changing Move - The Collins Journey
For Linda Collins, who lives more than 400km north of Perth near Morawa, the decision to board was a leap of faith. Now, it’s something she wholeheartedly celebrates.
“In our small country town, our girls were lucky if they had one good friend with similar interests. Since attending boarding school, they have so many amazing friends from all over WA. They have made friends for life.”
Linda’s daughters have embraced the full boarding lifestyle, thriving in academics, sport, and social life. She proudly notes their independence:
“They do all of their washing, keep track of their schedules, and manage their commitments without reminders. I have absolutely no doubt that when they leave school, they will be able to live and study or work independently.”
Yet, she also speaks candidly about the emotional side of boarding:
“The saddest thing about your children leaving at 12 is knowing they may never live full-time at home again. But the advantages of boarding far outweigh the disadvantages. Boarders really do have the best of both worlds, the country and the city life.”
Building Bravery and Independence - The Watts Family
Leanne Watts lives on a farm in Pingelly, though she originally hails from Rockingham. Her daughters’ growth since starting at Santa Maria has been remarkable.
“Boarding has been amazing for my daughters – their independence and resilience is something I admire so much,” Leanne says. “They are so much braver than I was in high school and are building fantastic friendships.”
Leanne’s observations echo a common theme among boarding parents – the transformation that occurs when girls are given the chance to flourish in a supportive, structured environment.
More Than a Place to Stay
Boarding is designed to support the whole student – emotionally, socially, and academically. Students gain independence, resilience and a unique bond with their peers. And as these stories show, the benefits extend to families too, creating a close-knit community that spans across Western Australia.
Thinking about boarding? Come and meet our team, talk to our current boarders, and see what makes our boarding school feel like a second home.
- BoardingSchoolLife, BoardingSchoolStories, BoardingWeek, CountryFamilies, Featured, GirlsEducation, ParentTestimonials, WABoardingSchools
Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.
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