Building Friendships & Faith – Year 5 Reflection Day
Our Year 5 students recently participated in their first Reflection Day, a special part of the Santa Maria faith calendar. Our Reflection Days encourage students to connect with each other and reflect on what it means to be part of the Mercy community.
This year’s theme was inspired by the song Circle of Mercy, a favourite of the Sisters of Mercy. The day was all about belonging, kindness and connection, values that are at the heart of our College.
A Warm Welcome
The day began with icebreaker games in circle formations, designed to help the girls relax, have fun and get to know classmates they might not know as well.
These small moments helped build a sense of community and made sure everyone felt included.
Isabel shared, “I really enjoyed completing activities with people that I didn’t know very well. It was nice to make new friends.”
Learning the Mercy Story
Students learned about Catherine McAuley, the Foundress of the Sisters of Mercy. Michelle Carrick, Director of Mission, shared the story of Catherine’s life and the values that continue to guide the College today.
The girls created circular self-portraits to represent unity and their place in the Circle of Mercy. They also received welcome letters from our Ministry students, a gesture that helped them feel supported and part of something bigger.
Sharing Stories Over Lunch
Lunch was served in the Boarders’ Dining Room, which many students had not seen before. Students enjoyed pasta and listened to our Principal, share her own memories as a Santa Maria boarder. This special moment gave the girls a sense of the long-standing traditions they are now part of.
Art With Meaning
One of the creative activities during the day involved making stained glass window artworks. These colourful designs were inspired by Catherine McAuley’s values, especially kindness, helping others and creating a better world.
The artworks served as a reminder that small acts of care can shine brightly and influence those around us.
Finishing With Song
To finish off the day, the girls joined music teacher Jessica MacLean Black for a music session. Together, they learned some of Santa Maria’s most loved songs, including Make New Friends, Come Together, Soli Deo Gloria written by Cathy O’Leary (Class of 1983), and Advance Australia Fair.
Ava shared, “My favourite part of the day was learning about our school’s history.”
A Special Start to Their Journey
Reflection Day was a meaningful way to introduce our Year 5 students to the spirit of Mercy. It gave them the chance to learn more about the College, grow friendships, and begin their Santa Maria journey feeling supported and connected
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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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