Building Resilience for a Changing World – Jennifer Oaten
Life is full of ups and downs, some we see coming, others take us by surprise. At this week’s Swimming Carnival, I saw resilience in action. Some students dived into the pool with confidence, while others faced their fears, pushing through uncertainty and self-doubt. Some races ended in unexpected victories, others in tough losses. But what stood out was the incredible spirit of our students giving their best, lifting each other up, and embracing every challenge, no matter the outcome.
Resilience isn’t about always winning. It’s about showing up, persevering, and finding a way forward when things don’t go as planned. That’s exactly what we strive to build at Santa Maria College.
Catherine McAuley and the Sisters of Mercy lived resilience in every sense. They met challenges with unwavering faith, determination, and a deep commitment to serving others. Their strength, perseverance, and compassion continue to inspire us today, reminding our students that resilience isn’t something you’re born with it’s something you build, step by step, through experience, reflection, and a mindset that sees setbacks as opportunities for growth.
Whether it’s a missed goal, a tough exam, or a challenge in friendships, resilience is the skill that helps us navigate life’s hurdles with confidence. And just like at today’s carnival, it’s often in the moments of struggle that we discover our greatest strengths.
What is Resilience?
Resilience is about adapting, learning, and growing in the face of adversity. It’s not about avoiding challenges but embracing them. Resilient people don’t let difficulties define them – they tackle them with optimism, persistence, and the belief that every obstacle is a chance to grow.
Why is Resilience Important?
In a world that’s constantly evolving, resilience is a crucial life skill. It helps individuals:
- Cope with stress and pressure more effectively
- Develop confidence in their ability to overcome challenges
- Maintain a positive mindset even in difficult situations
- Strengthen relationships and seek support when needed
- Embrace change rather than fear it
Resilience Across Year Levels
Resilience develops over time and looks different at every stage of a student’s journey. In Year 5, it might be about managing friendships and adjusting to new routines. By Year 12, it’s about handling academic pressure,  taking on greater responsibilities and navigating future uncertainties.
At Santa Maria, the Mercy Wellbeing Learning Continuum recognises these differences and ensures students learn strategies and receive the right support at every stage.
How Can We Build Resilience?
1. Encourage a Growth Mindset
Students who see challenges as opportunities to learn and grow are more likely to persevere. Teaching them that effort and resilience lead to progress builds confidence and persistence.
2. Foster Supportive Relationships
A strong support network of family, teachers, and friends provides the foundation for resilience. Knowing they have people to lean on gives students the confidence to take risks and face challenges.
3. Promote Self-Reflection
Encouraging students to reflect on their experiences helps them understand what they’ve learned from challenges. Self-awareness is key to building resilience.
4. Teach Problem-Solving Skills
Resilient individuals focus on solutions, not problems. Teaching critical thinking and problem-solving skills empowers students to navigate obstacles proactively.
5. Cultivate Emotional Regulation
Managing emotions effectively is a crucial part of resilience. Techniques like mindfulness and deep breathing help students stay calm and focused in difficult situations.
6. Encourage Taking Healthy Risks
Stepping outside their comfort zones – whether by trying a new activity, speaking in front of a group, or applying for leadership roles – helps students build confidence and resilience.
7. Celebrate Perseverance and Effort
Recognising students for their determination and effort, rather than just outcomes, reinforces the value of persistence. Resilience grows when students see that progress comes through perseverance.
Encouraging Resilience Through Experience
At Santa Maria, resilience isn’t just a concept – it’s something we actively cultivate through real-world experiences.
- Our emPower Program challenges students to think critically, collaborate, and grow from setbacks.
- Service projects and leadership initiatives teach them the importance of perseverance and self-confidence.
- Courses foster curiosity and problem-solving skills, showing students that setbacks are a natural and valuable part of learning.
By embedding resilience into daily school life, we equip students with the confidence and skills to face challenges head-on.
Final Thoughts
Resilience isn’t about avoiding difficulties – it’s about developing the mindset and skills to navigate life’s ups and downs with strength and optimism.
Our House Swimming Carnival was a perfect example. Whether students won, lost, or simply participated, they demonstrated courage, and the ability to bounce back – qualities that will serve them well beyond the pool.
As parents, teachers, and a school community, we play a vital role in fostering resilience in our young people. How do you encourage resilience in your child? Perhaps it’s in small moments of challenge, support, and reflection.
Together, we can help our students grow into strong, adaptable individuals – ready to take on the world, one challenge at a time.
- Education, EmotionalResilience, Featured, GrowthMindset, LifeSkills, Perseverance, Resilience, SantaMariaCollege, studentwellbeing, YouthDevelopment
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.
Presidents Report – June 2026
What does it mean to belong to the Santa Maria community long after graduation? Mary Heavens reflects on alumni connection, Mercy values, and why compassion, respect, service and courage still shape life, leadership and community in today’s world.
Calling Santa Maria Alumni Golfers for the 2026 CIGS Annual Foursomes Event
The CIGS Annual Foursomes Golf Event for Alumni is a golf day for alumni of participating independent girls’ schools in Western Australia. Santa Maria College alumni are invited to take part on Monday 21 September 2026 at Mt Lawley Golf Club. Players need to be alumni of a participating school and hold a current Golflink number. Register interest with Nina Howie by the end of July.
Join the OGA Committee – Expressions of Interest Now Open
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.
