Ever wished you could go back to school? At Santa Maria, students are not just learning hey are diving into real-world experiences, tackling AI and climate change, and building the skills they need for the future. Here is a glimpse into a term that has redefined what education can be.
The School Experience You Wish You Had – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Despite having hundreds of followers, one of our students confided she still feels isolated. This honest moment sparked a powerful conversation about self-worth, and how families and schools can work together to ensure our girls grow up knowing their true value. Find out the 7 ways parents can help build confidence beyond the screen.
Helping Girls Build Self-Worth in a Social Media World – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
How does a Principal lead with impact? Jennifer Oaten shares how genuine listening—especially to students—shapes stronger schools and strategic decisions. Discover how voice becomes the foundation of growth.
Leading by Listening – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Ever heard the phrase “No Brain is the Same”? This Neurodiversity Week, we embraced it, spotlighting student strengths, sparking inclusive conversations, and sharing inspiring stories that show why every mind truly matters. Click to see how we celebrated and what’s next.
Embracing Unique Minds – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Ever wonder why some lessons stick for life while others fade fast? Discover how our students are turning learning into action—through debate, invention, and real-world problem-solving. Deep Learning is more than a buzzword—it’s a mindset.
Building Lasting Knowledge – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Our young women are stepping up, speaking out, and shaping the future. This International Women’s Day, see how Santa Maria College students are breaking barriers, leading change, and proving that anything is possible!
The Power of Fearless Women – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Hope is more than wishful thinking—it’s the belief that things can improve, driving resilience and positive action. Whether found in small moments of kindness or in the support of a community, hope helps us persevere. Explore how to nurture and spread hope in your life and those around you.
Holding Onto Hope – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Resilience is about adapting, learning, and growing through life’s ups and downs. At Santa Maria College, students develop resilience through experiences like the Swimming Carnival, supportive relationships, and practical strategies. Discover how fostering perseverance and a growth mindset shapes strong individuals.
Building Resilience for a Changing World – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Meaningful conversations help daughters navigate friendships, academic pressures, and future aspirations. Instead of asking, “How was your day?” try open-ended questions that foster deeper engagement. Santa Maria College encourages parents to connect through thoughtful discussions.
Engaging Conversations – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Starting at a new school can be exciting yet overwhelming. Parents play a key role in easing the transition by encouraging friendships, emotional resilience, and involvement in activities. With the right support, every child can build connections and find their place in a new environment.
Transitioning To A New School – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Explore the collaborative efforts between schools, parents, and the government to promote the digital wellbeing of young people. Learn about policies, educational initiatives, and practical tips for managing technology, fostering online responsibility, and balancing digital use with wellness.
Navigating Social Media Together, Government, Schools, Parents – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
The Power of Drama” explores the transformative impact of drama on students, emphasising resilience, confidence, and community building. Through their participation in productions, students develop essential life skills, from handling setbacks to embracing change and building empathy. Drama becomes a stage for lifelong growth
The Power Of Drama – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Cyber safety expert Paul Litherland shares crucial insights with Santa Maria College families on navigating the digital world safely. Covering topics from social media safety to device guidelines and AI risks, Paul emphasizes the importance of parental engagement and open conversations for online safety.
A Conversation with Cyber Safety Expert Paul Litherland – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Financial literacy is a crucial skill for young women, equipping them with the knowledge to budget, save, invest, and make informed financial decisions. With tailored programs like Santa Maria College’s Future10 and practical guidance for parents, young women can navigate financial challenges confidently, aiming for secure futures. Accessible resources like Money Queens and She’s on the Money further support youth-focused financial growth, contributing to financial independence.
The Power of Financial Knowledge – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
As Year 12 students approach graduation, they face a world of new opportunities and challenges. This milestone marks the end of their school years and the start of a journey filled with decisions, independence, and self-discovery. From shifting academic pressures to changes in social circles, life after school is never the same.
The Journey Ahead for Year 12 Students : Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Mercy Day 2024 at Santa Maria College was a special celebration filled with faith, unity, and community spirit. From a beautiful Mass to the announcement of the McAuley Shield winner, and vibrant fundraising stalls, the day was a true embodiment of the values of kindness, generosity, and celebration inspired by Catherine McAuley.
Mercy Day 2024 Celebrating Faith and Community- Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Discover how to help your daughter find her passion! Learn from real-life stories of alumni who turned their interests into life-changing journeys. Explore practical tips to support her exploration, from encouraging new experiences to fostering a growth mindset. Begin this exciting journey of self-discovery together today!
Finding Your Daughter’s Passion – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
As Father’s Day approaches, it is a timely reminder of the powerful influence fathers and father figures have on the lives of young women. Positive father involvement is linked to better emotional, academic, and social outcomes for girls. Explore meaningful ways to strengthen these bonds and make a lasting difference.
The Power of Father-Daughter Relationships – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Quality sleep is essential for the health and academic success of Australian teens. Many struggle to meet recommended sleep guidelines due to factors like increased screen time and irregular routines. Discover actionable strategies for better sleep habits, including setting consistent routines and creating a calming bedtime environment.
The Importance of Good Sleep – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Discover the transformative power of the word “yet” in encouraging a growth mindset. This concept, rooted in Carol Dweck’s research, helps students and children turn challenges into opportunities for growth. At Santa Maria College, we incorporate “The Power of Yet” to unlock the potential of every student, fostering resilience and lifelong success.
The Power of Yet – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
AI is revolutionising education, offering personalised learning, accessibility, and efficiency. At Santa Maria College, we’re committed to integrating AI responsibly, addressing concerns such as academic integrity, ethical use, and cybersecurity. By collaborating with parents and students, we aim to harness AI’s benefits while fostering critical thinking and ethical understanding.
Partnering with Parents in AI – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
The Paris 2024 Olympics marks a historic milestone with an equal number of male and female athletes for the first time. This achievement reflects over a century of progress and advocacy for gender equality in sports. The inclusion of 329 mixed-gender medal events highlights modern values of inclusivity and teamwork. As we celebrate this moment, we must continue to push for full equality in sports leadership, media coverage, and sponsorship opportunities.
The Paris 2024 Olympics marks a historic milestone with an equal number of male and female athletes for the first time. This achievement reflects over a century of progress and advocacy for gender equality in sports. The inclusion of 329 mixed-gender medal events highlights modern values of inclusivity and teamwork. As we celebrate this moment, we must continue to push for full equality in sports leadership, media coverage, and sponsorship opportunities.
Breaking Barriers – Athens 1896 to Paris 2024 – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
In today’s digital world, social media is integral to young people’s lives, significantly influencing their perceptions of beauty and self-worth. Excessive focus on appearance due to unrealistic standards can lead to decreased self-esteem and mental health issues. At Santa Maria College, we are committed to fostering a healthy body image and strong self-esteem among our students through comprehensive programs and parental involvement. Together, we can challenge harmful ideals and celebrate diverse forms of beauty, nurturing confident and resilient young women.
Nurturing Self-Worth In A Social Media World – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
In today’s rapidly evolving world, digital and AI technologies are transforming the workforce. Project-based learning (PBL) is crucial for developing skills like creative thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration. At Santa Maria College, our emPOWER Program engages students in meaningful projects that address real-world issues, preparing them to become the innovators and problem-solvers of tomorrow. From environmental initiatives to financial literacy, PBL provides a strong foundation for students to make a difference.
Project-Based Learning – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
School libraries are evolving from quiet book repositories to dynamic learning hubs. At Santa Maria College, we’ve embraced this change, integrating digital resources, flexible spaces, and modern literacy skills. Discover how our transformed library nurtures lifelong readers and prepares students for an AI-driven future.
The Digital Evolution of School Libraries – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
At Santa Maria College, we believe that leadership is a journey of learning, not just a title or position. For over 80 years, our Year 12 students have been at the forefront of shaping our school’s culture through their leadership. As one cohort graduates and another takes the helm, the baton of leadership is passed, igniting the potential within each new group of young women.
Shaping Future Leaders- Jennifer Oaten Read More »
This blog provides insight into how parents can become effective learning partners for their teenagers by asking thoughtful, open-ended questions. It highlights the importance of curiosity and reflection in fostering a love for learning and equips parents with practical strategies to support their child’s academic and personal growth.
Parents As Learning Partners – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
In today’s digital age, young people face an overwhelming amount of information, often from unreliable sources. This blog explores the importance of media literacy, providing practical steps to discern fact from fiction and highlighting how schools and parents can help students navigate the digital world with critical thinking and confidence
Fake News or Fact – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
How does parental involvement improve student outcomes? Discover the benefits of parent voice in schools and how Santa Maria College is leading the way with its ‘Parent Voice’ initiative. Read more about creating a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.
Value Of Parent Voice In Schools – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
Discover effective strategies for building respectful relationships in schools to combat violence against women. Learn how promoting gender equality and empowering students can create a safer, more respectful society.
Building Respectful Relationships – Jennifer Oaten Read More »
