Celebrating 50 Years – A Calling, Not Just a Career
When Fatima Horta commenced at Santa Maria College in 1976, she began what would become an extraordinary lifelong commitment to our community. 50 years later, she remains a much-loved and deeply respected member of the College, a constant, caring presence at the heart of Santa Maria.
Fatima has been central to our catering team, caring for our community for five decades. In her early years, she lovingly cared for the Sisters of Mercy. Over time, that care extended to staff and students with generations of Santa Maria girls benefiting from her kindness, warmth and quiet dedication.
A Living Link Across Generations
Fatima was already working at the College when our Principal, Jennifer Oaten, was a student here, a beautiful reflection of the continuity she represents. Few people can say they have supported a school community across so many chapters of its story.
Throughout her time at Santa Maria, Fatima has witnessed significant change. She has served under seven Principals: Sister Perpetua della Marta, Sister Sheila Sawle, Frank Owen, Anne Pitos, Greg Clune, Ian Elder and now Jennifer Oaten. Each era has brought growth and transformation, yet Fatima has remained a steady and faithful presence through it all.
Faith in Action
Nothing is ever too much trouble for Fatima. If there is a need, she steps forward. If someone needs support, she offers it without hesitation.
For Fatima, this role has never simply been a job. It is a calling. Her strong faith is at the centre of who she is, and it shines through in the way she serves others, humbly, consistently and with deep compassion. She lives the Mercy values each day through quiet, meaningful acts of service that often go unseen, but never unnoticed.
Faith at the Heart
At the centre of Fatima’s life is her deep and enduring faith. She holds a special love for our College Chapel, describing it as a place of calm and comfort. It is where she finds peace, strength and quiet reflection amid the busyness of the day. Her faith is something she lives, expressed through her generosity, humility and constant care for others.
Later this year, Fatima will return to Portugal with her family, where she will make a special pilgrimage to Fátima, a deeply meaningful pilgrimage that reflects the strength of her devotion and her connection to her heritage. It is a journey that beautifully mirrors the faith-filled life she leads each day within our community.
Famous Portuguese Tarts
And then there are her Portuguese tarts (and Croquembouche), legendary within our community. Perfectly crafted and generously shared, an extension of her warmth and hospitality. Many would agree they are the best in Perth, and they have become a sweet symbol of the care she pours into everything she does.
A Well-Deserved Celebration
At a special celebration on Friday, the depth of love and appreciation for Fatima was unmistakable. She was presented with a box of over 140 heartfelt messages from colleagues and alumni, words filled with gratitude, admiration and affection.
Sisters of Mercy, family members, four past Principals, and past and present staff gathered to honour Fatima. Her contribution cannot be measured simply in years of service, although that alone is remarkable. Her legacy lives in the relationships she has built, the faith she has so faithfully lived, and the countless lives she has quietly shaped along the way.
Santa Maria College is richer because of Fatima. We are deeply grateful for her steadfast presence and incredibly proud to celebrate this extraordinary woman.
- Catholic Education Perth, College History, Faith and Service, Featured, Mercy Values In Action, Santa Maria College, School community, Sisters of Mercy, Staff Milestone Celebration
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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Santa Maria’s new Cultural Centre is beginning to take shape, and alumni are already leaving their mark through the Take Your Seat campaign. With 128 seat dedications already received, this is a meaningful chance to honour your story and be part of what comes next.
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Our alumni community is already off to a strong start in 2026, with record reunion attendance and exciting milestones ahead, including the opening of our new Cultural Centre. Discover how the spirit of sisterhood continues to shape the Santa Maria story.
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