Celebrating Our Top Stories | Term 2 at Santa Maria

It has been another very busy term at Santa Maria College, filled with a wide range of opportunities for learning, growth and connection. I am so proud of the way our students have embraced each experience with energy and enthusiasm. I wish all members of our community a safe and restful holiday break. You have earned it.
This term has been rich with stories that celebrate what makes Santa Maria College such a vibrant and values-driven community. From our young leaders stepping into new roles to scientific discovery and alumni who continue to inspire, these blogs capture the heart of what we do and who we are.
These are the ten most viewed blogs of the term. I invite you to take a moment to revisit these highlights from Term 2. Each story reflects the courage, compassion and connection that define our College.

1. Moments that Matter - Reflection Days 2025
Each year, students step away from their usual routines to pause, reflect, and reconnect. Through storytelling, rituals, and stillness, they deepen their understanding of identity, gratitude, and servant leadership. These special days are a reminder that clarity often comes when we take a moment to be still.
Read the full reflection

2. Stepping Up Early - Meet Our New Year 7 Leaders
They may be fresh to high school, but these Year 7 students are already showing what it means to lead with courage, kindness and quiet confidence. From welcoming peers to taking initiative in their Homerooms, they are laying the foundations of leadership early.
Discover the leaders

3. A Legacy of Love - Charlotte and Her GGs Santa Maria Story
When Year 7 boarder Charlotte joined Santa Maria College, she wasn’t just starting school – she was stepping into the footsteps of her great-grandmother, Joan (GG), who boarded here during WWII. Their shared love of stories, sewing, and sweet treats weaves a beautiful thread between past and present. Discover how Charlotte is embracing her place in a legacy of courage, connection, and Mercy spirit.
Read Charlotte’s story

4. Year 7 Science Woomera Investigations
Year 7 students explored the physics of levers by launching mini rockets using Woomera-inspired tools. An exciting blend of culture, curiosity and big launches!
Explore the experiment

5. Halfway Day 2025 - Celebrating the Journey So Far
Reaching the midpoint of the school year is no small achievement. Our Year 12 students took time to reflect, celebrate and look ahead with fresh perspective and purpose.
Read about Halfway Day

6. The Best Kind of Learning - Years 11 and 12 Workplace Learning
There is nothing quite like learning on the job. Our senior students recently stepped into real-world workplaces where they gained experience, built confidence, and explored possible career paths. It was a valuable opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in meaningful, hands-on ways.

7. Year 7 - Embrace Firsts, Friendship and Finding Your Feet
Starting boarding school is a big step, but at Santa Maria College, our Year 7s are doing it with courage, laughter, and a growing sense of sisterhood. Through the Embrace program, Colour Me Home booklets, and the cosy PJ Series, our newest boarders are learning to navigate independence while building friendships that feel like family. It’s a journey of firsts, supported every step of the way.
See how they are going

8. Beyond the Finish Line – Reflecting on IGSSA Cross Country
The IGSSA Cross Country Carnival brought together students from across all year groups in a test of endurance, determination and heart. For some, it was about achieving a personal best. For others, it was about overcoming nerves and simply finishing the course. Regardless of their goal, every Santa Maria student showed spirit and perseverance from the first muddy step to the final breathless stride.

9. Year 5 - Where Bravery Begins and Bonds Are Built
Starting Year 5 at Santa Maria College marks the beginning of an exciting journey. It’s a time when new students step into a nurturing environment, ready to embrace challenges, form lasting friendships, and grow in confidence. Our dedicated Year 5 teachers share their insights on how this foundational year fosters independence, resilience, and a strong sense of community among our girls.
Discover their journey

10. Mud, Mayhem and High Ropes - Year 6 Camp Recap
Adventure, laughter, and a touch of chaos, our Year 6 students experienced it all at Kerem Adventure Camp. From conquering high ropes and rock climbing to engaging in spy games and a memorable laser tag showdown, the girls embraced every challenge with courage and camaraderie. Beyond the fun, the camp fostered resilience, teamwork, and personal growth, leaving our students with unforgettable memories and newfound confidence.
See the camp highlights
Thank you for being part of another vibrant term at Santa Maria College. I hope you enjoy revisiting these stories as much as we have enjoyed living them. May the holiday break offer rest, joy and quality time with loved ones. We look forward to welcoming our students back for another term of learning, growth and opportunity.
God bless.
Jennifer Oaten | Principal
- Catholic Education Perth, Featured, Leardership and Learning, Mercy Values In Action, Reflection Days, Santa Maria College, Student highlights, Term 2 2025, Year 6 Camp, Year 7 Science
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.

Celebrating Our Top Stories | Term 2 at Santa Maria

Weekly Wrap Up – Week 10, Term 2 2025
