Deep Learning Takes Centre Stage in SEEK7

July 3, 2025

This term, Year 7 students embraced a learning journey that has challenged them to think critically, collaborate meaningfully and act as thoughtful stewards of our world. The SEEK7 emPOWER Project asked students to dive deep into a real-world issue: water. Guided by the premise that water is a valuable resource with local, national and global implications, students have explored how water affects communities and ecosystems. The project is cross-curricular, meaning there are aspects of geography, science and maths embedded in SEEK7, and students use time within Science and HASS classes to delve into their projects.

Exploring Real-World Issues

Inspired by Pope Francis’ call that “access to safe, drinkable water is a basic and universal human right,” students worked in groups to research a local, national or global water issue. From the social and environmental impact of desalination plants in Perth to water salinity affecting crops in remote communities, the topics sparked curiosity and passion. Some students even explored the surprising environmental impact of artificial intelligence cooling systems on water usage.

Hands-On Learning Beyond the Classroom

Learning extended well beyond the classroom. Students undertook hands-on fieldwork through a River Discovery Day at Point Walter, testing water quality and observing the delicate balance of river ecosystems. They also engaged with experts during a Water Corporation incursion that provided insight into local water management.

Feedback from students shows just how powerful these opportunities have been. Brecht reflected, “The highlight of SEEK7 for me was the excursion to Point Walter because I liked fishing through the water to find any macroinvertebrates.” Macey added, “My favourite parts have been the incursions and excursions we have had and getting to build new and stronger friendships.”

Developing Skills for Life

Throughout the project, students demonstrated collaboration, adaptability and resilience. They worked together to analyse how different stakeholders are impacted by water issues and to design creative solutions. Anya explained, “Our only challenge as a group was having to complete the project on a time crunch and manage our time effectively.” Valentina noted, “I learnt that the project is not always going to be perfect and there will always be some mistakes, but we have to push through them together.”

Celebrating at the SEEK7 Exhibition

This commitment to deep learning culminated in the SEEK7 Exhibition Night this week. Students proudly presented their research and solutions to staff, parents, peers and Years 5 and 6 students. The range of presentations was impressive, including social media campaigns, protest songs, documentaries and even model prototypes. Valentina added, “I loved the creating phase of our project because we got to make a documentary and a spinning toilet model. It was awesome to spend time with our group.”

Connecting Learning to Life

SEEK7 is an example of how learning at Santa Maria connects to life. It nurtures critical thinking, problem solving, stewardship and compassion, empowering young Mercy women to tackle complex challenges with courage and creativity. The achievements of our Year 7 students this year remind us that when young people are trusted with real-world problems, they rise to the occasion and inspire us all.

emPower Program, EnvironmentalStewardship, Featured, RealWorldLearning, SantaMariaCollegeNews, SEEK7Project, WaterSustainability, Year7Learning

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.