Going Above and Beyond Through Service
Service is one of the most powerful ways young people can learn about empathy, leadership and community. Through our Service-Learning Program, students step outside their comfort zones and into real-life experiences where they offer their time to others, not for reward, but to grow through giving. This program, grounded in the Gospel teachings of Jesus and the values of the Sisters of Mercy, challenges students to give their time to others, expecting nothing in return, except, perhaps, the deep lessons that come from genuine connection and compassion.
Why Service-Learning Matters
Through this program, students are asked to make a real difference in the lives of others. In Year 10, they are asked to complete 10 hours of service, and in Year 11, this increases to 15 hours. But for many of our girls, the experience becomes more than just ticking a box. It becomes something they embrace.
Service-Learning is more than volunteering. It fosters:
- Empathy and compassion by connecting with people from all walks of life
- Resilience and confidence as students navigate real-world situations
- A sense of justice and service, which are central to our Mercy values
- Personal growth, through reflection and awareness of others’ needs
This year, four students have gone well above and beyond expectations. Despite academic demands and co-curricular commitments, they have each contributed over 100 hours of community service.
Let us introduce these inspiring young women.
Siobhan – 107 Hours (Year 10)
Volunteering with Fremantle Surf Lifesaving Club
“I enjoy volunteering as an age group manager for the Under 9s. I love getting to know all the kids throughout the season and helping them grow, learn, and enjoy the ocean. It is my way of giving back to the community that has had such a positive impact on me.”
Hannah – 142 Hours (Year 10)
Service with Basketball WA, Jamba Nyinayi Festival and Hensman Primary School
“Service is important to me as it has shaped me into the person I am today and taught me strong morals and values. I chose to do service because it allows me to make a positive difference in the lives of others, give back to my community, and grow as a person through helping and understanding others’ needs.”
Emily – 109 Hours (Year 10)
With Blue Gum Child Care and Victoria Park Hockey Club
“I find volunteering a rewarding experience that provides a deep sense of purpose allowing me to give back to the community. By connecting with people, that have both shared and diverse backgrounds, in new and challenging environments, volunteering has assisted me in broadening my perspectives, which has helped shape who I am today.”
Naomi – 108 Hours (Year 11)
With the Royal Show, Smith Family, Lifeline, St Thomas More Parish and Vinnies Op Shop
“I love the wonderful sense of community and connection in volunteering, especially meeting people from diverse backgrounds and situations which opens my eyes to, often unnoticed, struggles and resilience of others. I volunteer because it is so meaningful and enriching. I’m often humbled to find that the people we’re meant to be ‘helping’ help me far more, offering unique perspectives and a more appreciative worldview.”
The Heart of Who We Are
These young women are living proof of how service-learning connects faith, compassion and leadership. Their willingness to give, learn and reflect captures the spirit of what it means to be a Mercy student.
Service is not just an activity. It is a lens through which our students see the world, and choose to act.
- CatholicEducation, CommunityService, CompassioninAction, Featured, Girls'EducationPerth, HolisiticLearning, MercyValues, SantaMariaCollege, Service Learning, StudentLeadership, YouthVolunteering
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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