Helping Girls Find Their Strength – Meet Anita Sprigg
Anita Sprigg’s path to becoming Head of Health & Physical Education at Santa Maria College is anything but ordinary. With a background in science, a love of the outdoors, and a deep belief in the power of young women, Anita brings both heart and adventure to her role.
A Scenic Detour into Teaching
Anita did not always know she would end up in a classroom. After completing a Bachelor of Science at UWA, she took a breather to explore her next steps, working in different areas of the health industry and heading off to New Zealand for a change of scene.
“While in New Zealand, I volunteered across the South Island. My final role was at a kids’ camp in Queen Charlotte Sound. That is where it hit me. I discovered my passion for teaching.
Back in Perth, she completed her Diploma of Education but was not quite ready to settle down. Instead, she worked in Dampier as a Healthy Lifestyle Consultant for a year. This was at a site with 1000 FIFO workers – to fund the next adventure: teaching in London.
Her time overseas was eye-opening. Living and working in the UK for three years, Anita experienced the joys and challenges of teaching in a whole new system, while also making the most of Europe’s travel opportunities.
Finding Her Place at Santa Maria
After returning to Perth, Anita taught in various schools, including John XXIII College, and worked as a Boarding Supervisor at Iona. Then in 2010, she joined Santa Maria College, and has not looked back since.
“I didn’t always want to be a teacher,” she says with a smile. “But I can honestly say I still love it just as much today.”
Anita leads programs across Health, PE, Outdoor Education and PE Studies. She is passionate about creating learning experiences that are relevant, meaningful and empowering.
And for her, it is personal.
“I have neurodiverse children, so I understand that traditional classroom approaches do not work for everyone. Every student has their own learning style, and that deserves to be recognised and respected.”
Building Confidence and Character
A big part of Anita’s mission is helping students see their own strength and value, especially in a world where pressures around body image and social expectations are loud and constant.
“I want our girls to feel confident in who they are. To be assertive, to know their worth. That matters more now than ever.”
She also takes great pride in the team she leads.
“Our Department is amazing. Everyone brings something different to the table and works hard to build programs that truly engage our students. I also feel really supported by our leaders like Jennifer Oaten and Jayne Kingwell, they back our ideas and encourage us to be bold.”
Off the Clock
Weekends for Anita are all about balance, spending time with her family, watching her kids play sport, and heading outdoors whenever possible.
She is also a qualified yoga instructor with a deep interest in restorative practices.
“I love breathwork and mindful yoga. It’s so good for the soul, especially after a big week.”
And here is a fun fact you might not know Anita grew up on a farm down south, which probably explains her love of fresh air and wide-open spaces.
A Life of Purpose and Passion
Anita’s journey reflects curiosity, courage and a deep care for the people around her. She is a teacher, a leader, and a lifelong learner, and we are so glad she found her way here.
- AnitaSprigg, EmpoweringGirls, Featured, FemaleRoleModels, HealthAndPhysicalEducation, LeadershipInEducation, NeurodiverseStudents, OutdoorLearning, SantaMariaCollegeStaff, StaffSpotlight, studentwellbeing, WomenInEduction
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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