Parent Levy Fund Powers Fitness Upgrades at Santa Maria

March 21, 2025

Enhancing our school facilities is always a worthwhile investment, especially when it directly supports student wellbeing, strength, and confidence. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our parent community via the Parent Levy Fund, the Fitness Centre has undergone an exciting transformation, now featuring two Reformer Pilates machines and two plate-loaded strength training machines.

This upgrade reflects our commitment to providing dynamic and inclusive fitness opportunities, ensuring every student can engage in a movement that suits their needs.

Strength & Movement for Lifelong Wellbeing

Staying active is about building resilience, confidence, and lifelong healthy habits. The addition of Reformer Pilates machines provides a low-impact, highly effective workout option that enhances rehabilitation, strength, and flexibility. These machines will also be integrated into cross-country and athletics training, offering students new ways to improve endurance and mobility.

Anita Sprigg, Head of Health & Physical Education, shared her excitement about the improvements:

“The PE team wanted to create a space that inspires strong, healthy students. The gym is a place to build confidence, socialise, and boost mental wellbeing.”

The Reformers offer an inclusive, adaptable space for those who need alternative training options due to injuries or personal preferences. They’re also a valuable wellness resource for staff, ensuring everyone in our community benefits from the upgrades.

To ensure safe and effective use, students will complete a short induction program before accessing the Reformers.

Building Strength & Confidence with Strength Training

The plate-loaded strength training machines take our Fitness Centre to the next level. They provide a structured and progressive approach to building physical strength and confidence. These machines are designed for heavy use, ensuring they remain a lasting resource for students.

Why Plate-Loaded Machines?

More Training Opportunities – Expands gym capacity, accommodating more students.
Customisable & Safe – Adjustable weights cater to all fitness levels.
Less Waiting, More Training – Reduces wait times, improving efficiency.
Built to Last – Durable equipment designed for long-term use.

Bronagh, Year 11, has already noticed the impact:

“The new gym equipment is fantastic! I’ve never seen the gym so consistently full, which is great to see. The leg press is perfect for leg day, and the Pilates machines let you train different muscle groups in new ways.”

Creating a Stronger, Healthier School Community

These improvements align with our Strategic Goal of Learning for Life, encouraging students to develop lifelong habits of movement and self-care. They also reflect our Mercy Values of Excellence and Justice, ensuring everyone has access to fitness resources that support both their physical and mental wellbeing.

Beyond student use, these upgrades enhance Community Activation, creating a welcoming and energetic space where students and staff can come together to prioritise movement and wellbeing.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Parent Community

This project wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our parents through the Parent Levy Fund. Your generosity has made a tangible impact, providing students with the tools to build strength, confidence, and resilience.

We can’t wait to see our community make the most of these fantastic additions. Here’s to a stronger, healthier Santa Maria College!

CollegeUpgrades, Featured, FitnessCentre, ParentLevy, ReformerPilates, StudentLife

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.