Shining Bright – Recognising our Years 5 & 6 Successes

Year 5 & 6 Choir Years at Awards Night for Years 5 & 6

What a wonderful celebration of our Year 5 and 6 students as our school community gathered to celebrate our Year 5,6 Awards Morning. The event recognised academic effort and achievement, living our Mercy values and contributions to our community by our youngest cohort.

An Inspiring Message from Our Principal

In her address, Principal Jennifer Oaten drew inspiration from the song Golden from the movie K-Pop Demon Hunters, reminding students that each student is “bright, strong, and full of potential.” She encouraged them to reflect on their own “golden moments” of 2025, those small but meaningful times when they felt proud or joyful.

She shared examples of golden moments found in classrooms, leadership, sport or simply having another go when something felt challenging. Mrs Oaten reminded the girls to be proud of their strengths, because what makes them unique is their “gold”, their own superpower.

Her message encouraged students to see the strength and unity when they help each other to shine. That their power grows stronger when they support each other and when they choose to be brave together. She said “When your friends shine, cheer for them. When someone is still finding their way, encourage them. When someone achieves something you wish you could, celebrate them anyway, because someone else’s light does not make yours dimmer.

A Morning of Talent and Joy

The Awards Morning came alive with vibrant performances that showcased the talents and enthusiasm of our Years 5 and 6 students. The Year 5 Beginner Band, Junior Guitar Ensemble, Years 5 & 6 Choir, and a dynamic Years 5 & 6 dance performance brought energy and joy to the occasion.

Recognising Excellence and Effort

The heart of the celebration was the presentation of awards to students who have demonstrated dedication, effort and a strong commitment to their learning throughout 2025. These awards acknowledge academic progress as well as personal growth, community spirit, and the perseverance that defines our learning culture.

Success shows up in many different ways, and our students demonstrated that today. Through learning, leadership and kindness each girl continues to shape her own unique story of growth.

Years 5 & 6 Award Winners

Congratulations to all our award recipients and performers. As Principal Jennifer Oaten shared in her closing message: “When you unite as one, when you listen, support and believe in each other, that is when the real magic happens.”

Remembering Michelle Leahy – A Heart That Lifted Others

The Santa Maria College community pays tribute to past student Michelle Leahy (Class of 1992), whose compassion, generosity and unwavering commitment to others touched countless lives. Michelle is remembered as a devoted wife, mother, friend and community champion whose legacy of kindness continues to inspire.

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