The College Service Sign-up Day is an opportunity where students can join a range of service based co-curricular activities to further their awareness of society. Some of these groups include Young Vinnies, Young Mercies and Eco Sisters. The day is a great way for the younger students, especially our new students, to see what the College has to offer in the area of service. As it is not compulsory to sign up for a service-based activity, it is always amazing to see how many students willingly give their time and effort to the community service projects.

From visiting the elderly to working on recycling projects, the tasks undertaken make a huge difference within the Santa Maria and wider communities. The reason these co-curriculars are so popular is it allows students to develop values of hospitality and compassion whilst expanding their worldview.

This year’s Service Sign-up Day, held this week, was very successful, and we can’t wait to see what the girls accomplish within their chosen service group over the year.

Below, some of the students share with us the service group they have volunteered for and why they chose that group.I am going to do Uthando Dolls because you get to make dolls and send them to Africa for the children who have nothing. I love making things and sending them to those who need it and that’s why I want to do Uthando Dolls. Amber Goodreid, Year 5 I chose Mini Vines because I am having lots of fun and helping others who need support and help.  By doing this I hope those who we assist can feel better about themselves and it is very rewarding to help others.
Bianca Stanes (Year 6)I would love to do altar serving for the school masses because I already do it at the other masses that I go to, so why not do it for our school masses. I always love to do altar serving because it is really enjoyable for me.
Stephanie Tran, (Year 7) This year I have chosen to take part in the Young Vinnies service. Young Vinnies is about supporting the work of the St Vincent de Paul Society. I have selected this service group because I am very passionate about helping those in need. I also contributed to the St Vincent de Paul Society during my primary school years and it was a rewarding experience.
Mischa Covich, Year 8