Unleashing Student Potential: The Benefits of Co-Curricular Activities

At Santa Maria College, we believe that co-curricular activities play a vital role in providing a holistic education and enriching the student experience. By participating in diverse co-curricular programs, students can develop essential life skills, form new friendships, and discover their unique talents and interests.

The Benefits of Co-Curricular Activities

Research has shown that participation in co-curricular activities is linked to numerous positive outcomes, such as:

  • Improved academic performance: Students who engage in extracurricular activities tend to have better grades, higher educational aspirations, and more positive attitudes towards school.
  • Enhanced social support networks: Co-curricular activities provide opportunities for students to meet new people and form friendships outside of their normal social circles, fostering a sense of belonging and community within the school.
  • Reduced risky behaviour: Participation in structured activities has been associated with a decrease in delinquent behaviour and other high-risk activities.
  • Greater success later in life: Studies have shown that involvement in extracurricular activities is linked to higher levels of educational attainment and better outcomes in adulthood.

Years 5 - 6 Co-Curricular Program at Santa Maria College

Our diverse range of co-curricular activities for students in Years 5 – 6 encourages individual growth and development while promoting a sense of belonging and self-worth. Some highlights of our program include:

Service: Chapel Choir, Altar Server, Mini Mercies, Mini Vinnies, and Junior Sprouts

Academic: Book Club, Study Club, Public Speaking, and Ladies in Labcoats

Cultural: Music Program and Crafternoon Tea

Sport: Swimming, Basketball, Cross Country, Volleyball, and Tennis

Years 7- 12 Co-Curricular Program at Santa Maria College

For students in Years 7 – 12, our co-curricular program continues to offer a wide variety of opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and the exploration of diverse interests. Some highlights include:

Faith: Celebrating People and Diversity, Mercy Leadership, Just Leadership, Seeds of Justice, Student Ministry, Altar Serving, Chapel Choir, Eucharistic Ministers, Young Mercies, Cook Ups, Making a Difference, and Young Vinnies

Learning for Life – Wellbeing: Art Forum, Art Upskill, Colour & Conversations, Balance, Cheerleading, Dance, Mental Health Ambassadors, and Music

Learning for Life – Life Skills: Academic Extension, Chess Club, Book Club, Creative Writing, Debating, Mock Trials, Philosophy, TAMS, Media Crew, Digital Art, Film & Photography, Santa Station: Podcasting, Dance, Drama, and STEM

Social Innovation: EcoSisters (Service), Santa’s Workshop, and Women in Business

Sport: AFL, Badminton, Basketball, Cricket, Cross Country, Hockey, Netball, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Volleyball, Water Polo

At Santa Maria, we understand the importance of providing a holistic education that nurtures not only academic growth but also the social, emotional, and personal development of our students. Our comprehensive co-curricular program plays a crucial role in achieving this goal by offering a diverse range of opportunities for students to explore their passions, develop new skills, and create lasting connections. We encourage all our students to take advantage of these enriching experiences and unlock their full potential.

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