Winter Warmers – Years 5 & 6 Show Their Heart

June 19, 2025

There was a lot of colour, laughter and kindness in the air this week as our Years 5 and 6 students took part in the Winter Warmers Day. With fun beanies, bright scarves and soft, snuggly gloves on display.

Held on Wednesday, the event saw students don their cosiest and quirkiest winter accessories in exchange for a gold coin donation. Each class awarded prizes for the brightest beanie, the longest scarf and the softest gloves or mittens, with teachers and the Mini Vinnies reps on judging duty!

A Lesson in Compassion

Year 6 teacher and Mini Vinnies Coordinator, Kate Warchomij, said the idea was inspired by a desire to build awareness among students about the challenges many people face during the colder months.

“We wanted to create something simple, joyful and meaningful that all students could get involved in. Winter can be an especially tough time for those experiencing homelessness or hardship, and this initiative was a way to start that conversation in a developmentally appropriate way,” she said.

“At Santa Maria, we aim to instil empathy, service and a sense of social responsibility in our students. Winter Warmers is a lovely opportunity to live those values and show that even small actions like wearing a colourful scarf can make a difference.”

The funds raised will go towards supporting local charities through the College Winter Appeal.

Student Voice: Why It Matters

The Winter Warmers Day was run by students in the Mini Vinnies co-curricular group, who helped promote the event, encourage classmates to take part and assist with the judging.

Year 6 student Leah said being part of the group was a way to make a difference.

“I wanted to be in Mini-Vinnies because it is very fun, and it gives me the opportunity to host fun events that also help people.”

For Year 5 student Claire, it was all about the joy and creativity on the day.

“My favourite part of Winter Warmers Day was that everyone wore accessories and brought in gold coin donations to help others. We had fun judging the prize winners in our class. The best accessory I saw was a fun beanie with cat ears!”

Year 6 student Ivy shared why the cause hit home.

“It’s important because some people are less fortunate than us so might not have warm clothing, sleeping bags, bare necessities – so it’s nice that we can give to them when we imagine what it would be like if we were in their position.”

A Small Act with Big Heart

Thanks to the generosity of the Years 5 & 6 community, the group raised just under $200, which will go directly towards our Winter Appeal supporting St Vincent de Paul, Shopfront, and St Pat’s Fremantle.

It’s a fantastic result that shows the power of small actions making a big difference!

Winter Warmers may be a light-hearted event, but it reflects something deeply important: our students’ growing awareness of others and their ability to be change-makers in their own way. It’s these moments, full of fun, heart and purpose, that truly warm our community.

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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.