Year 5 at Santa Maria – Big Opportunities Begin Here

June 19, 2025

When your daughter starts Year 5, she is not just stepping into a new classroom. She is stepping into a world of opportunity that goes far beyond what is typically offered in a primary school setting.

From day one, students enjoy access to specialist programs, expert teachers, and exceptional facilities, all within a supportive junior environment.

This is learning designed to excite, challenge and inspire.

Classrooms That Spark Curiosity

We know that engaged learners are happy learners. That is why our Years 5 and 6 classrooms are bright, flexible spaces filled with energy and purpose. There are high tables for group work, soft furnishings for quiet reading, and even wobble chairs for students who focus better with movement.

Each classroom opens onto an outdoor space, giving students the freedom to take learning beyond four walls. The walls are filled with prompts, student work, and visual reminders of our College values. It is a vibrant hub that is both structured and inspiring.

Access to Specialist Facilities

Students in Year 5 benefit from the same high-quality facilities used by older students. This early exposure builds familiarity and confidence.

Library: A welcoming centre for reading and research, guided by teacher-librarians who support the development of strong information skills.
Superlab: Students conduct real science experiments using professional equipment in a safe, exciting environment with support from specialist technicians.
Arts and Performance: Creativity flourishes in purpose-built spaces for visual arts, music and drama, including a dedicated theatre.
Sporting Facilities: Access to the College pool, gymnasium, sports courts and oval allows students to explore new sports and active lifestyles.

Expert Teachers, Personalised Support

Our Years 5 and 6 team are specialists in upper primary education. They understand how girls in this age group think, learn and thrive.

Classroom teachers are supported by subject-specific educators in Languages, Art, Music, Drama, Physical Education and Numeracy Extension.

Students needing extra support in literacy or numeracy are guided by specialist Enrichment staff, both in-class and through before-school programs.
Those ready for extension are offered a variety of programs that provide deeper learning and fresh challenges.

Importantly, the Years 5 and 6 Dean of Students is a member of the College’s Academic Council. Working alongside the Heads of Learning Areas, this ensures a strong learning continuum from Years 5 and 6 into high school in Year 7. Students are supported not only in their current learning, but are also well-prepared for the next stage.

Programs That Build Skills and Character

Learning extends beyond academics. Students benefit from innovative programs that foster resilience, leadership and creativity:

emPOWER Program: A project-based learning initiative that spans Years 5 to 10. It begins with Fearless5, where students tackle environmental challenges, and Spark6, which inspires creative thinking through technology for good.
IGNITE: A Gifted and Talented program offering enrichment for high-achieving students.
Mathematics Enrichment: Flexible extension tailored to individual strengths.
Instrumental Music Program: Students can learn an instrument with expert tutors and join ensembles. This is a rare opportunity in primary years.
Co-curricular Program: A wide range of academic, sporting, music and service activities help students explore interests, build confidence and find their tribe.

These programs do more than enrich learning. They develop emotional intelligence, boost confidence and nurture each student’s sense of purpose.

Peer Connections and Belonging

Connection and belonging begin from day one.

Students are placed into one of the College’s eight Houses, joining a cross-year community that becomes a key part of their school identity. The Study Buddies program pairs Year 10 students with younger girls, offering support with reading, organisation and maths. More importantly, it nurtures mentorship and friendships that help ease the transition into secondary school.

Inside the classroom, peer relationships are also thoughtfully supported. Teachers intentionally create inclusive and respectful environments where collaboration and compassion are part of everyday learning. These efforts are strengthened through the College’s Mental Health Strategy and Mercy Wellbeing Learning Continuum, which embed social-emotional development, self-awareness and connection into the student experience.

The co-curricular program further strengthens peer bonds. Students naturally connect with others who share similar interests. It is not just about participation. It is about discovering what they love and finding their people.

Together, these experiences help our youngest students feel known, included and valued. They are not just part of a class. They are part of a vibrant, supportive community that helps them grow academically, emotionally and socially.

Could Starting Earlier Change the Story?

The answer is a clear yes.

Girls who commence in Year 5 transition into high school with greater confidence, stronger relationships and a well-established academic foundation. Rather than a single leap, they take a series of steady, supported steps.

From the beginning, students are immersed in learning that grows with them. They are led by expert educators, supported in specialised spaces and guided by a strong pastoral structure.

In Years 5 and 6, the focus is on:

Social-emotional learning: Lessons in resilience, emotional intelligence and friendship skills
Connection: A long-term House community, and consistent pastoral and academic leadership
Purposeful learning: Programs like Fearless5 and Spark6 spark curiosity and creativity without the pressure of formal assessment
Familiarity with senior facilities: Confidence grows through regular use of science labs, library, studios and sporting venues

By the time students reach Year 7, they are not just ready for high school. They already feel at home. They have formed friendships, built healthy learning routines and developed confidence in themselves as learners and individuals.

They are not starting over. They are continuing a journey that has already begun. It is a journey grounded in strong relationships, engaging learning and a deep sense of belonging that sets the tone for future success.

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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.