Friendship, Fun and Connection – Year 7 Alternative Learning Days
While half of the Year 7 cohort was away at camp, the Alternative Learning Days (ALD) were in full swing back at the College, offering students a valuable opportunity to build friendships, strengthen connections and enjoy a range of engaging activities.
For the first part of the week, students in Corbett, Byrne, Kelly and O’Reilly took part in the ALD program, while Frayne, Dillon, de la Hoyde and O’Donnell headed off to camp. Midweek, the groups swapped, with the entire cohort coming together on Wednesday to share time at camp.
Exploring Friendship and Belonging
One of the ALD days focused on friendships, with sessions led by the College psychologists. Throughout the day, students explored key themes such as friendship facts, recognising healthy and unhealthy dynamics, and understanding personal boundaries.
Interactive sessions such as the Friend-o-meter and Friend Fires encouraged students to reflect on their own experiences and consider how their actions impact others. These activities sparked meaningful conversations and gave students practical strategies to build respectful, supportive relationships. The day concluded with a focus on friendship boundaries, empowering students with the confidence to navigate challenges and communicate effectively.
“My favourite part was trying different things with different people that I wouldn’t normally do. I enjoyed collaborating with new people and exploring different activities.” Scarlett
A Day of Fun, Energy and Collaboration
The second day shifted to a vibrant program of workshops, designed to bring energy, creativity and collaboration to the forefront. Students began with problem-solving and mental challenge activities before rotating through a wide range of experiences.
There was something for everyone, with students taking part in activities such as dance, art, cooking and self-defence, alongside collaborative options like LEGO, board games and a lively murder mystery challenge. Other highlights included time in the pool, Minecraft sessions and quiet reading opportunities, ensuring a balance of active, creative and reflective experiences.
“One thing I learnt during the program is that not all friendships are perfect, and that’s ok. Even if you fight now and then, it doesn’t mean you can work through it and come out stronger on top.” Winona
A Stronger Sense of Community
Across both days, there was a strong sense of enthusiasm and connection. Whether stepping outside their comfort zone, working as part of a team, or simply sharing a laugh, students embraced every opportunity to connect with one another.
Together, the Alternative Learning Days complemented the camp experience, ensuring every student felt included, supported and part of the Year 7 community.
- Catholic Education Perth, Featured, friendship education, girls school perth, Holistic Education, middle school experience, Santa Maria College, student connection, student wellbeing programs, Year 7 Tranition
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.
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