De La Vida Term 2, 2014

De La Vida TERM 2 2014 EDITION 19

Gifted & Talented Program | International Tours | Learning Beyond the Classroom | Service Projects | And more!

Welcome

Principal’s Message Quite often at Awards Nights and other public forums, I speak on the topic of ‘What makes an excellent school?’ I believe an excellent school is built on the following four pillars: • Faith through Service • Academia • Cultural • Sporting To be an excellent school we need to offer appropriate programs and excel in all of the above domains. Unfortunately ‘league tables’ produced to rank schools do so using university entry academic performance as their measure of success. This is a very narrow measure of education. While we are very proud of our Year 12 results, if our girls graduate without other attributes such as compassion for others, commitment to service, resilience, a sense of social justice and wanting to make a difference, then we have failed in our education endeavour.

This edition of De La Vida captures many of our successes. The new Gifted & Talented Program is the feature article and I thank Deputy Principal, Teaching & Learning, Mrs Jennifer Oaten for her efforts and inspiration in establishing this in Years 5 and 7. In 2015 the program will extend from Years 5 through to 8.

The staff at Santa Maria College are committed to provide an extensive Cocurricular Program and a small part of this is reflected in the featured articles.

It is this Co-curricular Program from the four dot points mentioned above that make Santa Maria College a special school.

When I interview new families I comment on the two goals all girls should set when joining the College. These are:

In this Edition... i - Principal’s Message 1 - College News 20 - Community News

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To do your best in the academic offerings at the College. This does not mean being number one or gaining all “A” grades. Instead, it requires doing your personal best.

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To become involved in the College. We believe our co-curricular offerings are essential adjuncts to the academic curriculum. While some girls will wish to play every sport, some will not. We believe there is something for everyone and we ask our students to commit to one of the many co-curricular offerings.

Mr Ian Elder Principal

Contributors A warm thanks to those who helped put this magazine together.

22 - Old Girls’ Association News

Ian Elder

Anne Fisher

Linda Bulloch

Karen Bickerton

Claire Newton

Rosie Barter

Roberta Cowan

Paul Morris

Katja Warwick

Danielle Cattalini

Jennifer Jansen

Michael Fic

Please direct all correspondence to:

Sue McLennan-Atkins

Bee Choo

Vanessa Kiely

De La Vida

Jennifer Oaten

Connie Quattrini

Pauline Agius

Santa Maria College

Helen Chaffer

Amanda Huxtable

Joanne McBride

Tracy Webster

Jillian Landers

Jacqs Harris

Andrea Dopson

Paul Kinsella

Scott Print

Editor: Kimberly Maslin

Shani Andrews

Rebecca Waterhouse

Graphic Design: Kimberly Maslin

Marsha Pengilly

Danielle Spark

Matt Galligan Photography

Email: delavida@santamaria.wa.edu.au

Amber Stieber

Zoe Court

24 - Archives

De La Vida Published each term

Locked Bag 1, Melville, WA 6156 Telephone: +61 8 6330 0200 Facsimile: +61 8 9317 2838

Week 1 of Term 2 marked the launch of Santa Maria College’s first Gifted & Talented Program. Students from Years 5 and 7 applied earlier in the year to be part of the program, gaining entry based on testing as well as information from parents and teachers.

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The Year 5 program, Five Star Fives, got off to a challenging start with the participants working in teams to design and create a straw tower, complete brain games and problem solving strategies and designed a pair of smart glasses. Meanwhile, the Year 7s in the All Star Sevens Program have been involved in a Lego challenge, built domes, problem solved and developed a creative piece.

The enthusiasm of the girls for this program has been wonderful to see, they have built new friendships and developed skills to work effectively in teams. Deputy Principal, Teaching & Learning, Mrs Jennifer Oaten has been responsible for the running of the Gifted & Talented Program, and is impressed with its success so far.

“The energy and enthusiasm the girls bring to our classes is infectious! Every girl will have the opportunity to shine in her area of strength but will also be challenged to attempt a range of activities beyond her comfort zone.”

The launch of the Gifted & Talented Program marks an important step towards developing the young minds of the future, in a challenging and engaging environment. Those who were not successful in gaining a place in the program will be provided with opportunities for extension within teaching and Co-curricular Programs. 2014 is only the beginning, with 2015 seeing the program implemented across Years 5 to 8, with the focus changing each term from STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Maths) to Creative, in order to ensure all students have opportunities in their areas of strength.

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Experiences...

Some participants share their experiences of completing the first of the Gifted & Talented Program challenges....

“My first lesson of the Gifted & Talented Program was fun and exciting as I was able to get to know people I didn’t know before. We did a teamwork activity as well as gain a better understanding of what the program really was.

I can’t wait for our next lesson.”

Maddisyn O’Grady (Year 7, Frayne) “Everything kept our minds thinking, but in a fun way, as the challenges which we thought were easy turned out to be hard.”

Sarah Cain (Year 7, O’Reilly) “I really enjoyed taking part in the Lego ‘quick build’ as it required teamwork, patience and listening to other’s ideas. I can’t wait for our next session.”

Bethany O’Connor (Year 7, O’Donnell) “I had a great time - it was so much fun and it really tested our brains.”

Bijoux Arguijo (Year 5, O’Donnell) “Thrilling and one of the most exciting things ever because of the brain games.”

Amy Roche (Year 5, Dillon) Photo captions

“I think it’s a great way to learn something new, and not something we have already learnt.”

Front Cover: Mrs Jennifer Oaten with participants of the Gifted & Talented Program, photograph by Matt Galligan Photography.

Milah Chanter (Year 5, O’Reilly)

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Year 7 Gifted & Talented Program introductory session.

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Year 7 Gifted & Talented Program, making domes.

De La Vida | Term 2 2014

Pushing the boundaries

College News

College Tours Japanese Tour

Italian Tour

On Thursday 10 April, a number of Japanese students from Years 10 to 12 were dropped off at the Perth Airport. Why? Because we were off to Japan for sixteen days!

Our trip to Italy was amazing! We visited over fifteen cities in sixteen days and had a wonderful time. Our adventure started at Perth Airport on Tuesday 8 April, with twenty-one very excited girls, and ended on Sunday 27 April with our safe arrival home. Our first stop was Rome, where we visited the Vatican Museums and saw the Sistine Chapel. We visited St Peter’s Basilica, the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Spanish Steps, the Pantheon, Piazza Navona and the Trevi Fountain where girls threw money into the fountain to ensure their return to Italy. We also mastered the Rome underground train system, known as ‘la Metro’ and found time to eat some gelato.

During our first week in Japan, we explored many different sides of the amazing culture, such as visiting the beautiful shrines, castles and blooming cherry blossoms. We also observed the bustling cities of Osaka, the amazingly cheap food and the range of shops. Every day of this first week was an experience, travelling around the country a little bit, visiting well known places such as Hiroshima, Osaka, Kyoto and Nara. It was certainly an experience none of us will forget.

After our first week travelling, we arrived back in Tokyo on the bullet train to stay with our host families. This gave us a chance to live the Japanese life, and experience the daily lives of our host families. This last week was as eventful as the first, as we were able to go to a Japanese school for several days, and see what it was like and how it differs from Australian schools. During this time, the exchange students and the host sisters really bonded, to the point that when we were about to leave, there were so many tears!

This was a great experience, and none of us will ever forget the wonderful time we had on the 2014 Japanese Tour!

Alicia Rutigliano (Year 10, de la Hoyde)

Performing Arts Tour The opportunity to go on the Performing Arts Tour to New York was a once in a life time experience! The workshops we participated in were very beneficial, as the concepts we learnt relate to either the Year 11 or 12 Drama course. We went to a variety of workshops, from Laban, which is movement orientated, to a musical theatre workshop where we learnt a song and dance from the Broadway musical Matilda, to an improvisation workshop and a few others. The workshops were all so different from each and were lots of fun.

Going site seeing was great, as we saw lots of different aspects of New York. From the amazing Times Square, busy with people and tall buildings surrounding us, to the very elegant and pretty Greenwich Village, where we saw the famous and very popular “Friends” building.

The 9/11 Memorial was also very significant and the atmosphere was truly unforgettable.

It is safe to say we all celebrated our most memorable Easter, waking up with Easter eggs lined up outside our hotel room door. This was followed

by Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral, which was jam packed with people.

We also went ice skating at the Rockefeller Centre, and it was so much fun to be ice skating outside in the sunshine. In the late afternoon we watched a Broadway show called Of Mice and Men, which starred the famous James Franco, Chris O’Dowd and Leighton Meester. After the show, we were lucky enough to get photos and autographs with the stars which definitely made our day!

Isabella Cammarano (Year 11, Kelly) Photo captions 1.

Attending a Japanese School, Japanese Tour.

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Exploring Italy, Italian Tour.

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Exploring New York, Performing Arts Tour.

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We then moved south to Sorrento and went to Positano, the island of Capri and Pompeii. In Orvieto, among other things, we mastered the art of pasta making, which we then ate for dinner. From Orvieto we went to the world famous Perugina Chocolate factory where we toured the establishment, saw a short film about the company’s history and of course, ate some of the chocolate for which it is famous.

It was then onto Florence and sixteen hours of language classes interspersed with side trips to Siena, Assisi and Pisa. Easter Sunday we watched the Scoppio del Carro (the Explosion of the Cart), an ancient tradition which is held in the Duomo area. We then met up for lunch with students from Mercedes College and in the afternoon went to the Accademia dell’Arte to see Michelangelo’s masterpiece - the Statue of David. In Venice we visited the islands of Murano and Burano. We also visited the Doge’s Palace, St Mark’s Basilica, the Rialto Bridge, the Bridge of Sighs, St Mark’s Square and finally had a gondola ride. The city of Romeo and Juliet, Verona, was next to be explored and Milan followed.

In Milan we visited the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele as well as viewing Da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper.’

We had eaten our way through countless servings of pasta, pizza as well as some gelato. We had taken photos, shopped, seen many monuments and had spoken Italian with the locals. Our mission was accomplished - we had just had the best time away. This trip is one we will remember for many years to come.

Ms Connie Quattrini, Head of Languages

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De La Vida | Term 2 2014

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Photo captions

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College News

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Reaching out...

As usual, our students have been busy giving back to those in the community who are less fortunate than them, this time both locally and globally...

Girls4Girls Education Day This year, Girls4Girls Education Day took place on Thursday 8 May. It is a day in which the fortunate, educated women of Santa Maria College make an effort to raise donations and an awareness about the lack of education for girls around the world.

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This year the money went to the School of St Yared’s in Ethiopia; a school which Ms Huxtable, Director of Performing Arts, has a personal connection with.

The day was a tremendous success and involved activities such as a sausage sizzle, lipstick and nail polish wearing, and teacher karaoke, with moving performances by Mr Morris and the Physical Education Department.

The enthusiasm showed by the girls was amazing, and the Student Leadership Council would like to thank all involved in the day. An event like Girls4Girls Education Day is so important, especially in light of recent events with over 200 Nigerian school girls being abducted for receiving an education.

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We are very proud to announce that the total amount raised for the School of St Yared’s was $2,212.83. This money is greatly needed and will be put to great use at the school.

Amber Withers (Year 12, de la Hoyde), Head Girl

Community Outreach Mass Recently, staff and students of the College showed their generosity towards the many less fortunate people in Perth by participating in the annual Winter Appeal. From tinned food to clothing to toiletries, an amazing amount of donations were collected.

These donations were then presented to representatives from St Patrick’s Outreach Centre Fremantle, Passages, a Youth Drop-in Centre in Northbridge, and The Sisters Place, a place providing night accommodation for homeless women. This presentation occurred at the College Outreach Mass on Thursday 26 June, where the College came together to celebrate in a very fitting way, the 2014 Mercy value of Hospitality.

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Photo Captions 1. PE Staff’s Karaoke performance, Girls4Girls Education Day. 2-3. Girls4Girls Education Day lunchtime activities.

4. Mr Morris’ Karaoke performance, Girls4Girls Education Day. 5. Just Leadership group.

6. Counting the Winter Appeal collection.

7. Refugee Week, lunchtime activities.

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Embracing cultures...

Refugee Week This term, the Social Justice Group planned several activities for Refugee Week, to encourage the school to reflect on the suffering of those who have been forced out of their country and away from their loved ones. We also wanted to encourage the College Community to utilise the resources we have been blessed to have, in order to help our fellow neighbours.

On Thursday 26 June, the group held a Detention Centre Simulation in the Great Court at lunchtime, where students were bound by chicken wire to show the rest of the school the injustice and inhumanity of mandatory detention. During the week we also asked for donations of secondhand mobile phones and their chargers, which will be donated to the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre to distribute to asylum seekers in the community who are desperate to contact loved ones and support services. Finally, on Friday 27 June we sold fairy bread in order to raise funds for asylum seekers. In doing this, the Social Justice Group sought to encourage the students to act in hospitable way, and welcome the asylum seekers and refugees that come to our country in search of safety and a better life.

Jessica Sidi (Year 12, de la Hoyde)

Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week Sorry Day commemorates the anniversary of the 1997 ‘Bringing Them Home’ report. It is a day for all Australians to express sorrow over the forced removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families. It is also a time to focus on ways to move towards reconciliation between non-indigenous and indigenous Australians.

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This year, ten Santa Maria students have played a significant role in commemorating National Sorry Day. Their preparation began on 7 May, when they attended a Just Leadership workshop at John XXIII College, which focused on the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and ways of achieving reconciliation. The workshop brought together students from a range of Perth Catholic Colleges, and gave our students the opportunity to begin brainstorming what activities they would provide at the National Sorry Day gathering on Monday 26 May at Wellington Square, Perth.

Following the workshop, the students met regularly to continue planning their activities for their table at the National Sorry Day gathering. Their activities included allowing attendees to make their own Aboriginal loom bands, paint boomerangs and receive handmade Stolen Generation Hibiscus flowers. The Just Leadership group and 2014 Punmu Immersion Program participants also held a number of Reconciliation Week events in June.

The Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week activities were a great success, and for the Santa Maria students involved, this was an exciting and memorable learning experience that highlighted for them how even the smallest idea can make the biggest change. Year 9 participants, Rose Grier (Corbett), Eve Miller (de la Hoyde) and Darcy Pickett (de la Hoyde) further elaborated, “To us, reconciliation means coming together and asking for forgiveness for what we have done. From this experience, we came away with a want for change, a want to close the gap.

Reconciliation is a slow process, but it’s not impossible and we can achieve it.”

De La Vida | Term 2 2014

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College News

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Daily Grind Over the past few years, Year 10 students studying Food Technology have taken part in a Cafe Culture unit where they have learnt how to use a commercial coffee machine. This unit has generally been taught over the course of one term and students have also prepared a variety of biscuits and cakes and served these, along with coffee to staff. This year as part of the Certificate I in Hospitality, students will be completing a Produce Cakes unit of study, along with the Prepare and Serve Espresso unit, which when completed will contribute to their Certificate I studies. We are hopeful this qualification may assist students in attaining a part time job while furthering their studies or travelling. Much to the delight of staff, the Daily Grind Cafe will run for the remainder of the year to enable a number of student opportunities for Cafe practice over the course of their studies. Hopefully some families may also benefit from the fruits of the girls’ labour!

Mrs Danielle Spark, Head of Home Economics

Theatresports

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Theatresports is a dramatic and engaging way for Houses to compete against one another. It encourages students to think outside the box, improvise and fill the theatre with boundless amounts of energy and entertainment. This year, three competitions were held, one for Year 7, one for Middle School and one for Senior School. Each session started with a workshop, which allowed the students to develop their skills and understand the many weird and wonderful games within the competition, including a rehearsed opening to ‘wow’ the audience and judges. The play offs then took place on a Monday night, which brought with it both excitement and nerves. The competitions brought the house down as all competitors brought their A-game. With many laughs and thunderous applauses, each team put up a great fight for the Theatresports trophy, with Corbett taking out the Year 7 competition, O’Reilly taking out the Middle School competition and O’Donnell winning the Senior School competition. Each girl not only had enormous amounts of fun but developed their improvisation skills and confidence on stage at the same time.

Emily Wilkes (Year 12, Corbett), Performing Arts Captain

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Photo Captions 1. The Daily Grind.

2-3. Senior Interhouse Theatresports Competition.

4. Music Camp.

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Term 2 has been very busy for the Music Department. Each week, over 300 students participate in the Co-curricular Music Program, attending rehearsals each morning of the week and working hard towards each of the various performances that have made this term most successful and rewarding.

Music Eisteddfod The first event of the term was the Annual Music Eisteddfod on Saturday 10 May, where instrumental & vocal students performed in front of an appreciative and supportive audience of friends and family in order to develop confidence in public performance. This is a non-competitive event, with approximately 100 students participating in sessions throughout the day. The standard was excellent and all performers are to be commended.

Mercy Hospital Official Handover On Friday 6 June, members of the Year 11/12 Chorale accompanied Mr Paul Kinsella and Mrs Helen Chaffer at the official handover ceremony at Mercy Hospital, which is now under the management of St John of God Western Australia. The students sang a medley of songs from Godspell and performed beautifully.

Choral Concert Another wonderful evening of performances from each of the Year level Choirs and Chorales was held on Tuesday 17 June. The Choral Concerts are a fantastic opportunity for the Music students to enjoy each other’s performances. The concert had a contemporary music focus with a range of repertoire performed, including works from Elton John, Celtic Woman, The Beatles, Andrew Lloyd Webber, The Script and Abba.

Ensembles Concert The Ensembles Concert, held on Tuesday 24 June, featured performances from each of our instrumental ensembles, including the Concert Band,

String Orchestra, McAuley Concert Band, McMahon String Ensemble, Guitar Ensemble, Flute Quartet, Flute Choir, Saxophone Ensemble and Swing Band. With a fantastic mix of classical, jazz, rock and contemporary repertoire, this was a most entertaining evening.

Music Camp The highlight of the Music calendar is definitely Music Camp, from Thursday 26 to Sunday 29 June. 100 students travelled to New Norcia for four days of rehearsing, concert preparation and of course lots of fun. Students rehearsed for approximately six hours each day, mastering a great deal of repertoire. Each night, entertainment activities were scheduled including the movie night and pyjama party, quiz night, music-themed fashion parade and of course, talent night. We were entertained with all sorts of wonderful skits and performances and most memorably, the Year 12 farewell skit, which commemorated the Year 12s last ever Music Camp. Parents joined us on Sunday morning for the Camp Finale Concert to see what students had been working on, before enjoying a picnic lunch in the lovely grounds of St Gertrude’s College. Thank you to all who attended - in particular the amazing Mums - for making it such a fantastic event.

Piano Students’ Recital The final event for this term was the Piano Recital, featuring performances from the students of Piano Tutor, Mr Tommaso Pollio. The students performed a selection of solo pieces and duets with Mr Pollio, as well as being treated to performances from some special guest performers. It was a most enjoyable recital and a lovely way to end a busy term.

We would like to sincerely thank all parents and students for their support of the Co-curricular Music Program. The standard has again been outstanding and we are really looking forward to next term, as we work towards our biggest event of the year - the Music Showcase.

Mr Paul Kinsella, Director of Music

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De La Vida | Term 2 2014

Music Report

College News

Farewell, Jennifer Naschwitz It is with great sadness that we say farewell to a well-loved teacher and colleague, Mrs Jennifer Naschwitz, who passed away on Saturday 24 May after battling cancer for six months. Mrs Naschwitz was very committed to the students she taught and very passionate about her subject area of Mathematics. Although, undergoing chemotherapy, Mrs Naschwitz continued to teach up until two weeks prior to her death.

As she had with all of her classes throughout her seven years at Santa Maria College, Mrs Naschwitz nurtured the Years 7 and 8 students this year to develop a love for mathematics. She taught the girls through life experiences, humour and with an appreciation of each student’s individual learning style. Her students were always confident and never seemed to be fearful of making mistakes. They always strived in a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.

As a colleague she was a wonderful team member, always sharing resources, helping others out and leaving no stone unturned to solve a problem. Her love for life brought a positive vibe to all who worked with her. As one of her Mathematics colleagues stated, “I will remember Jen for her Dr Who ringtone, the many recipes that she baked for us and then shared, and her funny stories that often led to much amusement with the department often

at her own expense!”

Mrs Naschwitz was a very caring Homeroom teacher, who enthused in her girls the attitude to give everything a go. This was very evident during Interhouse Carnivals when she had the girls working their hardest for O’Reilly House.

As a College Community we have sadness in our hearts, but have wonderful memories to sustain us. We offer our prayers and condolences to her family, husband Winfried and three children, Alistair, Ingrid and Daniel.

“Eternal rest, grant unto her Lord and let perpetual light shine upon her.

Through the mercy of God, may she rest in peace. Amen.”

Mrs Helen Chaffer, Deputy Principal, Mission

Teach Like a Champion!

We are blessed to have a community of teachers who take responsibility for their own professional learning and are committed to improving their classroom practice to benefit student learning and this has been demonstrated throughout Term 2.

On 30 May teaching staff participated in a morning workshop titled ‘Teach Like a Positive Champion,’ in which they explored some selected teaching strategies introduced to staff earlier in the year at the Mercy Wellbeing Conference. In response to interest generated among staff regarding these strategies, a group formed to trial a selection of techniques with their students. The purpose of the morning’s session was to share and illustrate these strategies being used in teachers’ classrooms across a variety of learning areas. The workshop presented a wonderful opportunity for colleagues to share their knowledge and expertise with each other as our own teaching staff, some of whom were filmed on camera demonstrating these strategies with their classes, facilitated the entire morning. This in itself was an excellent and relevant professional learning experience, an effective example of colleagues learning from each other. Special acknowledgement goes to the following staff who were instrumental in making the morning’s workshop a success: •

Miss Pauline Agius

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Ms Jennifer Jansen

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Mrs Helen Chaffer

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Mrs Leana Martin

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Ms Mary Pat Charlton

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Mrs Jilly Landers

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Mrs Zoe Court

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Ms Sam Rees

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Mrs Jennifer Oaten

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Ms Erin Rolfe

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Ms Jacqs Harris

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Mrs Simone Sawiris

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Ms Kirsten Hatch

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Mr Iain Zucaro

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Mrs Tania Hicks

For more information on Teach Like a Champion strategies see http://teachlikeachampion.com/.

An ongoing focus for the College in recent years with regards to professional learning is developing the leadership capacity of our staff, particularly Heads of Learning Area, as these leaders have a crucial role in delivering improved teaching and learning outcomes at the College. The Australian Teacher Performance & Development Framework establishes that school leaders have a responsibility to focus on the factors that need to be in place for an effective performance and development culture to flourish – a culture where feedback among colleagues is valued, teachers are encouraged to actively reflect and improve their practice and conversations on what constitutes effective teaching is common place.

The College has engaged the services of Growth Coaching International to facilitate a Leadership Program for Heads of Learning Area and members of the College Management Team. The aim of this program is that these staff develop their own leadership and coaching skills in order to develop others in their growth as teachers and future leaders. Thus far, staff have participated in a workshop designed to understand their own DISC personality style and how to use their style to greater effect when interacting with others as well as an introduction to coaching workshop where they have begun practicing their coaching skills using the GROWTH coaching model. Day 2 to be held in September will explore these skills further, following which, participants will use their coaching ability on a regular basis with their staff into the future, particularly in the context of teacher reviews due to commence in 2015.

Mrs Shani Andrews, Head of Professional Learning

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De La Vida | Term 2 1 2014

Year 11 Outdoor Education Sea Trek It was Term 1 Week 10 and we were ready to set off on our four day, three night Sea Trek adventure! We were extremely excited, yet apprehensive to sail the high seas and explore the South West coastline.

Our first afternoon was spent revisiting our capsize drills, witnessing a real ‘log on’ to the Water Police and cruising along the river. We had a slumber party on our first night at the Marine Education Boatshed, planned our expedition and movements for the following day, and laughed a lot while playing our first game for the trip.

On Wednesday 9 April we awoke from our slumber at 6.30 am to cook breakfast and participate in our final briefing for the trip. We were skippering six boats in total including the ‘Sea Trek Support Boat’ where Miss Barter kicked up her heels and Guy (our boating leader) led the way with his music blaring and dance moves rocking!

While we were thrilled with the amazing weather, the lack of wind meant that we had to motor our boats for Day 1. We mastered a perfect synchronised turn at the Fremantle Heads and Miss Barter was very proud of our skippering! We were then off to Carnac Island where we anchored, swam alongside some friendly yet feisty seals, and snorkelled. From Carnac, we motored to Entrance Point on Garden Island for lunch and a swim. It was

here where we were first able to show off our bow-stern anchoring skills, and again, Miss Barter was ticking away at our Certificate II assessments and was very pleased with our progress. It was then time to make our way to our campsite for the night – Woodman Point.

The next day was spent sailing to John Point for a lunch break then circumnavigating Garden Island. Sailing our boats was a challenge and a lot slower than motoring! Many girls experienced bad seasickness and resorted to hanging their head over the boat. We learnt a lot about reading the wind and manoeuvring our vessels. We then skippered our way through the navigational leads and anchored at Pig Trough Bay for some more snorkelling and a team building activity. It was then time to head back to our campsite.

Our final day was filled with many adventures; sailing, jumping and sliding off a pontoon, snorkelling through a shipwreck and mooring at Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour for fish and chips! We also learnt how to recover a ‘man overboard’ while sailing, which was a very difficult task.

We learnt a great deal about boating practices, sailing, camp craft and tolerance of others and feel privileged to have been involved in such an amazing experience.

Kayla Ferraz (Year 11, de la Hoyde), Yale Steinepreis (Year 11, de la Hoyde) & Miss Rosie Barter, Outdoor Education Coordinator

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College News

Learning beyond the classroom Northbridge Food Tour 1

On Thursday 8 May, eight Year 11 and 12 students from the 1A/1B Food Technology class set off to Northbridge for a fun-filled afternoon of eating and exploring the culinary delights that our city has to offer. We partook in a Wandering Wok Tours, beginning with William Street, the home of Asian cuisine in Perth. We went to bakeries, fruit and vegetable markets and butchers, who were offering such delicacies as pig’s trotter, tripe and blood. A favourite destination for all of the girls was the local fish monger, where the owner was more than happy to scoop up a big, fat, fresh caught eel straight from the tank for us all to see and touch. After leaving the Asian area of Northbridge, we headed to the Italian area, where we explored more supermarkets and butchers, some of which had been family owned and operated for over three generations. At the Re Store we immersed ourselves in the European food culture, sampling German gingerbread and other delicious goodies. The day was enjoyed by all despite the horrible weather. I encourage all girls to take up this opportunity in Year 11 or 12 Food, as it is a fulfilling experience to explore new cultures and learn about the gastronomy of our city and beyond.

Anna Tills (Year 12, O’Donnell)

Meet the Business Leader Students from Santa Maria attended the Meet the Business Leader annual event that was held at the Perth Convention Centre in the month of May. The event enabled students and teachers to gain exposure to the large variety of career opportunities available in the business arena while also hearing first-hand accounts from business leaders of what it is like to work in their role. Students and teachers participated in discussions with four different leaders and listened to presentations from keynote speakers.

Mr Michael Fic, Technologies & Commerce Teacher

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Flight Experience On 3 June our Year 10 Applied Science class took an adventure to Flight Experience in Northbridge. When we arrived we were greeted by a former pilot, who talked to us about the purpose of the simulator and its functions. We went into the simulator in small groups and were introduced to the cockpit, where we learnt how the gadgets worked which enabled the plane to take off, fly and land. We then had an opportunity to take the yoke and steer the plane through the skies of Sydney. It was a very exhilarating and informative experience and very different to anything we had ever done before.

Brianna Della-Bona (Year 10, Byrne) & Emily Biondillo (Year 10, Kelly)

Gravity Discovery Centre On Thursday 11 June, the Year 8 Science Quest class, along with Miss Kiely and Mr McKeown, went to the Gravity Discovery Centre in Gin Gin. What beheld us was a fun-filled day as we experimented and explored the fascinating world of astronomy and physics. The day was highlighted by dropping water balloons off a the Leaning Tower of Gin Gin (a 45m high structure that is tilted at exactly 15˚), launching rockets filled with gunpowder and playing with what was essentially a giant blow drier. We learnt about the fabric of space time, black holes and the science behind optical illusions.

Everything about this excursion was super-sized, from the thirteen-storey-high Leaning Tower of Gin Gin, to the height the launched rockets reached, to the amount of knowledge gained by attending this unique excursion, and finally to the amount of indigestion experienced after our shared lunch. Needless to say, this excursion is definitely a mind-blowing and hair-raising one, and if any Santa Maria students get the opportunity to attend it in the future then they definitely should.

Eva Cocks (Year 8, O’Reilly)

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Quilting Exhibition

On 4 June, sixy-two Humanities & Social Sciences students from History and Global Studies packed onto a bus headed for an adventure through the history of the World Wars. Once arriving at the War Museum in Fremantle, we met with our tour guides and headed on our way to the various exhibitions of World War I, World War II, the making of the Kokoda Track, the Western Front, effects the war had on Australia, the Korean War and through to our modern day wars. Each room we entered took us back to a time of war and our tour guides filled our minds with knowledge and an insight to what life was like during these periods. We were overwhelmed when we stepped into a replica of the trenches our brave soldiers would have called home during World War I.

On 19 May, our Textiles class attended the Quilting Exhibition in Moore’s Building, Fremantle. We were greeted by Ms Jan Mullen, whose quilting studio we had been fortunate enough to visit a few weeks earlier. She introduced us to Ms Di Roberts, who explained to us her involvement with the School of St Yared’s in Ethiopia. We learnt that the money raised from the Quilting Exhibition was put towards improving the quality of their school and education. After Di had briefly explained the process of auctioning off the quilts, we explored the rooms of the Moore’s Building, and were intrigued by the variety of quilting styles lining the walls. We wished we could have spent longer admiring the incredible quilts, but sadly our time at the exhibition had come to an end. Attending the exhibition was a great opportunity for us to view quilts made by professionals, and the experience gave us a great insight into the many quilts we could assemble ourselves.

Shortly after attending the exhibition we started producing quilts of our own, taking lots of inspiration from Jan and the quilting experiences she shared with us.

Every room was filled with artefacts, old helmets, coins, guns, boots, letters and medals. We learnt the significance of being awarded the Victoria Cross medal, and our hearts were filled with pride for the soldiers who showed bravery and camaraderie in times of war.

One of the more exiting rooms that caught everyone’s attention was the walk through diorama, showing what life was like as a Prisoner of War, the lifelike models showed the gruesome treatment of those who were held captive. Our tour ended with some dress-ups, in which we were able to try on replica uniforms worn by World War I and World War II soldiers.

The day ended as a success, sixty-two girls boarded the bus back to school with knowledge of their past and pride for their country. We all benefited from this excursion not only to consolidate our learning in the classroom but also taught us a lot more about war.

Akeela Sharp-Nippierd (Year 10, de la Hoyde)

Emma Portlock (Year 10, Kelly) & Sara Becker (Year 10, O’Reilly)

Fremantle Literature Centre A little story about big things Driving through a set of gates is very different to just driving down a road. Even though the gates are not locked, there is still a feeling that you are escaping. Add sunshine and the familiar sound of girls laughing and chatting and you will have recreated the atmosphere of our Year 8 Language excursion. We were headed for the Literature Centre in Fremantle and our spirits were high.

We arrived to a set of locked gates, with their own dramatic history, as the Literature Centre is based in what used to be the Fremantle Prison Hospital. The limestone building, like many architectural treasures, has been remodeled to play an artistic, cultural role in the arty Fremantle we know today. Yet, strangely, the past is forever present. The girls were fascinated by the imposing backdrop of the old Fremantle Prison, a stark contrast with the beauty that was waiting within.

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Our Year 8 Language class participated in a wonderful writers’ workshop that explored the visual and textual elements of The Tree, a picture book

by Danny Parker and Matt Ottley. The original artworks lined the walls of the Literature Centre, giving students the opportunity to read the story initially, using only the visual elements. Ottley and Parker refer to the book as their “little story about big things,” a simple tale of a tree and a sapling, representing themes such as the cycle of life, the turn of seasons, and the survival of the fittest.

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Considering our setting, it seemed a poignant reminder of the past.

A shared morning tea on the grass in the sunshine, was an appropriate way to end our visit. In a world of gadgetry, SnapChat, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, our visit to the Literature Centre was a reminder that, like the buildings of the past, our bond with books endures.

Mrs Jacqs Harris, English Teacher Photo Captions 1-2. Year 8 Gravity Discovery Centre excursion, Gin Gin. 3. Year 10 Humanities & Social Sciences excursion, Fremantle War Museum.

4. Year 11 & 12 Food excursion, Northbridge.

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De La Vida | Term 2 2014

Fremantle War Museum

College News

Running for a reason

Fremantle Eisteddfod

The Boarding Community was recently involved in the annual HBF Run for a Reason, forming a team dedicated to the memory of former boarder, Laura Gray. The team was organised by former Santa Maria College boarder, Hayley Pettit (Class of 2013), and consisted of past and present boarders, staff and members of the wider College Community. Sunday 25 May saw the competitors lined up and ready to go at Gloucester Park, where they enthusiastically took part in the 12km track event. This has been a highlight event on the Boarding calendar for a number of years, and is seen as a way to give back to the community while at the same time keeping the memory of Laura alive. Many fundraising events were held in the lead up to the race, including a cake stall, a high tea for former boarders, two film nights and a social. In total, the Boarding Community raised $4,373 through these events, and the total for the ‘SMC for Laura’ team was an incredible $12,896.445, all of which will be donated to Diabetes WA.

Santa Maria College excelled at the Fremantle Eisteddfod this year, with the following students receiving a place for their performances:

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Claudia D’Silva (Year 5, O’Donnell): 1st place, U10s Vocal Solo Recital

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Celine Ng (Year 6, Frayne): 1st place, U13s String Solo Recital, 2nd place, U13s String Solo, Credit, U13s Piano Solo Recital

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Bethany O’Connor (Year 7, O’Donnell): 3rd place, U13s Instrumental Solo Recital

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Sinead Smithies (Year 8, Dillon): 2nd place, 3rd grade Instrumental Solo, 2nd place, U15s Ensemble Duet Recital

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Madison Trench (Year 8, Frayne): Credit, U15s Instrumental Solo Recital, 2nd place, U15s Ensemble Duet Recital

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Fioline Oetomo (Year 8, Corbett): mark of 86, Piano Solo Classical Grade 7

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Maddison Moulin (Year 11, O’Donnell): 3rd place, Piano Solo Classical Grade 7

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Atwell Youth Art Awards

Australian Geography Competition

Santa Maria College achieved excellent results at the recent Atwell Youth Art Awards. Monique Chiari (Year 12, O’Donnell), Millie Charlton (Year 12, Frayne), Sarah-Rose Sharp (Year 12, Dillon), Rowena Cunningham (Year 10, Byrne), Rachel Hobbs (Year 10, Byrne) and Amelia Hetman (Year 7, Frayne) each received an award for their artwork, and the Year 9 group won the award for the Best Collaborative Work. Santa Maria College was the overall school winner, having received the most awards.

The Australian Geography Competition is an Australian-wide one involving over 70,000 students. Each year the competition tests participant’s geographical skills and knowledge. This year Santa Maria College performed exceptionally well, with Lucy Franklin (Year 12, Frayne) and Kristen Twine (Year 11, Frayne) receiving High Distinctions, along with four other students receiving Distinctions and thirteen students receiving Credits. Geography is an important subject to develop in students a real understanding of the complex social and environmental interactions happening in the world around them.

Photo Captions 1.

Presentation from Diabetes WA to acknowledge the efforts of the HBF Run for a Reason team.

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Some HBF Run for a Reason participants.

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We would like to acknowledge and congratulate the following students on their various achievements: Isabella Pacella (Year 6, O’Donnell), who was selected to compete in the 2014 Australian Karate Open Championships in Sydney during April.

Hannah Sullivan (Year 6, de la Hoyde), who was selected to compete in the 2014 Australian Open Karate Championships in Sydney during April. Hannah has also been selected as part of the Australian team to compete at the USA Open and Junior International Cup in Las Vegas.

Aimee Kunnen (Year 9, Corbett), who was offered a place in the STEPS Youth Dance Company’s rendition of Fights and Flights which was performed at the Heath Ledger Theatre during May. Abbey Grosse (Year 11, O’Donnell), Gabriella French (Year 10, Corbett), Sofia Chaves (Year 11, O’Reilly), Bronte Barber (Year 10, O’Reilly) and Sofie Pontre (Year 10, Dillon), who were selected to represent Western Australia in the 2014 State Water Polo team, competing in the National Schools Championship in the Sunshine Coast during June, where they came home with the Bronze medal.

Marnie Kennedy (Year 7, O’Reilly), who achieved fantastic results at the Synchronised Swimming National Championships in Brisbane earlier this year and went onto represent Australia in the Oceania Championships in New Zealand during May, where her combination team received the Bronze Medal. Marnie has also been selected to attend a training camp at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra.

Amy Kinsman (Year 9, Dillon), who won the state championship for rhythmic gymnastics last year and who was selected for the National Clubs Aussie All Stars competition held in Melbourne during June.

Kathleen Sullivan (Year 12, Dillon), who competed in the Australian National Springboard and Platform Diving Competition in Melbourne during April and received Silver in the syncro event.

Lily Gresele (Year 8, Frayne), who has been selected to attend an advanced camp at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra during June.

Olivia Di Iorio (Year 8, Corbett), who competed in the Surf Lifesaving State Championships and won Silver in the beach relay event, and placed fourth in her other two events.

Yale Steinepreis (Year 11, de la Hoyde), who has

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been selected for the Australian team for the Olympic Hopes Tour in Slovakia, and will attend a training camp in Sydney during June and tour Slovakia in August.

Lauren Bright (Year 11, Frayne), who has been invited to compete in the Prestigious Royal South Street Calisthenics Championships held in Ballarat, Victoria during October.

Kara Broadbridge (Year 7, Frayne) and Brooke Pensini (Year 9, Frayne), who have been selected to represent Western Australia in the 2014 State Swimming team and will compete in the National Schools Championships in Melbourne during July.

Brooke Maricic (Year 7, Dillon), Alicia Maricic (Year 7, Dillon) and Rosie Lehane (Year 7, de la Hoyde), who have been selected to represent Western Australia in soccer and will compete in the National Youth Championships in Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, during July.

Zane Sicree (Year 9, O’Reilly), who was selected to represent Australia in sailing at the Singapore Nationals at the end of May. McKenzie Parsons (Year 9, Kelly), who has been chosen to represent Western Australia in soccer, competing in Singapore during late October.

Jayde Halvorson (Year 10, Dillon), who has been selected to represent Western Australia in the Swimming National Championships held in Melbourne during July.

Alexandra Talero Solorza (Year 10, Corbett), Sophia Savaris (Year 9, de la Hoyde) and Brooklyn Ballard (Year 9, de la Hoyde), who have been selected in the Callisthenics Association of Western Australia’s State Team for 2014. They will be competing at the Australian Callisthenics Federation National Championships in Victoria during July.

Abbey Fowler (Year 11, Dillon), who has made it to the final ten of the Travel Writer’s Competition.

Danielle Bailly (Year 11, Byrne) and Taylor Donati (Year 11, de la Hoyde), who have been accepted into the Focus on Mining Camps at Curtin University five-day scholarship camp during July.

Sachi de Graaf (Year 9, Frayne), who was selected to compete in the Dance Sport National Championships held at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra during June.

Annie Gibbs (Year 11, Kelly), who has been selected to represent Western Australia in the 2014 state Hockey 16s team, and will compete in the National Schools Championships in Adelaide, South Australia during August.

De La Vida | Term 2 2014

Student Achievements

Junior School News

Head of Junior School’s Message

Year 6 Camp

Life in the Junior School continues at a frenetic pace and this term saw the start of several new programs.

We were all so excited for the next three days ahead - Year 6 camp!

It took one and a half hours by bus to get there, and everyone was so excited. Once we arrived we all unpacked our things and made our beds in our dorms, then we were ready to start the first activity!

Some of the Year 5 students commenced work with Mrs Jennifer Oaten, Deputy Principal, Teaching & Learning, in the Gifted & Talented Program. They have looked at problem solving strategies, using Edward de Bono’s Creative Thinking Hats, and been challenged to think in new and abstract ways.

The Year 5 classes are also trying a new mathematics regime. The students from the three Homerooms have been placed into four groups and a teacher works with each group to address the mathematical needs specific to each group. The staff feel this system will have positive benefits for the students and the girls are certainly enjoying the challenges and successes of their placements.

Future Problem Solving Twelve Year 6 students are working with Mrs Andrea Dopson on Future Problem Solving. This International program focuses on the development of creative thinking skills. In particular, it centres on the skills of problem identification and positive solutions to those problems. Above all, it aims to give young people the skills to design and promote positive futures for the society in which they live. This term the students have investigated Social Isolation, Desertification of the World’s Natural Resources and Surveillance Society.

IPSHA Winter Games Both Year 5 and Year 6 students have been involved in preparation for the IPSHA (Independent Primary School Heads Association) Winter Games.

This year the games have a new format and the students selected a sport from soccer, netball, hockey or cricket. On the day of the Winter Games the girls were transported to Matthews Netball Oval in Jolimont or playing fields in Yokine for coaching and the opportunity to play their chosen sport against a number of teams from Independent girls schools around Perth. The weather is often seasonally inclement but the girls showed a great determination to enjoy themselves.

Foreign Film Festival The students were given an opportunity to spend time watching a foreign film during the recent festival. The members of the College Cultural Committee, lead by Ophelia Schilizzi (Year 12, de la Hoyde), arranged for the screening of a Japanese animated film after school in the MacKillop Building. The girls enjoyed sharing time together under their blankets and with their pillows on the occasion.

Mrs Andrea Dopson

One of the exciting activities we all participated in was archery. The instructors gave us a brief lesson and then we started the game. A few people managed to get a bulls eye! At the end, we finished with two fun competitions; one where we had to pop a balloon on the target with an arrow and one game of trying to shoot your arrow the furtherest.

Everyone had a great time.

One of the most adrenalin inducing activities was definitely the abseiling.

We arrived at the 10m tall tower we were about to abseil down. We met our instructor Scotty who showed us how to put on our harnesses, how to climb the ladder up to the top with the safety clip on and how to abseil down. When he was doing the demonstration he showed us what to do and what not to do. He jumped off and was doing 360s, he made it look so simple. The first girls were selected and they got geared up.

At the top you had to lean backwards while letting the rope slide slowly through your hands, then you had to set a slow pace while walking your first few steps. Then you could do your own thing. Many girls were jumping and doing 360s while others were just walking it down. For many of the Year 6 students, this was their first time abseiling and I am sure they will never forget the moment when they first started leaning backwards onto the 10m tall tower.

Another activity we did was the confidence course. It was all about confidence, overcoming fears, teamwork and having fun! We did all sorts of things, such as walking up ascending logs and making our way across the tire swings. We also climbed over a tall wall, where most girls made it over but some needed the teamwork help. Once we reached the end of the course we realised we had to crawl in the mud underneath a net and try to make it to the other side as quick as possible. After we finished the course we had some spare time, so we went swimming in the nearby dam. It was a once in a lifetime experience and we all had so much fun.

Bike riding was a fun experience, which allowed all seventy-five of the Year 6s to get into nature and enjoy it. Finally, the flying fox, which was 6m from the ground! We had to climb up a ladder to get to the top. I really enjoyed the flying fox the most because it made me face my fear of heights.

Camp was very enjoyable and I wish we could go back. I hope Year 7 Camp is just as much fun!

Jasmine Chow (Year 6, Byrne), Sophie Kelly (Year 6, Corbett), Emily Cleaver (Year 6, de la Hoyde), Meg Hebiton (Year 6, Dillon), Olivia von Bertouch (Year 6, Frayne), Tehya Conroy (Year 6 Kelly), Charlotte Scurry (Year 6, O’Donnell) & Alyssa Spinella (Year 6,

Head of Junior School Photo captions 1. Year 6 Future Problem Solving Program.

2-6. Year 6 Camp.

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De La Vida | Term 2 2014

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Middle School News

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Head of Middle School’s Message The Pastoral Care Program in Middle School is based on developing the wellbeing of our students. The main focus is developing relationships, that is relationship with self and relationship with others, both peers and adults in the College. This building of relationships is facilitated in all manner of age appropriate creative activities put together by the Heads of Year. I hope every girl in Middle School, through participating in these programs, is feeling that they belong, are exploring new friendships and are striving to be the best friend possible to all.

Mrs Tracy Webster

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Head of Middle School

Year 7 This term in Pastoral Care Time all Year 7s have been actively participating in a program designed to encourage them to try eight different activities. These activities are completed as a Homeroom group and provide the girls with many opportunities to build on existing skills and strengthen relationships.

The beginning of Year 7 can be a very busy and stressful time as the girls settle into Middle School and adjust to change. Although it is very important our Pastoral Care Program develops teamwork, communication, friendships, conflict resolution and values, it is also extremely important to teach the girls to have balance in their lives. Therefore, the focus of this term in Pastoral Care Time has been learning through play. This program encourages the girls to try something new, relax, laugh, share stories and spend time together. During this program the girls have created a change the world mural, made God’s eyes, friendship bracelets, kites and put together a Homeroom theme song. They have participated in the ‘Seek and You Shall Find’ Santa Maria Race, battled it out in the Minute to Win it arena and brightened other people’s day during their random acts of kindness.

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I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all Year 7s for their enthusiastic approach to this program and their willingness to try new things. I would also like to thank the Year 7 Homeroom Teachers for making this program such an enjoyable experience for the girls and for supporting them throughout the term.

Ms Amber Stieber, Head of Year 7

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Year 8 The Year 8s have been following a wonderful program where they look at their own health and wellbeing. This includes looking at their happiness, confidence, physical condition as well as their outlook on life.

The activities covered are aimed at explaining how important it is to take care of yourself in today’s busy life. Some of the activities include Zumba, making stress balls and meditation. The students and their Homeroom Teachers have participated enthusiastically in this program to learn more about themselves.

Mrs Anne Fisher, Head of Year 8

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Year 9 Throughout Term 2, Year 9s have participated in many fun events including the Year 9 Social and Strive9 Program. On the Friday 16 May, Year 9s attended a social with Aquinas College. The night included a DJ, colourful lights bouncing off the walls, balloons, a drink with pizza and loads of fun. There was nonstop dancing and when the night concluded no one wanted to leave.

Also during this term, the Year 9s have continued with their Strive9 project.

In Homerooms we decided on an organisation we want to work with and have been brainstorming many ideas on how to help this organisation and what can be done on the Implementation Day. Throughout this task we have also been faced with many challenges, such as finding an organisation we can work with, finding transport to the location of the organisation and communicating with people in the community.

By working as a Homeroom with everyone contributing, we have been overcoming most of these difficulties one by one. We look forward to continuing our projects next term.

Sophie Trebley (Year 9, Kelly)

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Photo Captions

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Year 9 Social.

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Year 9 Social.

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Year 8 fun on the oval.

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Working on the Strive9 Project.

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Working on the Strive9 Project.

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Year 8 fun on the oval.

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Year 8s making stressballs.

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Year 7 Ancient Greece Day.

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De La Vida | Term 2 2014

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Senior School News

Year 10 Pasta Night

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The Year 10 Pasta Night was held at Tompkins on Swan on Monday 28 April and was a great way to start the term. It was a very relaxed and informal get together for Year 10 boarder and day parents, students and staff. The food was delicious and it proved to be a very enjoyable evening. Parents were able to meet new friends and enjoy the company of their daughters. The girls completed four rounds of quiz questions with some great prizes. A special thank you to Mrs Elizabeth Portlock and Mrs Nicola Halvorson for decorating the tables in an Italian theme and for selecting the music.

Mrs Claire Newton, Head of Year 10

Year 10 Careers Day This term Year 10 students participated in two half days of activities, each with a particular focus designed to prepare students for selection of Course Pathways for either ACCESS or ATAR in Year 11. Mrs Jennifer Oaten presented informative sessions that detailed the course selection procedure and also gave the opportunity for students in the workshop activities to further refine their ideas on what would be their most suitable course pathway. Past students from both ATAR and ACCESS pathways were invited back to discuss their experiences and their resulting career choice. It was a highlight of the morning to hear from such a wide range of successful students and career women on how life after Santa Maria had resulted in fulfilling and exciting career and job opportunities. A panel of current Year 11 and 12 students, along with Mr Ian Elder and Mrs Jennifer Oaten, provided personal accounts about what makes a good student, and how choosing the right pathway in life is important for success and well being in the future.

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Students who took part in Ms Jasmine Iasky’s session listened to a variety of staff members discuss their career journeys such as Mrs Sarah Peet’s story about working as an engineer, Miss Susannah Haeusler working in a Pharmacy and Mr Benjamin Court travelling the world for five years and working in a variety of jobs before choosing teaching as his vocation. Students also completed a workbook on ‘My Career Match’ report, which was designed to help students analyse their strengths and personality styles and match them to careers that would suit them best.

The Parent Information Evening on Wednesday night included presentations from Mrs Jennifer Oaten on Course Pathways for Year 11 and Mrs Carol Bell’s outline of academic, pastoral and cocurricular expectations for Senior School. These talks were followed by subject displays from each Learning Area with specialist teachers available to discuss courses and entry requirements with parents and students. It was an excellent opportunity for students and parents to collect information and discuss in detail courses with staff who will be teaching the Year 11 Courses of Study. It was very well attended and feedback from the students was positive with many commenting that it gave them the information they needed to help guide their choices in course selection for next year. Every Year 10 student will have an individual appointment with one of the College Course Counsellors in Term 3 to make their final choice for Year 11.

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Mrs Claire Newton, Head of Year 10

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Year 12 Mother Daughter Breakfast

On Friday 2 May, the Year 11s left school at 2.30 pm to begin preparations for the long night ahead, that was to be the Year 11 Dinner Dance.

The annual Year 12 Mother Daughter Breakfast was held on Sunday 8 June at the Fremantle Sailing Club. More than an opportunity to get dressed up, the morning was about celebrating the wonderful and unique relationship we share with one of the most important people in our lives, our mums. The morning was filled with incredible joy and emotion, along with an immense sense of pride from all mums as they saw their daughters as not only beautiful young women, but also adults about to leave their childhood and enter into a completely new stage of life.

Upon our arrival at the Fremantle Sailing Club, we introduced our dates to Mr Elder and Mr Morris, who were waiting to greet us in the foyer. The night then began with mocktails, introductions and endless compliments from one another about how beautiful we all looked.

Once everyone had arrived, we took our seats and were then invited to the buffet. After a selection of food that pleased everyone’s likings, the party truly began! Tables were moved, the lights were dimmed and the music started playing. The remainder of the evening consisted of many embracing the ‘models within’ and having photos taken whilst others escaped from the noise and enjoyed the view from the balcony; until dessert came! Before we knew it, the night had come to an end, leaving us with many great memories.

The night proved to be a success, having been the first social where we could invite our own partners and had more time to prepare for the night. All the girls looked stunning from the makeup to the dress and from the hair to the shoes. The boys also scrubbed up pretty well, looking very handsome in their suits. The night was one to remember which leaves us excited for what awaits for the Year 12 Ball.

Olivia Tamigi (Year 11, Kelly) & Maria-José Soto (Year 11, O’Donnell)

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The tone of the morning was notably nostalgic as mothers reminisced on years passed and how their girls had ‘all grown up.’ A highlight of the morning was an incredibly moving speech from former Santa Maria student, Marina Spence (Formentin, Class of 1984), who spoke of the remarkable and unbreakable bond between mother and daughter and the love that exists within this unique relationship. Media Captain, Samantha Kerrigan (Year 12, Frayne), brought laughter to the special occasion with a slideshow of adorable photos from each guest, acknowledging the memories each mother has had with their girl. Tears began flowing, as letters of love and appreciation each girl had written for their mum were presented.

Not only was this special morning a time of celebrating our Year 12 Community, but it was also a time to thank our mothers for the special role they play in our lives, a role which may never be taken by anybody else. A special mention to mothers Mrs Elizabeth Wilkes, Ms Tracey Lim, Mrs Janine Banks and Mrs Sandra Chester, for organising this memorable day, along with Mrs Louise Anderson who created the stunning table centrepieces for the morning. All the mothers and daughters will cherish the laughter and tears which were experienced, for years to come.

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Photo Captions 1. Year 12 Mother Daughter Breakfast.

2. Year 10 Pasta Night.

3. Year 12 Mother Daughter Breakfast.

4. Year 10 Careers Day. 5-6. Year 11 Dinner Dance.

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De La Vida | Term 2 2014

Year 11 Dinner Dance

Community News

Parent Council Chair’s Message

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I would like to extend a warm welcome to Mr Rui Fernandes and Mr John Robertson who have both joined the Parent Council as General Members, the Parent Council now has a full quorum of members.

After receiving wish lists from both College staff and students, we have been deep in discussion as to what the Parent Council levy will be funding for 2014. A final decision is to be made shortly and will be announced soon.

Over the past few years the Parent Council Levy has significantly benefited past and present students and indeed the wider College Community with the addition of a school bus, directional signage around the College, including an illuminated piece of art work signage and cushioned bench seats in the Mercy Building.

More recently the Parent Council assisted the Rock Ya Socks Off music event with a donation towards the staging.

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Our Santa Assist ladies have been cooking up meals to support some families within our College Community. This wonderful act of giving has been greatly appreciated by the families – knowing they are cared for and supported by those around them. We continue to pray for those in our College who are facing difficult times. Our annual Mother’s Retreat was held in May and proved a lovely day for relaxation, refreshment, and fellowship - our 2014 Mercy value of Hospitality was explored. We had a record numbers attend our joint event with Aquinas College, indicating we all need time out to refresh our spirits, reconnect with others and learn about the wonderful opportunities outside our own frantically busy lives.

With the help of so many wonderful volunteers the Parent Network have assisted College run events and been able to offer service, friendship and hospitality. With the assistance of Mrs Karen Bickerton, Community Relations Coordinator, friendship lists have been circulated throughout all Year groups, encouraging communication between parents. Various Year group gatherings at morning teas, dinners, bowling evenings, roller skating and picnics have been held, these are always great events for catching up with old friends and meeting new people.

Keep an ear out as we will be calling upon our fabulous bakers and volunteers to assist with the Athletics Carnival in August and the College Showcase weekend in September.

Earlier this term the Mozzies ran their annual Father Daughter Walk to School Morning, which was extremely successful, with more dads attending than last year! They also held another successful Years 7 to 12 Father Daughter camp late in Term 1.

I would like to invite the College Community to please contact me should you have any queries or suggestions for the Parent Council by contacting Mrs Karen Bickerton T: 6330 0230 or E: bickerton.karen@santamaria.wa.edu.au.

Mrs Sue McLennan-Atkins Chair, Parent Council

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Mother’s Day Mass with Year 7s

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On Thursday 8 May approximately 200 mothers attended Mass in the College Chapel to celebrate Mother’s Day with Father Mark Payton of the Bateman Parish. They were joined by the Year 7 cohort and their daughters from other Year groups. Upon arrival, each mother received a corsage hand-made by the Year 7s. Following Mass, the mothers were treated to morning tea in the Mercy Community Room, served by the Year 9 student leaders. The mothers also supported the Student Leadership Council’s Girls4Girls Education Day initiative by purchasing raffle tickets for pamper hamper, raising a total of $250.

Mozzie Trailer The Mozzies recently put out a call to the dads to see if anyone could help with some repairs on the Mozzie trailer. Mr Steven DellaBona came forward and offered to do it up and carry out some repairs. He has done a fabulous job, branding and repainting it at no cost to the Parent Council. We thank him for the maintenance of this trailer as it will be of great benefit to the Mozzies.

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Photo Captions 1.

Father Daughter Walk to School Morning.

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Mother’s Retreat.

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Mother’s Day Mass.

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Mother’s Day morning tea.

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Father Daughter Camp.

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Mozzie Van.

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Father Daughter Camp.

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De La Vida | Term 2 2014

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Old Girls’ Association News

Old Girls’ Association President’s Message The first half of 2014 has been a social one for the Santa Maria Old Girls’ Association with a number of members returning to the College for reunions – with the 5, 10, 20 and 30 Year Reunions being held and the 40 year reunion to take place at the end of July. On 6 September, an ‘East Coast’ reunion is being held in Melbourne. This is open to all past students and is a great opportunity for those living on the East Coast to get together, or for Perth Old Girls to have an excuse to go to Melbourne for the weekend!

In the last edition of the De La Vida, I outlined the Committee’s plans to reinvent the Old Girls’ Association Scholarship Program. As part of this process, at our recent committee meeting, funds were allocated to assist in additional components of the College’s Mercy Wellbeing Program catering for all the Year groups. Other projects are being investigated and the committee are keen to receive ideas from past students for these or any other projects.

If you have not yet purchased a cookbook or would like to purchase copies for your friends and family, they are still available through the College for $35. The books are a lovely memento with historical photos and amazing recipes.

Ms Danielle Cattalini

Saturday 6 September 2014 Santa Maria College are hosting a reunion for our Eastern States alumni in Melbourne on Saturday 6 September 2014.

If you live in Melbourne or can make it to Melbourne we would love to see you! Spread the word and keep the date free. We will be in touch with more details soon.

If you would like to help us organise the reunion from Melbourne we please contact Karen Bickerton T: 08 6330 0230 or E: bickerton.karen@santamaria.wa.edu.au

President, Old Girls’ Association

OGA Events This term has seen the OGA host a number of events at the College, including the 2004 Reunion, 1994 Reunion, 1984 Reunion and the annual Mother Daughter High Tea. Each of these events allow former students to reconnect with the College and old friends whilst enjoying the scenic views of the river from the Mercy Community Room. The Mother Daughter High Tea also gave former students the chance to spend some quality time with their daughters, each of whom are current students at the College.

Rebecca Moonen (Class of 1997)

Where are they now?

Congratulations to Claudia who was recently awarded the UWA Alumni Award of Distinction, which recognises outstanding academic achievement and will assist her with her studies at the university.

Phillipa Vetten (Class of 2004) “After leaving Santa Maria, I completed a double degree in Engineering and Commerce at UWA. Since graduating, I have been working as a Project Engineer at Subsea 7, sometimes working offshore. During this time I have enjoyed travelling, not only for leisure but also completing a semester of study in Copenhagen, Denmark and six months working in Aberdeen, Scotland.”

Ciara Stapleton (Class of 2005) Since graduating from Santa Maria, Ciara has developed a passion for the area of Youth Development, which has led to a range of experiences in the areas of child health service in Papua New Guinea, to being a crisis youth worker in Broome, to a mentor and tutor to Indigenous high school students and medical students in Perth. Ciara has also recently been appointed President of the charity Uni Camp for Teens, which aims to enhance the lives of at-risk Perth teenagers aged 13 to 16 by providing positive experiences, mentors and role models.

As part of her role at iiNet, Rebecca regularly visits schools to present on cybersafety issues. She has developed a passion for cybersecurity and safe online practices and has presented to community groups, schools and RSL clubs. This is an important and topical issue that Rebecca is able to educate people on.

Claudia Kirby (Class of 2013)

Jessica Hicks (Class of 2013), Ruby O’Dea (Class of 2013) & Summah Alexander (Class of 2013) Congratulations to Jessica, Ruby and Summah who each received an Australian Vocational Student Prize. These awards are presented by the Government each year to recognise the achievements of students who completed their secondary studies while undertaking a vocational education and training in schools program.

Vale Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the following former students who have recently passed away: Sarah (Patsy) Sanders (Class of 1952), who passed away on 13 April.

Frances Berrigan-Taplin (Berrigan, Class of 1960), who passed away in London recently.

Catherine Jensen (Class of 1980), who passed away on 1 February.

Photo Captions

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Mother Daughter High Tea.

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1994 Reunion.

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2004 Reunion.

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1994 Reunion.

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1984 Reunion.

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2004 Reunion.

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De La Vida | Term 2 2014

Reunions

Archives

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Sign of the Times Signs began as symbols to provide information about something, a place, a business, a danger. We live surrounded by signs many of which we take for granted. It may surprise the reader to know that the College has been an exploitative user of signage from its opening on 6 February, 1938. Good signage provides an organisation with a recognisable brand, in our case the Sisters of Mercy, Perth Congregation - but with a difference, in our case boarding facilities.

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This can be seen in the original crest of the College approved by Mother McDonald for the front of the College. The logo although somewhat similar to that of Victoria Square College, still contained marked differences such as the different ‘M’ on the shield and the difference in the Latin on the motto. The stops that appear on the name ribbon at present are not part of the original plaster moulding, they have been painted on.

In the late 1950s, the College reverted to a logo more similar to that of Victoria Square College and today we can see an example of this latter signage on the west face of the Mercy Building and the Boarders Dining Room. Those particular signs were placed in the 1980s. Much of the signage throughout the College has always been informational signage or directional signage. These signs help a person navigate space more easily. Signs on doors, buildings and fences are standard in educational institutions. Without the signs an individual with no prior knowledge of the campus would have a high probability of becoming lost. Signs come and go. Some become obsolete such as the sign for the Secondary School and closing time for the gates when they became electronic. These signs are abandoned. Some are ephemeral such as hand-made signs we often see around the campus. Some signs are dated and are changed such as parking signs. Signs are often up-graded such as the new signage recently placed throughout the campus.

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Dr Roberta Cowan Archivist

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De La Vida | Term 2 2014

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Photo Captions 1. Original Santa Maria College Crest.

2. Current Santa Maria College Crsest.

3. Former gate sign.

4. Current boarding gate sign.

5. A collection of signs outside the former canteen.

6. New Mercy Building signage.

7. Santa Maria College crest, located outside McAuley Building.

8. New Directional signage peice.

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Hospitality, Compassion, Justice, Service, Excellence

Santa Maria College A Ministry of Mercy Education Ltd ABN 69 154 531 870 Established in 1938 A Catholic Day and Boarding College for Girls, Years 5-12 Stoneham Road, Attadale, WA 6156 | Locked Bag 1, Melville, WA 6956 Tel: (08) 6330 0200 | Fax: (08) 9317 2838 | www.santamaria.wa.edu.au