As we approach the conclusion of another rewarding school year, I am filled with immense pride in the achievements, growth, and resilience shown by our St Mary’s College students across all campuses. The past term has been rich with celebration, challenge, and community spirit—true indicators of our shared commitment to inclusive education.
Year 12 Graduation & End-of-Year Awards
This term we honoured our Year 12 graduates and celebrated student excellence through a series of award ceremonies held across our secondary campuses. It was particularly meaningful to see our partner schools acknowledge the accomplishments of St Mary’s College students. Their recognition reflects the strong, respectful partnerships we have built and highlights how deeply valued our students are within both school communities.
As our graduates now move into the next stage of their journeys—whether transitioning to further study, training, or the workplace—we wish them confidence, courage, and the understanding that they will always remain part of the St Mary’s College family.
Transition Programs
We also welcomed our incoming Year 7 cohort through a range of transition activities designed to build confidence, familiarity, and connection. Seeing students embrace new friendships and explore their future learning environments is a wonderful reminder of the vibrant years that lie ahead for them.
Extra Curricular Opportunities
Our Year 9 students have also shone brightly through their Café Program and senior students, their work experience placements. These hands-on learning opportunities enable students to develop practical skills, teamwork, customer service, and a genuine sense of independence. Their dedication and maturity have been commendable, and we thank our staff and community partners for making these programs such a success.
Across the school, many students have also participated in camps and retreats that fostered personal growth, collaboration, and connection with peers. These experiences often create lifelong memories and provide invaluable opportunities to develop confidence and leadership outside the classroom.
Primary Deaf Sports Day
Students from our primary campuses also took part in the annual Deaf Sports Day—a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with old friends, meet new ones, and share experiences with peers who also navigate hearing loss. Events like this support positive identity development and help students build broad networks based in empathy, connection, and mutual respect. Our participants represented St Mary’s College with pride, earning many ribbons and demonstrating outstanding enthusiasm.
Water Safety & Swimming Programs
Water safety remains an essential life skill, especially in a country like Australia, where opportunities to enjoy aquatic environments are abundant. This term, students from Foundation to Year 9 engaged in swimming programs, carnivals, and competitions across our campuses. These experiences not only support physical skill development but also build confidence, resilience, and lifelong safety awareness. We commend all students on their enthusiastic participation.
New School Leadership Structure
In response to our school review and improvement plan, a new structure will commence from term 1, 2026. We place our students firmly at the centre of all our decision making and our roles should be set to reflect that. We envision this new model will strengthen learning and wellbeing and provide ample opportunity to champion our students and build stronger connections with our parents and carers.
Celebrating Our Community and Looking Ahead
As we reflect on the year, I extend my sincere thanks to our families, staff, and community partners for their ongoing support. Together, we have provided our students with rich learning opportunities, strong connections, and the confidence to thrive.
I wish all families a safe, joyful, and restful holiday break.
We look forward to welcoming you back for another exciting year at St Mary’s College.
