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Our History

Santa Maria College was founded by the Sisters of the Good Samaritan of the Order of St Benedict in Northcote in 1904. At Santa Maria College, we cultivate independent, Christ-centered young women who can find their place in the modern world. We are very proud of our 109-year tradition, which has seen us offer a rigorous and holistic education to generations of young women in Melbourne.

Our Spirituality

We are committed to the transmission of the Catholic faith and the Benedictine tradition under the care of the Sisters of the Good Samaritan, cultivating a spirit of compassion, hospitality, mercy and love. Our faith is expressed through our religious education program, liturgical expression and outreach programs, and is honored in our relationships with each other.

Curriculum

Santa Maria College is proud to offer the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP) as a candidate school. The IB MYP is a rigorous teaching framework centred on enquiry-based learning that affirms the individual differences and strengths of each student. We are thrilled that the Year 10 students in 2013 will be the first cohort to complete the full Middle Years Programme, which will enable us to move towards full accreditation. We offer VCE, VET and VCAL as senior pathways.

Co-curricular

Co-curricular activities include the Duke of Edinburgh Award, debating, public speaking, sport, music, dance, school production, social justice activities, interstate and overseas cultural immersions, young carers group, science competitions, environmental activities and more.

Sport and Outdoor Education

Sporting opportunities include inter-school sports at each year level for netball, tennis, volleyball and soccer, as well as intra-school swimming and athletics carnivals. We compete in the Secondary Catholic Sports Association, the Catholic All Schools Championships and a number of sports at a state and national level.

Community Engagement

Our Social Justice Program highlights our commitment to the Good Samaritan ethos as we work with the marginalised in our local and global communities through education, action and reflection. We are partners in the Good Samaritan Outreach program conducted locally, nationally and internationally, with specific connections with overseas communities. Our Growing Tall Poppies in Science Program allows our students to engage in authentic science placements, with the support of innovative local businesses and universities.

Living in Community

We are passionate about girls’ education, motivating each student to cultivate their gifts and talents to the full. Santa Maria students receive a holistic education that nurtures them emotionally, physically, intellectually and spiritually. Developing a ‘student voice’ and leadership qualities in young women is important for us. Our pastoral framework affirms positive relationships, respect for others, self-confidence and a distinct sense of hope for young people. Our homeroom structure is supported by a team of teachers, psychologists and a family liaison officer.

Innovative Initiatives

In 2013, all staff and students will be engaged with iPads, laptops, PCs and Smart Boards in the classroom. The college will continue to adapt and modify student learning to engage with the most effective technological devices as they emerge on the market.

To endorse and anchor our contemporary educational philosophy, we will initiate a major building initiative in 2013 and 2014. The building works will see the addition of a Creative Arts Complex to the college, surrounded by six classroom studios that tangibly reflect the notion of contemporary learning, team teaching and best educational practice. Classrooms will be open, bright, energetic and flexible learning spaces.

Visit Us

Our Open Day is on 29 October 2013 from 2.30 pm to 6.30 pm. Monthly tours are also hosted at the college by appointment only.