St Mary’s College – Celebrating 155 years of educating young women
In 1869, seven young Irish Dominican sisters answered the call to establish a secondary school for girls on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean in Adelaide, South Australia. Bearing the gifts of knowledge and kindness, these young women drew on their emotional resolve to push their limits and imagine the impossible.
They founded St Mary’s College – South Australia’s first school for girls on this foundation of resilience and determination.
The sisters demonstrated independence, bravery, and grit, underpinned by care, compassion and connection. These women took risks, challenged the norm, and embraced leadership, not despite but because of their values of community and justice.
A century and a half later, St Mary’s still educates girls and young women in the image of these remarkable figureheads.
Many pathways to success
St Mary’s College recognises and celebrates the unique qualities and ambitions of every girl and young woman in our care, from Reception to Year 12.
Students are inspired to pursue the learning pathways that will facilitate their academic goals and to embrace the personal, educational, and spiritual supports that will enable their success.
Our comprehensive curriculum promotes achievement across various disciplines, including STEM, the Arts, Language and Sport, with specialist teachers catering to each student’s diverse needs and aspirations.
The synergy of wellbeing and learning
At St Mary’s, we create a learning environment where students’ wellbeing fuels academic achievement. Our approach provides security and support, which builds confidence and empowers girls and young women to succeed.
Our ‘WRAP’ program focuses on Wellbeing, Relationships, Agency, and Personal Responsibility. The program promotes resilience, accountability, and pride by teaching skills of personal and social capability, safety, empathy and building respectful relationships.
Commitment to empowering young women
Opportunity and self-belief are at the core of our values and practices. We are committed to:
- Understanding Girls’ Developmental Needs: Tailored educational experiences catering to the unique development stages.
- Defying Gender Stereotypes: Encouraging students to pursue their interests and passions without societal constraints.
- Fostering Leadership: Building voice and agency, challenging silence and injustice, and modelling robust and inclusive leadership.
- Promoting Arts and STEM Engagement: Nurturing involvement in creative and scientific endeavours to prepare students for diverse futures.
- Encouraging Physical Activity: Strong cultures of participation in sports and physical activities.
Discover a St Mary’s education
St Mary’s College is finalising enrolments for Reception and Year 7 for 2025, encouraging families to secure a place for 2026 and beyond. Join a college tour or register for a Come and Try Day. Empower your daughter with an education that sees all she can be.
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