Deputy Principal Mission and Pastoral Care

Year 10 Encounter Program: a journey of growth and discovery

Over the past three weeks, our Year 10 students have embarked on an extraordinary journey through the Encounter Program, designed to inspire them to become young women of conviction, courage and compassion. This program encourages students to step confidently into the future with a positive vision for themselves and their world.

Running from Monday 17 November to Wednesday 3 December, students began their journey by selecting one of three immersive experiences:

  • Community Engagement Encounter – serving and learning alongside local communities.
  • Career Encounter – exploring pathways and possibilities for future careers.
  • Adventure Challenge Encounter – building teamwork and perseverance through outdoor challenges.

These experiences provided opportunities for students to broaden their horizons, develop empathy and strengthen their sense of purpose.

Following their encounters, students engaged in sessions designed to equip them for an increasingly complex and changing world. These days focused on:

  • Financial literacy
  • Soft skills development
  • Team-building activities

Through these workshops, students gained practical tools to thrive in life beyond school.

The program concluded with two days dedicated to Leadership Formation and Dominican Spirituality, reinforcing the values that underpin our Santa Sabina community. As part of this program students completed the MYStrengths workshop that helps students identify their Top 5 strengths through a coach-led session, building self-awareness, confidence, and resilience. 

The Year 10 Encounter Program is more than a series of activities – it is a transformative experience that empowers our students to see themselves as agents of change. We are proud of the courage and commitment they have shown and look forward to witnessing the impact of these encounters as they continue their journey at Santa Sabina College.

Christmas blessings

As we enter the Advent Season, may we be reminded of the light and hope that Christ brings into our lives. May peace, love, and gratitude fill our hearts as we look forward to a new year of growth and possibility.

Loving God,
In this Advent Season we thank You for the gift of Your Son, the source of our hope and joy. Bless our families, our community, and all those in need. May Your love guide us to share kindness and peace with the world. Amen.

Melanie van der Meer
Deputy Principal Mission and Pastoral Care