Principal’sWelcome
Welcome to St Martins Lutheran College, a Reception to Year 12 school located in the beautiful city of Mount Gambier, South Australia. Established in 1982, we are a family-friendly College with a strong sense of community, where everybody is valued for who they are as an individual and student learning is at the heart of everything we do.
As a College of the Lutheran Church, our faith inspires us to care, to pursue learning with passion and to strive above and beyond for every student. We take pride in providing an education that develops all aspects of a student’s intellectual, spiritual, physical, creative and social character. We pursue a student-centred approach to learning and recognise that each member of our community is unique. We seek to provide a range of learning pathways in order to challenge each student to strive for personal and community excellence, so that they are well prepared for the challenges of tomorrow’s world.
Through a balanced and varied curriculum, combined with modern approaches to teaching, we endeavour to foster a true love of learning. This is complemented by a vibrant extra-curricula programme that allows students to explore a range of interests outside the classroom. In keeping with this, we encourage all students to take an active role in the wider life of the College. Our caring and committed staff welcome parent participation in their child’s education and we are fortunate to have a very supportive parent body. We encourage open, two-way communication, between home and the College.
As a College we are fortunate to have modern buildings and facilities, and a pleasant learning environment. Our students enjoy access to a range of information communication technology, which helps equip them for the learning needs of today and the future.
At St Martins we provide a caring Christian environment where each student has the opportunity to develop an understanding of Christian living in keeping with our College values of: Respect, Compassion, Growth, Faith, Encouragement and Hope.
Students at St Martins develop a strong sense of community through their involvement in class devotions, worship and community service.
If you would like to learn more about St Martins or see our College in action, please contact our Enrolments Registrar at: enrolments@stmartins.sa.edu.au
Alan Connah Principal
From the Deputy Principal
At St Martins Lutheran College, we proudly live our identity as ‘One College, Two Villages.’ This approach ensures that every student is known, supported, and guided through each stage of their learning journey, while benefiting from the strength, consistency, and shared purpose of a unified College community.
In our R–6 Village, Reception to Year 6 students are nurtured within a warm, structured, and responsive environment under the leadership of the Director of R–6 Village. This work is supported by a collaborative team that includes the Student Engagement Coordinator, the Curriculum, Assessment & Reporting Leader, and the R–6 Village Support Officer, alongside classroom teachers and Learning Assistants. Together, this team works closely to support student learning, engagement, and day-to-day pastoral needs, ensuring strong foundations for both academic and personal growth.
Within the 7–12 Village, students from Year 7 to Year 12 are supported through their secondary years within a strong pastoral care framework, led by the Director of Student Engagement (7–12). Working alongside Year Level Leaders, Home Group teachers, subject teachers, Learning Assistants, and support staff, this approach ensures students are known, guided, and supported as they navigate adolescence, increasing independence, and future pathways.
A triaged pastoral care model underpins this work, enabling early identification of student needs and the provision of coordinated, targeted support. Through strong relationships and consistent communication, this model supports students’ wellbeing, faith, and engagement, while maintaining clear pathways of care and accountability.
Across both Villages, Learning Leaders for Inclusion and Diversity work in partnership with staff to create inclusive, accessible learning environments where every student can participate, belong, and flourish.
Living out our ‘One College’ philosophy, the Head of Pastoral Care (R–12) and the Head of Learning, Teaching & Innovation (R–12) provide strategic leadership and oversight across the entire College. Working collaboratively with Village leaders, these roles ensure a coherent, whole-College approach to pastoral care, teaching, and learning, supporting consistency, continuity, and shared expectations from Reception through to Year 12.
Our camps program is a hallmark of the St Martins experience, grounded in the words of Isaiah 40:31: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles...”
These formative experiences bring our values of compassion, growth, hope, respect, encouragement, and faith to life. Through outdoor challenges, shared experiences, and moments of reflection, students develop resilience, empathy, independence, and strong relationships, while creating memories that remain with them long after their school years.
As Deputy Principal, I am continually inspired by the dedication of our staff and the caring, welcoming spirit of our students. At St Martins, we work together as one community to nurture confidence, character, and capability in every learner. I warmly invite you to visit our College and experience what makes St Martins such a special place to learn, grow, and belong.
Celia Mara Deputy Principal
Our HistoryEst. 1982
St Martins Lutheran College started as St Martins Lutheran Primary School at the St Mary’s Catholic Church in February 1982. The school experienced consistent growth in its first five years and in 1987 moved to the College’s current location on St Martins Drive.
From humble beginnings with 33 Primary School students in 1982, the College has grown to just over 800 students including Secondary students since 2004.
St Martins has always strived to provide a quality Christian learning environment, where students are given opportunities to grow academically and spiritually.
1982
St Martins Lutheran Primary School was officially opened on February 7th, 1982, with just 33 students and two staff.
2004
St Martins Lutheran Primary School became St Martins Lutheran College and expanded to include Secondary Students in 2004.
2022
2022 marked 40 years of St Martins Lutheran College.
1987
Students started their first day at the new location on Crouch Street North (the College’s current site, now known as St Martins Drive).
2008
St Martins Lutheran College had its first class of Year 12 students in 2008. There were just five students in the first class, all of whom graduated.
2025
Construction of the Senior Student Hub was completed to support the growing cohort in the 7-12 Village.
Faith and Ministry
At St Martins Lutheran College, we believe that education begins with the revelation of God through Scripture. As a Lutheran school, we aim to foster an environment where Christian faith and values are central to everything we do. While we welcome students from all faiths and backgrounds, an understanding and appreciation of the Christian faith are integral to our school community. Our daily devotions play a key role in nurturing this connection, offering students a chance to reflect on the gospel message of God’s love for all people. These devotions also help students explore how the core values of the College—Respect, Compassion, Growth, Faith, Encouragement, and Hope—can be lived out in their daily lives.
Our Christian identity is integrated into school life through various practices. Students engage in age-appropriate devotion time in their classrooms, where they may explore Bible stories, sing songs, pray, and listen to a brief reflection. These devotional moments are designed to support students in deepening their understanding of the Christian faith. On occasion, groups of students in the Reception to Year 6 Village and Year 7 to 12 Village come together for a shared devotion time, uniting them in reflection on a common theme.
A central part of the weekly rhythm at St Martins is our whole-college worship service on Friday mornings. These services are an essential aspect of College life, where our entire school community gathers to hear God’s Word, sing, and pray together. During these services students are encouraged to participate in meaningful ways, while we also recognise that each student is on their own unique faith journey.
In addition to our devotional life, Christian Studies is a key part of the curriculum. Students engage in Christian Studies for one to two lessons each week across all year levels. This subject fosters inquiry-based learning, encouraging students to explore life’s big questions about meaning, purpose, and faith, in a supportive and reflective environment. At St Martins, we are committed to nurturing not only academic growth but also spiritual development, helping students to grow in faith as they journey through life.
Wesley Olivier
Meet the Director of Ministry
Born and raised in South Africa, Wesley moved to Australia with his family in early 2022. He has been involved in church ministry since 2011 and was ordained as a minister in the Methodist Church of Southern Africa in 2017. In 2024 he was granted permission to become a minister-in-association with the Uniting Church of Australia, here in Mount Gambier. His passion lies with preaching and teaching the Gospel message that every individual is “Made in love, by love, and for love – because God is love.” Before the ministry, Wesley was a teacher and a project officer in mental health. However, his favourite job is that of being an U12 soccer coach for the Blue Lake Soccer Club.
Pastoral Care
At St Martins Lutheran College, pastoral care is the Christ-centred ministry of care that shapes every relationship and interaction within our school. Grounded in God’s grace and love, our approach nurtures the whole person, spiritually, emotionally, socially and academically, so that every student is known, valued and supported to flourish in learning and in life.
We believe wellbeing grows from a strong sense of belonging, purpose and connection. As a Lutheran school, students learn that they are unconditionally loved by God and are encouraged to discover and use their God-given gifts in ways that bring meaning to their lives and serve others.
Our Pastoral Care Framework brings together Student Wellbeing, Student Engagement, and Ministry & Spiritual Formation in one unified and intentional approach.
Student Wellbeing promotes and sustains the mental, emotional and psychological health of students. Through proactive wellbeing education, social and emotional learning, students build resilience, learn to regulate emotions and develop confidence to engage in learning and life.
Student Engagement fosters connection, belonging and active participation in school life. We nurture positive relationships and a culture of care and respect, using relational and restorative practices to support behaviour, strengthen engagement and help students feel safe, understood and valued.
Ministry and Spiritual Formation is the spiritual heartbeat of St Martins. Through worship, devotions and daily experiences, students are invited to grow in faith, identity and purpose, encountering the Gospel in meaningful and life-shaping ways.
At St Martins, pastoral care is not an added program — it is the way we live out the love of Christ each day, creating a community where students are supported to grow in faith, character, confidence and hope.
Josh Hein and Wellbeing
Meet the Head of Pastoral Care (R-12)
Josh is an experienced educator with a strong background in wellbeing and pastoral care. He has held various leadership roles in wellbeing across R-12 Lutheran schools in South Australia. Josh is driven by his passion for supporting students in their growth and development. He believes deeply in the value and uniqueness of each individual, seeing every student as created by God with special gifts and great potential. His approach is centred on helping students realise their own capabilities and guiding them toward success.
Learning, Teaching
and Innovation
St Martins Lutheran College is a Reception to Year 12 school dedicated to fostering curiosity, academic excellence, and innovation. We believe learning is an adventure—one that invites students to explore the unknown with awe and wonder. Grounded in student-centred education, we challenge, support, and inspire every learner to reach their full potential.
Students are naturally curious and creative. Our programs encourage them to engage with big ideas and take ownership of their learning journey. By blending traditional and contemporary methods, we incorporate technology and real-world applications to make learning engaging and relevant.
Innovation is at the heart of our philosophy. Through evolving programs in problem-based learning, critical thinking, and creativity, we cultivate a mindset of lifelong learning, encouraging students to think independently, solve complex problems, and embrace new challenges.
In Years R-9, students follow the eight Learning Areas of the Australian Curriculum: English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities and Social Sciences, The Arts, Technologies, Health and Physical Education, and Languages. They continue studying a second language through Year 8 and, in Year 9, begin specialising in learning areas such as The Arts and Technologies.
Welcoming class sizes ensure tailored support, while excursions, camps, and extracurricular activities extend learning beyond the classroom. Our Leaders for Inclusion and Diversity coordinate targeted interventions to help all students fulfill their potential.
In Years 10-12, students access a diverse range of subjects within the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) and Vocational Education and Training (VET). Individual learning patterns cater to unique abilities, interests, and future pathways, supporting students in academic study, vocational training, or workforce entry.
The College provides specialist facilities, including the Design and Technology Centre, Food and Hospitality Centre, purpose-built Art rooms, and Music Centre. Students take on increased responsibility and independence from Year 7 to Year 12, equipping them for success in school and beyond.
We nurture purposeful learners who understand their unique gifts and how they can contribute to the world, guided by our values of Faith, Respect, Encouragement, Growth, Hope, and Compassion. Through transformative learning experiences, we empower students to embrace the future with confidence, fostering a commitment to service and lifelong learning. With excellence in teaching, learning, and innovation, we inspire young minds to thrive in their academic journey and beyond.
Jo Patterson
Meet the Head of Learning, Teaching & Innovation (R-12)
With over 20 years of experience in education, Jo brings a wealth of knowledge in teaching and leadership across various educational settings. Her passion lies in helping every student grow and flourish by fostering an enriching environment, built on quality teaching, effective pedagogies, and high expectations. In this key leadership role, Jo plays a vital part in enhancing student achievement and elevating the quality of education across all year levels.
Inclusion and Diversity
St Martins provides an inclusive mainstream learning environment for students from Reception to Year 12. Teachers, school leaders, college counsellors and Learning Assistants collaborate to deliver holistic support for students who are experiencing barriers to their learning, or who may need to extend their skills, knowledge and understanding.
The majority of support is delivered within the classroom, with Learning Assistants working under the direction of the teacher supporting learning continuity. Research based intervention programs are also provided in the R-6 Village, where Learning Assistants deliver short term intensive intervention to small groups in out of the classroom environments.
Learning Assistants and teachers value a strong and open partnership with families in striving to meet the needs of the child. In addition, the College values the input of allied health professionals such as occupational therapists, speech therapists, psychologists and external counsellors to inform and guide families and teachers in developing quality programs, support and future directions.
Reception to Year 6 Beginnings
At St Martins Lutheran College, the R–6 Village is a place where children are known, supported, and challenged as learners and as people. We believe that when children feel secure, connected, and engaged, they are best placed to grow academically, socially, and personally. Our approach recognises that learning in the early and primary years is shaped not only by what happens in the classroom, but by relationships, routines, opportunities, and experiences across the whole school day.
Strong partnerships between students, families, and staff are central to life in the R–6 Village. Our teachers take time to know each child as an individual, recognising their strengths, interests, and areas for growth. Through consistent expectations, supportive structures, and open communication, we work together to help children develop confidence, independence, and a positive sense of self as learners within a caring community.
Learning in the R–6 Village is intentionally designed to support children at each stage of their development. Alongside strong foundations in literacy and numeracy, students are supported to develop the skills they need to work collaboratively, persevere through challenges, and take increasing responsibility for their learning and behaviour. These skills are embedded in daily classroom practice and supported through shared language and approaches across the Village.
Beyond the classroom, the R–6 Village offers a range of enriching experiences that support curiosity, creativity, and engagement. Hands on programs such as gardening, cooking, tinkering, and practical learning experiences give children opportunities to apply their learning in real and meaningful ways. These experiences help students discover interests, build skills, and develop pride in their efforts and achievements.
Through this rich and balanced approach, the R–6 Village at St Martins supports children to grow as capable learners, confident individuals, and valued members of a connected school community.
Sharn de Nys
Meet the Director of R-6 Village
Sharn brings a wealth of experience in education, having taught across all year levels from Early Years through to Tertiary education, including ten years of experience within an international context. Throughout her career, she has held a range of leadership roles, developing a strong understanding of teaching, learning, and student wellbeing across diverse settings.
Sharn has a genuine love of working with children and is passionate about keeping children at the centre of all decision-making. Her approach to leadership is open, collaborative, and solution-focused, with a strong emphasis on building positive relationships and supporting the holistic development of every child. Guided by her values of faith and family, Sharn is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment where every student is known, supported, and encouraged to flourish.
Year 7 to Year 12 Discovery
At St Martins Lutheran College, we are committed to fostering a positive, supportive, and engaging school environment where every student is known, valued, and cared for. Our wellbeing system, spanning from Year 7 to Year 12, ensures that your child receives timely, personalised support tailored to developmental and academic needs, creating a culture of care and resilience.
This triage framework is built on respect and community, with the homegroup teacher as the first point of call for parents and carers, providing immediate support and guidance. In addition, the Year Level Leaders are on hand to offer further support, with the Director of Student Engagement (7-12) there to assist with more complex concerns or needs. Through this collaborative approach, we instill a sense of hope in every student, knowing they are supported at each step of their journey.
A key pillar of our approach is ensuring that each student is known and supported by their homegroup teacher, who meets with them every morning to provide consistency, security, and a sense of belonging. Year Level Leaders play a vital role in student wellness, acting as mentors who understand each individual’s strengths, challenges, and aspirations. Through their daily connection and ongoing guidance, students develop confidence, emotional intelligence, and a deep sense of respect for themselves and those around them.
Understanding the importance of wellbeing in academic and personal success, we deliver a thoughtful series of sequenced wellbeing lessons tailored to each year level. These lessons equip students with the skills and strategies needed to navigate challenges, build resilience, and foster growth. Enhanced by guest presenters and engaging activities, our wellbeing curriculum promotes faith in oneself and others, self-awareness, and the development of positive relationships, empowering students to face the future with confidence. Guided by the Berry Street Education Model, a research-backed framework that focuses on trauma-informed, strength-based practices, our programs create a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment where students feel empowered to reach their full potential.
We recognise the importance of strong school-family partnerships in supporting student success. Homegroup teachers, Year Level Leaders, and the Director of Student Engagement (7-12) work closely to ensure clear, open, and effective communication with students and families. Concerns are addressed with care, fostering a community built on faith and mutual respect. This collaborative approach strengthens relationships between students, staff, and families, ensuring that every child feels heard, valued, and supported in their personal and academic journey.
Xenia Kerr
Meet the Director of Student Engagement (7-12)
A relational and reflective leader, Xenia brings warmth, integrity and a deep commitment to student growth and wellbeing. With qualifications in Secondary Humanities Education and Business Management, she offers valuable crosssector insights from her earlier corporate leadership career. Recognised for her calm, solutions-focused approach and her advocacy for restorative practice, Xenia has led curriculum and cultural renewal initiatives that enhance student voice, teacher collaboration and community cohesion.
English
St Martins Lutheran College values English as central to the lives, learning and development of young Australians. Through the study of literature and language, our students learn to express themselves with clarity and confidence, while building deep connections with diverse perspectives and ideas.
Our English program nurtures creative thinking and analytical capabilities, empowering students to become articulate communicators and thoughtful citizens who can contribute to and shape their world through words. Complementary to structured classes, students enhance their skills through co-curricular activities, contributing to creative writing competitions and public speaking opportunities, celebrating their talents within our wider community.
Humanities
Our Humanities program at St Martins Lutheran College offers a comprehensive approach to History, Geography, Civics and Citizenship, and Business and Economics.
Through a combination of core classes and elective options, students develop a deep understanding of the world around them, while honing their critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
Our programs foster diverse perspectives, empowering students to become thoughtful, responsible citizens who are committed to improving society. By engaging with a range of topics, students explore global issues, historical contexts, and the complexities of the modern world, preparing them to be proactive, informed thinkers who can contribute meaningfully to a better future.
Mathematics Science
The Mathematics program at St Martins Lutheran College is designed to foster a deep understanding of mathematical concepts while developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
Our curriculum is structured to cater to students of all abilities, offering engaging and challenging learning experiences that encourage curiosity and logical reasoning. With a strong focus on realworld applications, technology integration, and collaborative learning, we aim to equip students with the skills necessary for future academic and career success.
Whether pursuing advanced studies in STEM fields or developing essential numeracy for everyday life, students at St Martins Lutheran College benefit from a supportive and stimulating environment that nurtures confidence and achievement in mathematics.
At St Martins Lutheran College, science aims to ensure our students develop an interest in science as a means of expanding their curiosity and willingness to explore, ask questions about, and speculate on the changing world in which they live.
Our experienced staff create fun and engaging lessons aligned with the Australian Curriculum, fostering a love for learning through hands-on experiments and critical thinking. At the SACE level, we offer Biology, Chemistry, Nutrition, and Physics, preparing students for future studies and careers in science.
Health & Physical Education Languages
At St Martins Lutheran College, our Health and Physical Education program goes beyond traditional sport and fitness. We focus on developing lifelong skills in teamwork, resilience, and personal wellbeing, ensuring students have the opportunity to thrive in many different learning environments, and experience a broad spectrum of activities.
Through engaging lessons with a focus on student development, both in the classroom and through physical activity, we empower students to understand their bodies, improve their skills, and make informed health decisions. With access to quality facilities, innovative teaching, and a strong sense of community, our program nurtures confident, capable individuals prepared for future success in sport, health sciences, and beyond.
AUSLAN
R-6 students learn Australian Sign Language (AUSLAN) as part of their language journey. AUSLAN is a rich visual language used by the Australian Deaf community. Learning it enhances communication skills, fosters inclusivity, and deepens cultural awareness. It also strengthens cognitive skills, spatial awareness, and memory.
German
The German program provides students with communication skills while exploring the culture and traditions of German-speaking countries.
Years 7-9: Students build foundational skills in speaking, reading, and writing. They explore topics like family, travel, food, and sports through interactive activities.
Years 10-12: Students refine their proficiency, discussing contemporary issues such as history and the environment. Real-world experiences include excursions to the Barossa Valley or Hahndorf and the biennial German Study Tour.
German studies equip students with valuable linguistic skills and cultural insights, preparing them for further study, international experiences, and global careers.
Technology
Technologies encompass Design & Digital Technologies and Food, Woodwork & Metalwork. These subjects provide hands-on learning that fosters creativity, problem-solving, and technical skills.
Design & Digital Technologies develop logical thinking and technological fluency through coding, robotics, and graphic design. Using industrystandard software, students engage in problembased learning, gaining experience in design thinking and user-centred innovation.
Food Technology equips students with essential life skills in nutrition, food preparation, and sustainability. Practical cooking experiences enhance their confidence in the kitchen while reinforcing safe and hygienic practices.
Woodwork & Metalwork allow students to design and construct projects using timber, metal, and emerging technologies. They develop precision, craftsmanship, and innovation while applying Computer-Aided Design (CAD) to enhance outcomes. Safety and sustainability remain key focuses.
Across all areas, Technologies prepare students for the future by encouraging creativity, problemsolving, and adaptability in an evolving digital and practical landscape.
Creative Arts
Creative Arts at St Martins Lutheran College offers a vibrant and dynamic environment where creativity thrives. With a diverse range of programs in visual arts, performing arts, music, and drama, students are encouraged to explore their talents and develop a deep appreciation for the arts.
At St Martins we foster a hands-on, engaging learning experience, with access to modern equipment and spaces, with more upgrades on the way.
Students have opportunities to showcase work in our annual Art Show, various performances, and community events, including Generations in Jazz.
Whether students are passionate about painting, photography, film making, playing an instrument, acting, or exploring new creative fields, Creative Arts at St Martins provides the foundation for artistic expression, personal growth, and future success in the arts.
College Bus Services
St Martins Lutheran College offers seven regional bus services, providing transport to students from Naracoorte, Penola, Millicent, Glencoe, Port MacDonnell, Kongorong, Mil Lel and surrounding areas.
Families can utilise this service for one-way or return trips on school days.
For more information on the College bus routes please contact the College Front Office on (08) 8725 1430 or at office@stmartins.sa.edu.au
In addition to the College bus service, the City of Mount Gambier operates two buses throughout Mount Gambier’s inner suburbs that stop at the College mornings and afternoons.
St Martins Out of School Hours Care (SMOSHC)
St Martins Out of School Hours Care (SMOSHC) is an inclusive, on-site service that provides after school and vacation care to the students and families of St Martins, in a happy, safe and caring Christian environment.
SMOSHC strives to provide a fun, child-centred program for students from Reception to Year 7.
SMOSHC is located in the College House which can be found near the staff carpark. The House is a vibrant space for students to participate in programmed activities, enjoy free time and complete homework. The House is fully equipped with a playroom, kitchen for food preparation and a generous backyard for outdoor play.
SMOSHC embraces the values of the College and the St Martins ‘Spirit’ of Respect, Compassion, Growth, Faith, Encouragement and Hope.
Enrolling
Admission
St Martins considers all applicants regardless of ethnic origin, gender, religion, ability or disability provided that; parents or carers seeking enrolment for their child/ren undertake to support, willingly and freely, the stated purposes of St Martins Lutheran College; and adequate space and resources are available.
To apply for admission to St Martins, families are asked to complete the Enrolment Application Form, which is available by scanning the QR code below.
Families who wish to know more about the College are warmly invited to contact the Enrolment Registrar at enrolments@stmartins.sa.edu.au to arrange a personal tour.
Enrolment Intakes
St Martins Lutheran College offers four major intakes:
- Reception
- Mid-Year Reception
- Year 5
- Year 7
Students commencing in Reception or starting school for the first time must;
- turn five years of age on or before 30 April of that year to start at the beginning of Term 1.
- turn five years of age between 1 May and 31 October to start in Term 3 of that year, or Term 1 of the following year.
All Other Year Levels
Enrolment at other times may be negotiated with the College and relevant agencies. Enrolments in all year levels may be accepted throughout the year, providing a class placement and adequate resources are available.
