Celebrating a Brilliant Term 3 at Damascus College

As Term 3 draws to a close, it is with immense pride and gratitude that we reflect on the incredible efforts, achievements and spirit that have defined this term at Damascus College. Our community has once again demonstrated the strength of our values — excellence, community, compassion and justice — through unwavering commitment, creativity and collaboration.

A standout feature of Term 3 has been the exceptional dedication shown by both staff and students. The learning environment has been rich and engaging, with innovative classroom experiences, dynamic co-curricular activities and a renewed focus on wellbeing and personal growth. Our teachers continue to go above and beyond, and our students have responded with enthusiasm, perseverance, and pride in their learning.

This term we celebrated Damascus Day — a highlight of the school calendar — with a beautiful and moving liturgy that brought our community together in prayer and reflection. The afternoon came alive with energy and colour, as students took part in a wide variety of engaging and spirited activities, demonstrating the joy and vibrancy of life at Damascus. A copy of my speech can be found below:

Principals speech Damascus Day 2025 17 September 2025

We were also delighted to welcome families to our Father’s Day Breakfast, a heart-warming event that honoured the father figures in our lives and celebrated the importance of family. It was a pleasure to see our community come together to share food, stories and laughter.

The McAuley House Assembly last week was another highlight, showcasing the leadership, creativity and deep sense of purpose among our McAuley students. Their commitment to social justice and community engagement was truly inspiring and a credit to the Mercy values they uphold.

Looking ahead, we are excited to invite our community to the St Brendan’s Expo on Thursday evening commencing at St Brendan’s at 5.30pm This will be a wonderful opportunity to showcase student learning and the culmination of their efforts throughout the term. We look forward to celebrating their creativity, critical thinking and collaboration.

To our Year 12 students, we extend our best wishes as you enter a critical phase of your academic journey. With trial exams approaching and final VCAA exams on the horizon, we know that your preparation, resilience, and support for one another will be key. Remember that you are not alone — your teachers, families, and peers are walking alongside you every step of the way.

Throughout this year, the iGEN Program with Mercy Health has continued to grow in strength, offering powerful opportunities for intergenerational connection and learning. Our students reflected, "Being part of iGEN made me realise how much we can learn from older generations — not just about the past, but about kindness and resilience." Another participant noted, "It’s not just about giving time, it's about building friendships that go beyond age." These words remind us that education is far more than what happens in the classroom — it’s about the relationships and experiences that shape who we become.

I would like to take this opportunity to formally acknowledge and extend our deepest gratitude to Sarah Boswell, whose unwavering energy, passion, and visionary leadership have been a cornerstone of community engagement and marketing at Damascus College for the past decade. Throughout her tenure, Sarah has consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to connect people, foster meaningful relationships, and elevate the profile of our college within the broader community. Her creative approach, strategic insight, and tireless commitment have not only shaped the way we communicate and engage, but have also left a lasting legacy that will continue to benefit Damascus College for years to come. As Sarah concludes her service at Damascus College this week, we reflect with appreciation on all that she has achieved and the spirit she has brought to our community. While we will miss her presence and leadership, we are excited for her as she embarks on the next chapter of her journey. On behalf of the entire Damascus College community, we thank Sarah for her outstanding service and wish her every success, happiness, and fulfillment in the future.

As we now take a well-earned break, we encourage all members of our community to rest, recharge, and reflect on the many successes of the term. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to the life and mission of Damascus College.

We look forward to an exciting and rewarding Term 4 together.

With every blessing

Steven Mifsud

Today we celebrate Damascus Day, a significant occasion in our College calendar where we come together as a community of faith, hope and unity. Through Mass, assembly and celebration, we honour our shared story, the charism of Catherine McAuley, and the values that inspire us to live out the Damascus motto, To Live By the Light of Christ. It is a time to reflect on who we are as a community, and the important role each person plays in continuing this legacy.

Over the past week, it has also been fantastic to witness the speeches delivered by our House Captain and School Captain candidates. I commend every student who put themselves forward for these roles. Leadership requires courage, and the willingness to serve others, and it was inspiring to see so many young people demonstrate these qualities in their presentations.

For our Year 12 students, trial exams begin over the next two days and will continue in the final week of the school holidays. These exams are an important step in preparing for the final assessments ahead, and I encourage all students to approach them with focus and determination.

The upcoming holidays are also a valuable opportunity for all students. They provide time to catch up on outstanding work, revise and consolidate learning from the term, and just as importantly, to rest and recharge. Balance is key – time for study, and time for family, friends and reflection – to ensure everyone returns ready for the final term of the year.

Finally, I would like to acknowledge the contribution of Sarah Boswell, our Leader of Marketing and Development, who will conclude her time with Damascus at the end of this term after ten years of outstanding service. Sarah has been a fantastic contributor to our Leadership Team and has played a pivotal role in strengthening the College’s reputation and online presence. She was instrumental in reimagining our Open Night, making it more inclusive of staff and providing families with a true glimpse of what a Damascus education is like. Her hallmark Be My Best campaign captured the spirit of our community and launched the College’s Strategic Plan in 2022, positioning Damascus as a school of choice across the region. We are deeply grateful for Sarah’s professionalism, creativity and commitment, and we wish her every success for the future.

Chris

Wellbeing Initiatives

SSMART ASSK – Year 9

In Term 4 our Year 9 cohort will take part in the SSMART ASSK Program, which is delivered by Ballarat Community Health (BCH). This initiative is part of the Health Promoting Schools Framework and focuses on smoking, vaping, alcohol, drugs, party first aid and sexual health. All four interactive sessions are led by the BCH creative learning team, which promotes harm minimisation strategies that aim to reduce risk taking behaviours. The program culminates in a live theatre performance, which portrays a party scenario where young people encounter real life consequences of alcohol and drug use. This harm minimisation will encourage students to look after themselves and each other, being able to identify when to seek help, make informed choices and develop a party plan to stay safe.

Some content in the stations and performance may be confronting. Students will be informed of this beforehand and encouraged to speak with a teacher or member of the Wellbeing team if they feel uncomfortable at any time. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact a member of the college’s Wellbeing Team.

manKIND – Year 8 and 9

Another Term 4 Wellbeing Initiative we will be participating in is the manKind program, a youth-led education initiative developed as part of the Centre for Multicultural Youth (CMY) Ballarat’s Speak Up project. This program focuses on promoting gender equity and preventing gender-based violence and is delivered across Ballarat and Melbourne.

CMY is partnering with Ballarat Community Health and the City of Ballarat to bring manKIND to Year 8 and 9 students. The program includes three interactive sessions, each lasting 60–90 minutes, facilitated by trained youth leaders with support from CMY across the first four weeks of Term 4.

Students will explore key themes through engaging discussions and activities including:

Be a Man? – Understanding masculinity and identify toxic and harmful stereotypes in media.

Connecting the Dots – Examining masculinity and misogyny and learn to be an upstander.

Examine how gender stereotypes shape roles, decisions & power in relationships.

Examine how gender equality & challenging stereotypes prevents violence & abuse.

Investigate media influence on health safety, relationships and wellbeing.

Critique health messaging and services on personal, social and community attitudes.

Putting the Puzzle Together – Scenario-based discussions to consolidate learning.

Workshop activities are adapted from the Sexual Health Victoria EveryBODY Education Program and the Department of Education’s Resilience, Rights and Respectful Relationships curriculum, ensuring alignment with the Respectful Relationships framework.

The program is open to all Year 8 and 9 students and will run as an opt-in opportunity. If you believe this would be of benefit to your student, please complete the following form: manKind Program – Expression of Interest.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Mitchell Jolly, the Leader of Positive Behaviour for Learning via email: m.jolly@damascus.vic.edu.au.

Closing remarks

The end of Term 3 sees the completion of my time in the role of Acting Assistant Principal – Student Wellbeing. I would like to thank all the staff who have assisted, supported, challenged and been present for the past term and a bit, especially official College Leadership, Wellbeing Team members and Front Office staff. I have felt invigorated, enthused and energised throughout and constantly amazed by the empathy and care shown by all for the members of our college community. To the parents and carers, my hope is that you continue to be the primary educator of your loved ones and that we can continue to support you in whatever capacity that is needed to ensure success both in and out of the classroom for your student.

It has been wonderful to have Andy Robertson back at the college in recent weeks after a time of leave, with the commencement of Term 4 seeing him officially back in the role of Assistant Principal - Student Wellbeing, welcome back Andy!

As Term Three draws to a close, it is wonderful to look back on what has been a very busy and rewarding time for learning and teaching at Damascus College. Across all year levels, students have been working hard, engaging with their studies and developing routines that will support their learning well into the future.

For our Year 12 students, this week is particularly significant as they complete final SACs and SATs and prepare for their VCE Trial Examinations. The first of these exams, English, will be held on Friday 19 September, with the full program continuing across the second week of the holidays (Tuesday 30 September – Friday 3 October). Exams will take place in the Damascus Events Centre and Building 11, with students encouraged to arrive early to get settled.

The Trial Exams are an important part of Year 12 preparation. They give students the chance to experience the structure and timing of formal VCE exams, to consolidate their knowledge and to identify areas where further revision is needed. The feedback from these exams will help guide their study and provide reassurance as they approach the final assessments.

In recent weeks, our senior students have also been learning about the value of establishing a clear study routine. Parents and careers can play an important role in encouraging their students to stick to consistent study times, take regular breaks and maintain healthy sleep and nutrition. These small but steady habits can make a big difference in reducing stress and building confidence.

We are proud of the way our students have approached their studies this term, showing resilience and dedication in what is always a demanding period of the year. As we head into the holidays, we wish our Year 12 students every success with their Trial Exams and thank families for the support you continue to provide at home. Together, we can help our students feel prepared and confident for the challenges ahead.

Recently two Year 12 teams represented Damascus College as the United Kingdom and Brazil at the Model UN held at St Joseph’s College, Geelong. The theme for the gathering was “Pathways to Peace: Addressing War, Conflict and International Security”, and it brought together schools from Ballarat, Geelong and Melbourne.

The Model UN is a simulation of the United Nations where students step into the shoes of diplomats, debating, negotiating and working together to find solutions to pressing global issues. It challenges students to think critically, speak with confidence, and understand perspectives beyond their own.

Opportunities like this provide students with valuable experience in debate, diplomacy and global thinking. We extend our thanks to the students who participated with such enthusiasm, and commend the staff who supported them in this important learning experience.

Recently, 40 students (from Years 9-12) and five staff from Damascus College embraced adventure, challenge and community spirit as they relaunched the annual Ski Trip to Falls Creek. Over four days, the group experienced everything from snowstorms to sunshine, while learning new skills and strengthening friendships.

The journey began with students gathering at the DEC before heading north. After a dinner stop in Wangaratta, excitement built as the group arrived at Halleys Lodge to settle in and collect their ski and snowboard gear. A highlight of the trip was spotting the snow as the bus climbed the mountain, sparking anticipation for the days ahead.

Friday delivered a true alpine experience, with blizzard-like conditions and limited visibility. Despite the shortened time on the slopes, students showed resilience and determination. Their efforts were rewarded with over 60cm of fresh snow falling across Friday and Saturday, creating perfect conditions for the remainder of the trip. By Saturday afternoon, under clear blue skies, students put their lessons into practice, tackling new runs and enjoying some of the best skiing and snowboarding conditions possible.

Evenings at Halleys Lodge gave the group time to rest and connect. Whether gathered around the fire for games, watching a movie, or sharing hearty meals, students and staff enjoyed the chance to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.

By Sunday evening, the group returned to Ballarat tired but smiling, with countless stories to share. For some, this was their first time in the snow; for others, an opportunity to refine their skills. What stood out most was the way students supported one another, celebrated success, and grew together as a community. Guests and lodge staff praised the group’s behaviour, and the College extends gratitude to the dedicated staff who gave their time to make this trip possible.

In Humanities this term we have had a number of activities and guest speakers.

In Legal studies the Year 11 and 12 students had the opportunity to meet and listen to Rob Hulls. Rob was a Member of the Federal Parliament way back in 1990 but is remembered more for being Deputy Premier and the Attorney-General of Victoria from 1999 to 2010.

As you can see some of the Year 12 students got their mini-constitution book sign by the former attorney-general, very appropriate.

Year 7 students have had their museum artefact display over the last week or two. Students investigated an ancient civilisation and then created artefacts from their research. As you can see – replica artefact for Ancient Australians, Egyptians and Chinese. Well done Year 7.

Year 8 students will visit Kryal Castle next week.

All Legal Studies student will visit the Ballarat Law Courts this week and also meet Judge Kelly. They will then have a series of presentations from the Law Foundation at the Ballarat Mechanics Institute. So more photos to come for both these events.

Term 3 has been an exciting and action-packed time in the Science Department, filled with events, achievements, and hands-on learning.

National Science Week

Earlier this term we celebrated National Science Week, which brought together a wide variety of activities for students to enjoy. From online quizzes and STEM challenges to our popular Science Escape Room, the week was full of opportunities to test problem-solving skills, apply scientific knowledge, and work collaboratively. A highlight was the Annual Periodic Table Challenge, where students put their knowledge of the elements to the ultimate test. Congratulations to Ruby Lethlean (Senior Champion) and Corben Boehm (Junior Champion) for their outstanding efforts. The week concluded with a screening of Hidden Figures, an inspiring film about the role of mathematics and science in space exploration.

Boys and Girls in STEM

Our Boys and Girls in STEM cohort wrapped up their Term 3 program at Ballarat Tech School. This term’s project saw students collaborate with Central Highlands Water, pitching innovative solutions to real-world challenges. Special mention goes to Harry Elliot, Luca Probert, Leuca Henderson, and Isabeau Turner for their creativity, teamwork, and presentation skills this term.

Open Night

This term, the Science Learning Area was delighted to showcase our work during the annual Open Night, as well as through SEED visits with Grade 5 students from our feeder schools. It was a pleasure to welcome enthusiastic future learners and their families, offering them a glimpse into the engaging and diverse opportunities that Science at Damascus has to offer.

What’s Happening in Our Science Classes?

Our students have been exploring a wide range of fascinating topics this term. Year 7s are venturing into the world of space, while Year 8s are diving into geology and Earth sciences. Year 9s are investigating the possibilities of life on Mars, and Year 10s have been applying themselves to their elective subjects. Meanwhile, our VCE students have been hard at work, with Unit 3/4s completing their final SACs and Extended Practical Investigations before heading into the revision period. We wish them all the best!

Georgia Nicht
Science Learning Area Leader

At Damascus College, learning happens everywhere through experiences that give our students the chance to explore, lead and connect. On Friday 29 August, students travelled to Sacred Heart College Kyneton to take part in the annual Frayne Festival, a celebration of debating, public speaking and the creative arts with Mercy schools across Victoria.

The festival honours Mother Ursula Frayne, the pioneering Sister of Mercy who brought the Mercy charism to Australia in 1846. Ursula believed deeply in making education both excellent and accessible, and her legacy continues to inspire Mercy schools today.

Through experiences like the Frayne Festival, our students embody this tradition, growing as confident communicators, compassionate leaders and young people ready to make a difference. We are so proud of the students who represented Damascus College with enthusiasm, courage and Mercy spirit.

A reminder to families of current Year 7-11 Students that have not already responded regarding re-enrolment for 2026, could you please ensure you log into PAM at Parent Access Module (PAM) Login and complete by Monday 15^th September 2025. You can indicate ‘Yes’ (student returning); ‘No’ (student not returning) or ‘Undecided’. The College Registrar – Mrs Erin Marshall will then contact all ‘undecided’ and ‘not returning’ student families (via email) to obtain further details.

If you have any queries, please contact Erin Marshall 5337 2222 (Option ‘5’) or email e.marshall@damascus.vic.edu.au