Last Thursday, the College community gathered for our annual Mother’s Day Breakfast, a joyful occasion that celebrated the vital role of mothers and caregivers in the lives of our students. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming as families shared breakfast together and students expressed gratitude for the love, guidance, and support their mothers provide. Thank you to all who joined us for this beautiful celebration of family and faith. I am thankful for our wonderful student leaders who led the liturgy and hospitality and modelled our sense of shared Christian story and connection to the gospels.
Congratulations to all students who represented Damascus College with pride at the recent BAS Athletics Carnival. Our athletes demonstrated outstanding sportsmanship, determination, and team spirit throughout the day. Their efforts on the track and field are a testament to the College’s commitment to holistic education and active participation. Well done to all who competed and supported their peers. Thanks to the many staff who supported our athletes whether on the track or back at the College taking additional classes.
The recent RICE House Assembly was a powerful showcase of leadership, reflection, and unity. Students explored the House’s patron, Edmund Rice, and his legacy of education and justice. The story of the Rice House is pivotal in our school heritage, as it celebrates the work of the Christian Brothers in one of our founding schools, St Paul’s Technical School. The assembly provided a valuable opportunity for students to reflect on how the values of RICE House can guide their daily actions and contribute to the wider College community.
Our annual Lap of the Lake event brought students from Years 7 – 10 and keen athletes in Years 11 and 12 and staff together for a meaningful experience around Lake Wendouree. This tradition not only promotes physical wellbeing but also reinforces our sense of community and purpose. It was encouraging to see students supporting one another with energy and enthusiasm as they walked, ran, and reflected on the journey.
In recent global news, the Catholic Church has entered a new chapter with the election of Pope Leo XIV. This historic event offers our community a moment to reflect on the role of the papacy in shaping faith, unity, and service across the world. Students and staff have taken time in Religious Education and prayer to consider how the Holy Father’s vision may inspire our mission as a Catholic school.
Damascus College is currently engaged in the collaborative writing of a new Vision and Mission Statement, working closely with the School Advisory Council and staff. This important process is grounded in prayer, reflection, and community voice, ensuring our strategic direction continues to reflect our values and aspirations as a Catholic learning community. I look forward to continue this process of discernment with our student leaders.
As Term 2 progresses, we encourage all students to remain focused and committed to their learning goals. Now is a crucial time to stay organised, seek support when needed, and take pride in the learning journey. Staff are here to guide and support every student as they strive for excellence and personal growth.
On behalf of the community, we extend our congratulations to Ash Pillai on his appointment as Deputy Principal – Pedagogy, Learning Design at Sacred Heart College, Geelong.
Ash has made a significant and lasting impact in his role as Assistant Principal – Learning and Teaching at Damascus College. His leadership has been instrumental in driving meaningful change across the learning landscape, particularly through his work in STEM education, the St Brendan’s Learning Space and the implementation of the Instructional Model just to name a few.
Ash’s passion for innovative learning design and commitment to student growth have left a remarkable legacy at Damascus, and we are confident that he will continue to inspire and lead with vision and integrity in his new role at Sacred Heart.
Ash will finish at the College at the end of Term 2.
We wish him every success in this exciting new chapter!
We welcome several new staff members to the Damascus team this term and are excited for the gifts and energy they bring to our community. At the same time, we acknowledge the resignation of Maria Russell, a valued member of staff whose contribution to the College over many years in Music and productions has been deeply appreciated. We thank Maria for her dedication and wish her every blessing in the future.
With every blessing