As we begin Term 3 at Damascus College, I extend a warm welcome back to all our families. I hope the recent break provided your household with a chance to rest, recharge, and enjoy some time together away from the usual routines of school life.

Term 3 marks an important point in the academic year – a time of focus, growth, and renewed momentum. For our students, it presents a valuable opportunity to build on the progress they’ve already made, to set new goals, and to engage deeply in their learning. For our staff, it is a time to consolidate, innovate, and continue working in partnership with families to support each student’s journey.

I would also like to acknowledge that while some members of our community had the chance to take time away over the break, others continued to work behind the scenes to support the smooth operation of the College. We’re grateful for their dedication and the care they bring to our shared mission.

At Damascus, we are guided by our Mercy values and a deep commitment to providing a rich, purposeful education grounded in compassion, inclusion, and high expectations. As always, we look forward to working closely with you – our families – as we support each young person to grow in character, learning, and faith.

Announcement – Assistant Principal of Learning & Teaching

We are pleased to announce the appointment of the new Assistant Principal of Learning & Teaching at Damascus College.

This key leadership position plays a vital role in shaping the teaching and learning culture of our College and directly supports the growth and development of staff and students alike.

Following a rigorous selection process and a very strong field of applicants, we are confident that we have appointed a leader who will guide us with clarity, collaboration, and vision.

In making this appointment, we were especially mindful of the qualities needed to lead this area in the current context – someone who brings not only a strong educational skill set and demonstrated leadership, but also the ability to drive our Five-Year Teaching and Learning Plan and support the delivery of our School Improvement priorities.

The successful candidate has contributed significantly to Damascus College over several years, having served as both a Learning Area Leader and, more recently, as Leader of Teaching & Learning. Through these roles, they have demonstrated a deep commitment to student outcomes, supported staff with care and professionalism, and led with both purpose and humility.

It is with great pleasure that I announce that the new Assistant Principal of Learning & Teaching is Naomi Olthof.

We congratulate Naomi on this appointment and look forward to the leadership and insight she will bring to this important role in the years ahead.

Next Tuesday evening, beginning at 5.45pm, Damascus College will provide a range of opportunities for families to come in and gain more information regarding the subject selection process for 2026. Quite extensive information is available on the College website here. The opportunities provided allow you to seek more information about your student's respective course in 2026 or to speak with teachers in the learning area that your student is considering, gaining a specialised insight into specific subjects or courses. For more information on the evening and opportunities to book, please click the following link – https://www.trybooking.com/DDGTH

Here at school, the lead-up to the production of Oliver has been very busy with rehearsals and set construction. The staff, cast, and crew worked solidly over the holidays under the guidance of our committed Performing Arts teachers, and I am sure that while these students and staff are experiencing some weariness from their efforts, the gifts that they will bring forth from opening night next Wednesday will be truly amazing!

I acknowledge the enormous effort of Nicole Burness, Andrew Seeary, Bella Harper, Graeme Strachan, Toola Strachan, and all those supporting them and the Damascus students in the lead-up to the performance in a fortnight. Excitingly, all tickets sold out very quickly, and there is great anticipation for the upcoming performances. I wish everyone well for what will be an exciting week of performances.

The Senior School Formal will take place next Friday, 1 August, from 7.00pm to 10.30pm in the Damascus Events Centre. This is a social opportunity that Damascus College facilitates for our community's Year 11 and 12 students. It has always been a very positive event on our calendar, but it is important that we reiterate that normal school rules apply.

It is an alcohol, drug- and smoke-free event; any student suspected of having consumed alcohol will not be let in. There are no pass-outs throughout the evening. Year 12 students are permitted to bring a guest on the condition that they arrive with the Damascus College student and that the guest abides by Damascus College rules.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the evening, please contact your House Leader. It is a social activity, and hair and make-up appointments are not more important than school on Friday. Any student who is away on Friday will not be able to attend the formal.

We share with the community two recent losses that have touched our Damascus College family.

Firstly, we offer our heartfelt condolences to Tracey Williams, a member of our Finance team, on the passing of her beloved mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with Tracey and her family as they navigate this time of grief and remembrance.

We also share the sad news of the passing of Greg Wright late last week. Greg was a member of the Damascus College staff from June 2023 to March 2024, working in our Maintenance Team. He was diagnosed with ALS, a form of motor neurone disease, approximately three months ago. Greg was a kind and committed member of our community during his time with us, and he will be remembered fondly.

We hold both families in our thoughts and prayers and extend our deepest sympathies. May they find strength, comfort, and peace in the days ahead.

A reminder that Steven (College Principal) has taken some well deserved Long Service Leave for the first two weeks of this term and we look forward to welcoming him back in Week 3.

Wishing you and your family a positive and fulfilling Term 3.