As we move further into Term 3, it’s certainly been a busy and exciting time in the life of the College.

I am very much looking forward to attending the opening night of the College Production of Oliver! this evening. Our students, staff and production team have worked tirelessly over many months to bring this show to life. Under the dedicated guidance of our Performing Arts staff, the cast and crew have committed themselves to countless rehearsals, set building, costume work and musical preparation. I would like to particularly acknowledge the enormous efforts of Nicole Burness, Andrew Seeary, Bella Harper, Graeme Strachan and Toola Strachan, along with the many staff, families and volunteers supporting them and our talented Damascus students. These events are not only a showcase of student creativity and teamwork, but also a celebration of the spirit and energy that defines our College community. I encourage all families to come along and enjoy the performance if they can.

Last Friday evening, our Senior School students gathered for their formal – a significant and memorable event in their final years of schooling. I would like to congratulate all those who attended for the way they conducted themselves throughout the evening. It was a joy to witness their maturity, their sense of fun, and the pride with which they represented themselves and the College. I also extend my thanks to the staff who attended on the night to support the students and help make it a safe and enjoyable celebration.

We are currently in the midst of subject selection for 2026, following a very well-attended Subject Expo Evening and a number of informative lunchtime sessions last week. It has been fantastic to see such strong engagement from families in the subject selection process, particularly through Teacher Advisor Interviews taking place this week. These conversations are vital in helping students make informed choices about their learning pathways. From here, the information gathered will play a key role in shaping how we structure the elective offerings and determine how many classes we can run at each year level.

In addition, we are also working through the application and interview process for our 2026 Positions of Leadership. We’ve been very pleased with the level of interest and the quality of the applications received so far. These leadership roles play an important part in the continued growth and direction of the College, and we look forward to continuing these positive and purposeful conversations with staff over the coming weeks.

Finally, I would like to remind families about the importance of students wearing the correct College uniform. As we move through the colder months, we have noticed an increase in students wearing hoodies underneath their PE jumpers. Hoodies are not part of the Damascus College uniform and should not be worn. We ask for your support in discouraging your young person from wearing a hoodie to school. An exception remains for our Year 12 students, as well as students in Core Groups 8.4, 8.5 and 8.6 at the St Brendan’s Campus, who may continue to wear their school-issued hoodie.

Thank you once again for your continued support and partnership in the education and wellbeing of your young person.

Chris