I extend a warm welcome back to everyone as we begin the new term following the Term 3 break. After my own period of extended leave, it’s been heartening to walk around the campus and witness the many changes that have taken place in such a short time. The energy and enthusiasm of our students and staff are a testament to the vibrant learning community we continue to build together. I thank Gavin Webb for his work supporting our students as Assistant Principal of Student Wellbeing during Term 2 in my absence.

Supporting Our Year 12 Students

At this time of year, my thoughts are especially with our Year 12 students as they navigate their final weeks of secondary schooling. This is a significant milestone, and from my role in Student Wellbeing, my priority is to ensure that every student leaves Damascus College in a healthy frame of mind, carrying with them a wealth of positive memories and experiences.

As we prepare for the upcoming farewell assembly, I’m looking forward to welcoming many parents, carers and special guests on campus to celebrate this occasion. Your presence means so much to our students, and it reinforces the strong partnership between home and school that underpins their success.

Empowering Year 9s Through the SSMART ASSK Program

Recently, I had the privilege of working alongside our Year 9 students as part of the SSMART ASSK Program—a party-safe, harm minimisation initiative aimed at reducing risk-taking behaviours. This program addresses the potential dangers associated with alcohol, drugs, and vaping, including accidents, injuries, sexual assault, and violence.

While I firmly believe that parents/carers are the primary educators in guiding their students through these complex issues, programs like SSMART ASSK complement those vital conversations at home. They empower students to make safer choices, look out for their friends, and seek help when needed.

Teen Mental Health First Aid for Year 8 and 10 Students

In addition to this, I want to acknowledge the work of Hannah Keating (Leader of Students) and Claudia Murphy (College Counsellor Coordinator), who are leading our Year 8 and 10 students through their Teen Mental Health First Aid qualifications. This City of Ballarat initiative ensures that every student in these year levels across the district is equipped with the skills to support their peers when mental health concerns arise. It’s a powerful step forward in fostering a culture of care and resilience among our young people.

Community Survey: Gambling and Young People in Ballarat

Ballarat Community Health has invited our school community to participate in an important local survey exploring gambling and gambling-related harm. The survey seeks insights from parents, carers, staff, and students to better understand how gambling affects young people and families in our region.

With increasing exposure to gambling-like features in video games, sports betting advertisements, and the normalisation of gambling in sport, your voice is crucial. The survey takes around 10 minutes to complete, is anonymous, and will help shape future education programs and support strategies. The survey is found here : Ballarat Community Attitudes to Gambling | MySay Ballarat

Student Supervision and Safety Before School

At Damascus College, the safety and wellbeing of our students are always at the heart of what we do. As we begin the new term, we would like to kindly remind parents and carers that active staff supervision begins at 8:35am each morning.

We understand that this may not always be feasible, however, we ask that where possible, students arrive after supervision has commenced. Your support helps us ensure that every student begins their day safely and positively.

Thank you for your continued support and engagement.