Damascus College welcomed its newest Year 7 students to campus, marking the beginning of their secondary school journey.

Across the day, students settled into their first classes, explored their new surroundings and began forming connections with peers and staff. There was a calm and positive energy as students found their way, building confidence and familiarity in their new environment.

Recess provided a chance to enjoy the sunshine, with students connecting, sharing stories and beginning to establish friendships that will grow over time.

Set within the College’s natural bushland setting, the campus quickly came to life as students embraced this new chapter with curiosity and openness.

Led by Principal Steven Mifsud, the year began with a shared commitment to being a welcoming community, grounded in care, purpose and hope for the journey ahead.

Year 7 Alternate Program

Year 7 students participated in the Alternate Program at Damascus College, engaging in a range of shared experiences designed to support connection, reflection and a strong start to secondary school life.

Structured around House groups, the program provided opportunities for students to build relationships, explore their identity within the College and develop a sense of belonging. Each element of the week was intentionally designed to balance challenge, support and engagement.

Across the program, students travelled to Log Cabin Camp in Creswick, strengthening friendships beyond the classroom environment. Time at Napoleons Hall invited students to explore their House Patron and reflect on themes of sustainability and care for our common home. Students also created rosary beads, offering a meaningful connection to faith and belonging.

The program included Progressive Achievement Tests (PAT) to support understanding of students’ literacy and numeracy development, alongside dedicated sessions focused on wellbeing and Child Safety, led by Assistant Principal Andrew Robertson. Opportunities to connect with Peer Mentors further supported students as they navigated their first weeks at the College.

Throughout the week, students approached each experience with openness and a willingness to engage. These early opportunities provided a strong foundation for the year ahead, supporting each student as they continued to grow in confidence, connection and purpose within the Damascus community.

Year 7 Camp

Our Year 7 students embraced their camp experience with courage, connection and a genuine willingness to step into something new. Across the week, each House shaped its own story, grounded in shared experiences, growing independence and the spirit of Damascus.

St Martin’s House
St Martin’s House arrived ready to make the most of every moment, quickly building a strong sense of connection across the group.
There was a quiet confidence in the way students supported one another, particularly when faced with new or unfamiliar challenges. Acts of encouragement, inclusion and care were evident throughout, reflecting the values of St Martin de Porres and his commitment to others.
Whether working through activities or sharing in the everyday rhythm of camp life, students demonstrated maturity and a growing awareness of their place within the community. A week defined by kindness, collaboration and steady growth.

Xavier House
Xavier House stepped into camp life with a strong sense of purpose, embracing each opportunity as it arose.
There was a natural drive within the group to get involved, stay active and make the most of the experience. From the first activity to the last, students approached the program with determination and a willingness to engage fully.
This sense of initiative reflects the leadership legacy of Mother Xavier Flood, with students demonstrating both independence and a readiness to contribute. A dynamic and fast-paced camp experience, marked by participation and momentum.

Rice House
Rice House made a positive start to camp, approaching the week with openness and a strong sense of togetherness.
Despite changing conditions, students remained adaptable, working through challenges with resilience and a practical mindset. There was a clear emphasis on supporting one another and ensuring everyone felt included.
Moments such as the damper-making experience brought the group together, sharing in simple traditions and collective achievement. A grounded and connected beginning for Rice House.

McAuley House
McAuley House began their camp journey with a calm confidence, making the most of a beautiful start and settling quickly into the experience.
Across the week, students formed new friendships and strengthened existing ones, with a strong sense of care and encouragement evident in their interactions. There was a thoughtful approach to both challenge and reflection, as students supported one another through new experiences.
A meaningful and connected start for McAuley House, with community at its heart.

Welcome BBQ & Badge Presentations

Damascus College welcomed the Class of 2031 and their families to the Year 7 Welcome BBQ and Badge Presentation, marking an important milestone in the beginning of their journey at the College.

Led by Principal Steven Mifsud, each student was presented with their College and House badge, formally recognising their place within the Damascus community. Surrounded by family, staff and student leaders, the evening reflected the strong sense of belonging that sits at the heart of the College.

The presentation of the badge symbolised connection, identity and inclusion. It marked the beginning of each student’s journey within a community committed to supporting their growth, learning and wellbeing.

The gathering also provided an opportunity for families to connect, reinforcing the importance of partnership in supporting each young person’s experience at Damascus.

The Welcome BBQ remains a valued tradition, offering a warm and memorable introduction to College life. It was a fitting beginning for the Class of 2031 as they commenced their time at Damascus College.