The first group of Damascus College Year 8 students for 2026 spent Term 1 immersed in the St Brendan’s Program at the Dunnstown campus, engaging in a learning experience that extended well beyond the traditional classroom.

The term began with an Opening Mass in Dunnstown, where students gathered with the Sisters of Mercy, families, local residents and members of the College Leadership Team. Led by Karen Goonan, Leader of the St Brendan’s Program, and celebrated by Father Justin Driscoll, the Mass marked the beginning of the program and a shared moment of connection and reflection. A reading from the Letter to the Romans called the community to “contribute to the needs of God’s people and practise hospitality,” a message that resonated strongly throughout the term.

From this foundation, students participated in a rich and varied program designed to challenge, support and inspire. Central to the St Brendan’s experience was the opportunity for students to grow in independence, confidence and self-awareness, while building strong connections with one another and the wider community.

A significant component of the term was the solo experience in the natural surrounds of the La Gerche walking trail in Creswick. Students prepared for this experience through practical and reflective activities, before spending dedicated time alone in the bush. The experience encouraged students to slow down, reflect and engage with their environment in a meaningful way. Students approached this challenge with maturity, creativity and resilience, each finding their own way to make the most of the experience.

Creativity and collaboration were also evident through hands-on projects, including the Derby Cart race. Working in small groups, students designed and built wearable cardboard cars, culminating in a vibrant and energetic race around the oval. The day was further enriched by the involvement of Prep students from Emmaus Catholic Primary School, Mt Clear, who joined as buddies and shared in the experience. This connection highlighted the leadership of the Year 8 students and the welcoming spirit that underpins the program.

Students also had the opportunity to extend their learning beyond Dunnstown through an excursion to Melbourne, providing a broader context for their studies and a chance to experience new environments and challenges together.

Connection with the wider community remained an important aspect of the program, with students engaging in opportunities to work alongside and support younger students, strengthening their sense of responsibility and leadership.

The St Brendan’s Program continued to offer a unique and transformative learning environment, where students were known, supported and challenged. Through a balance of academic learning, personal development and community engagement, students developed skills and dispositions that will support them well beyond Year 8.

As Term 1 concluded, this first group of students completed their time in Dunnstown having embraced the opportunities of the program with enthusiasm and courage. In Term 2, a new group of Year 8 students will begin their own St Brendan’s journey, continuing this important and enriching experience within the Damascus College community.