As we begin Semester 2, Damascus College is proud to reflect on the success of our Structured Workplace Learning (SWL) program and the achievements of our senior students who participated throughout Semester 1.

SWL is an integral component of the Vocational Education and Training (VET) program, VCE Industry and Enterprise, and the VCE Vocational Major pathway. It provides students with the opportunity to step beyond the classroom and gain hands-on experience in real workplace settings. These placements are more than just work experience — they are designed to enhance students’ technical skills, grow their confidence, and help them explore potential career paths.

Throughout Semester 1, Damascus College senior students engaged in placements across a wide range of industries including education, early childhood, trades, health, retail, creative arts, beauty, sport, and hospitality. Each placement was carefully aligned with the student’s personal interests, learning goals and future aspirations, with the support and guidance of Applied Learning Coordinator, Belinda Dwyer.

“It has been such a privilege to visit our students at their SWL placements,” Belinda said. “What I’ve consistently seen is young people stepping up to the challenge, taking initiative, and demonstrating a genuine commitment to learning. The feedback from businesses has been overwhelmingly positive, and our students should feel incredibly proud of the way they’ve represented themselves and Damascus College.”

Here are just a few examples of the feedback received:

At Mount Clear Primary School, Jack impressed staff with his maturity, strong work ethic and the positive rapport he developed with students. As a former student of the school, Jack’s placement was a meaningful opportunity to give back to the community that supported his own development.

At Perridak Burron Early Learning Centre, Willow demonstrated calm, care and compassion while supporting young children in a vibrant early learning environment. With growing confidence, Willow is learning to manage student needs and classroom routines with warmth and professionalism.

Claire, placed at Pipers, embraced the fast-paced hospitality environment with enthusiasm, showing strong communication, teamwork and initiative during a busy service period.

At St Vinnie’s, Casey brought great energy and positivity to her work on the registers. Staff noted how well she interacted with customers and took on tasks with confidence — all under the mentorship of a former Damascus College Vocational Major student.

These examples are just a snapshot of the many outstanding contributions our students have made during their placements. Across the board, employers have commented on our students’ politeness, professionalism, and genuine interest in learning — qualities that will serve them well in any future career path.

None of this would be possible without the generous support of our local community. Damascus College is incredibly grateful to the many Ballarat businesses and organisations who have welcomed our students into their workplaces and supported their learning:

Alfredton Primary School, Ballarat Dental Group, Ballarat Orthodontic Practice, Boak Electrical, Bomitali Construction, Boutique Beauty by Chloe, Buninyong Primary School, Canadian Lead Primary School, Castleman Plumbing, Damascus College Performing Arts, D2E Gym, El Artista, Emmaus Primary School, Federation University Gym, ICE Engineering, InExterior Café, Inner North Carpentry, Jenny’s Early Learning Centre, Jimmy’s Barber Shop, Journey Early Learning (Lucas), Lauren Rackley Therapy, Maggie and Kate, Mitre 10, Mount Clear Primary School, Petstock, Pipers, RAD, Siena Primary School, Simon Prendergast Building, Sturt Street Early Learning Centre, St Vinnie’s and UFS.

To each of these partners, we say thank you. Your willingness to invest in the growth and development of our young people is deeply appreciated. You are helping to shape confident, capable, and community-minded graduates who are ready to take on the world.

As Semester 2 unfolds, we look forward to continuing this vital program and celebrating more stories of growth, learning and success.

SEMESTER ONE SWL PLACEMENTS

From classrooms to construction sites, hospitality venues to healthcare settings, these photos showcase the confidence, commitment and capability of our students in action.

Swipe through to see the learning, the laughter and the real-world experience that’s helping shape their future.