Last week was indeed a busy week in our college calendar with our Year 8 students participating in camp and Reflection Days and our Year 10 students engaging in Work Experience, Reflection Days and the Melbourne Experience. Each day l try to explore the College and engage in learning observations to see how we are embedding our Instructional Model – the 5 E’s. l am impressed to see how our teachers adapt the teaching to suit the aspect of the lesson structure. It is apparent to observe what the teacher is up to according to the type of activity. It is always interesting to see how students evaluate their own learning.

I'm excited to share details about our Bright Futures Pathways Panel & Breakfast event on Thursday, June 6 at 7am. This event offers students insights from current and former students on their success journeys. Join us for a continental breakfast and gain valuable knowledge to guide your student's subject choices and future career discussions. Learn more about the event and secure your ticket for a morning of inspiration and guidance towards our students' bright futures. Bright Futures Pathways Panel & Breakfast

Student voice and agency have been key aspects of our College culture, and this is evident in our student's participation in the Drama Program and BAS sport. On Thursday afternoon, l observed the steady rehearsal of “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime.” I thoroughly enjoyed our students responding to Andrew Seeary’s direction and feedback and witnessing how the play and characters transformed to create an intense production. In the Intermediate BAS basketball that was being played in the JSC, l again observed how Belinda Dwyer was giving our basketballers intense and direct feedback for improvement. We can only improve if we are open to feedback and the person providing the feedback is honest and direct. The feedback l observed being given was open, honest and direct, and our young people could hear and respond.

On Friday, I had the privilege of attending our Child Safety Community meeting, a crucial gathering that included staff, students, and parents. One of the key agenda items was inappropriate behaviours. The team engaged in a thoughtful discussion to ensure everyone in our community is heard and respected. As a Catholic community, we believe that we are all made in the image and likeness of our god, and it's our collective responsibility to uphold these values in our interactions.

This Sunday was Pentecost Sunday, the day the Church celebrates the 50th day from the Harvest; it is the day we celebrate our covenant with God as God’s people. As God’s people we offer hope, compassion, love and justice: "Peace be with you," the greeting we offer each other at every Eucharistic celebration, needs to be lived each moment and each day. Adolescence is a time of change and growth: it is both a period of confusion and affirmation. As adults, we need to support our young people in recognising behaviours that are life-giving and rewarding. If we want our world to be a safer place and to create real justice, we need to challenge attitudes, actions and behaviours.

As members of the Ballarat community, it is crucial that we encourage our young people to strive for their best and speak out against any behaviour that is sexist, racist, or disrespectful to human dignity. I urge all families to stand with the College and the community in actively identifying and addressing unacceptable behaviour. Some ways to effectively call out misogyny and poor behaviours are:

• Name the behaviour: Clearly identify and label the behaviour as misogynistic or inappropriate. Use specific language to describe what was said or done and why it's harmful.
• Express your feelings: Share how the behaviour made you feel or how you perceive it affects others. Personalising the conversation can help others understand the impact of their actions.
• Use assertive communication: Be firm and direct in your communication without resorting to aggression or hostility. Maintain a respectful tone while making it clear that the behaviour is unacceptable.
• Offer alternatives: Suggest alternative ways of expressing themselves or engaging with others that are respectful and inclusive. Sometimes, we can use humour that is putting others down
• Be an ally: If you witness misogyny or poor behaviour directed at others, speak up in support of the person being targeted. Show solidarity and offer assistance if needed.
• Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries for what behaviour is acceptable in your personal or family environment. Enforce consequences for repeated misconduct.
• Lead by example: Model be respectful. Be mindful of your language and attitudes towards the other
• Seek support: If calling out misogyny or poor behaviour becomes overwhelming or unsafe, seek support from trusted friends, colleagues, or organisations dedicated to gender equality and social justice.

By actively challenging misogyny and poor behaviour, we can contribute to creating a more inclusive and respectful society where everyone feels valued and respected regardless of gender.

May we continue to be people who live in the light of our Christ and model the kingdom of God today and everyday.

With every blessing

Beginning this Monday is National Reconciliation Week (NRW). It is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements and explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

Reconciliation must live in all Australians’ hearts, minds, and actions as we move forward, creating a nation strengthened by respectful relationships between the wider Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

We all have a role to play when it comes to reconciliation, and in playing our part, we collectively build relationships and communities that value Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories, cultures, and futures.

Before many of our meetings or gatherings, we acknowledge the country where we live, learn and work.

We acknowledge all the country in which we minister in Catholic education in this Diocese. Those of us in Ballarat are in Wudawurrung country, and all of us are located in culturally significant lands.

We acknowledge our first people who have nurtured and cared for Country for tens of thousands of years, and we acknowledge that they have managed to survive and thrive, demonstrating their strength, resilience, and adaptability.

We also acknowledge their elders as custodians of this land that was taken from them without consent, without compensation, without treaty, but not without resistance.

We commit to the work of truth-telling and reconciliation in our nation.

We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.

Our College is certainly feeling the effects of COVID-19 and Influenza on our students and staff. Our ability to cover classes is tight, and we continue to do our best to provide onsite learning each day to all students. Can I encourage families that if your young person is not well, please keep your student/students home until they are symptom-free – COVID or the flu - for everyone's safety.

Next Friday evening, 31^st May, the Middle School Formal will take place from 7:00pm to 9:30pm. This is a social opportunity Damascus College facilitates for our Year 9 and 10 students. It has always been a very positive event on our calendar, but it is important that I reiterate that normal school rules apply. It is an alcohol, drug and smoke-free event; any student who is suspected of having consumed alcohol will not be permitted to attend. There are no pass-outs through the evening. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the evening, please contact your House Leader. It is a social activity, and hair and make-up appointments are not more important than school on Friday. Any student who is away on Friday will not be able to attend the formal. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the evening, please contact your House Leader. Students are encouraged to bring a plate of food to share.

Today, 23/5/2024 is the 2^nd anniversary of our colleague Jeff Simpson’s passing. For those who don’t know Jeff or had the absolute privilege of meeting Simmo, he was a long-term staff member and a valued member of our community. We pray for Jeff’s family and all those in our community experiencing grief and loss. We offer our condolences to all those going through hardship, that we may or may not be aware of.

Dear God, hold all those who grieve and suffer close to your heart. Comfort them and equip me with peace and with strength. Guide me, Loving God, our comforter, and our friend. AMEN

Chris

We have been filled with the inspiration of the Holy Spirit as it descended on Pentecost Sunday. The energy of the Holy Spirit has certainly been felt with Retreats and Reflection days taking place for many of our students in the college.

Reflection Day

The Year 8 students travelled to St Brendan’s in Dunnstown and spent time away from the busy-ness of the school day to reflect on positive relationships: with themselves, each other and God. They were then invited to participate in a student led liturgy at the beautiful church that is on the grounds at St Brendan’s.

Retreat

Year 10 students also experienced time away from the busy-ness of school life to immerse themselves in a 2-day retreat reflecting on what social justice means. The students travelled to Melbourne and heard firsthand about issues facing people, who through circumstances often beyond their control, have experienced homelessness. Students visited The Big Issue where they explored issues related to homelessness. They were also challenged to see beyond stereotypes. Testimonies from people employed by The Big Issue exposed the hardships of homeless and also the hope that comes when others reach out to those in times of challenge and hardship.

On the second day of the Retreat students worked through scenarios with the Youth Mission Team to help them reflect on their personal relationship with God. This was a fulfilling day where students were able to talk, think, reflect, laugh, and pray together.

Deadly Aspirations Day

Several First Nations students from Damascus College joined secondary students from all over the Central Highlands Area to participate in a day of connection and culture. It was also a day to explore pathways and career options with an EXPO that had representatives from a number of universities, the police, defence forces, Western bulldogs, to name only a few.

It was an incredibly valuable day packed with insights and information for all in attendance.

This week at the College staff briefing, I spoke of the next 10 weeks as a period when our community enters a cave. The weather becomes bleak, sunshine hours decrease, and hence, our motivation for physical activity and work is inclined to be compromised. Surviving the doldrums of winter in schools can be challenging for both students and teachers.

When we experience the reduction of sunshine, our serotonin levels drop, causing what mental health professionals call Seasonal Affective Disorders (SAD). We feel less energised, engaged and potentially withdrawn. As Parents and Carers of our students, it is important that we encourage activities and a mindset that allows us to navigate the winter months. I ask that you consider the following:

1. Support a Routine:
• Help your student maintain a consistent daily routine, including bedtime and wake-up times, to ensure they get enough rest.
• Encourage a healthy breakfast to start the day off right.
2. Encourage Outdoor Time:
• On milder days, encourage your student to spend some time outdoors to get fresh air and exercise.
• Promote your student’s engagement in the many co-curricular opportunities that the College offers in term 2 and 3
3. Monitor Screen Time:
• Balance your student's screen time with other activities like reading, cooking or art and craft
• Encourage them to use educational apps or games that align with their schoolwork.
4. Stay Connected:
• Keep in touch with your student's teachers to stay informed about their progress and upcoming activities.
• Communicate with other parents to share tips and support each other during the winter months.
5. Focus on Mental Health:
• Acknowledge that winter can be tough and that it’s okay to feel a bit down.
• Encourage open conversations about feelings and offer support to those who might be struggling.
• Use planners or calendars to keep track of assignments, activities, and special events to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Start a gratitude journal or practice daily gratitude exercises to help shift focus to positive aspects of life.

By implementing these strategies, teachers, students, and parents can create a more positive and productive environment, making it easier to survive the doldrums of winter. Rest assured, the warmer months will be here before we know it.

The Importance of Language Immersion in Education

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the ability to communicate across cultures and languages has never been more important. This is something our society greatly missed during the COVID-19 pandemic when physical connections and cross-cultural interactions were limited. At Damascus College, we recognize the transformative power of language education and are committed to providing our students with immersive experiences that foster not only linguistic proficiency but also cultural understanding and personal growth.

The loss of our French Immersion program during the pandemic was a significant setback, but we regained momentum with the successful Indonesian immersion experience last year. This opportunity presented itself again with our presentation to families on 21/05/2024 on our promise of a French Language Tour in 2025. It was a remarkable experience to witness the students' engagement and curiosity as Finn discussed what the plan for the immersion. Our families eyes sparkled with excitement, and their questions flowed freely, revealing a deep desire to understand and embrace what the program entailed.

This anecdotal evidence reinforces the overwhelming body of research that highlights the invaluable benefits of language immersion programs. Numerous studies have shown that immersive experiences significantly enhance language acquisition, fostering not only fluency but also critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and cultural awareness.

Dr. Bates, a leading expert in language education and researcher on neuroplasticity and its link between language development and critical thinking, explains, " neural changes can result from many aspects of environmental input, cognitive demand, or behavioural experience, but the intensity and frequency of language use may be particularly powerful in bringing about such changes in the brain."

Indeed, research has demonstrated that learning a new language can positively impact various areas of cognitive development, including memory, attention span, and decision-making abilities. By constantly engaging with new grammar structures, vocabulary, and cultural contexts, students develop enhanced problem-solving skills and the ability to approach challenges from multiple perspectives.

Moreover, language immersion experiences foster a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity and global connectivity. As students interact with native speakers and immerse themselves in the nuances of a new culture, they develop empathy, respect, and a broader worldview – invaluable assets in an increasingly globalised society.

At Damascus College, we recognise the importance of language education and offer language courses as a core subject in Years 7 and 8, with elective options in subsequent years. While some students may choose not to continue with language studies, it is important to understand the profound impact that language learning can have on their overall academic and personal development.

Research has consistently shown that language learning supports and enhances performance in other subject areas, such as mathematics, science, and social studies. By developing skills in language acquisition, students cultivate cognitive flexibility, pattern recognition, and the ability to analyse complex information – all of which are valuable assets across various learning areas.

As we look towards the future, Damascus College is excited to pursue additional immersion opportunities, including the proposed French Tour Immersion for 2025. By providing our students with these transformative experiences, we are not only equipping them with valuable linguistic skills but also nurturing their intellectual curiosity, cultural sensitivity, and capacity for personal growth – essential qualities for navigating and thriving in our increasingly interconnected world.

Li, Laegualt, Litcofsky. (2014). The cognitive benefits of language immersion. Journal of Applied Linguistics, 27(3), 451-468.

Sport Report – Week 6, Term 2, 2024

210 students have signed up to represent the college in Term 2 BAS Sport. This is an outstanding and significant number, it gives me great pleasure to have the task of organising all the behind the scenes tasks that need completing prior to and during the term to ensure all students have success. The benefits from playing after school sport include, but are not limited to; enjoyment, fitness, increased game sense, a greater connection to our college, meeting new friends and learning from our experienced and enthusiastic staff about your chosen sport. A big thank you must go to the 15 staff who will coaching, supervising and umpiring throughout the term, for without their contribution after school sport would not be viable.

Damascus Lap of The Lake

On Thursday, April 18 the Damascus community made its way to Lake Wendouree to participate in the annual Lap of The Lake. On a cool but great day for running the Year 7 and 8’s started proceedings by starting from near the Forrest Street roundabout to run 4km. The Year 9-12 students completed a full lap (6km), with the start and finish line at Loreto. It was wonderful to see a large number of staff modelling a healthy lifestyle by running or walking the lake with our students. This demonstrates that regular daily exercise is achievable and is an important lifetime habit to establish. Results were as follows:

Year Level Winners

National Track & Field Championships – Adelaide, April 2024

Congratulations to the following students who competed in the National Track and Field Championships in April, plenty of people from the wider Damascus community have been following your progress.

• Oaklee Burge – 800m
• Lucy Jones – 800m & 1500m
• Archie Grant – 800m & 1500m
• Armani Anderson – 100m
• Lucy Bennett – Hammer Throw

Term 2 BAS Sport

See below for a summary of what sports are available in Term 2. The majority of sports commenced in week two.

BAS Athletics

On Wednesday, May 1 the annual BAS Athletics Carnival, was held at Llanberris Reserve. We had 135 students represent the college across all track and field events. In a change of format, discus and javelin was re-introduced, whist the Hurdles had been taken out of the program. Thank you to the staff who gave up their time to officiate and support on the day – Dan Jans, Georgia Shillito, Katelyn Clark, Kirsten Phyland, Allan Lepair, Rachel Beardall, Pat Dillon, Wayne Forster and Paul Blanchfield. It was also wonderful to see parents drop in and support their son or daughter.

Broken records

Congratulations to Lucy Jones, who broke two BAS records on the day. An outstanding effort.

800m (15 & under) 2:20.33

1500m (15 & under) 4:50.50

Lucy also won the 400m.

Other winners

Year 7

Lucy Bennett – Shotput, Div A

Benji Allan – High Jump, Div A

James Langhorne – High Jump, Div B

Year 8

Mason Sutton – 800m, Div B

Adrian O’Loughlin – Triple Jump, Div A

Anna Oberholzer – 400m, Div A

Year 9

Oscar Henderson – Shotput, Div A

Thomas Hodge – Shotput, Div B

Dilana Romeril, Shotput, Div B

Kaitlin Orchard – High Jump, Div A

Finn Hoare – 400m, Div B

Year 10

Lucy Jones – 400m, 800m, 1500m Div A

Oaklee Burge – 400m, 800m Div A

Ethan Kuchel – Discus, Div A

Declan Newman – Discus, Div B

Year 11

Armani Anderson – 100m, Div A

Kylan Jans – 800m Walk

Girls 4 x 100m Relay - Shona Wills, Layla Muir, Madi Dixon, Armani Anderson

Year 12

Amelia Williams – Shotput, Div A

Victorian School Associations Competition – Swimming Championships

On Monday May 6, Gemma Daly and Charley Ward represented BAS at the VSAC Swimming Championships at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (MSAC). This is as a result of their strong results from the BAS Swimming Carnival, on March 20. This is an outstanding achievement. Mason Firth and Luke Gallagher were emergencies on the day.

Term 2 Key Dates

Damascus Sport Uniform

Students need to ensure they are in the correct uniform to participate. Students should check with their coach as to what is required and bring your own drink bottle.

I wish all students and coaches the best for Term 2 Sport. Always play the game in the right spirit, wear the correct uniform, respect the umpires, staff in charge and the facilities. You all have an opportunity to add to your school experience by being the best you can be, both in and out of the classroom.

Please do not hesitate to contact myself (g.webb@damascus.vic.edu.au) or Sport and PE Administrator, Patty Dillon (p.dillon@damascus.vic.edu.au) at the College with any questions.

Regards,

Gavin Webb

Sports Co-ordinator

On Wednesday May 8, Year 11 English Language and Year 11 and Year 12 Literature students attended a matinee performance of Bell Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ at the Arts Centre in Melbourne. Thanks to Bek Chadwick, Jayde Tangey and Steph Macdonald for making the day such a success. We also want to acknowledge parents’ support of the excursion. The students were captivated by the exquisite stagecraft of the highly technical show. Here are some of the Year 12 Literature class’ reflections:

"I was intrigued by the actors and the way they moved across the stage. They were all hilarious and had amazing comedic timing. The staging was gorgeous and so intricately made to assist the actors in character and place transformation."

"I was mesmerised by the magnificent use of the set; the actors' agility as they swung from beams and crouched on walls, and maneuverer chairs and tables was incredible to watch."

"An element of the play that I appreciated was the intricate ways the actors shifted between roles, the stark differences between the way each character was presented through body language, vocal modulation, speech, and costuming. It was incredible to see characters brought to life in such a way that made their personality's believable, and loveable and so different from one another."

"I was awestruck at how the small ensemble cast were able to shift from character to character, playing multiple characters with different personalities and goals. The cast constructed scenes that went from romance to leaving the audience in a fit of laughter."

"I appreciated the scene where Hermia and Helena were fighting after Lysander and Demetrius had both 'fallen in love' with Helena. Even though the dialogue was so fast and in Shakespearean English, the body language, movement, and facial expressions made the scene so clear and so fun to watch."

"A moment at the conclusion of the performance that left me in hysterics was the play within a play 'Pyramus and Thisbe', performed in an amateurish way and with such raunch, in comparison to the level of sobriety the principal cast upheld throughout the play. Adorning Elizabethan costumes to perform the play within a play added comedic value, lampooning the ‘mechanicals’ further, as it stood in contrast to the modern clothing the principal cast wore."

The Sustainable Racing Team's (SRT) epic journey from Broken Hill to Ballarat (B2B) reached its triumphant conclusion as they arrived back home to Damascus College this afternoon. The atmosphere was electric as a sea of proud and enthusiastic staff, students, and families gathered to welcome them back with open arms.

Spanning a distance from Broken Hill to Ballarat, the B2B journey embodied the Mercy values of compassion and service, showcasing the SRT's unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of sustainability and raising vital awareness for cancer research. Led by Alan Strange, the team embarked on this ambitious adventure, navigating challenges and celebrating triumphs along the way.

As the team rolled back onto the Damascus College grounds, hearts swelled with pride as Yr 10 student Isabella Fensling was honored as the final rider, symbolizing the culmination of their extraordinary journey. The sight of the Buninyong-Mount Helen Fire Brigade truck, proudly bearing Connor Prunty's name, and the presence of brigade members, served as a poignant reminder of the journey's deeper purpose and profound significance to the Damascus College community.

Though the physical journey may have come to an end, the impact of their efforts continues to resonate. Generous donations to the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute (FECRI) are a testament to the enduring legacy of the team's mission. You can still contribute to show your support and appreciation for their incredible journey.

Congratulations to all the members of the team for their remarkable achievement and unwavering resilience throughout the B2B journey. Your dedication, courage, and spirit exemplify the very essence of Mercy values, inspiring us all to strive for excellence and make a meaningful difference in the world.

Read more about SRT and the B2B Journey

On 13-17 May, Year 8 students travelled by bus to Angelsea for the annual Year 8 camp, where they were issued with packs, tents, and camping gear, ready to experience new adventures in new surroundings.

Campers were split into two groups. The first group enthusiastically headed off on 3-5km hikes through undulating scenic bushland, led by Auscamp leaders and Damascus staff. Students enjoyed setting up tents, collecting firewood for the evening fire, preparing dinner, and, of course, toasting marshmallows by the fire in the evening.

The second group was bused to the coast for surfing and canoeing activities. There, students received lessons in their activities and returned to camp for dinner in the dining room.

The whole group were treated to a trivia night before returning to their tents for a restful night with an early start, with the reverse of activities the next day.

It was a wonderful experience for all, with many wonderful memories made and friendships forged.

Reconciliation Week is 27 May to 3 June.

Join us for "Facing Up" at the Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts during Reconciliation Week on Tuesday 28 May.

This powerful event brings together Indigenous and non-Indigenous writers and actors to unpack Australia's history with depth and nuance. From prime ministerial statements to historical injustices and moments of progress, "Facing Up" sheds light on our shared past.

Don't miss this chance to be part of the conversation during Reconciliation Week. Together, lets continue to learn about our history and build a better future.

Tickets available at: FACING UP TICKETS

Damascus College students will soon feature in the upcoming BCMA production of ‘Newsies Jnr’ in June.

The following Damascus students have been cast in the show:

• Anna Reynolds (Y 7) as Race and Ada
• Charlie (Y 11) as Joseph Pulitzer
• Elijah van Raaphorst (Y 8) as Jack Kelly
• Freddy Gibson (Y 7) as Oscar
• Josephine McGinniss (Y 8) as Davey
• Madi Gale (Y 8) as Police Officers & ensemble
• Mia Stevens (Y 7) as Police Officers/ Woman (customer) & ensemble
• Ronan O'Beirne (Y 7) as Jo Jo
• Sophie Allan (Y 8) as Nancy & Olive
• Winston Hewitt-Gunn (Y 7) as Scab 1
• Mia Farrah (Y 9) in Ensemble

This award-winning musical tells of powerful newspaper publishers raising prices at the newsboys' expense. The charismatic Jack Kelly rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions. Together, the newsies learn that they are stronger united and create a movement to fight for what's right.

Damascus College wishes these students all the best for the upcoming show.

Over four nights from the 28th to the 31st of May at 7:30pm Senior Drama students will present a series of original performance pieces to showcase of their talents, skills and abilities within VCE Drama.

The performance is designed within the Unit 3 study to assess students on their abilities to create and work within an Ensemble performance. This year they have been given the challenge of creating an ensemble performance that focuses on the topic of Extinction

In a dystopian world of the future a group of disparate characters face an impending catastrophe caused by a multitude of factors. This potential world ending event threatens their very existence. As they meet at the site of humanities last hope the characters implore, justify or plead why they intend to stay or leave and implore others to make an informed choice.

Four groups over the four nights of performance will endeavour to dramatically explore through storytelling concepts revolving around extinction.

Each student within this year’s task is responsible for the development of at least one substantial character. The complex task challenges them to master the skills required to both create and perform their own work. The play will be a strong blend of both comedy and drama and will be presented within an eclectic theatrical style. Each performance will run for approximately 30 minutes with only 2 of the performance will be presented each evening. These original drama pieces will incorporate the use of a dynamic soundtrack and creative use of lighting and projection.

Seating is unreserved and no booking is required over the 4-night season.

Venue is the Mt. Clear Auditorium. Entry via gold coin donation

Damascus College is proud to release the Autumn 2024 edition of the bi-annual publication, The Road.

This edition is full of wonderful stories, including alumni profiles, college events, staff profiles, current student profiles, and much, much more. The front cover showcases the St Brendan's, Dunnstown site, and the introduction of Damascus programs at this unique location. Read the full story inside, on the beginning of the 'Dunnstown Program' at Damascus.

Alumni, parents, and members of the community will be receiving the publication in the mail this week, and below is the link to the online version:

The Road - Autumn 2024 Edition

We hope you enjoy the read.

On Friday 3 May 2024, Damascus College hosted the Diocesan Catholic Education Week dinner, whereby the Diocesan leaders acknowledged the commitment of people who have graciously provided thirty years of service to Catholic education.

Damascus wishes to recognise and give thanks to the following staff who celebrated thirty years of vocation to Catholic Education: Hamish McCrum, Judy Vanderkley, Cathy Prunty and Steven Mifsud.

Outstanding contributors were also celebrated and recognised with the Spirit of Education awards. Damascus College is proud to announce, our very own, Cathy Prunty received an award for Empowering all to flourish and Tony Haintz (past Assistant Principal, Catholic Culture) received the Building Inclusive Catholic Learning Communities award.

Congratulations to Cathy and Tony, due recognition for these two exceptional members of our community.

Tony Haintz, Damascus College, Ballarat

Building Inclusive Catholic Learning Communities Award

Tony has been responsible for leading the Catholic Identity of Damascus College since playing a key role in drawing together the charisms of its three founding schools in 1995.

Tony always ensures Catholic identity is evident and accessible through presenting school masses and liturgies in ways that are engaging and meaningful to the diverse College community.

He and the team supporting him regularly facilitate best-practice professional learning for Damascus staff and, at various times, other Catholic schools - Damascus College has one of the highest rates of participation in the Enhancing Catholic School Identity (ECSI) program, and Tony always ensures participants are well supported.

Tony has also been instrumental to the writing and implementation of the Awakening Curriculum, and its successive revisions.

He has tirelessly promoted and supported the work of his own parish, St Alypius, and the Diocesan Church, throughout his professional life, including as Chair of the Diocesan Social Justice Commission.

One of Tony’s great achievements grew from the City of Ballarat's friendship with the Municipality of Ainaro in Timor-Leste. Tony and a colleague travelled to Timor Leste in 2010 and formed a close relationship with the school community of Santa Maria, Ainairo.

As a result, Damascus College continues to conduct immersion experiences grounded in Catholic Social Teaching for students and staff in collaboration with Ballarat Friends of Anairo.

Tony’s work epitomises bringing ‘fullness of life to all’ through building an inclusive Catholic learning community at Damascus College and beyond.

Congratulations Tony!

Cathy Prunty, Damascus College, Ballarat

Empowering all to Flourish Award

Cathy is a role model when it comes to empowering those around her to flourish.

She is beloved by staff, students, and families, excelling in her ability to build trust and create safe spaces where everyone feels at ease.

Cathy organises liturgies in such a way that all are visibly included. She takes time to know the students well, and asks them to perform roles that are challenging, yet achievable.

Cathy is astute at identifying the marginalised in the College community and persistent in actioning strategies to ‘bring them into the fold.’

Her successes with students in the ‘Hands On Learning Program’, supporting Year 10 students who aren’t suited to the conventional classroom, have been particularly significant, drawing deep respect from students and colleagues alike.

These are students that many teachers struggle to build positive relationships with, but Cathy is consistent in her efforts and ability to guide them to positive outcomes.

Cathy is also tireless in her work for her parish and wider communities, enabling her to make explicit the link between Catholic Social Teaching and the lives of her students.

Cathy works to continually update her teaching practice to engage students and empower them to live the Mercy values, while inspiring colleagues to do the same.

Cathy truly does empower all around her to flourish.

Congratulations Cathy!

Laura Kimm-POL's introduction to Damascus College began during her final placement as a Health and Physical Education teacher in 2012. Since then, she has remained with Damascus, transitioning from Casual Relief Teaching in 2013 to her current position. She is excited to be entering her 11th year at the College. Over the years, she has fulfilled various roles including a teacher of HPE as well as junior Mathematics, in addition to Assistant House Leader of McAuley House.

In 2024, Laura enters her second year in her new position as Student Growth and Engagement Coordinator-Year 7 and Transition. Her role is rewarding and commences from the moment students enroll into Damascus College, extending into their entire first year of high school. Central to her responsibilities is fostering seamless transitions for students, working closely with them, their families, and Primary schools. This involves organizing visits to primary schools, coordinating extra transition days, Orientation Day activities, and facilitating workshops on the first day of school to ensure that all students embark on their educational journey feeling welcomed and supported in every facet of their college experience. Laura is passionate about the well-being of the students and believes that their first year of high school can shape them into being the best versions of themselves.

A significant aspect of Laura's role involves collaborating with families and students diagnosed or seeking a diagnosis of various Social, Emotional, Cognitive, Physical, and Sensory disabilities to ensure equitable access to the curriculum. Through the creation of Personalized Learning Plans in collaboration with students and their families, she highlights individual strengths, addresses challenges, and outlines reasonable adjustments necessary to accommodate diverse learning needs within the classroom setting.

As Laura settles more into the role, she is committed to reviewing and refining existing processes to ensure students and families feel valued, supported, and welcomed in the College. She believes there is a place for everyone at Damascus and is excited to challenge students to continue to grow and become expert learners. She considers herself privileged to be part of a remarkable team of staff members whose collective expertise and unwavering dedication empower students and families to navigate the challenges of high school successfully, starting at Year 7. Looking ahead, she eagerly anticipates the continuation of her work with current 2024 families while also initiating the transition process for incoming 2025 students.

Australian Governments School Student Broadband Initiative (SSBI) which is available to families through to December 2025. This means for eligible families who sign up now, there is still over 18 months of free internet.

The Australian Government initiative was designed to boost education opportunities and narrow the digital divide, with the Australian Government providing up to 30,000 eligible families with school age children with no internet at home free access to NBN under the SSBI.

Access to the SSBI has become easier, with applications made through the National Referral Centre that parents/carers with school students can contact directly to check their eligibility.

Victorian families with students enrolled in Prep to Year 12, who do not have an active NBN connection (or had one in the previous 14 days) but can access a standard NBN service at their premises can become eligible with an application to the National Referral Centre.

You can find more information about the NRC on Anglicare Victoria’s website available here: Student Internet Program - Anglicare Victoria or contact Jordan Smith at the DOBCEL Office at jsmith@dobcel.catholic.edu.au

Please see following information, from CAFS in relation to Kinship Care Support

2024 CITY OF BALLARAT YOUTH AWARDS - NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN!

We urge you to nominate all young people in your life, your community & your school for these awards. After a tumultuous few years, young people are craving positive recognition more than ever. With research showing the significant benefits to a young person’s confidence, sense of self, health and well-being when praised and recognised for their achievements, it’s time to band together and recognise young people and their contributions to our community.

Nominate a young person in one of the 10 nomination categories at https://www.ballarat.vic.gov.au/youth-awards.

Please share across your network, add to your newsletters, online platforms, staff briefings and any other appropriate communications and importantly GET NOMINATING!

2024 AWARD CATEGORIES

• Personal Growth Award
• Group Project Award
• Leadership in Sport & Recreation Award
• Young Creative Award
• Positive Leader Award
• Compassion and Care Award
• Youth Volunteer Award
• Influential Adult – Volunteer
• Influential Adult – Worker
• Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Award

Nominations open Monday 20 May, 9am & close on Sunday 16 June 2024, 11:59PM