Navigating Towards Success - Recap of the 'Towards the Finishing Line' Session

Celebrating Student Commitment and College Dedication

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to those who joined us for our recent 'Towards the Finishing Line' session on Tuesday 8 November in the Damascus Events Centre. Your presence, alongside your dedicated students, reinforced our shared commitment to ensuring the best possible outcomes for our graduating class of 2023.

We understand that some of you were unable to attend the session, and we want to assure you that your connection to Damascus College is still deeply valued. We appreciate your continued support and engagement in your student's educational journey.

Empowering Excellence: A Recap of the Session

The 'Towards the Finishing Line' session was an evening brimming with valuable insights and strategies aimed at equipping our students with the tools they need to thrive in their final academic journey. Our esteemed presenters shed light on various aspects of this preparation, encompassing academic, physical, and emotional well-being.

VCE and Vocational Major Expectations:

Caroline Nolan, our dedicated VCE Leader, and Belinda Dwyer, Vocational Major Leader, delivered an engaging presentation on the expectations and preparations for the upcoming VCE and Vocational Major exams. Their comprehensive guidance addressed academic readiness and emphasised the importance of effective time management and study techniques.

Conditioning of Body and Mind:

Alysoun Smalley, Leader of Curriculum and Assessment, and Georgia Shillito, Careers and Pathways Leader, delved into the holistic approach Damascus College embraces in preparing our students for their final exams. They highlighted the significance of nurturing both physical and mental well-being, emphasising the symbiotic relationship between a healthy body and a focused mind.

Harnessing Social Emotional Learning Competencies:

In the context of the emotionally charged final exam period, Alysoun Smalley further elaborated on the integration of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) competencies. These skills not only aid in tackling academic challenges but also promote resilience, emotional intelligence, and effective stress management – all invaluable assets for success in both exams and life beyond Damascus College.

Exploring Post-Damascus Opportunities:

The latter part of the session was dedicated to preparing students for life after Damascus College. Our Careers and Pathways Leader, Georgia Shillito, provided insights into the diverse opportunities available post-graduation. From VTAC applications and higher education pursuits to scholarships, traineeships, and special entry access scheme applications, students were equipped with a comprehensive overview of their potential paths.

Access the Presentation:

For those who attended, the session slides and materials are available for review and download here. We encourage you to share these resources with your students and continue the conversation at home.

Material for Access

1. Presentation Slides - Towards the Finishing Line
2. Careers Information (see below)

At Damascus College, our commitment to the growth and success of our students is unwavering. As we approach the finishing line of this academic year, we are confident that our students will rise to the occasion, armed with knowledge, resilience, and a strong support system.

Careers Support for Current Year 12 Students

VTAC – Applying, SEAS, Scholarships

• Application – why everyone is applying (so you know for next year if you change your mind)
• Applying for SEAS
  • Special Entry Access
  • Puts students with any type of disadvantage on the same playing field as everyone else.
  • Categories
    • 1 – Location
    • 2 – Financial Disadvantage
    • 3 – medical conditions
    • 4 – Difficult circumstances
• Evidence…. Support statements
• Scholarships – Big pool of money out there, you have to be in to win it.
• Careers can help!! – Book appointments with us for help and assistance

Offers​ – Once ATAR comes out…you can change preference, can change this another two times after each offer round

What if you don’t want to go to Uni!

TAFE​ – 6 month – 2 year courses

Employment

Traineeships – 1 year – certificate

Apprenticeships – Do a trial

Gap Years

• What does your gap year look like?
• Have a plan…don’t do the same thing you have been doing for 3 years
• RSA, Barista
• New skills, experiences
• Don’t be a couch potato for a year