It has been an exciting couple of weeks as we have witnessed our students return to the College after participating in amazing, enriching activities such as Year 10 Retreats, visits to the Big Issue in Melbourne, Work Experience and Year 9 Camp.  This return to face-to-face is an excellent opportunity to reset and reconnect with our wonderful Damascus community. 
Today, our Year 11 students commenced their exams which will lead to Year 12 Early Start and Retreat, which commences next Wednesday. Students in years 7 – 10 are still engaged in their scheduled classes, however exams will commence from Monday November 25 for students in Years 9 & 10.
The remnants of the pandemic continue to challenge some, and as adults, carers and role models for our young people, we need to challenge and support them to take responsible risks and move out of their comfort zone. We can no longer use COVID and the lockdowns as excuses for not participating in the fullness of College life.
We need to remember that each positive or negative experience is an opportunity for growth. The only constant in life is change, and that in life, we will always be faced with challenges.  We cannot foresee or plan everything; sometimes, we have to adapt and accept that it is not always what we imagine. I encourage all our students to participate in the richness of our co-curricula program from camps to retreats to work experience – we can only grow when we give it a go.
 A catholic education is one of empowerment and growth, but young people sometimes need to be challenged to accept the gift of learning. Education is a partnership with family, school and the young person. As we enter the new academic year, challenge yourself to engage in your students learning program – set goals, check PAM and understand their learning program. 
On Tuesday 26 November, our Year 12 students will gather at St Patrick’s Cathedral for their graduation and final blessing. I am looking forward to welcoming our students and their parents to the Cathedral and to celebrate with a meal at the Mercure Hotel in the evening.
For those who are unable to join the celebration the event is being live streamed, and families can click here to view the ceremony - please keep in mind the link will not be active until a few minutes before the start time of Mass.
This weekend we will see our Sustainable Racing Team compete at Maryborough. I’d like to thank Alan Strange and the team for all their hard work and dedication, and we wish them well in the event.
As we begin to see the end 2024 approach and life gets even busier, I ask all our families to take a moment and reflect on all the amazing milestones, both professional and personal you have achieved so far, and use that as strength for the festive season ahead.
With every blessing
Steven