Partnering with Families for Student Success

As we embark on the next chapter at Damascus College, I am thrilled to share some key developments that will shape an exciting and transformative year ahead. Our commitment to fostering student success through collaboration, innovation, and consistency remains at the heart of everything we do.

One of the significant changes we are introducing in 2025 is the transition to 60-minute timetables. This adjustment allows us to deepen student engagement, provide greater opportunities for active learning, and better align with our College's Instructional Model. By increasing the time available for each lesson, teachers can deliver richer, more focused instruction while students have the chance to apply and consolidate their learning through meaningful activities. The new structure also includes intentional transition times to ensure smooth movement between classes, promoting a sense of calm and order across the school day.

This transition is also complemented by the launch of the St Brendan's Program at Dunnstown, a unique initiative that reflects our mission of "Living in the Light of Christ." The program is designed to empower students to connect with their community, develop leadership and stewardship skills, and engage in innovative, future-focused learning. The legacy of St Brendan’s Primary School inspires this program, and we are excited about the transformative opportunities it offers to our Year 8 students as they learn and grow in a new and dynamic setting.

Underpinning these initiatives is the explicitness of our College Instructional Model, which focuses on consistency and predictability in both classroom behaviour and student learning. At Damascus College, we recognise the power of clear routines and high expectations. Our teaching staff uses evidence-based strategies, including the 5E instructional model (Engage, Explain, Explore, Elaborate, Evaluate), to ensure that learning is purposeful, interactive, and rigorous. This model supports academic excellence and fosters positive learning behaviours that equip students for success in all aspects of their lives.

As always, we recognise that the strongest foundation for student achievement comes from the partnership between school and home. We encourage you to engage in teacher advisor interviews, attend workshops and information evenings, and establish effective routines at home to support your child's learning journey. Together, we can ensure that every student feels empowered to meet their potential and thrive.

Thank you for your ongoing support as we continue to innovate and strengthen our learning environment. I look forward to working with you this year to celebrate growth, embrace challenges, and achieve shared success.