Damascus College (Ballarat) — Catholic co-educational secondary school

History and formation

The college was established in 1995 through the merger of three local Catholic secondary schools: St Martin's in the Pines, Sacred Heart College and St Paul's College. The amalgamation united single-sex and other provision into a single co-educational institution, reflecting efforts in many regional areas to consolidate resources and offer a broader curriculum to students from across a wide catchment.

Campus and facilities

The Mount Clear campus includes general classrooms and specialist learning spaces for science, technology and the arts, as well as sport and performance facilities. Outdoor areas and multipurpose spaces support physical education, school events and community activities. Facilities are organised to serve a diverse program of academic and vocational learning.

Curriculum and pathways

Senior students typically undertake the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) and may access vocational education and training (VET) subjects or applied learning programs to prepare for employment, apprenticeships or further study. The school offers subject choices across the humanities, sciences, languages, technology and the arts to meet varied student interests and career goals.

Pastoral care and faith life

Pastoral care and faith formation are central to the college’s mission. Regular liturgies, retreats, social justice activities and leadership programs form part of the faith and wellbeing provision. Staff commonly work with families and local parishes to support student wellbeing, resilience and ethical formation.

Extracurricular activities

Students can participate in sport, music, drama and debating, as well as clubs, excursions and community service projects. Extracurricular programs aim to develop teamwork, leadership and personal confidence while contributing to a lively school community.

Community role and governance

Damascus College serves families across Ballarat and surrounding districts and operates within the Catholic education network of the Diocese of Ballarat and associated authorities. The college engages with parish communities and local organisations to support learning and community engagement.

Quick facts

• Year levels: 7–12
• Location: Mount Clear, Ballarat (approx. 7 km from city centre)
• Origin: merger of St Martin's in the Pines, Sacred Heart College and St Paul’s College (1995)
• Programs: VCE, vocational/applied learning options, extensive extracurricular activities