Alana Richards
Recent uncertain times and subsequent government restrictions have had a large impact on families and businesses.
Thomas Carr College has extended a helping hand beyond the school gates.
Principal Craig Holmes says the college sees this as an opportunity to connect and support the community.
The college has created a new Community Business Register, where partners, families and alumni of the school community can register and promote their business within the school community.
Staff at the college also banded together to help local primary schools, with canteen staff making and providing lunches for pupils and staff who remained on site during COVID-19 lockdown.
In recognition of the important role preschools and childcare centres play within the community, Thomas Carr College organised the personal delivery of chocolates to centre staff in the local area.
Staff at the Thomas Carr College ‘Good Samaritan’ country campus also made hampers to give to locals in the Coragulac area.
Like all Victorian schools, Thomas Carr College had limited time to plan and implement both the transition for teachers and students to the LEARNING@HOME model.
The remote learning model involved a combination of online and self-directed offline learning, while also providing opportunities for the school community and its various groups to join together and maintain important social connections.
Recent feedback from students and parents showed overwhelming approval of the efforts of teachers in supporting their students while providing ongoing communication to families during this uncertain time.
Mr Holmes says staff are excited to have welcomed back to campus all students and teachers, taking the opportunity to create a colourful and inspirational ‘Welcome Wall’ of personalised messages.
“Reflecting on this year so far, there is much to celebrate in this period of adversity,” Mr Holmes says. “As a school, we are proud of our students, parents and dedicated staff. We now look forward to reflecting on what we have learnt and the promising journey ahead.”
Thomas Carr College, 35 Thomas Carr Drive, Tarneit. Inquiries: 8734 2444 or to find out more about the Community Business Register, visit
