By Carole Levy
Thomas Carr College, a Catholic co-educational Year 7 to 12 school, is a welcoming, friendly community where each person is valued and spirituality is nurtured, says Principal Andrew Watson.
“In the spirit of Archbishop Carr, young men and women are encouraged to strive for excellence according to their individual gifts,” he says. “To encourage our students to pursue their gifts and talents, they are able to engage in a wide variety of extra-curricular activities.”
Principal since 2011, Dr Watson will next year to take up a principals consultant position at Catholic Education Ballarat.
During his Thomas Carr tenure, he has built a community of educational excellence within a caring and pastoral environment for students.
“In my time, I’ve been really committed to providing resources to help teaching staff,” he says. “I believe the college’s Strategic Plan has been a real achievement. We can see a culture of continuous improvement in action, developing a strong and healthy Catholic identity.”
Dr Watson is considered a prudent leader of the college’s resources, with a very good knowledge of matters related to budget and grants – and finances in general.
He has also done a great deal to enhance an attractive site with areas for reflection and passive and active recreation. This will continue with the current Master Plan and associated new building projects.
Dr Watson’s successor will be Mr Craig Holmes, current principal of Sacred Heart College in Kyneton. Mr Holmes has been deputy principal of Catholic Regional College in Sydenham and team leader and acting manager for student services at Catholic Education Melbourne, as well as having teaching experience at St Bernard’s College in Essendon and Salesian College in Sunbury.
“At year’s end, Craig will have completed eight years as principal of Sacred Heart College, leading diligently and with dedication,” Dr Watson says. “He is student-centred in his leadership and has been able to implement contemporary arrangements for learning and teaching, resulting in continuous improvement in student outcomes.
“The Thomas Carr College community is excited to have Mr Holmes on board. He has a record of dynamic and visionary educational and pastoral leadership, a deep commitment to the mission of the Church in education and the skill to contribute an informed vision and future for the college.
“His commitment to the ministry of leadership in Catholic education is supported by his own faith and his extensive engagement in parish life.”
Thomas Carr College, 35 Thomas Carr Drive, Tarneit. Inquiries: 8734 2444 or visit thomascarr.vic.edu.au
