Latest News
From the Principal
08 August 2024
A Strong Start to Every Lesson
Have you heard about our areas of focus at Thomas Carr College this semester? This year we have been working on building whole-school consistent, predictable routines for students – otherwise known as CPRs. As you know, last semester we focused on Welcome Circles in the morning, classroom entry and exit routines and a routine for commencing class. This semester, continuing to build on our work since the beginning of the year, we have introduced a routine to commence the lesson, known as a ‘Do Now’ and a routine for teachers to gain student attention, known as a ‘Cue to Listen’.
These routines have been introduced from Years 7 right through to Year 12. They are not aimed at controlling students but instead provide opportunity for these reoccurring tasks/actions to become automatic, offering predictability and consistency. In turn, the ‘efficient, productive and automatic execution [of these routines] reduces wasted learning time and helps free up students’ working memory to focus on learning’1.
It has been great to see the majority of students embracing the routines and actively engaging in them, supporting their learning, their peers and their teachers.
Opportunities to Connect in Partnership
Over the past few weeks it has been wonderful to see some many families onsite for the various events. It has been a busy time for our staff as we have engaged in the VCE Subject Selection Expo, Parent Teacher Interviews and the Tuning into Teens program. We also welcomed many grandparents to celebrate their significant role in our lives. Our partnership with families is important in ensuring success for all in our community.
Congratulations to the students and staff who undertook the St Vinnies Winter Sleep Out last week. They braved the icy weather to sleep in solidarity with the thousands of homeless Victorians, raising awareness and support. Ministry opportunities such as these are such important aspects of growth for our young people.
Feast of the Assumption
Next week we celebrate the Feast of the Assumption; a special day in our Catholic calendar. The Feast of the Assumption reminds us of the importance of Mary’s unique role as the mother of Jesus and our hope in resurrection for external life. It is a period that reaffirms our relationship with God and to trust in the path presented to us.
Celebrating Our Staff
This coming Friday evening staff will gather to recognise the unwavering commitment and service of our staff. It is an opportunity for us to formally recognise the contributions of our long-servicing team members and to also celebrate the dedication of every single individual who plays a vital role in our College. This year we congratulate Sarah Parcesepe on 10 years of service. We also celebrate the 10 year anniversary of the Good Samaritan Campus.
Rose Connolly
Principal
