As a school leader and teacher for many years, Andrew Bryson, Deputy Principal – Learning & Teaching at Thomas Carr College, has developed a strong belief in the role education can play in a young person’s life.
Drawing upon his experiences teaching across both primary and secondary schools, Mr Bryson says that it is important to create an environment that provides the opportunities for all students to excel and achieve their very best.
“This extends to working in partnership with families to support their child in fulfilling and, at times, exceeding their potential,” he says.
“This couples with nurturing their development as they progress from Year 7 to Year 12 and beyond.
“Parents are our learners’ first teachers, with the impact of extended periods of remote learning throughout 2020, also highlighting the important partnership schools and families play in supporting the learning and wellbeing needs of students.
“It was evident that the ability of teachers and families to work in partnership during this time was powerful in fostering a strong culture of learning, both at school and at home. This is equally important as students transition from primary school to secondary school.
“For students preparing to start secondary school, the transition from primary school may be exciting as they look forward to the next chapter of their education. It could also be daunting when considering the unknown of starting at a new school. For most, it may be a combination of both.
“When children are making the move to secondary school, research indicates that parents have the biggest influence on how smooth the transition is.
In addition to the information and advice parents may receive on how to best support their child during this time, I would suggest – as a parent of children myself – instead of asking, ‘How was school today?’, the most powerful questions we can ask are:
What did you learn today?
How did you do?
What did you do if you did not understand?
How can you improve on your learning?
What else do you want to know about what you are learning?
What are you most proud of?
“These questions create an opportunity for children to reflect on what they are learning. Parents have found using these questions have created authentic opportunities for rich and informative conversations with their children about school.
“Such questions also maintain a sense of wonder through questioning and hopefully instils a strong sense of curiosity in wanting to learn more.”
Mr Bryson wishes parents and children every success as they share this journey together.
“I hope parents find the same joy I do when I ask my son, ‘What are you most proud of?’”
Thomas Carr College, 36 Thomas Carr Road, Tarneit.
Enquiries: 8734 2444 or visit
