Tooborac community pitches in to save their school

THE Friends of Tooborac Primary School community group held an open day last weekend to showcase the benefits of the small rural school.

The school was deemed non-operational this year due to a lack of enrolments, but the group is working with the Education Department to keep the school operational.

A playgroup operated at the school last term and is continuing this term.

“We are calling on families to act now and fill in an enrolment form for future years,” playgroup member Emily Alexandra said.

Community barbecue: Phil Hutchinson, Millie and Josh Dundon manned the barbecue for visitors to the school. Photo: BRENDAN MCCARTHY

“The forms will help the Education Department to more easily predict future needs.

“The facility is such fantastic quality, and the grounds are absolutely beautiful.

“It’s the perfect place to go to school and we would love to see it stay open and be available to us when our toddler is ready for school in a few years.”

The volunteer committee has been holding regular meetings with the department.

Supportive community: Trish Ring showed off her hula-hoop skills to Leonie at Tooborac Primary Open Day. Photo: Brendan McCarthy

“We have relayed that families are growing and moving into the area, and that children will need this school very soon,” committee member Sue Anderson said.

“Anyone interested just needs to fill in a form and continue to rally as the next generation of school parents.

“The school has offered a nurturing environment for generations of locals for over 150 years.

“We need to secure the future of our local children and keep it open.”

Visitors to the open day toured the school, which was refurbished last year and celebrated its 150th birthday.

“Together, we can keep it open, so we are urging families to fill in an enrolment form before it’s too late,” Ms Alexandra said.

“Enrolment forms are available at the school on Tuesdays at the 9.30am playgroup, or you can contact the volunteers for a copy of the form by emailing [email protected].

Banding together: Community members at the Tooborac Primary School open day. Photo: BRENDAN MCCARTHY

“It is a small school, but it has big opportunities, a nurturing environment and 150-plus years of excellence.

“TPS has helped students develop a sense of curiosity, security, and life-long learning. Outdoor learning is an important feature, allowing children to learn to appreciate nature and care for our environment.

“The school offers music, a fantastic playground and sports facilities. Being a small school, families can contribute and see the immediate effects.

“We all volunteered and pitched in for the open day and we enjoyed a fun, welcoming and nurturing day.”

Anyone interested in joining the playgroup can contact Janita Dundon on 0409 857 764.