There was a solemn atmosphere at the school yesterday after the death of the 16-year-old in a car crash at Staghorn Flat on Saturday night.

Many staff and students wore red and black clothes in tribute to the year 11 student and hugged one another.

Some brought flowers to the school and wrote their thoughts on seats with black markers.

The school community is holding out hope for past student Drew Turnbull, 18, who was a back seat passenger in the vehicle and remains in a critical but stable condition in the intensive care unit at the Alfred Hospital.

Another Wodonga Senior Secondary College student, 18, and the 17-year-old driver received minor injuries in the crash.

Principal Vern Hilditch described the incident as “a great tragedy”.

“We’re shocked and saddened,” he said.

“This is every family and every parent’s worst nightmare.

“Our deepest condolences go to the boys’ families.

“There was a very subdued atmosphere at the school and we are working through some of the things that have occurred.”

Counsellors are providing support to students and staff at the school and a letter has been sent to all parents discussing the grieving process.

Mr Hilditch said a makeshift tribute had been established at the school and students wanted to install a permanent memorial with photographs.

He said any memorial would need the approval of Spencer’s family.

The school community has established a Facebook page in support of Mr Turnbull’s recovery titled “Keep fighting Drew Turnbull”. It now has about 2600 likes.

“Our thoughts are with Drew and we hope that he makes it through this situation,” Mr Hilditch said.

“It’s a very sad time and we hope we can make sure the students get that support.

“We want parents to look after their children and see if they notice any changes.

“This has had a massive impact and it makes young people reflect on their own mortality.”

Inquiries into the crash being undertaken by police from the Major Collision Investigation Unit are ongoing and will be focused on how fast the dual-cab utility was travelling.

Police are also awaiting results from drug and alcohol tests.