Teacher Profile

Meet Mackenzie Neale - Kilvington French Teacher

1. How did you come to be a French language teacher at Kilvington, Australia? 

In July 2018, I traveled from Canada to Australia to present my action research at the International Boys’ Schools Coalition (IBSC) Annual Conference in Surfers Paradise. After the conference, I did some traveling around the country, including a visit to Melbourne, where I met my husband.

I moved to Melbourne in September 2019, did some CRT work, and then began teaching French at St Catherine’s School in Toorak. After two years at St Cath’s, I moved to Carey Baptist Grammar School for another two years. I was then ready for an ongoing role in a smaller, more close-knit school community – which is when I found Kilvington!

2. What's the most enjoyable part of your role? 

I love spending time with students, both in and out of the classroom. The most enjoyable part, however, is when students tell me they used to think they were 'bad at French,' but now they believe in themselves more or genuinely enjoy learning French!

3. What are the most challenging aspects of your role? 

The most challenging part of being a French teacher is changing students’ attitude towards the language as being inherently difficult. I want the language to feel accessible to every single student.

4. How important is it for young people to spend time experiencing and learning about other cultures? 

It's so important for students to learn about other cultures as it helps them to become more empathetic, sensitive humans. When they can understand differences, while also feeling connected to other people around the world, they are more likely to treat others with respect.

5. Did you have any ‘aha’ moments that reinforced your decision to take the career path that you did? 

My first job out of university was as an insurance underwriter. It only took a year in that role for me to realise I needed a career change! I worked from home and only went into the office once a month, but I craved a more interactive career where I could truly feel like I was helping people. So, I decided to go back to school and earn my Bachelor of Education degree.

6. Funniest / most memorable experience teaching? 

I think some of my most memorable moments have been at community events like House Arts, House Swimming, or on school camps. I've been so fortunate to experience the outdoors and participate in events that make me feel deeply connected to my students and the school community.

7. How many countries have you visited and lived in? 

I have visited 13 countries (soon to be 14 as I head to Thailand over the holidays!) and have lived in four. When I was younger, I participated in two student exchanges—one in high school in Spain for a semester and another during university in France. Canada is where I lived most of my life, and I have now lived in Australia for five years.

8. If you could live anywhere else other than Australia, where would it be and why? 

I think I would live in France again to practise my French language skills!