Staff in Focus

Q&A with  . . . Mrs Madeline De Luca

Mrs De Luca was born on Christmas Eve, so no wonder this time of year is extra special for the College's Head of Religious Education . . .

St Norbert News: Merry Christmas, happy holidays and happy birthday, Mrs De Luca. What is it like having your birthday on Christmas Eve?

MDL: I have always loved Christmas time. My Mum and Dad call me their special Christmas gift as I was born a month early! Growing up, having my birthday on Christmas Eve is quite fun because everyone is excited for Christmas. One advantage is that people never forget my birthday!

SNN: What traditions do you and your family enjoy at Christmas time?

MDL: We always have to have my Mum's famous pavlova. Also, my husband has a pair of Mickey Mouse Christmas socks he was given when he was six years old by his Nonna. The socks have become a little bit worn over the years but they are still in tact and he wears them every Christmas Day. 

SNN: What are your plans for Christmas this year?

MDL: My husband and I will attend Midnight Mass at our Parish and have a Christmas Day breakfast with my side of the family, followed by a huge lunch with my husband’s family which always turns into dinner as well. I’m in charge of the roast beef and cauliflower cheese, so wish me luck.

SNN: Do you have a Christmas wish?

MDL: My Christmas wish is that all those who are impacted by COVID, including being separated due to restrictions, can have some hope and joy in 2022. I also hope that all of the members of the St Norbert College community stay safe and healthy over the Christmas holidays. 

SNN: What are you most grateful for?

MDL: So many things but in particular my husband, my family, my health and to work and belong to the St Norbert College community.

SNN: Who or what inspired you to become a teacher?

MDL: My parents are both teachers so I guess you can say it’s in the blood!

However, I really enjoyed my own high school experience and was lucky to have some wonderful teachers. When I was 16, I went to Vietnam on a mission trip to support the Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions. During the 17 days we were in Vietnam, we worked with the most vulnerable in society who do not have the same opportunities as us. I also had the opportunity to get to know some of my teachers outside of the classroom and I realised how much of an impact they have on their students. I wanted to have that same positive impact.

SNN: Why did you decide to specialise in Religious Education?

MDL: While studying at Notre Dame University in Fremantle, I undertook Theology units as part of my teaching degree. During those units I started becoming more interested in Theology and Philosophy and I met others who were also passionate about this area. One friend I met during this time was Br Sheldon Burke CMFS, who is a Brother in the Somascan Order. He had a big impact on me and encouraged me to follow my passion. 

SNN: What are some of the highlights of your career at Norbert College so far?

MDL: The opportunity to work with some amazing colleagues who have become close friends. I always love St Norbert Day and celebrating with the staff and students. A particular highlight was seeing the Class of 2021 graduate, as I started with them when they were in Year 7 in 2016. A few tears were shed on graduation night!

SNN: Do you have any hidden talents?

MDL: I love to cook! I am always experimenting with new recipes and ideas. 

SNN: What are you looking forward to doing over summer?

MDL: Relaxing with my friends and family and doing lots of gardening at my house. We have quite a big garden with lots of fruit trees and vegetables growing. I think that should keep us busy maintaining that over the break. I’m also excited to go to Manjimup this year to enjoy the cherries and get away to Shoalwater with the family for some relaxation and to make some great memories.

Mrs L Quartermain

(Community Relations and Marketing)