Mrs Debra Tunnington joined the School during its foundation years in 1988 and during her time, she has seen the School grow and evolve. Today, her love for languages and passion for teaching still shines through her in French classes.

I first joined the Grammar Staff in 1988 – 32 years ago, having moved back from Canberra to take on the job as English, French and Italian teacher. That means I have worked with four of the five Heads of School, and in that time, I have seen the School grow from a Primary School made up of three classrooms, a Science building made up of three classrooms and a tin shed on the hill, which was our chapel, our gym and our auditorium all in one! I even lived for a time in the house where our Gap students now live.

It is so long ago to remember why I became a teacher, but what keeps me doing what I do, is the love for learning, and working with students over the life of their secondary schooling, being a part of them growing up and growing into great people.

My philosophy about teaching French, or any language, is to make more connected citizens of the world, who will go out there with a respect and understanding or openness towards other cultures and a better understanding of themselves. Teaching a course that is based around the students’ lives, as well looking at and experiencing other cultures, seeing the differences, finding out about themselves in comparison, means that every year is a bit different.

My favourite thing about the School is that, no matter how many times I have moved to different roles across the campus, there is a unique relationship between the staff and the students that I haven’t seen anywhere else. It is great to work at a place where you can always take the time to listen and to care.

I have a great list of highlights from over the years. I could write a long list entitled, “I was there when…..” For example, when Mrs Mardon was Head of English, when Father Gary caught fire during Eucharist, when Mr Brooker was upstaged by a rogue, barking terrier from the neighbourhood during assembly, when we had equal amounts of fear and respect for Big Red, Mr Kenny, the Head Grounds Keeper.

I would have to say, I loved the Study tours to France and Reunion Island and my years as the Meitoku Exchange Co-ordinator. My most favourite thing is meeting up with former Grammar students back at School, around the state or around the world when I travel.

There have been many highlights over such a long career at Grammar, including meeting the Arch Bishop of Canterbury. I would have to say that my most favourite memory is marrying my lovely Mr Tunnington in the School Chapel.