BA, B Teach

Curiosity, Courage, and Chicken Costumes

From the moment she stepped into her childhood cubby house, complete with blackboard and desk, Bree Kelleher knew she was destined for education. As the eldest of four, she naturally took on the role of teacher to her younger brothers and the neighbourhood kids. But it was a brilliant Year 4 teacher who truly inspired her to turn that childhood play into a lifelong passion.

Now a beloved Foundation teacher at Mentone Grammar, we sat down with Bree as she reflects on her journey over the past 19 years with warmth and gratitude.

“I’ve taught Year 2 and Year 3, but Foundation is by far my favourite. You’ll never see the same level of growth at any other stage of education. The transformation in just one year is extraordinary, it’s truly wonderful to witness.”

Bree describes her corner of the school as a “small school within a big school,” and it’s this close-knit environment that has kept her inspired and connected over the years. She also sees the blend of boys and girls as a beautiful balance of strengths.

“I started at Mentone Grammar just after the school had gone coed, so I wasn’t here when it was boys only. When asked what they each bring to the classroom, for me, girls often bring creativity and care, while boys bring energy and action. They learn from each other, whether it’s taking more time with presentation or learning to jump in and give things a go. It’s a dynamic that helps them all learn and grow.”

Over the years, her teaching style has evolved alongside her students. Today’s learners, she says, are more curious and confident in questioning the world around them.

“They’re not afraid to challenge information or ask ‘why’ and I love their curiosity, even if the parent in me occasionally wants to say, ‘because I said so!’ to the 50^th question,” she laughs.

Among the many treasured moments that make her smile, school performances hold a special place in her heart.

“The joy and pride on their little faces, the courage they show, it’s incredible. One year during a performance of Chicken Little, our ‘Henny Penny’ needed the toilet mid-dance, so I quickly swapped her out with a duck who just carried on the routine. It was priceless!”

Bree also cherishes the School’s ‘Lifers’ Morning Tea for students who have been at Mentone from ELC/Foundation to Year 12.

“Seeing those once-tiny kids now towering over me, sharing their dreams, it’s incredibly moving. Especially when a shy child grows into a confident adult ready to study Law, or a Lego-loving student wants to become an engineer. I also love when I walk past the Year 12s, and they say ‘Hi Ms Kelleher’ and they take time to acknowledge the little ones who are so in awe of them. It really is a privilege to have been part of their journey.”

While the essence of childhood remains, Bree has witnessed a noticeable shift in the pressures young people face today. The fast pace of modern life, combined with the constant presence of social media, has created a culture of comparison and perfectionism that can weigh heavily on young minds.

“There’s so much pressure to be ‘gifted’ or brilliant at everything. Social media creates unrealistic expectations, and that can lead to anxiety and a lack of resilience. We need to give kids space to fall and to fail, and to just be kids.”

Despite these challenges, Bree remains hopeful and inspired by the possibilities that lie ahead for this generation. She sees a world that is more open, inclusive, and full of potential.

“Today’s young people have more freedom than ever to be curious, to explore, and to choose paths that truly reflect who they are. While gender stereotypes and biases still exist, they no longer define what’s possible. It’s now completely normal to see girls pursuing engineering or boys entering nursing, something that was far less common 20 years ago. At our School, we actively support and encourage this. It might sound clichéd, but I genuinely believe we help every student discover what ‘Happy, Healthy & High Achieving’ looks like for them and give them the tools to go after it!”

Bree offers some heartfelt advice to the next generation of teachers.

“Let your students see that you care. Relationships are everything, both with students and parents. Even with a set curriculum, you can bring your own creative flair and passions to make it your own. Keep learning, keep growing, not only will your students notice, but they’ll also benefit enormously.”

Thank you, Bree, for the joy, dedication, and heart you bring to every classroom and for helping our Foundation learners take their first steps on a lifelong journey of learning.

Written by: Katya Dunham