Five minutes with Ms Di Lefebvre
We recently sat down with Ms Di Lefebvre, one of Radford College’s long-standing French teachers, to learn more about her bilingual upbringing in Canada, what brought her to Australia and why she continues to champion French language and culture both in and beyond the classroom.
When did you first start learning French and what drew you to the language?
I was very fortunate to grow up in a bilingual community, speaking English and French with my extended family from a young age. I attended a French Catholic primary school up to Year 8, followed by a bilingual high school where I could choose for my subjects to be taught in French or English. This continued at the University of Ottawa, where courses are offered in English and French.
My school friends also speak both languages, and it’s common for us to switch between English and French mid-conversation – which can be challenging for a monolingual listener!
You’re originally from Canada – what brought you to Australia and Radford College?
I first met my now-husband in Canada, and six months later I came to Australia on a one-year Working Holiday Visa. During that year, I worked as a school holiday program co-ordinator in Canberra and met several teachers and principals with whom I stayed in touch. After returning to Canada to teach for a few years, I moved to Japan to teach English for 2 years.
In 1996, I decided to return to Canberra and applied for several teaching positions, including one at Radford College. I still remember receiving a phone call from then-Principal, Mr Graeme Wigg, on a Sunday morning, offering me a one-year contract to teach French for the 1997 school year – I jumped at the opportunity.
I was seeking a chance to work in a dynamic school community that values cultural diversity and academic excellence. Radford’s reputation for fostering a supportive learning environment, along with its strong emphasis on student wellbeing and holistic education, made it the perfect fit. The opportunity to contribute to such a vibrant school community while experiencing life in Australia was one I couldn’t pass up. And I am still here!
How do life and culture in Australia compare to Canada? Do you visit home often?
Like Canada, Australians value friendliness, community and a strong connection to the outdoors. However, the climate, lifestyle and cultural traditions differ significantly. Australia’s weather allows for year-round outdoor activities and a relaxed, outdoor-focused lifestyle. Canadian culture is more influenced by its bilingual heritage and colder climate, which shapes daily routines and seasonal activities.
I do miss the Christmas season in Canada – especially the snow and the way Christmas lights sparkle against it.
I have been fortunate to visit Canada regularly since moving to Australia. It has always been important to me that our 2 wonderful children know their Canadian family well and maintain a strong connection with them. Having the opportunity to spend extended periods in Canada, thanks to Australia’s long-service leave, has been incredibly valuable.
What do you love most about French language and culture?
As a proud French-Canadian, what I love most about the French language and culture is their beauty and richness, which connect us to our history and community. They allow us to express ideas creatively and uniquely, celebrate French Canadian traditions – such as the Winter Carnival, Thanksgiving, Le Réveillon (a festive dinner celebrated into the late hours of Christmas Eve) and family gatherings – and share our identity with pride.
French language and culture are vibrant, full of music, food and celebrations that bring people together, and they remain an important part of who I am.
You recently accompanied students on the French Study Tour. Can you tell us a bit about this initiative and its benefits for students?
The French Study Exchange Tour began in 2011 and is an immersive experience that allows students to experience the French language and culture firsthand through homestays and travel. By visiting France, students have the opportunity to practise their French in real-life contexts, engage with the local community in Le Mans and experience cultural traditions, history and cuisine directly. I have been fortunate to be part of this initiative since its inception. Over the years, I have developed long-lasting friendships with the teachers at Lycée Notre Dame, which has enriched the experience for both students and staff.
Beyond language skills, the tour helps students develop independence, confidence and global awareness. It is incredibly rewarding to see students apply what they have learned in the classroom in authentic situations, forming lasting memories, friendships and a deeper appreciation for both the French language and the broader francophone world.
People might be surprised to know that …
I was a passionate soccer player in my youth. I was accepted into a Canadian university months before the normal intake, because they wanted me to play for their team. Unfortunately, I had to turn down the offer as the university didn't offer the degree I wanted to pursue – Canadian universities also do not offer financial scholarships, only early acceptance.
I continued my love for soccer at Radford College, serving as Master in Charge (MIC) of girls’ soccer for many years, during which several teams won premierships. I enjoyed this role tremendously, especially watching the girls develop their skills in the days when girls’ soccer was just beginning to grow.