Mission
The Teacher Of French Association WA (TOFAWA) is a non-profit organisation which aims to support teachers and pre-service teachers of French in Western Australia through:
- Professional development for primary and secondary teachers;
- Maintenance of professional networks;
- Dissemination of information through newsletters and social media;
- Provision of student activities;
- Support and promote excellence in the French language.
The organisation is run by a committee of volunteers
Celine Decoux
President
I have been working at St Hilda’s Anglican School for Girls since 2014, teaching from Kindy to Year 6. I also worked part-time in a Department school for 3 years. What I love the most about being a French teacher in Australia, is the freedom to be myself in class and talk about so many different topics with my students: Language, Sport, History, Geography, Art, Music… I am always looking for creative ways to teach and get my students interested and engaged. If you enter my classroom you will find a diorama project drying against the wall, a green screen for role plays, boxes of props such as puppets, clothes and toys and a pile of board games.
Since joining TOFA in 2017, I have met lovely people who have motivated me to grow in my career and continuously improve my teaching practice. I love that we are a family and meet regularly around a French meal to have a laugh. I believe that it is a privilege to be part of this committee but also an essential commitment, to face the pressures of our rapidly evolving profession.
Simona Carniello
Vice-President
« Les limites de ma langue sont les limites de mon univers » – Ludwig Wittgenstein.
Growing up speaking a Swiss dialect, learning multiple other languages has been a gateway to a broader world. It’s allowed me to travel, working in interesting jobs, building a career, making friends across the globe and even finding love!
My teaching journey began over two decades ago, leading me through diverse languages, grades, educational institutes, and sectors. Amid this varied experience, I discovered a calling into Early Years Languages teaching. Guiding young minds through the foundational stages of language learning is a very rewarding experience. I am always striving to create a positive, joyful, engaging, inclusive, safe space for my students. Since 2019, I have been teaching French at the ELC Scotch College’s Early Learning Centre (PK-2), following many years at St Stephen’s Primary School and High School (Grades 8-10)
As a member of the TOFA committee, I look forward to strengthening our network and fostering connections. I firmly believe that in today’s educational landscape, the pillars of support, collaboration, and the exchange of lived and teaching experiences are more important than ever!
Émilie Perrot
Treasurer
My love for languages is a lifelong one. My first aim was to become an English teacher in France. After the final exams, I went on an exchange program in Perth in 2012 as a French assistant. That year was life-changing and I decided to move to Perth in 2013. After graduating from UWA in 2014, my pracs at Leeming SHS and Hale School eventually led me to Scotch College in 2015, and in 2023 to Christ Church Grammar School, where I still teach today.
Opening students’ minds and hearts to another language and culture is both fascinating and challenging. I encourage my students to take risks to communicate in French and I aim to make learning as immersive and relevant as possible.
Being a TOFA member for a few years, I decided to join its committee in 2017, first as secretary and now as treasurer. Every year, I enjoy being part of a motivated committee; as well as taking part in organising workshops, social events and teaching and learning opportunities for our teachers and students. It gives me great satisfaction to be useful to the francophone community in Perth and its radiance throughout WA.