Teacher / Staff Q and A


Luke Serrano, Music Coordinator

Can you give us a brief description of your position? 

I manage the day to day operations of the Music Department and lead our efforts to continually improve the provision for Music at De La Salle across the classroom, instrumental and ensemble programs. I teach the Year 8 and Senior Music classes and am the co-composer and Musical Director of the College Senior Musical Production.

How long have you taught at De La Salle? 

Since February 2019.

Can you tell us something special about teaching at De La Salle?

I really appreciate the intimacy of De La Salle College, and the wonderful balance that De La Salle enjoys; it’s large enough that we can aim to achieve terrific educational outcomes across a wide variety of disciplines, yet small enough that we can keep sight of all individuals, staff and students alike. 

Who is someone you admire and why?

I admire anyone who demonstrates kind leadership and thoughtful initiative, using their talents, insights and personal qualities to bring benefits to others. It can be a Head of State or a Year 5 student, it doesn’t matter. 

Do you have any pets? Can you share a picture? 

My saxophones are my pets, and they bug me for a walk on a daily basis. 

As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?

I dreamt of being a songwriter as a young child, then a classical composer in my teenage years. 

Which is your House and who do you support in the AFL?

Leo, Essendon.


Shane Mackintosh, Director of Students — Senior Years

Can you give us a brief description of your position? 

The Director of Students (Senior Years) is responsible for ensuring the Lasallian charism and Catholic values are developed and nurtured within the College community. Primarily, my role is to support the House Coordinators and House Mentors in nurturing and guiding the educational, social, physical, spiritual and emotional wellbeing of students at Kinnoull.

How long have you taught at De La Salle? 

15 years.

Can you tell us something special about teaching at De La Salle?

What resonates with me when reflecting on why it’s so special to be part of the De La Salle College is the spirit that exists between all members of the community. There is genuine care for others that permeates across the community. From past experiences, this quality is rarely found to this degree in other industries or work places.

Who is someone you admire and why?

People who’ve had amazing experiences I find fascinating and inspiring. Learning how some individuals have had to overcome significant challenges in their lives reminds me how fortunate and grateful I am for the life that I have.

Do you have any pets? Can you share a picture? 

We have a family cat called Jimmy. He’s a rescue cat and we’ve had him for 4 years now. Jimmy was named after the famous musician Jimmy Hendricks because of his crazy mannerisms. 

As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was younger I desperately wanted to play AFL for the mighty Magpies. When that ‘dream’ was unfulfilled, part of me that wanted to become a teacher someday. This realization became a reality after working in the private sector for 5 years, I returned to university as a mature age student and completed my Graduate Dip Ed. I have absolutely no regrets about my career change. I love working in education and feel blessed to be working in this community. 

Which is your House and who do you support in the AFL?

Of course my alliance is still with Austin’s House even though I’m supposed to be neutral. I’ve been a lifelong supporter of the Collingwood FC. What can I say, it’s in my family DNA! GO PIES! 

Back to The Duce Issue 2020 06 - 4 June 2020