Textbook romance: Love was built in the classroom for two Melbourne primary school teachers

A Melbourne primary school principal and assistant principal have defied critics who say you can’t work with your spouse.

Dandenong North Primary School’s Kevin and Jenny Mackay have spent their entire career of nearly 95 years between them working in the classroom educating nearly 10,000 students.

Mr Mackay, the school principal, said he doesn’t understand how anyone could not enjoy working with their partner.

“People say I couldn’t work with my husband or wife and I wonder how that could be really,” he said.

“I know we’re making a huge difference and making a better society.”

With no children of their own the Mackays say their students are their family.

“They make you laugh,” Mrs Mackay said.

“They keep you going.”

While the children bring great joy to the dynamic teaching duo they’ve also managed to inspire them in return.

Teacher Tanya Saraikin returned to teach after being taught by Mrs Mackay.

“Jenny was my grade three and grade four teacher,” she said.

“And now I’m back here as a leading teacher.”

The pair is also in line to receive a state award.

“How many young people have been transformed because of the care, the love, the passion, the dedication of teachers like Kevin and Jenny,” Education Minister James Merlino said.

Mr Mackay said his doctor was a student at Dandenong North Primary School.

He also said he and his wife had no plans to retire anytime soon.