The school's rendition of The Lucky $tiff will be her final production.

Ms Tonks said it was "really sad" to be leaving but a decision which had to be made.

"In 2012 I was diagnosed with breast cancer and this is my tenth year battling," she said.

"I have maintained my health and I have had incredible support from the school to be able to continue to teach and run the productions.

"It has reached a stage now where I have to leave, I have to look after myself.

"I am on sick leave currently, but I will be finishing up at the end of the year."

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Ms Tonks said she was grateful for the support the school has shown over the past decade.

The school has always been there for me, it is my home

"The school has been amazing, they have done what they can," she said.

"The school asked whether I was really healthy enough to do the production.

"I said I want to leave doing what I do."

Marian College principal Ms Carmel Barker said her work, effort and courage is "inspirational".

"Teresa (Tonks) is a talented, skillful professional who can bring out the best in her students," she said.

"With a little encouragement, support and guidance, and high expectations, Teresa (Tonks) has developed budding artists who have achieved more than they could have imagined.

"We wish her every success as she passes on her legacy of work and some great memories for us all."

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Ms Tonks said her favourite memories of teaching at Marian College are the theatre productions.

"They are amazing, it consumes your life," she said.

"Productions are my identity, I think that's how people know me."

Ms Tonks said she was also proud of her time teaching Drama and Theatre Studies for VCE students.

"Drama is amazing and we need to encourage it more in the town," she said.

"We have had a 50 and some real great scores."

"People may think I am harsh, but I believe if you want high standards you really need to push the students," she said.

"I believe in really high standards, I know we can be as good as anyone if we put our mind to it."

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