Staff Insights
By Rev. Andy Fleming, Chaplain
During each of the Junior School Chapel services, students write and share their own prayers. More often than not, the students offer little nuggets of wisdom and quite profound insights into their feelings about the events that impact their lives, both on a personal level and more worldly level. There is always a reflection thanking God for the good things they have and where they don’t take these things for granted. The student’s prayers add value to the Chapel experience.
In a conversation with this year’s Chapel captain, Poppy Barlin, she expressed how prayer plays an important part in connecting to God and to her own spirituality. Similarly to the Junior students, Poppy spends time reflecting on the things she is grateful for, thanking God for all the love and abundance in her life. Now in Year 12, Poppy explained how the Chapel has been a calm and safe space for her, particularly as during her early years in Secondary School she found connecting with her faith challenging. Now she finds Chapel a great place to reflect and celebrate, knowing that God will always be there for her after a few years of feeling distance from God.
Re-connecting with one’s faith is one of the purposes of engaging with Lent. With all the pressures and stresses that arise in our frenetic lifestyles, it has become especially important to find time to stop and reflect. Poppy takes time out to go running through a nature trail near where she lives, praying and contemplating on the positive things in her life, in particular the love she finds in her family. Poppy’s faith helps her to feel peaceful and hopeful, while providing her with a greater sense of belonging to our community.
Interestingly, Poppy’s favourite Bible verse is Philippians 3:13, I can do all things through him who strengthens me (NRSV). This verse appears at the end of Paul’s letter to the church in Philippi, where he is expressing gratitude for their support of his ministry. Coincidently, while Paul points to knowing what it is to have plenty and to be in need in the preceding verse, Poppy explains how this verse reminds her of God’s presence during the good and challenging times.
Poppy’s reflections show how Lent provides an opportunity for us to take stock and contemplate on how God meets each of us in our own circumstances.
Teach Me, by Rev. Sarah Speed
Teach me about the ways of the wind,
about the ways of the world,
about the ways of the heart.
Teach me about the soft crook of my lover’s arm,
and the way two souls can hold each other close.
Teach me about forgiveness, about the language of I’m sorry
and the softness of sincerity.
Teach me about abundance, about seventy-times-seven
and all the days of my life.
Teach me about joy, about its contagious weaving
and its soul-healing.
Teach me about mercy, about open hands and deep breaths.
Teach me about the dawn of time and the stars in the sky.
Teach me what matters most.
Teach me what is mine to do.
Teach this achingly curious heart
until I run out of questions
or I run out of days.
Teach me some melodious sonnet,
and I will have a life well-lived.
On Sunday, 24 March, the annual Palm Sunday Rally for Refugees takes place at 1pm in Garema Place. Community groups from across Canberra meet in support of refugees and asylum seekers. This year’s speakers are Father John Woods, Parish Priest of Transfiguration Parish, North Woden, Ghulamreza (Reza) Haidari, a Hazara refugee from Afghanistan, and Kylea Tink, Federal Member for North Sydney.
For more information go to the Refugee Action Campaign webpage.
Go in peace,
Rev. Andy
News
By Ms Tracey Markovic, Assistant Head of Junior School Operations
Last week our Year 5 students and staff had the opportunity to spend three days at the Tallong Outdoor Education and Retreat Centre in the Southern Highlands. Under the guidance of staff from The Outdoor Education Group (OEG) students participated in a variety of challenging and engaging activities including kayaking, low ropes, high ropes, flying fox and abseiling.
With the OEG’s underlying philosophy of ‘challenge by choice’ students were given the necessary agency to decide their own level of participation in each activity. They were able to decide how far they would push themselves at all times. OEG’s facilitation style focuses on safety, skill-building and communication to empower and support students in making informed decisions regarding their safety and personal wellbeing, at a level right for them.
Over the three days students were part of a ‘working group’ and rotated between activities. When asked, each student had a different favourite activity, but all in all the responses were quite similar: ‘Camp was fabulous!’
Kayaking
Whilst gliding through the water students discovered the tranquillity and beauty of nature that is available in the Tallong Retreat on the Santa Sabina campus. They also discovered the ‘tricks of the trade’ when it comes to paddling with a partner! Kayaking not only tested everyone’s physical prowess but also instilled a deep appreciation for the environment in all that took to the water.
‘The scenery was spectacular when we were canoeing.’
It was soooo tricky to steer! The wind made it very difficult. We really needed to use good communication skills or we ended up in the reeds!’
High Ropes
Conquering fears and reaching new heights . . . the high ropes course challenged students both mentally and physically. Through encouragement and support, students learned the value of teamwork and perseverance as they navigated the ladder and the ropes high up in the trees.
‘I thought the high ropes were the best as my group really cheered me on telling me I could do it.’
Low Ropes
With ropes just perched above the ground students relied heavily on collaboration and communication to achieve success. The low ropes course encouraged students to work together and stay in constant communication with each other to ensure they remained upright and on the ropes.
‘It was really hard to balance as our groups had low ropes after the rain. The spotters had to work hard to keep us safe!’
Flying Fox
Soaring through the air with the wind in their hair, the flying fox provided students with an exhilarating rush of adrenaline. As students embraced the thrill of the descent, they discovered the importance of courage and trust in themselves and their peers. Mr David Goebel’s video footage of sailing through the sky is something to behold!
‘Going on the flying fox allowed me to conquer my fear of heights.’
‘I like how relaxed I felt before I let myself go on the zip line. Dawn from OEG made me feel so calm.’
Abseiling
Students geared up, listened carefully to the safety briefing and then made their way to the abseiling site. From here they encouraged each other to reach the edge and sit down into the ropes and then make their way down the rock wall.
Abseiling made me feel great! At the beginning I was scared but then I watched everyone else having a go and I did it! The encouragement from my friends was amazing.’
At the end of each day students looked forward to showering and snuggling into their beds. Nestled amidst the tranquil surroundings of the campsite, students slept in cabins which provided them with a place to rest and recharge after a day filled with adventure. Bunk beds adorned the cabins which students shared with their fellow campers. It didn’t take long until the floor of each cabin resembled a busy looking ‘floordrobe’! (Think wardrobe but all over the floor). As morning broke the familiar sound of the kookaburras was heard throughout the camp and students woke to prepare for what the day had to offer.
Year 5 camp would not be Year 5 camp if we did not mention Chef Jeffrey, or rather, Cheffrey. Whilst students were able to enjoy the camping experience with ‘cook out meals’ where they chopped, stirred, and sauteed their own meals, they were also treated to eating in the dining hall. It was here that Cheffrey shared his culinary delights with all that visited. Pancakes, chicken schnitzel burgers and pasta with sundried tomatoes were on the menu and Cheffrey did not disappoint!
School camps do not just happen. A heartfelt thanks must go to each and every one of our dedicated staff who attended Tallong and guided our students through their journey with patience, enthusiasm, and expertise. An enormous thank you must also go to our Year 10 Service students who joined us. Each of our student working groups was fortunate to have a service student be part of their team for the duration of the camp. Their companionship and willingness to undertake any task they were asked to do, was greatly appreciated.
Students and staff will bring their Tallong experience back with us to the College. Our adventures have woken a little piece of us up and we will hold onto it each day as we travel down our path of learning.
By Mr Brett Lamson, Head of Year 12
Every year the Year 12 cohort at Radford College band together to raise money for the Leukaemia Foundation through participating in the World’s Greatest Shave. It is our major fundraising event for the year, and I must say that I have been absolutely blown away by the way the year group has gotten behind this important cause.
We’ve had over 100 Year 12 students sign up to either cut, colour or shave and I’m so pleased to be able to share with you that, to date, the cohort has raised over $71,000 with just over a week remaining before the two big lunch time events take place.
I couldn’t be prouder of the Year 12 students and their willingness, enthusiasm, and dedication in getting behind this important cause.
The World's Greatest Shave activities will be taking place at lunch time on the Morison lawns on Monday and Tuesday of Week 8.
To contribute to this great cause, please scan the QR Code below or visit the fundraising page. Every little bit helps.
By Michele Sharp, Head of Languages, and the Year 11 Language Captains
Each year Radford appoints students to leadership roles, and in the case of the Languages Department, we select language captains to promote and assist with language learning. Student leaders are expected to live with integrity, embody the values of the College, be wholly themselves and flourish whilst engaged in the service of community. They are expected to be a model for others to emulate and do this by their everyday presence and demeanour, whilst also fulfilling responsibilities in a meaningful portfolio of work.
The captains are mentored by staff to promote language experiences across the Secondary School. During the interview process and subsequent meeting, they have expressed wonderful ideas to engage the wider student body with the importance of language learning. We wish them well with their endeavours this year.
This is what the captains had to say about their language learning journey thus far.
Anika Chaturvedi – Japanese Language Captain
Languages are one of the tools of connection, so why not hone multiple means of communication? I believe that the distance of people who originate miles away from your tangible reality, can be instantly shortened by even a meaningful ‘hello’.
My first exposure to Japanese was in Year 7. Over the years, I have fallen in love with the Japanese culture, and seeing the progress of me and my class’s linguistic evolution, has proven to be extremely fruitful.
My favourite memory from Japanese thus far, is going from not knowing our Japanese exchange students when first meeting them, to having lifelong friendships despite our linguistic and cultural differences, all in just one week. Languages don’t need to limit us but should make us even more appreciative of the fact that the effort taken to understand others comes from a sincere place of curiosity and connection.
As Japanese Language Captain for 2024, I hope to pique your curiosity regarding other cultures, people and languages this year.
Aayush Bhatia – Japanese Language Captain
I have enjoyed learning new languages and experiencing different cultures from a young age. I began learning Japanese in Year 7 and it quickly became one of my favourite subjects. Last year I was lucky enough to experience the culture and the language I had been learning first hand on a study tour around Japan. From that moment onwards, I truly understood what adults in my life had been telling me: “learning a language will teach you valuable skills and open up new pathways in your life."
Through learning a language, I have developed my communication skills, both in Japanese and English, and I have furthered my understanding of diversity within different cultures. The higher education and employment pathways that are now available to me through my study of Japanese are just one example of the benefits of learning a language.
We are fortunate that Radford offers four languages for us to learn. I highly encourage you to take advantage of this amazing opportunity and learn a language at Radford College.
Erica Li – Chinese Language Captain
Learning a second language unlocks doors to new cultures whilst enhancing communication skills, co-operation skills, and allows you to have global connections. There are so many other benefits that anyone who chooses a second language get to enjoy.
Languages are diverse and unique, there is something for everyone no matter your personality or interests., whether it's historical context, calligraphy and writing, origins behind traditions for festivals, or general interest in a culture other than your own. Chinese is different to all other subjects, making it stand out.
Learning a second language comes with countless benefits, such as improving your reasoning skills or giving you a second form of communication in order to bond with people overseas. Learning a second language also allowed me to go on multiple excursions and experience things not possible outside of school such as hotpot with a class group, trips to Chinatown in Sydney and even spending the night at the Nan Tien Temple in Wollongong.
Radford provides the opportunity to learn four major languages, I would heavily encourage everyone to get involved and enjoy the experiences that can only be offered through learning a second language.
Tahlia Hunt – Chinese Language Captain
Learning languages is one of the most beneficial subjects offered at Radford. This group of classes fosters students who think diversely and has been proven to enhance academic performance across all subjects.
Choosing to study Chinese (Mandarin) was one of the most daunting decisions I have made throughout my schooling. I felt behind my peers in learning the language due to not having a Chinese background. What began as a tentative decision in year eight has evolved into a transformative experience – one that I am immensely grateful my 13-year-old-self made.
Studying Mandarin has not only improved my language skills but also enhanced my diligence and study methods, enriching my learning in all subject areas. Additionally, my cultural awareness has expanded, providing invaluable insights into neighbouring regions.
My aim this year is to help alleviate the immense anxiety surrounding language choice and to demonstrate that, although it may seem difficult, learning a language is incredibly rewarding and offers unparalleled experiences compared to all other subjects at Radford.
Rea Ramassini – Spanish Language Captain
I first began learning Spanish in the United States over five years ago. Many members of my community along with students in my school spoke primarily Spanish, but little English. I felt that it was very important to be able to connect with my peers through language. With some time and lots of practice, not only was I able to better communicate with my classmates, but we also developed strong and lasting friendships.
In a diverse world, language is an essential tool that can help bring us together. I have learned through my Spanish classes just how important it is to embrace other cultures. Learning languages opens the door to valuable perspectives from all corners of the globe. Taking a language class has taught me to be a critical thinker and more open-minded to the incredible world around me.
Being able to travel anywhere and communicate with the people you meet strengthens connections and offers unique and valuable insights. I believe that languages should not be seen as barriers that divide us, but instead have the potential to unify people. I am forever grateful for the experiences and personal relationships that Spanish has brought me. I have developed a great love for language, and I plan on using Spanish in areas of my life that go beyond school. I can confidently say from experience, that learning a language is one of the most rewarding opportunities you can provide yourself with.
Isobel Higgins – Spanish Language Captain
During my time at Radford, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to study a language every year. This experience has been nothing short of enriching, as it allowed me to immerse myself in various languages and gain a deeper appreciation for their respective cultures.
Through my language studies, I have come to understand that language is not just a means of communication but a reflection of a people's history, values, and way of life. My interest in Spanish, for instance, dates back to when I was only eight years old and discovered that the Spanish version of Elizabeth was my name, Isobel. Although I later found out that just because my name was Spanish didn't mean my family had Spanish roots, my fascination with the language and culture stayed with me throughout the years. For this, I cannot express my gratitude enough.
Studying Spanish and other languages at Radford has opened my eyes to different cultures, careers and experiences. It has been immensely enriching to learn and engage with the customs, traditions, and beliefs of people worldwide. I look forward to helping and assisting those around me to engage in learning not just the language but also the culture tied to it.
Emma Osborne-Laverty – French Language Captain
Over the years I have studied many languages, including Indonesian, Japanese and Spanish, but French by far has been my favourite. Ever since my first French lesson in year 7 I have loved the language and the culture.
Becoming French captain has opened up so many opportunities for me to help others and share my love for the language. If you are just starting out and feel like you need a bit of extra help, I am extremely happy to assist!
I would definitely recommend studying a language in high school, as it opens up so many opportunities like meeting people from all over the world. I am very grateful for the chance to have French helpers in the classroom who are native speakers and spend the year with us. There is also the chance to either just host or go on an exchange which not only helps with your understanding of the language, but also gives you the opportunity to make friends from all over the world!
Thomas Liu – French Language Captain
Languages are all around us. From speaking with our friends and peers, to communicating ideas and storytelling, learning languages allows us to experience our ever-increasingly global world from different, beautiful perspectives.
Currently, I'm studying French at Radford and I speak Chinese at home. One could think that learning and/or using all of these languages would be exhausting - it can be - but it's worth it. I can tell you that now that I'm able to engage more with what I learn and address problems from different perspectives, and if you’re a bit of a language nerd like me, learning how other languages work becomes so much easier. Plus getting an insight into another culture is amazing. So, if you ever get the chance to do a language, take it! You might even get to go to another country!
