Staff Insights
If you can see me, I can see you
Regardless of what we are doing at any given time, we should feel known, heard, supported and loved.
If you can see me, I can see you
Share this articleBy Mr Andy Gordon, Interim Principal
I was lucky enough to secure a ticket to Tay Tay’s Sydney concert as part of The Eras Tour last weekend.
It was not my first time seeing a Taylor Swift concert. I took my stepdaughter to the Red Tour (2014), 1989 Tour (2015) and Reputation Tour (2018). So yes, you could say I am a proud Swiftie. It turns out I was not very familiar with the eras after Reputation.
I ran into some of our students at the concert, who immediately presented me with some Swiftie bands which I now wear with pride.
The Eras Tour features songs from the entire back-catalogue Taylor has produced since she put her first album out in 2006, some 18 years ago.
The show featured many of her hits, but also some lesser-known songs that clearly hold a special place in the artist’s heart.
It got me thinking about Radford’s back-catalogue. Yes, there have been some well-known significant events in our shared history, but also some less well-known gems.
In 1933, decades before our Foundation Stone was unveiled, the person that our College and community is named after, Lewis Bostock Radford, Bishop of Goulburn said:
The things that bind are greater than the things that part.
This quote is at the front of 35 Years of Radford College: Foundations, Traditions, Inspirations by George Huitker, published in 2019.
Another quote on that page is from John Leyshon, Deputy Principal of Radford College from 1992–2012.
If you can see me, I can see you.
I imagine this might have been delivered during the many assemblies Mr Leyshon presided over, possibly to quell some overly enthusiastic behaviour and noise. But I think this quote stands as a timeless expression of Radford’s sense of belonging and connection.
On the weekend I was also lucky enough to attend the 2024 NSW Schoolboys Head of the River in Penrith. You can read the results elsewhere in this Bulletin, but as I stood watching the action on the water with our parents, friends and rowers, I felt part of an incredible team spirit. Our French visitors currently on exchange from the Lycée Notre-Dame might call it an esprit de corps.
This is what we hope for, not just in our 40th year, but always. That regardless of what we are doing at any given time, that we all feel known, heard, supported and loved. If you can see me, I can see you.
Nurturing this sense of safety and belonging requires work and it is grounded in our College Ethos. We are intentional in how we signpost our values of truth, compassion, and wisdom and in how we see again, listen deeply and act with kindness.
When we live the College Ethos, we honour the legacy of those that came before us and can proudly entrust Radford to those that follow us.
Lead well.
Andy
Spirituality and Sustainability this Lent
Rev. Katherine reflects on Lent with guest contributors, the 2024 Sustainability Captains.
Spirituality and Sustainability this Lent
Share this articleBy Reverend Dr Katherine Rainger, Senior Chaplain
As we continue the Lenten journey, we commit ourselves each day to living intentionally through the choices that we make. We pay attention to our relationship with God, with each other and with ourselves and reflect on where the choices we are making are enhancing or diminishing our relationships.
This week I read two great articles about Lent. The first was published in The Guardian, Leaning into Lent: whether believer or agnostic, there are lessons for us all by Justine Toh, senior research fellow at the Centre for Public Christianity.
The second was sent to me by our Sustainability Captains, Tiffany Chue and Pip Humphries. I commend their comprehensive and yet achievable ideas about sustainable choices.
Tiffany writes, “Most people know Lent as a time of fasting and abstinence from something we love best - the popular choices are chocolates, meat and social media. For many, Lent is also a time for turning away from all that is counter to God’s purposes for this world and all who live in it. This Lenten season, why not challenge yourselves to take a step towards a more sustainable world, and commit to the lifestyle change of your Carbon Fast. With minor adjustments to your routine or shopping, you can make a huge difference!”
Here are suggestions from Tiffany and Pip to make your 2024 more sustainable.
Cycle or walk instead
- Petrol and diesel cars are the biggest contributors to ongoing greenhouse gas emissions in the ACT. By making small routine adjustments, we can each be part of the move forward!
- Cycling and walking are hugely beneficial – both to your health, and to the planet. To meet the recommended 30 mins of exercise each day, why not ride or walk?
- Radford's bike racks are getting a lot of use, but there's always room for one more. For parents and caregivers: have you looked at the bike rack options your workplace offers?
- E-bikes are another very valid mode of transport.
Use public transport
- Canberra has an awesome bus and tram system. For the next month, why not skip the drive, support our public transport system, and take the bus instead?
- Taking the bus is a great way to cut down on emissions, and it gives you time to read a book, listen to a podcast, or get that daily Duolingo done!
- For more info, see: https://www.climatechoices.act.gov.au/transport-and-travel
Aim for zero food waste
Look at your food this week – what's going to waste? Identifying areas for improvement is a good first step. From there, think about:
- Limiting the packing your food comes in and bringing a lunchbox instead.
- If food is left uneaten regularly, bring less. Make sure you're only bringing what you'll eat.
- Keep in mind what your family eats when you're shopping. If you're not eating it, save yourself money by only getting what you need.
- Look into getting chickens or setting up your own compost system. Alternatively, Radford has a new worm farm which can handle your excess food.
Reduce your plastic consumption
Begin your plastic-free journey today! What can you reduce? Some first steps can be:
- Look at what comes home from the shops – do you need to buy packaged fruit, or can you bring your own bags?
- Is a mini packet or 'snack-sized' pack the best option, or can you get a bigger packet and take smaller containers of your food instead?
- Move away from kitchen waste like clingwrap and single-use foil. Beeswax wraps, containers, or other reusable kitchen supplies are great for storing food.
Turn off the taps
- Do you leave the tap running in the school kitchen or bathroom? You’ll be surprised at the savings we can make to our water bills in the long run.
Make sure organic waste (and only organic waste!) ends up in the green bins!
- Worm farms help reduce Radford’s carbon footprint. Please use these bins properly.
- Keep contaminants out and inquire about how to best protect our new worm friends from pollution.
Save electricity
- Switch off the lights and appliances at the source when not in use.
- The ACT Government is working towards 100% renewable energy by 2045, and you can follow this link for more information on how to make your next choice more sustainable in the long run.
More everyday climate choice information can be found on the ACT government's website. Their pages are full of helpful information, available in different languages, and are super accessible to help you make your first few climate-friendly choices.
Remember, small actions can lead to big success, so let’s all work together to achieve a better tomorrow.
News
Preparing students for life after Radford
Careers Fair hailed a great success
Preparing students for life after Radford
Share this articleBy Mr Dale Casburn, Head of Student Pathways
The Pathways Expo hosted by Radford College last week was a resounding success, with overwhelmingly positive feedback from exhibitors, students and parents. The event, which brought together over 40 exhibitors representing diverse educational and career pathways, provided invaluable insights for Year 10, 11, and 12 students.
Families who attended the evening session from 4:00pm to 7:00pm had the opportunity to explore the expo and attend presentations, further enhancing their understanding of future opportunities.
Overall, the expo served as a crucial platform for fostering informed decision-making and inspiring the next generation's educational and professional pursuits.
Junior School Welcome Gatherings
Fostering connections in the community
Junior School Welcome Gatherings
Share this articleBy Mrs Jo O'Brien, Assistant Head of Junior School Learning and Teaching
The Junior School Welcome Gatherings are always a highlight of the new school year, setting the tone for shared understanding, collaboration and open communication between school and home for the new year.
Every Monday evening for the first three weeks of the term, parents and caregivers gathered to share drinks, refreshments and informal conversation with other parents and staff. The warm and inclusive atmosphere ensures new, mutual and longstanding connections are fostered within our Junior School community.
Interim Principal Mr Andy Gordon and Acting Deputy Principal, Head of Junior School Ms Karen Mahar took these opportunities to warmly welcome parents and caregivers to the 2024 school year, encouraging them to become active participants in the Radford College community. They also emphasised that collaborative home and school partnerships are crucial for the success of our students, and outlined our commitment to nurturing the potential within each child by creating an environment where every student can thrive.
We’d like to take this opportunity to thank all staff who were involved in planning and preparing these gatherings, and to our parents and caregivers for valuing the importance of community connection. Your presence and enthusiasm at these events were greatly appreciated. We look forward to a year filled with growth, learning and success.
Bienvenue Lycée Notre-Dame!
Radford welcomes French exchange students
Bienvenue Lycée Notre-Dame!
Share this articleBy Ms Di Lefebvre and Ms Rhiannon Richards, French teachers
We welcomed a group of 20 students from Lycée Notre-Dame in Le Mans, France, and their teachers, Mr Olivier Pley and Mr Julien Chartier to Radford on Friday 23 February. This is the school’s seventh visit to Radford College.
The exchange started in 2010 with the hard work and dedication of Mrs Jen Bateman, French teacher and teacher-mentor who throughout the years has led several groups of Radford students to Le Mans on a reciprocal exchange. We are extremely grateful for her efforts in establishing and continuing to promote this wonderful educational experience for both students and staff alike.
We are also grateful for the numerous families who have hosted the French students during their stay in Canberra. Without the support of families this exchange would not be possible.
On Monday we welcomed the students and their teachers with a Welcome to Country, followed by a prayer by Rev. Dr Katherine Rainger and a warm welcome from Mr Brad Cooney, Head of Senior School. We also enjoyed an historical perspective from Mrs Bateman about how the exchange started in 2010 and went from strength to strength. Since 2010 the College has hosted over 120 French students.
So far the students have attended classes and visited the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and the National Museum. They also had a session in the College's cricket nets, which was a highlight for many. There are a few more excursions planned before they leave on Sunday, including a visit to the Old and New Parliament Houses.
A small group of Radford French language students are eagerly awaiting their own departure to France on Monday 8 April, where they will enjoy and be part of the Lycée Notre Dame community in Le Mans.
We are blessed to be able to offer these kinds of experiences to our students and extend our thanks to the Radford community for welcoming our French guests and making them feel part of Radford College. The support of the College staff is key to a successful exchange.
The Evolution of the Radford College Houses
The Evolution of the Radford College Houses
Share this articleBy Mrs Annette Carter, College Historian
In 1984, when Radford College first opened, there were just two Houses: Blue and Garnet. The following year, in 1985, this was expanded to include Gold and Green.
In response to the school’s increasing size in 1986, a decision was made to establish eight houses the next year. After deliberating on various themes including Indigenous words, trees, artists, explorers, scientists, or National Parks, they eventually settled on Australian trees with “their Aboriginal names where possible”:
Acacia – Gold
Jarrah – Garnet
Huon – Black
Kurrajong – Green
Karri – Dark Blue
Boronia – Red
Wandoo – Light Blue
Banksia – White
1987 marked the commencement of the Bishop’s Cup. For this inaugural occasion, there were form picnic lunches that were followed by an afternoon of special inter-house sport which included hockey, netball, basketball, tennis, volleyball, soccer, touch football and table tennis. Karri emerged as the inaugural champion, closely followed by Banksia.
The same year saw the introduction of House Colours, represented by a metal bar in the respective House colour. These were awarded to students who “exhibited outstanding service to the House in participation in inter-house competitions, in assistance with house organisation and in generally promoting house spirit.”
By 1997 – Jarrah had become purple rather than garnet.
In 2004, when the Middle School opened, houses named after previous Principals – Casson (Gold), Mackinnon (Light Blue) and Wigg (Maroon) – were established. However, these were disbanded at the end of 2005 in favour of restructuring that maintained the existing eight houses.
Throughout Radford College’s history, from its modest beginnings with two Houses to the subsequent expansion and evolution, the school has not only grown but has also successfully preserved the spirit and determination envisioned by its founders.
Sports Report, Term 1, Week 4
Sports Report, Term 1, Week 4
Share this article2024 NSW Schoolboys Head of the River – 24 - 25 February
All competing boys squads (Paddlers, Generators, Accelerators and Seniors) and their coaches travelled to Penrith this past weekend for the NSW Schoolboys Head of the River. There they competed against schools in the ACT and New South Wales in a peak regatta for the Radford rowing program.
From the 25 schools represented at the regatta, Radford finished the day in second place for the schools from the ACT, and fifth overall.
Congratulations to the following gold, silver and bronze medal winners:
GOLD
Schoolboy Double Scull
Connor Malouf (Huon)
Angus Scott (Acacia)
SILVER
Schoolboy Double Scull
Hamish Gaden (Karri)
Hamish McKee (Jarrah)
Schoolboy 2nd Coxed Quad Scull
Euan Greig (Huon)
Joshua Miller (Karri)
Rohan White (Kurrajong)
Hamish Whithear (Boronia)
Moira Geraghty (Coxswain) (Huon)
Schoolboy 3rd Coxed Quad Scull
Gitae Paik (Banksia)
Sam Austin (Banksia)
Marley Kowal-Buchanan (Jarrah)
Joshua Orr (Kurrajong)
Stuart Ward (Coxswain) (Banksia)
Schoolboy Yr9 Single Scull
William Fraser (Acacia)
Schoolboy Yr8 Double Scull
Victor Cumpston (Kurrajong)
Martin Koch (Jarrah)
Schoolboy Yr8 Single Scull
Jay Erwin (Jarrah)
BRONZE
Schoolboy 1st Coxed Quad Scull
Hamish Gaden (Karri)
Connor Malouf (Huon)
Hamish McKee (Jarrah)
Angus Scott (Acacia)
Izzy Faris (Coxswain) (Karri)
Schoolboy Single Scull
Rohan White (Kurrajong)
Schoolboy Yr9 Single Scull
Ciaran Brennan (Banksia)
It was fantastic to see the boys approach the weekend with such enthusiasm and focus and representing the College so well. For some it was their first time competing at Penrith.
The Senior Boys demonstrated their squad depth by winning medals in all three of the senior quad events. They also achieved extraordinary results in the double scull, where they won both gold and silver medals in a competitive field.
Cricket
The First XI progressed through to the Colts Division 1 (50 over) Grand Final on Sunday after a convincing win against Marist College. Their next match will be against Canberra Grammar School on Monday 11 March at the Phillip Oval.
Monday 4 March, the First XI will play aginst Canberra Grammar School in the Colts Division 1 T20 Final at Canberra Grammar School. The game starts at 4:30pm.
Finalists in Stage 2 and 3 divisions will be confirmed in the coming days.
Futsal
Sunday saw the final round of the U8 and U9 competition for the 2023/24 Summer Futsal season. On the same day almost half of the U10 to U18 teams competed in the semi-finals. Congratulations to the U10 Girls Division 1 Ospreys and U10 Girls Division 2 Raptors who comfortably progressed to the grand final that will be played this coming Sunday, 3 March. The U14 Girls Division 2 Raptors have also progressed to the grand final after a penalty shootout in their semi-final. After Clara Denney (Boronia) made a few great saves, Emily Bull (Banksia) scored the winning goal.
Grand Finals – Sunday 3 March – Lyneham Netball Centre:
- U10 Girls Division 1 Ospreys v. TBC – 11:00am kick-off
- U10 Girls Division 2 Raptors v. Jaguars – 12:00pm kick-off
- U14 Girls Division 2 Raptors v. Mayhem – 4:00pm kick-off
Basketball
On Saturday, 24 February, a group of 42 female basketball players attended the highly anticipated UC Capitals vs Melbourne Boomers fixture at the National Convention Centre. The game was nothing short of enthralling, with a nail-biting final score of 75-74, unfortunately resulting in a defeat for the UC Capitals.
The excitement however didn't end when the clock ran out. A handful of students had the unique opportunity to take part in on-court activities. Isabelle Sutherland (Boronia) and Charlie Russell (Huon) acted as floor sweepers, while Waniya Mahtab (Kurrajong) and Blossom Cameron (Jarrah) showcased their talents during the quarter-time entertainment. Holly Denman, 2024 Basketball Captain (Acacia) had the honour of posing a post-game question to local Caps player, Abby Solway.
What a remarkable day for everyone involved. A special acknowledgment goes to the dedicated coaches who helped make this memorable experience possible for our aspiring Australia Opals!
Memories and friendships made at Year 7 camp
Memories and friendships made at Year 7 camp
Share this articleBy Khushi Katamaneni, Year 7
One of the main highlights of Year 7 is the camp at the start of Term 1, and this year was no exception.
Last week the year group went to Biloela where some of the activities included abseiling, canoeing, the flying fox and low ropes. Students developed their sense of initiative through tasks such as cooking their own food and navigating their way to different activities and campgrounds.
The week started with the different groups making their way to their first camp site. Four of the groups slept in tents for the first two nights and the other four in cabins. On Tuesday and Wednesday the camp groups had their very own Mini Olympics followed by a tasty barbecue for dinner.
A memorable part of camp was the water activities, which included canoeing and abseiling. Another significant part of camp was all the hiking and bush walking that was involved. Although great for our health, it proved to be a challenge made worse by the heat and humidity. Nevertheless, students persevered and pushed outside their comfort zones.
Overall, camp was magnificent! Although there were a few challenges, the experience was outstanding and enthralling. Many new friendships were made along the way and students got to know their teachers better. Truly an unforgettable adventure!
P&F AGM
Join us for the AGM on 7 March
P&F AGM
Share this articleThe Radford P&F Annual General Meeting will be held on Thursday, 7 March at the R.A. Young Hall from 6pm.
All parents are invited to attend and can join the committee by completing this Nomination Form.
Click on the following links for more information on the Agenda and the Notice of AGM.
Get your tickets for the Gala Ball today
Come celebrate our 40th year in style
Get your tickets for the Gala Ball today
Share this articleCelebrate 40 Years of Radford College with us at the Radford College Gala Ball. Tickets are available now.
This year we look forward to bringing together past and present members of the Radford College community to honour our history and celebrate our achievements.
This event is a fantastic way for Radford parents and friends to strengthen and grow their connections within the school.
Please advise us of any dietary requirements when purchasing your tickets. If booking individual tickets, please specify your seating preference (year group or collegian).
This year will feature entertainment from the ‘Capital Club Band’ plus other special guests.
We look forward to celebrating this momentous occasion with you!
For more information, send an email to radfordcollegegalaball@gmail.com
Radford College long lunch with Steven Bradbury, OAM
Radford College long lunch with Steven Bradbury, OAM
Share this articleThe Radford Collegians are excited to host the Radford College long lunch on Saturday, 15 June 2024.
The guest speaker for the event is Steven Bradbury, OAM, an Australian former short track speed skater and four-time Olympian. He won the 1000m event at the 2002 Winter Olympics after all of his opponents were involved in a last-corner pile-up. He was the first athlete from Australia and also the Southern Hemisphere to win a Winter Olympic gold medal and was also part of the short track relay team who won Australia's first Winter Olympic medal, a bronze in 1994.
Steven Bradbury’s talks cover an array of topics, including collaboration, teamwork, overcoming adversity, inspirational business and leadership goal setting, and being your best.
Early bird tickets are available to purchase here until 30 March 2024 at $80 per person, $640 for a table of 8, or $800 for a table of 10. The price of the ticket includes canapés, drinks and lunch.
For a sneak peek of what to expect, click here.
2025 Foundation Senior Scholarship - applications close Friday
2025 Foundation Senior Scholarship - applications close Friday
Share this articleThe Radford College Development Foundation’s principal purpose is to support education at Radford College. In fulfilling this aim, the Foundation will offer a full two-year scholarship for one student commencing Year 11 in 2025. The scholarship will cover 100% of the Tuition and Capital Levy fees for two years (Years 11 and 12), and up to 100% of other College-related fees.
The scholarship will be offered to a student who demonstrates outstanding achievement and community involvement, but whose financial circumstances prevent them from attending the College.
The selection criteria include:
- a review of recent school reports and NAPLAN results
- an evaluation of the applicant’s reasons for applying for the scholarship
- a determination of whether the student meets the financial hardship test
- the successful applicant will be someone who will contribute significantly to the life of the College – both in and outside the classroom.
Application Process
Applicants will be initially asked to complete and submit an application form.
Submission of the application form and documents can be via email to foundation@radford.act.edu.au, or via post to the address below by 4pm on Friday, 1 March 2024.
Main Reception
Radford College
1 College Street
Bruce ACT 2617
Shortlisted applicants only will then be required to:
- complete a detailed financial statement
- provide referees
- be interviewed by a panel.
The successful applicant will be selected in time for them to take their place in the 2025 Year 11 orientation.