19 September 2025

By Mr Nick Akhurst, Head of Co-Curricular Drama, Dance and Technical Theatre

The Radford Theatre Company (RTC) is one of the busiest school theatre companies, with 5 to 6 main stage productions annually. These include productions in skill areas such as acting, dance and technical production (lighting, sound, set design, costumes, props, administration and promotion). At Radford, a significant amount of the design and implementation work is done by students and guided by staff. What they create is entwined deeply into Radford’s fabric and shared enthusiastically with our community.

Each production teaches something new and supports a cohesive community among performers, Tech Crew and audience members. 2025 started on a high note with the brightly coloured and hugely successful musical, Legally Blonde. From this, T.B. Millar Hall morphed into the dark streets of London with the Years 5-6 Production of Oliver Twist. Term 3 delighted audiences with several stage productions, including the Year 12 Revue, Years 9 and 10 production of Stories in the Dark and the Years 7 and 8 production of Grimm Tales. Throughout this time, students and staff have been prepping for the senior production of Hedda Gabler.

While drama and technical theatre students have been busily engaged in stage production learning and experience, dance students are likewise developing performance skills through weekly dance classes throughout the year, alongside various performances and competitions. Radford Dance Academy’s (RDA) year culminates in an exciting dance extravaganza concert spread over 5 nights.

The Senior Drama Technical Theatre curricular students and the co-curricular Tech Crew meet regularly in learning environments that enable students to learn and develop skills in technical aspects of theatre production. These valuable skills are transformed into work experiences with stage productions throughout the year. The Senior Drama Technical Theatre curriculum class, with the support of the Tech Crew, takes on leadership and decision-making roles, taking risks in theatre design elements and implementation to support performers and performances. These students work with professional theatre equipment and theatre practitioners to support the artistic nature of the College. With this, they develop project management skills and a resilience to ensure the show goes on. They also work with students of all ages, creating friendships and working relationships that transcend year groups and create memories that will last a lifetime.

At Radford Theatre Company, we value our community and team-based approach, which supports students to learn, develop and implement skills in realistic production settings. I wish to thank all the hard-working staff (over 60 in total), casuals and contractors, who sacrifice their nights, weekends and holidays to help students build and perform these works of art and allow our students to express themselves creatively. Many of the hours spent in rehearsals and behind the scenes by directors, choreographers, front of house people, ticketing, technical support, Tech Crew and actors is often unseen.

Thank you also to our wonderful audience members who support both the staff and students. In 2025, we continued to turn T.B. Millar Hall into a space that fits the standard of work created by our students. While the new retractable seating and individual seats didn’t arrive in time for the production of Legally Blonde, we could make use of them for the Years 5 and 6 production of Oliver Twist. The hall now feels more like a performance space and provides enhanced visibility for audiences and better highlights the technical and performance skills on display.

While we are coming to the end of the 2025 performance year, planning has already begun for 2026. Preparations for the Year 12 2026 Revue to allow auditions to begin in Term 4, and RDA dance class schedule is being developed. Those in the theatre never really stop; they just move onto the next performance!

With a career path that has encompassed everything from art history to theatre studies, immigration and museums, Mrs Rebecca Hunter brings a rich tapestry of life experience to Radford’s classrooms. Now a Secondary School History Teacher and Head of Year 9, she draws on her background in the arts, a love of storytelling and the perspective of parenting 3 teenage boys to connect with students in meaningful ways. In this conversation, she shares how her winding path to education shapes her teaching, what fuels her passion for history and the simple mottos that guide her work with young people every day.

Your background is in art history, criticism and conservation as well as theatre studies. Can you tell us about your career prior to teaching and how that influences your approach in the classroom today?

When I finished school, I wasn’t 100 per cent sure what I wanted to pursue. I had grown up with parents who were active in jobs of service to others – my mother was a teacher and my father a police officer. So, under their guidance and following in the footsteps of my 4 brothers who had studied or were studying at ANU, I commenced a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Art History and Theatre Studies while dabbling in a few units on the new European Union (which would now be classified as International Relations). Studying at ANU was a formative experience and to this day I still love visiting an art gallery or museum. Not knowing exactly which direction I wanted to take at a young age helps me support students who feel the same way. I’m able to encourage them to try the things they love and see where that leads.

You teach history in Radford’s Secondary School. What sparked your love of history and how do you bring the subject to life for students?

I have always been fascinated by history and completed a major–minor combination of modern and ancient history during my senior schooling. It all began with stories from my grandfather about World War II and our family’s convict past. My love was further cemented through conversations with my eldest brother who is a professor and historian of Southeast Asia at Princeton University. History is who we are and it informs everything about today’s societies and cultures. To me, it is one of the most foundational and important subjects to study. Theatre studies has certainly influenced how I teach; I try to make lessons engaging when delivering content and hopefully that encourages students to listen more actively. I’m sure at times they think I’m overacting! I also love bringing the past into their periphery and, in 2019 and 2024, I was able to take students overseas to experience the wonders of the ancient and modern worlds firsthand. That experience was priceless for the students and for me as an avid historian and traveller.

What motivated you to pursue a career in education after completing your first degree?

I was still unsure what to do after I completed my first degree. I worked and saved to backpack through Europe and the UK for six months before returning to work for almost a year at the International Organisation for Migration as an assistant handling documents relating to offshore processing camps – a job that didn’t sit well with my moral compass. I then worked at the National Museum of Australia on their IT help desk – I was good with people just not quite good enough with computers. It was at this point I realised that a normal desk job wasn’t for me and I finally decided to complete my teaching studies and follow in my mum’s footsteps. Despite the busy days and terms, I love seeing the growth and development of our young people.

As a mother of 3 teenagers, a Secondary School Teacher and a Head of Year, you bring a wealth of perspective to your role. From your experience, what are the most effective ways to keep students engaged, motivated and supported during the secondary years?

Having 3 teenage boys with very different personalities and neurodiversity has taught me patience. Looking after 216 students every day is no easy task, but I try to follow a few simple mottos: act towards others as you would like to be treated – with kindness and humility. Keeping all teenagers engaged all the time isn’t always achievable but I do try to get to know my students as much as I can. I like to listen to them discuss not only what they’re learning in the classroom but also what they are passionate about – and I genuinely hear their perspectives. I allow them to make mistakes, learn from them and ensure they are given opportunities to shine and follow their own interests. Being seen and known for who they are helps them to feel connected and supported.

What’s the best part of your day?

Believe it or not, it’s seeing the sunrise on an early morning run and getting mum hugs from my own boys (if I can get them). Next would have to be teaching in the classroom and sharing my love of history, along with wandering through the grounds and having the Year 9s stop for a friendly chat – it can really change a person’s day to have a good conversation about some of life’s simpler aspects.

People might be surprised to know that…

I almost joined the Australian Federal Police instead of becoming a teacher. Students sometimes ask whether I ever considered it. Perhaps it’s my high expectations and firm stance on accountability and rules that makes them think I’d have been a good fit!

By Mrs Taryn Fisher, Year 6 Teacher

This week marks the culmination of the Year 6 students’ Primary Years Programme Exhibition (PYPX). Over the past 8 weeks, students have been on a rich and challenging journey of inquiry, guided by the theme X + Y =. This theme encouraged them to explore how combining concepts, ideas or perspectives can lead to meaningful action.

Working in collaborative groups, students investigated issues that matter to them and our community, including sustainability, media influence, equity, technology and well-being. They conducted research, engaged with experts and synthesised their findings into actions designed to raise awareness and inspire change. Along the way, they demonstrated resilience, creativity and collaboration, refining their communication and critical thinking skills while reflecting on their growth as learners.

This final week brings the process to life as students share their inquiries and actions through engaging presentations, interactive activities and digital creations such as games, animations, videos, books, poems and songs. These diverse presentations showcase both the depth of their research and their creativity, collaboration and commitment to taking action.

In music and PE, students explored songs from The Greatest Showman, analysing lyrics and reflecting on their messages. They also examined identity through the equation X + Y = ME, combining singing, movement and music to bring the performance to life – a celebration of how combining ideas creates opportunities for growth and action.

The PYPX was explored across all subjects: in well-being, students reflected on identity in different contexts; in Spanish, they studied Frida Kahlo and created artefacts, mottos and equations to capture their own identities; and in art, they designed Keith Haring–inspired GIFs and logos to explore how art communicates social and political ideas.

The PYPX is not only a showcase of learning but also a milestone that reflects who our Year 6 students are becoming: thoughtful, compassionate and courageous young people who see the power of combining ideas. Just as each group expressed through their own X + Y = equation, our students have shown that when perspectives and actions come together, they create something greater than the sum of their parts.

‘I really loved exhibition. I loved it because I felt like I'm doing something that I'm interested in and learning more about the world in different ways. I also loved the group work because my group was so supportive of me and I loved getting new skills to present, to dance, to sing, to research, take action and much more. Overall, I wish I could do exhibition all over again and a few times after that.’ – Emmee

'Exhibition is a fun time, full of exciting experiences and opportunities. It's a process that allows you to take action and play your part. My exhibition experience showed me to look through different lenses and how to express myself, my passion and my feelings for issues around the world.’ – Alexis

By Mrs Annette Carter, College Historian

Bishop Mark has shared with us the sad news that the Reverend Simon Wooldridge died yesterday.

As Radford College’s foundation Chaplain, Reverend Simon shaped the early spiritual life of the school. In the very first Radfordian, Simon reflected on the role of the College Chaplain, writing:

'The roles of teacher, liturgist, pastor, counsellor, go-between, confidant and even team-manager are important and legitimate ones which have given me great satisfaction and joy. The privilege of being with young people as they grow in wisdom, physical and emotional maturity and confidence is immense. But my greatest satisfaction comes when a person discovers that religion, or more particularly Christianity, is not essentially a set of propositions about God and the Bible; nor is it a set of rules and regulations by which to live. Essentially, Christianity is a living, growing, personal relationship with a real, personal, involved, Trinitarian God.'

At his farewell from Radford in 1985, it was noted how rare it was to find someone who could make the Scriptures come alive for young people. Father Simon had this gift in abundance, bringing insight and courage to his ministry, and leaving a lasting impression on all who heard him.

Reverend Simon made a profound and lasting contribution to the life of the Canberra and Goulburn Diocese. On his retirement from the Diocese in 2014, Canon Margaret Campbell observed that he was 'probably the last of the sons of the Diocese who offered for ministry as a young man, and who spent his whole ministry serving God in the Canberra and Goulburn Diocese'. Reverend Simon’s ministry spanned parish leadership in Wagga, Tarcutta, Charnwood and Queanbeyan, as well as pioneering prison chaplaincy services at the Alexander Maconochie Centre.

Behind his humour and approachable manner was a man of humility, wisdom, prophetic vision and deep pastoral care. His love for God and commitment to God’s people - especially those too often forgotten - shone through everything he did.

By Mrs Monique Glavonjic, Community Engagement Manager

The Radford Collegians were delighted to host our Welcome Back Function on Saturday evening, celebrating the milestone reunions of the Classes of 1995, 2005 and 2015.

It was a wonderful night of reconnection as Collegians reunited with old friends, shared memories and toured the College grounds to see how much has changed since they last set foot on the campus. Alumni travelled from near and far to see their old friends and teachers and relive what it was like to be a Radford College student in the 90s and early 2000s.

Reunions like this remind us that while times change, the heart of Radford College remains the same.

Radford family ties

Among the many highlights, one special moment captured the heart of what it means to be a part of the Radford community. Current Year 12 student and Collegian Captain, Audrey Potter, proudly celebrated alongside her mum, Kate Potter (Class of 1995), who was marking her 30-year reunion. Audrey's grandmother, Wendy Lones, was also present to mark the occasion.

Kate is no stranger to the Collegians network, having also served as President of the Collegians Association, continuing her commitment to keeping Radford connections alive and strong. In 2013, Kate hosted a welcome back function with 6-year-old Audrey in attendance.

Mother and daughter toured the College grounds together, reflecting on the changes across three decades while sharing in the enduring traditions that remain. Their story is a wonderful reminder that Radford is more than a school – it is a community where friendships flourish, family ties deepen and connections span across generations.

By Mrs Monique Glavonjic, Community Engagement Manager

The Radford College Parents & Friends Association's Disco-Inspired Trivia Night was nothing short of spectacular! With just over 200 enthusiastic participants ready to boogie and test their brainpower, T.B. Millar Hall was transformed into a glittering disco hall – complete with dazzling lights, funky decorations and a soundtrack that had toes tapping long before the first question was asked.

The competition heated up across 6 rounds of trivia, which tested attendees' knowledge of everything from 80s music to pop culture moments.

Adding to the fun was the ever-popular ring toss game for the chance to win fabulous prizes. Special thanks go to our incredible sponsors: Artemis Partners, Barton Grocer, Oscar’s Bakery and Lazy Su. Your support made the night shine even brighter!

And then came the dance-off! Our trivia enthusiasts lit up the stage with twirls, grooves and some truly unforgettable moves. The hall erupted with laughter, applause and disco fever as everyone joined in the celebration.

As the night drew to a close, trivia champions were crowned and prizes awarded, but the real highlight was the incredible sense of community, laughter and joy that filled the room.

We're already looking forward to next year's event!

By Miss Melinda Hamilton, Junior School Teacher

This week, our Kindergarten students visited the Australian National Botanic Gardens to undertake a Buzzy Bees workshop. The students have been learning about ‘How the World Works’ and have been focusing on bees in particular.

At the gardens, the students got to explore lots of native bee-friendly plants and take note of their bright colours and attractive smells. Upon closer inspection, there were quite a few bees collecting nectar from the plants. The students also learned about the tiny hairs that bees are covered with and how this helps them to collect and spread pollen.

A highlight of the visit was seeing some bee hotels. The students found out more about how the queen bee lays eggs in the holes and how the holes then get covered with wax or a piece of leaf. These larvae grow and eventually hatch out of the holes as baby bees.

The students got to play a game that acted out the process of seeds growing and pollination. It was great fun for them to be part of the story!

'My favourite part was having a picnic lunch and a play.' – Arjan

'I liked playing the plant and bee game.' – Grace

'The insect hotel was so big, there were lots of bees living there.' – Eleanor

By Ms Georgia Solomon, Coordinator of Student Support and Enrichment PK-6

As part of our ongoing suite of enrichment opportunities, students in Years 3 to 6 took part in a variety of academic competitions in Term 3.

Mathematics competitions

Over 4 weeks, 61 students undertook the Australian Maths Trust's Maths Challenge. These students had the opportunity to build their love of problem solving through challenge-based questions. 8 students achieved full marks and were awarded a distinction certificate. Congratulations to:

• Ashwin (Year 3)
• Rhys (Year 3)
• Aaron (Year 3)
• Kyle (Year 4)
• Daphne (Year 4)
• Lucas (Year 4)
• Kai (Year 6)
• Daniel (Year 6)

80 students across Years 3 to 6 sat the Australian Maths Competition (AMC). As Australia’s longest-running competition for mathematics, the AMC tests students' problem-solving skills. Junior School students demonstrated impressive capabilities, awarded 17 distinctions and 7 high distinctions. 3 of our students were also presented with Prize Awards. These are usually reserved for one student in every 300 students in a year level or region.

Congratulations to:

• Jayden (Year 6)
• Peichen (Year 3)
• Daniel (Year 6)

Congratulations to all our mathematicians!

ICAS competitions

Known as the gold standard in academic competitions for school-aged students, Junior School students also participated in the ICAS competition assessments this term. 68 Junior School students sat the English competition, 64 undertook the science assessment and 79 students attempted the mathematics competition. Congratulations to the following students who achieved High Distinctions:

English

• Florence (Year 3)
• Arya (Year 4)
• Peilin (Year 5)

Science

• Cyrus (Year 3)
• Rhys (Year 3)
• Felix (Year 3)
• Celine (Year 5)
• Jayden (Year 6)

Mathematics

• Felix (Year 3)
• Austin (Year 3)
• Jayden (Year 6)

By Emily, Year 7 Student

Yesterday, Year 7 students hosted the annual Market Day. After weeks of preparation spent making prototypes, decorating logos and planning activities, it finally all came together. It was a vibrant and energetic lunchtime event where we were joined by staff, students in Years 5 to 12 and Year 7 2026 students on campus for Orientation Day. It was a fantastic way to get our new students excited about what is to come in their first year of Secondary School at Radford.

The atmosphere was filled with positivity and excitement as students took on the challenge of putting up a stall. Whether it was a game, food, drink or crafts stall, the enthusiasm and vibrancy were clear to all. It was amazing to see everyone's hard work come to life and be expressed through the creativity of their stalls.

All Year 7 students put a lot of effort in, pushing through the problems and persevering to make this year's Market Day as special and amazing as it was. Students worked collaboratively in groups of 3 to 5 since the start of Term 3.

From all of Year 7, we would like to thank our amazing mentors who guided us and supported us the whole time – giving us advice and feedback, helping us through the stress and problems, providing us with solutions and then finally sharing the excitement with us on the day. It was an amazing lunchtime, packed with fun, and one that all Year 7 students will never forget.

By Dr Rebecca Barlow, Head of Transition

Yesterday, we welcomed future Year 7 students to the Radford College Secondary School for Orientation Day. We were blessed with glorious weather and the vibrant energy of all involved.

Students enjoyed meeting with Principal Mr Christopher Bradbury and spending time with fellow-House members and Year 11 buddies. A range of activities were offered to encourage students to meet new teachers and navigate the campus.

Students explored touch tanks and chemical reactions with the science team, physical challenges with the PE team, Shakespeare workshops with the English team and a scavenger hunt with Miss Hayley Oldfield, Head of Houses.

After lunch, future Year 7 students joined Secondary School students at Market Day – an exciting event run by our current Year 7 cohort. We enjoyed ice cream, cupcakes, throw-the-sponge and more!

This is just the beginning of an exciting journey. We look forward to welcoming the students back to the Secondary School for more transition events in the coming months.

Radford Rugby's thrilling 40–33 victory over St Edmund's

Last Sunday, the Radford U18 Rugby team, led by Zach (Year 12), ran out to a supportive crowd made up of students past and present, teachers, friends and families who were eager to see the team flourish and reap the reward of a Grand Final win after finishing the regular season undefeated.

In a match that will be remembered for years to come, Radford exemplified professionalism and grit, holding out a hard-hitting St Edmund's team. Trading blows, Radford took the lead and made it look like a comfortable final, with 6 tries coming steadily over the 60 minutes of gameplay. St Edmund's didn’t give up and traded try for try. We witnessed some exemplary goal kicking from Radford, which kept Eddie's at arm's length for the whole match and put the pressure on the opponents to find cracks in the well-oiled machine.

The final whistle sounded to the relief of the Radford supporters and the excitement dawned on the rugby team that they had won! Celebrations began as the team's hard work throughout the year finally paid off. Zach’s standout performance earned him Player of the Match honours, capping off a triumphant day.

Radford Basketball's sweep of trophies

Over the weekend, Radford College celebrated 6 grand final wins out of 9 games played – an incredible achievement! Congratulations to our championship teams:

• U14 Girls Division 1 Hawks
• U14 Girls Division 3 Eagles
• U16 Girls Division 2 Falcons
• U19 Boys Division 1 Hawks
• U19 Boys Division 2 Falcons
• U19 Girls Division 3 Eagles

A huge thank you to all the players, coaches and managers for your energy, commitment and leadership throughout the season.

Student sporting achievements

With the winter sport season wrapping up, many Radford programs are holding end-of-year presentations. These events bring our community together to celebrate the season, thank players, coaches, managers, officials, parents and supporters and present Radford Perpetual Awards. At this week’s Secondary School Assembly, we proudly acknowledged award recipients of the Football and Snowsports programs.

Radford Snowsports Program:

• Grahame Macdonald Most Improved Award – Mina (Year 3)
• Mandl Family Award (Multidisciplined) – Charlie (Year 11)
• Radford Values Award – Female and Male – Georgina (Year 8) and Sam (Year 10)
• Best Performing Team – Female D1 Snowboard – Charlie (Year 11) and Aanya (Year 11)
• Male Performer of the Year – Darcy (Year 10)
• Female Performer of the Year – Jemima (Year 7)

Radford Football Program:

• Male Player of the Year – Michael (Year 11)
• Female Player of the Year – Loretta (Year 5)
• Service to Football – Mr Andrew Forester (Radford parent and referee coordinator)

2025 ACT 12 and Under Track and Field Championships

Congratulations to Elliott (Year 4) and Adeline (Year 7) for their outstanding podium finishes at the 2025 ACT 12 and Under Track and Field Championships.

Elliott stormed home to win the 10-Year-Old Boys 100 Metre sprint in a swift 13.94 seconds – the only runner to break the 14-second mark. Adeline claimed silver in the 12-Year-Old Girls 100 Metre sprint, recording an impressive 13.90 seconds.

We are proud of all our students who competed with determination and represented Radford with pride.

Register now for Term 3 holiday camps

Coerver Coaching ACT Holiday Camps

The Coerver Coaching Holiday Camp offers a fun-filled soccer experience for students. Each day will include ball mastery, 1v1 attack and defence, receiving and passing, small-sided Coerver games and mini Coerver Cup tournaments.

Players who attend a Coerver Coaching ACT Holiday Camp will receive:

• 12 hours of programmed Coerver Coaching sessions delivered by Coerver Diploma-accredited coaches
• Coerver Coaching training shirt
• An Adidas training football
• Coerver Coaching Home Study Program
• Coerver Coaching Home Study Program Online Support
• Coerver Coaching certificate of attendance

Dates:

• Monday, 29 September to Thursday, 2 October (Northside)
• Tuesday, 7 October to Friday, 10 October (Southside)

Time: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm
Venues:

• Northside – University of Canberra Oval 1, Bruce
• Southside – Monash Primary School Oval, Monash

Register: Click here

By Miss Hayley Oldfield, Teacher and Head of Houses

Over 2 exciting weeks, the Best of the Rest House Volleyball Competition brought students together for 6 lunchtimes of spirited play and community connection.

The semi-finals were nail-biting contests: Boronia vs Wandoo and Kurrajong vs Huon, each decided by just a single point. Both matches had the crowd on edge, proving the depth of skill and determination across all Houses.

The Grand Final, played on Wednesday, 17 September, saw Kurrajong and Boronia go head-to-head in front of an enthusiastic crowd. The atmosphere was electric – students filled the gym with cheers, pom poms and an incredible display of House pride. The match was tense from start to finish, with both teams refusing to give an inch. Congratulations to Kurrajong, who held their nerve and claimed the coveted title of House Volleyball Champions!

Alongside the competition, the Spirit Cup results celebrated the energy and dedication of our student community. This award recognises not only spectatorship but also the many students who contributed through umpiring, scoring and setting up. Congratulations again to Kurrajong for showing what true House spirit looks like – collaboration, encouragement and respect.

A huge thank you goes to the PE department for generously providing equipment, the sports department for their all-hands-on-deck support throughout the tournament and Ms Michelle Nazzari for her tireless commitment to planning and running this wonderful event.

The Best of the Rest House Volleyball Competition once again showed that while only one team can win the trophy, every House wins when our community comes together in the spirit of competition and belonging.

The Spring Showcase will be held in T.B. Millar Hall on Tuesday, 23 September at 5:30 pm.

This concert features several of our more advanced music ensembles. The groups performing include:

• Corelli Chamber String Orchestra
• Montgomery Guitar Ensemble
• Bernstein Symphonic Wind Orchestra
• Big Band
• Camerata
• Vivace

Admission is free and tickets are not required. Please join us for this final music concert of Term 3.

By Mrs Monique Glavonjic, Community Engagement Manager

The countdown is on for the Twilight Fete on Saturday, 1 November, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Secure your ride and food wristbands now – available to purchase online or in person from the Morison or Junior School Receptions.

Everything you need to know about the Twilight Fete, including rides, volunteering and donation collections for our stalls can be found here.

By Mrs Kirsten Knight, Head of Co-Curricular Music

Rockin’ Picnic is a mini music festival on the lawns of the Morison Centre, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm on Saturday, 20 September.

Bring a rug, hat and your favourite drinks and nibbles and listen to excellent performances by bands from the co-curricular music contemporary ensembles program.

Featuring 6 student-led bands, the event will be headlined by The Koebi Faumui Band, which includes Radford College bass tutor, Ms Olivia Falatoese. You’ll hear covers and original music played with passion and rock-inspired spirit!

The line-up for this year's Rockin' Picnic includes:

• The Co-Workers (Year 7)
• Current (Year 10)
• Ouch! (Year 8)
• R3DV3IL (Year 8)
• The Greeks Freaks (Year 11)
• Is The Ocean a Soup? (Year 12)
• The Koebi Faumui Band (special guest artist)

Entry is free and tickets are not required. All are welcome!