Staff Insights
Reconciliation – more than just a word
Understanding, gratitude and mutual respect
Reconciliation – more than just a word
Share this articleBy Ms Karen Mahar, Acting Deputy Principal, Head of Junior School
As we mark National Reconciliation Week, our community is encouraged to reflect deeply on the importance of our shared histories, cultures and achievements. There is an opportunity for us to consider how we can each contribute meaningfully to reconciliation in Australia.
This year’s theme, Bridging Now to Next, calls on all Australians to step forward together to learn from the past, act in the present and shape a more just, inclusive and connected future.
At Radford College, “reconciliation” is not simply a concept, it is a commitment. A commitment that calls for us to listen, voice our beliefs of collaboration and engage in meaningful action.
We are currently in the consultation phase of developing our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), partnering with Aboriginal people, engaging students and staff and including families in conversations designed to deepen our understanding and inspire positive change. This gives us scope to build on the strong foundation of learning already present in our community and seeks to grow it further.
Our staff and students share an optimistic outlook toward building trusted and respectful relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians. We believe these relationships are strongest when grounded in understanding, gratitude and mutual respect.
The Junior School continues to take significant strides in fostering a deeper understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural, linguistic and historical identities. Reconciliation, for us, is an active journey - one where we are consistently listening, learning and showing respect.
In true Radford style, our approach to learning is hands-on and collaborative. We believe in the power of learning 'with' rather than learning 'to' or 'for'. This philosophy has been central to our reconciliation efforts, as it fosters a sense of shared responsibility and nurtures empathy and mutual respect.
During Reconciliation Week, our students engaged in rich, purposeful learning. Some highlights included:
- Alongside the Vivace Choir, our Year 5 and 6 students joined the Governor-General, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, and parliamentarians in a powerful and tangible expression of reconciliation through the 1,000 Voices for Reconciliation performance at Parliament House.
- Interactive cultural sessions with Wakka Wakka woman Brooke Prentis, a valued friend and mentor, who guides students and staff in exploring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives through truth-telling and curiosity.
- Immersive workshops with Duncan and Jakida Smith from Wiradjuri Echoes, where students connect through storytelling, dance and shared experiences.
Students also engaged with this year’s Reconciliation Week artwork by Bree Buttenshaw, a proud Kalkadoon woman. Her work inspired reflections from our students on the symbolism of native plants and what they teach us about strength and resilience:
“The Desert Lime grows in the very dry outback. And Banksia grows back even stronger after a fire.” – Chloe
“Kangaroo Paw is a fun name and is super strong!” – Isaac
“These plants are like people and communities - they bounce back, keep growing and stay strong.” – Millie
“Gum leaves are tough, bendy and beautiful!” – Chloe
Our Pre-Kindergarten students embraced this year’s Reconciliation Week theme of Bridging Now to Next through a series of meaningful, sensory-rich and creative experiences:
- Inspired by the 2000 Sydney Harbour Bridge Walk, each child added a leaf to a collaborative bridge display, symbolising our shared journey towards reconciliation.
- Children created observational drawings of native plants such as Lemon Myrtle, Banksia, gum leaves, Desert Lime and Kangaroo Paw.
- Staff and students baked Desert Lime and coconut cookies, sharing them in a yarning circle around the fire pit, listening to Dyirri the Frog as told by Ngunawal Elder Don Bell.
- Lemon Myrtle-scented playdough was available for exploration with nature-based loose parts, creating a tactile and immersive cultural experience.
These activities reflect our commitment to deepening cultural understanding through connection, creativity and care. The aim for our students is to gain a deeper appreciation of the cultural, linguistic and historical identity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Our students are learning the value of listening, the importance of empathy and the need to work together to build a more inclusive and harmonious future.
The College continues to foster an environment where all voices are heard, all stories are respected and all relationships are valued.
Together, we strive to ensure reconciliation is not just a word - that it becomes a lived reality that strengthens our community and honours the diverse heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Bridging Now to Next
National Reconciliation Week
Bridging Now to Next
Share this articleBy Reverend Dr Katherine Rainger, Senior Chaplain
On the morning of 28 May 2000, my best friend and I caught a train from Wollongong to Sydney. We were both university students who had caught wind of the Walk for Reconciliation across Sydney Harbour Bridge. My parents caught the train up from Goulburn and we met at Central Station.
Some of the details of the day are a bit hazy 25 years later. There was one moment, however, that I will never forget. My best friend, parents and I were on the train crossing the bridge so that we could start the walk. The train carriage was full. Through the window, we could see thousands of people already walking, filling the eight lanes of the bridge. There were people everywhere we looked.
In our train carriage, a group of Aboriginal women began to sing in their language. The sound of the women’s song, combined with the sight of all those people on the bridge united for justice, was deeply moving. In that train carriage, 19-year-old me witnessed another way of being human together.
More than 250,000 people walked across the Harbour Bridge that day. A week later, about 60,000 people walked together across the William Jolly Bridge in Brisbane. Scores of smaller walks followed throughout the country, in state capitals and regional towns, culminating in large marches in Melbourne and Perth at the end of the year. The Melbourne walk, starting at Flinders Street Station and finishing at King’s Domain Gardens, drew as many as 300,000 people.
Ngunnawal Elder Aunty Violet Sheridan was one of the many people who walked across the Harbour Bridge on 28 May 2000.
“I was in the middle, carrying my little Aboriginal flag and there were all these people in front of me. I looked back and saw waves and waves and waves of people coming behind me. And I started to cry, because it made me so happy that black and white were coming together and walking into the future for Reconciliation …We have had horrific things done to us, but it’s not about blaming this generation … Reconciliation to me means acknowledging that Australia has a past. Unless we do that, we can’t go forward … We mightn’t change old heads, but we can change the future, and the children are our future.”
The walks were a testament that Australians wanted to face the truth of the Stolen Generations and provide avenues for healing. The word "Sorry" was written in the sky that day. Eight years later, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd formally apologised to the Stolen Generations.
This year's National Reconciliation Week theme is Bridging Now to Next. The theme asks us to reflect on the gains made in Reconciliation and to ask ourselves where there is more to be achieved.
As a community at Radford, we are looking at where to next through a Reconciliation Action Plan. I wonder where you might go next in your Reconciliation journey? You could:
- Reflect on prayers written by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Christian leaders.
- Attend Reconciliation Day in Commonwealth Park on Monday, 2 June from 10.00 am – 3.00 pm. A brilliant program is on offer.
- Listen to Wiradjuri musician Uncle Johnny Huckle’s song Fair and Black - a compelling reflection of the Harbour Bridge Walk in 2000.
- Read an article by Julie Tongs, CEO of the Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health and Community Services, about the criminal justice system in the ACT.
- Look at the Narragunawali framework to learn more about Reconciliation Action Plans in education.
- Take your own action.
What's happening this month
Details of our upcoming events
What's happening this month
Share this article- Year 7 Parents Digital Learning information evening – Wednesday, 4 June – 6.00 pm – Morison Centre.
- Parents & Friends Committee meeting – Wednesday, 4 June – 6.00 pm–7.30 pm – In person at Morison Centre or email the P&F to attend online.
- Junior School Movie Night – Thursday, 5 June – 5.30 pm – R.A. Young Hall.
- Radford Rocks – Wednesday, 11 June – 5.30 pm – Performing Arts Centre.
- Years 5–6 Drama Production – 18–20 June – 6.00 pm – T.B. Millar Hall.
- Radford Collegians Network Careers Expo – Monday, 23 June – 11.00 am–3.00 pm – Collegians Centre. Register here by 30 May.
- Year 3 Strings Concert – Wednesday, 25 June – 5.30 pm – T.B. Millar Hall.
News
Collegians vs Year 12 Soccer Match
Round one of goes to the Year students
Collegians vs Year 12 Soccer Match
Share this articleBy Mrs Monique Glavonjic, Community Engagement Manager
On Wednesday, 28 May, a crowd made up of students, collegians, staff and parents came together to witness a spirited game of soccer between our talented Year 12 footballers and a passionate team of Radford College Collegians.
Spearheaded by our College Football Captains, Thea Reinhardt and Henry MacCallum, this friendly match was more than just a game - it was a powerful celebration of connection across generations. The Collegians team featured a dynamic mix of former students, with collegians ranging from the Class of 1992 through to 2023.
We were especially honoured to welcome Tom Rogic, former Australian Socceroo and proud Radford collegian from the Class of 2010. Tom attended as our Radford College Football Ambassador, offering encouragement from the sidelines and inspiring our young athletes with his presence.
The match itself was a thrilling contest, with the Year 12 team securing a hard-fought, 2–1 victory, much to the delight of their supporters. The game was expertly officiated by Radford's Head of Football, Mr Mitch Stevens, and showcased the exceptional sportsmanship and skill of both teams.
This exciting match marks just the beginning of a series of games planned throughout the year, all building towards a grand final showdown at our Twilight Fete on Saturday, 1 November.
In the spotlight
Head of Health & Physical Education, Ms Jessie Thearle
In the spotlight
Share this articleBy Ms Jessie Thearle, Head of Health & Physical Education
It’s been an exciting and progressive time in the health and physical education (HPE) department, where our team of dedicated educators - Ms Edwina Bone, Mr James Mann, Mr Tom Gleeson, Ms Caitlin Hackett, Mr Nicholas Szabo, Ms Di Lefebvre, Mr Brad Davis and Ms Ashlee Turner - have brought immense energy, creativity and collaboration to our teaching practice.
This year, staff have worked hard to refresh the Year 8 Body in Motion unit, previously known as Gymnastics. The redesigned program has evolved into a more contemporary movement unit, embracing a wider range of activities to better engage students and reflect modern understandings of physical literacy. Input from specialist coaches and our external partner, Canberra City Gymnastics Club, has enhanced the learning experience and professional growth for staff and students alike. This partnership has allowed teachers to deepen their own practice while offering students enriching, hands-on lessons.
Across all year levels, staff have designed purposeful learning experiences that build movement competence, promote positive relationships and explore real-world health issues. From Year 7’s foundation in movement and net sports, to Year 10’s exploration of strength training, leisure activities and cultural sports, each program has been thoughtfully developed with student engagement at its core.
Secondary School teachers have also expanded learning beyond the classroom. Highlights included Year 11 exercise science students studying human anatomy at the University of Canberra - an initiative that strengthened their connection to tertiary pathways. Staff in the PEA (Physical Education Accredited) and PER (Physical Education Registered) programs have consistently found creative ways to connect curriculum to life, with excursions to the Aqua Park, among others, proving to be both educational and memorable.
As we look to the year ahead, the department is focused on continuing to develop innovative curriculum offerings, including further expansion of the Body in Motion unit. The team is also planning to explore new technologies and pedagogical strategies to enhance student learning outcomes.
The HPE department remains committed to providing meaningful, active and inclusive learning experiences, led by a team passionate about health, movement and education.
Showcasing the arts at Radford
Students impress at Art Showcase evenings
Showcasing the arts at Radford
Share this articleBy Ms Sally Stenning, Head of Performing Arts
We launched our Arts Showcase evenings at the College this week, featuring work by Secondary School dance, music, photography, visual art and drama students.
On Wednesday evening, music students in Years 10–12 performed a vast array of items – from classical piano to rap – and by doing so, demonstrated the versatility of our music program to cater for the passion and interest of every musician at Radford.
Students in Years 7–12 also had the opportunity to exhibit some of their visual art and photography works. The showcase created a wonderful platform for our students to share their work with a wider audience in the spirit of collaboration across the arts.
This semester, senior dance and drama students have been studying units in creativity. Central to this exploration is the question: "How does creativity breed constraint?" The work presented on Thursday night reflected this theme in a myriad of forms. The Dance and Drama Showcase was a great opportunity for the students - who started the semester together on camp - to share the culmination of their learning. Coupled with this was a selection of Shakespearean monologues by Year 10 students.
Along with honing their amazing talents, students learned valuable leadership skills in creative problem solving, collaboration, communication and organisation. This event was a wonderful opportunity to share the valuable work they do with our wider community, and we look forward to many more to come.
Thank you to our fantastic team of teachers and support staff who made the event possible: Mrs Amanda Marshall, Mr Nick Akhurst, Miss Melissa Markos, Mrs Emily Leong and Mr David Burcher.
Most importantly, I would like to thank our students in the performing and creative arts for their bravery, generosity and spirit of creative play. We are lucky to work with you on a daily basis.
Radford welcomes Momoka Shibata
Fostering Japanese language communication skills
Radford welcomes Momoka Shibata
Share this articleBy Ms Michele Sharp, Head of Languages
Language Assistants are a fabulous resource for the languages department as they contextualise learning for students and support teachers in developing teaching materials in authentic language.
Their primary role is to enhance speaking activities in the classroom by providing access to native speakers. The language assistants live with Radford families during their stay, allowing them to improve their English and learn about everyday life in Australia. We are very grateful for the support of the three Year 8 Japanese students and their families who have volunteered to host Momoka this year.
Momoka is the third assistant we have employed from the Kansai University Japanese language department - a relationship that has developed after I studied there as part of the Endeavour Language Teacher Fellowship.
Welcome to Radford, Momoka!
In her own words
Hello! I’m Momoka, the Japanese language assistant this year. I came to Canberra on 29 April from Osaka, Japan. I have only spent five weeks here, but I’ve had many wonderful experiences. I’ll be here until the end of Term 4. If you see me, please call me Momoka!
One reason I came here is because I would like to be a Japanese language teacher after I go back to Japan, so I hope to learn Japanese education under the great Japanese teachers at Radford. Another reason is I want to improve my English because I love chatting. I very much appreciate having this special opportunity.
At Radford College, I participate in Japanese language classes as a Language Assistant and support their activities and games. Students are sometimes very nervous, but they have a strong interest for learning and ask me many questions. I participate in Japanese language classes as a Language Assistant and support their activities and games. The students are very kind and the teachers are very helpful. The students say “konnichiwa" (hello) to me outside of class and one student recommended a restaurant. The teachers taught me all about Radford. I really enjoy the school life as an assistant for teachers and students.
Since I came to Canberra and Radford, I am surprised every day. At first, I was moved by the scenery. In Osaka, my hometown, I don’t see such big skies because of buildings and mountains. Canberra has great nature. A few days ago, I saw a brilliant rainbow. And also, I was surprised at the difference between education in Japanese schools and Radford College. In Japan, we have 40 students in a class, so students memorise what the teacher teaches to improve their writing skills. But it is very difficult for teachers to plan speaking practise in the class. Having many students in a class makes for fun communication, but few students put their hands up and ask questions during classes. However, Radford College makes classes more active. Students always explain themselves and they have the opportunities to use the words they have learned. I don’t know which style of education is better, but I think it is ideal for students to enjoy classes.
At the moment, I am staying with my first host family. They are so kind. They teach me about the Canberra lifestyle. They give me opportunities to make Australian meals, watch TV shows, learn new English words and so on. I was so nervous because I’ve never been to Australia. Of course, I’m still nervous, but now I’m very happy and enjoy the life here.
I’m interested in Australian animals, landscapes, history and food. If you have recommendations, please tell me.
I appreciate all the people who have given me this wonderful opportunity, who are supporting me and teaching me everything!
I’m very much looking forward to new experiences.
Next stop, Bungendore Station
Exploring how objects move
Next stop, Bungendore Station
Share this articleBy Miss Melinda Hamilton, Junior School Teacher
Kindergarten students are learning How We Organise Ourselves and exploring how objects move and the materials they are made from. To enhance our investigations, this week Kindergarten classes went on an excursion involving several moving vehicles.
First, we caught the Radford bus to the train station in Kingston, where we boarded the XPT train that was heading to Sydney. There were some collective groans from other passengers when 23 small children excitedly climbed aboard, but once we assured them our journey was only to Bungendore, they were keen to share the exciting trip with us and were very impressed with the manners and engagement of our students.
On the train, our Kindergarteners explored their comfortable chairs, how they reclined, their tray tables and footrests, all while watching the lovely scenery out of the large windows. Some of the highlights included going through three tunnels and over many bridges. When we arrived in Bungendore, we had a little look around the station and walked to the park.
A lunch stop was needed after our long journey. At the same time, we kitted up in wet weather gear as the grey clouds were starting to spit. The playground provided many opportunities for students to explore materials and how things move, from the flying fox to the plastic slide. The water area further led to some dam building and observations about gravity.
Just as the wet weather really set in, we hopped back onto the bus and enjoyed a little nap on the return journey to school. What a fantastic learning experience!
"My favourite part was going on the train, because it was my first time on a train." – Eleanor
"On the train, I got to lie back on my chair and relax," – Rishi
"It was dark when we went through the tunnels," – Ethan
Celebrating our Accomplished Teachers
Congratulations to our newly accredited teachers
Celebrating our Accomplished Teachers
Share this articleCongratulations to Bella Dalton, Emily Ridge and Taryn Fisher who have received their Accomplished Teacher accreditation with the Association of Independent Schools of NSW (AISNSW) and Independent Schools Teacher Accreditation Authority (ISTAA).
Ms Dalton, Ms Ridge and Mrs Fisher are among the first 30 to achieve the accreditation in 2025.
Over the past 12 months, these teachers have demonstrated commitment to their professional development, working under the guidance of our Teacher Mentor Ms Jen Bateman.
“Teachers at Radford are encouraged to extend their professional growth within and beyond the classroom through the accreditation process. This process provides a consistent and transparent pathway to ensure quality teaching and, in turn, improve educational outcomes for our students," said Ms Bateman.
"The title of Accomplished Teacher is awarded to those who consistently engage in learning within their classrooms and in collaboration with colleagues, drawing on research and feedback; who consistently demonstrate high-quality teaching practice; and who actively seek opportunities to build their leadership and collaboration skills.”
Radford College is extremely proud of Ms Dalton, Ms Ridge and Mrs Fisher's dedication to improving outcomes for our students.
Radford College sports wrap
Term 2, Week 5
Radford College sports wrap
Share this articleJamie Pearlman Cup
Radford’s Year 3 and 4 basketball teams represented the College with great spirit, teamwork and sportsmanship at Basketball ACT’s annual Jamie Pearlman Cup. Both the Raptors and Hawks played with determination and pride across the day’s fixtures.
The Hawks, coached by Mr Dylan Hunt, demonstrated commendable resilience. After a challenging start with two early losses, the team made thoughtful adjustments and finished the day with two hard-earned wins. The growth shown from the first game to the last was fantastic to witness, and the team finished 3rd in Pool A.
Hawks Results:
- Round 1 vs Campbell Primary: 19–24 (L)
- Round 2 vs Aranda Primary: 5–34 (L)
- Round 3 vs Holy Family Primary: 23–10 (W)
- Round 4 vs Latham Primary: 16–8 (W)
The Raptors, led by Mr Hunter Clarke, also had a memorable day. Through a combination of strong fundamentals, a team-first mindset and disciplined defence, they were able to enjoy a series of convincing wins. Their unselfish play and cohesion stood out throughout the day, ultimately helping them go undefeated and claim the title of Northside Champions. The Raptors now move on to represent Radford at the ACT Finals on Tuesday, 24 June.
Raptors Results:
- Round 1 vs Campbell Primary: 58–4 (W)
- Round 2: Automatically advanced to the next round
- Round 3 vs Aranda Primary: 50–2 (W)
- Round 4 vs Holy Family Primary: 53–0 (W)
- Semi-Final vs Aranda Primary: 41–12 (W)
- Grand Final vs Hawker Primary: 58–8 (W)
We’re incredibly grateful to all the students for the way they represented the College, and to the coaches and families for their support throughout the day. We would also like to thank those who assisted with score table duties and team logistics.
Congratulations to all involved for making it a positive and enjoyable day of basketball.
Belconnen Region Cross Country Results
If you weren’t convinced that winter had arrived in Canberra, last Thursday at Stromlo Forest Park would have changed your mind. With icy winds and persistent rain starting right before the first race, it was a true test of toughness - and Radford students rose to the challenge!
The College was proudly represented by 50 students from Years 2–6 at the 2025 Belconnen Region Cross Country Championships, and they displayed exceptional grit, determination and resilience in tough conditions. Despite the weather, our students ran with purpose, supported each other with loud cheers and demonstrated the Radford spirit from start to finish.
A special congratulations to the following students who finished in the top 10 for their age group, qualifying for the SSACT Primary Cross-Country Championships to be held on Friday, 13 June, again at Stromlo Forest Park.
- Poppy Chawner (placed 8th)
- Genevieve Duong (placed 3rd)
- Bastien Garrard (placed 7th)
- Chloe Hatherly (placed 5th)
- Jarrah Hatherly (placed 5th)
- Maahi Padala (placed 5th)
- Ridhvik Ramanan (placed 9th)
- Millie Unwin (placed 5th)
- Laila Walker (placed 4th)
- Aaron Zhang (placed 3rd
We are proud of all our runners who competed on the day. Thank you to the staff and families who braved the elements to support our athletes - your encouragement meant a lot!
Years 3/4 Netball Gala Day
In one of the most anticipated days of the year for our budding Year 3 and 4 netballers, Radford proudly took to the courts for the Netball ACT Years 3/4 North Gala Day on Tuesday, 27 May. This exciting event brought together teams from a range of schools across the region.
Representing Radford with pride and enthusiasm were two spirited teams - the Radford Kites (Year 4) and the Radford Buzzards (Year 3).
The courts were alive with energy as the Kites and Buzzards demonstrated not only their growing technical skills - such as passing, shooting and defending - but also their excellent teamwork, communication and sportsmanship.
Each match was a chance to improve, and it was inspiring to see the players supporting one another, celebrating their successes and learning from every challenge. Great effort from all netballers, well done!
Radford hosts wheelchair basketball
This week, Radford’s U14, U16 and U19 JPL and Division 1 basketball athletes took part in a series of wheelchair basketball clinics, led by Illawarra Rollerhawk and Australian Roller representative, Jontee Brown.
The clinics offered our players a valuable new perspective on the sport, challenging their understanding of movement, space and teamwork. Athletes quickly came to appreciate the physical and strategic demands of wheelchair basketball, gaining a deeper respect for the skill, resilience and adaptability of wheelchair athletes.
The sessions were both eye-opening and thoroughly engaging. Students embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and walked away with a broadened view of the game and its inclusive nature.
We extend our sincere thanks to Jontee Brown and Elijah Duke for delivering such a high-quality and meaningful experience. We look forward to welcoming them back to Radford later in the year.
Sports Achievements
Congratulations to the following students who have been selected in a School Sport ACT representative team to compete at the School Sport Australia National Championships later in the year:
- Poppy Smith – 16&U Girls Basketball
- Tanish Patel – 15&U Boys AFL
- Eva Dixon – 15&U Girls AFL
Upcoming School Sport ACT (SSACT) Team Trials
12&U Football/Soccer (Girls)
- Monday, 26 May's trial was postponed on account of the weather. The trial will be rescheduled for a later date.
- 9 June and 16 June from 6.30 pm – 8.00 pm. Invitational trial (students invited to this selection session will receive an email after the third trial)
- Southwell Park, Lyneham.
- Please wear appropriate playing gear, shin pads, long socks, football boots and a water bottle. Goalkeepers are to bring their own gloves. No club representative shirts are to be worn
- Students must attend 2 of the 3 trials and be born between 1/7/2011 and 31/12/2014 to be considered for selection
- All students wishing to take part in the trial must complete the SSACT online registration before 26 May. For further information please go to SSACT Football-Soccer
12&U Football/Soccer (Boys)
- Sunday, 1 June, 8 June and 16 June from 3.00 pm – 5.00 pm. Invitational trial 22 June from 3.00 pm – 5.00 pm (the 36 students invited to this selection session will receive an email after the third trial)
- Wanniassa Ovals (Fields 101-104)
- Please wear appropriate playing gear, shin pads, long socks, football boots and a water bottle. Goalkeepers are to bring their own gloves. No club representative shirts are to be worn
- Students must be born between 1/7/2012 and 31/12/2014 and be playing NPLB, SAP or Div 1 Juniors to be considered for selection
- All students wishing to take part in the trial must complete the SSACT online registration before 22 June. For further information please go to SSACT Football-Soccer
12&U Touch Football (Girls and Boys)
- Monday, 16 June and Tuesday, 24 June from 5.00 pm – 6.00 pm.
- Deakin Playing Fields (Fields 212 and 215)
- Students are required to wear appropriate playing gear. Students are not to wear district or ACT representative gear
- Only students born between 01/07/2012 and 31/12/2015 will be eligible for selection
- All students wishing to take part in the trial must complete the SSACT online registration before 24 June. For further information please go to SSACT Touch Football
15&U Touch Football (Girls and Boys)
- Monday, 16 June and Tuesday, 24 June from 5.00 pm – 6.00pm.
- Deakin Playing Fields (Fields 212 and 215)
- Students are required to wear appropriate playing gear. Students are not to wear district or ACT representative gear
- Only students born between 01/01/2010 and 31/12/2012 will be eligible for selection
- All students wishing to take part in the trial must complete the SSACT online registration before 24 June. For further information please go to SSACT Touch Football
Important
- Radford students who choose to take part in trials for SSACT teams are to follow the registration process for the respective sport trials. The majority of SSACT trials are conducted after school hours, however if the trial does take place during the school day, it is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to notify the College of their child’s absence and provide supervision.
- If a Radford student is selected in a SSACT representative team, it is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to follow the normal College absence processes
School Sport ACT Scholarship Fund
The School Sport ACT (SSACT) Scholarship Fund is once again open. This is available to students who have been selected in a SSACT representative team and who are required to travel interstate to compete at the respective School Sport Australia National Championships.
More information on the Scholarship Fund and its consideration criteria, can be found within the resources section of the SSACT website homepage: SSACT Scholarship Fund Information and Application.
Successful applicants will receive a $500 deduction from their team fees during the payment phase of the team preparation process. The approval process can be quite quick once the student is selected and one of the criteria is deemed as 'Circumstantial Hardship', e.g. multiple children from the same family making teams in a close timeframe.
Scholarship applications are to be submitted to eo@schoolsportact.org.au.
Best of the Rest House netball competition
Kurrajong wins, with Karri finishing as runners-up
Best of the Rest House netball competition
Share this articleBy Miss Hayley Oldfield, Head of Houses
The energy across Radford College has been electric throughout the 2025 Best of the Rest House netball competition. Over the past few weeks, students from all Houses have stepped onto the court with passion, teamwork, and fierce determination, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and competition that truly captured the spirit of our community.
From the very first whistle, each match has delivered moments of brilliance – sharp passes, agile footwork, bold intercepts, and impressive shooting accuracy. More than just a display of athletic skill, the competition has highlighted leadership, resilience, and House pride, with students of all year levels uniting to give their best on and off the court.
Week after week, the tournament built towards the highly anticipated Grand Final, that was played in the G. Wigg Sports Centre at lunchtime on Wednesday. A buzzing crowd gathered to cheer on their peers, proudly wearing House colours and adding their voices to an unforgettable finale.
In an exciting and hard-fought match, Kurrajong claimed the championship title, with Karri putting up an outstanding performance to finish as runners-up. Congratulations to both teams for their incredible efforts and to all participants for making this year’s competition such a success.
A special thank you goes to the student officials, staff supporters, and enthusiastic spectators whose contributions elevated the event.
The 2025 Best of the Rest House Netball Competition has once again proven that when Radford students come together, the result is something truly special.
Cupcakes for a good cause
Students raise more than $1000 for RSPCA
Cupcakes for a good cause
Share this articleBy Emma Osborne-Laverty, Radford Awareness and Service (RAS) Captain
Last Friday, RAS hosted a cupcake day ahead of the RSPCA's Million Paws Walk that took place on Sunday.
The RSPCA provides animal care, educates the public, advocates for change in policies, have inspectors who prosecute animal cruelty complaints, and conducts scientific research, to name but a few of the important tasks they are responsible for.
The RAS committee decided to hold a cupcake day to support the RSPCA's important work. This event gave us the ‘purrfect’ reason to get out our cooking utensils and bake to fight animal cruelty.
A competition was held for the best decorated cupcakes, with the winner taking home two tickets to Jamberoo Action Park. Year 8 student, Elsie Osborne showed some amazing decorative skills and was awarded first place. Congratulations Elsie!
More than 400 cupcakes were sold during lunchtime, helping RAS to raise more than $1000 for the RSPCA – well beyond the expectations of the RAS committee.
Thank you to all students who donated their time and ingredients to make these incredible cupcakes.
Year 3 visit Geoscience Australia
Learning more about the different types of rocks.
Year 3 visit Geoscience Australia
Share this articleBy Mrs Kate Beacroft, Junior School Teacher
Our Year 3 students travelled to Geoscience Australia for a hands-on experience to learn more about rocks as part of our 'Sharing the Planet' Unit of Inquiry.
Students explored metamorphic, igneous and sedimentary rocks in the education centre, discovering how they are formed and what their properties are. The students learned how these properties make particular rocks and minerals suitable for certain uses. For Claudia, 3RB, the highlight was, “finding out different types of rocks and seeing what the purposes are”.
The students also went on a minerals scavenger hunt and even touched moon rock! Liam, 3KB, said, “I liked seeing all the different rocks and the variety of colours and shapes.”
Radford Rocks
Join us for a vibrant and energetic evening on 11 June
Radford Rocks
Share this articleRadford Rocks is Radford College’s annual celebration of contemporary music, showcasing the talents of student ensembles in genres ranging from pop and rock to punk and jazz. Held in the Performing Arts Centre, the event offers a vibrant and energetic evening of live performances, including both covers and original compositions.
Radford Rocks will be held on Wednesday, 11 June from 5.30 pm in the lower level of the Performing Arts Centre.
Entry is free and tickets are not required.
College Captains launch 500 Club
Together, we can make a meaningful difference.
College Captains launch 500 Club
Share this articleWe are proud to introduce the Radford College Foundation 500 Club – an exclusive giving circle created to shape the future of Radford College and strengthen its proud tradition of excellence, opportunity and community.
By registering your interest in becoming a member of the 500 Club, you join a committed network of Radford families, collegians, staff and supporters who believe in the power of education to transform lives, and who are ready to invest in that future.
What is the 500 Club?
The 500 Club is a community of generous donors who pledge a tax-deductible gift of $500 per year for five years. Together, these contributions will build the financial strength of the Radford College Foundation, enabling us to:
- Offer life-changing scholarships and bursaries.
- Upgrade essential facilities.
- Equip students with the skills and confidence to make a difference in the world.
Every dollar is an investment in creating opportunities and empowering the leaders of tomorrow.
The real cost
For less than $10 per week, your annual pledge of $500 becomes part of a shared vision. With 500 committed members, we will raise $1.25 million over five years – a transformative contribution to the future of Radford College.
The change you create
As a member of the 500 Club, you are helping to:
• Transform lives – opening the doors of a Radford education to those who might not otherwise have access.
• Empower students – enabling young people to thrive, learn and lead.
• Inspire innovation – supporting world-class learning environments and campus improvements.
• Leave a legacy – reinforcing the enduring Radford spirit of generosity and shared purpose.
This is more than a donation – it’s a commitment to something greater. It’s your chance to help shape what comes next.
Register your interest here to receive your formal invitation and join us and College Principal, Mr Christopher Bradbury, at the launch of the 500 Club on Friday, 20 June.
Together, we can make a meaningful difference.
Radford Collegians Network Career Expo
Registrations close on Friday, 30 May.
Radford Collegians Network Career Expo
Share this articleMrs Monique Glavonjic, Community Engagement Manager
Are you a business owner or industry professional eager to inspire the next generation of leaders? The Radford Collegians would like to invite you to take part in our upcoming Radford Collegians Network Career Expo on Monday, 23 June 2025.
This event connects students in Years 10 to 12 with diverse industries and career opportunities. Participation is open to all - you don't need to be a Collegian to get involved!
What we’re looking for:
We are seeking expressions of interest from businesses and organisations across a wide range of sectors, including but not limited to:
- Technology and IT services
- Creative arts and media
- Health and wellness
- Finance and business services
- Environment and sustainability
- Engineering and manufacturing
- Education and training
- Hospitality and tourism
- Retail and e-commerce
- Social enterprises
Why participate?
- Inspire young minds by sharing your career journey and industry insights.
- Showcase your business and connect with motivated students.
- Create networking opportunities for future talent.
- Promote work experience opportunities to students.
- Engage with the community and promote your brand.
Event details:
Date: Monday, 23 June 2025
Time: 11 am to 3 pm (Set up from 9 am)
Location: Radford College
What we provide:
Chairs and trestle tables for your setup.
How to register:
If you are interested in participating in this exciting event, please register your organisation's details by Friday, 30 May via the registration form link. The event guidelines can be found here.
Join us in shaping the future of our students and showcasing the opportunities that await them in the professional world. We look forward to your participation!
For any enquiries, please contact Monique Glavonjic on 02 6162 6217 or email.