Staff Insights
By Mrs Louise Wallace-Richards, Acting Deputy Principal, Head of Secondary School
As the end of the 2025 academic year rapidly approaches, I have been thinking about the past 2 decades and how things have changed or remained the same at Radford since I started as Head of English in 2005.
When I first came to Radford, I inherited the most wonderful team of English teachers. Our staff room was miniscule. The former Head of English, the poet Moya Pacey, was still on staff and was very helpful in assisting me in establishing myself in the role. Staff from those early years included Mr Jason Golding, who has been here longer than me, and Mrs Sue Hassall, who joined the department in 2008.
During my first decade at Radford, we developed rubrics for assessing English tasks that were later adopted by many other Colleges in the ACT. The units had names like Through the Poets’ Eyes, Book to Screen, Writer’s Workshop and Crime Fiction. When we talked about these units with parents, many of them wanted to join our classes themselves!
My favourite units were Crime Fiction and Nineteenth Century Literature. For Crime Fiction, I taught about cozy whodunnits, hard boiled detectives, and sociopaths such as Thomas Ripley. In Nineteenth Century Literature, the students had the complete experience, learning – as you would expect – about the lives of those in the 19th century through the works of Dickens, Wilde and various poets, and also through food and costume of the period. Nothing teaches students better about what a trial it was to live during those times as a member of the gentry class than trying on costumes from the period, including hoop skirts and cummerbunds. They also enjoyed cucumber sandwiches – a feature in many of Wilde’s plays.
Using technology to enhance student learning has always been a feature of English teaching at Radford. In 2005, we had 2 computers in each English room, as well as the opportunity to book the new Apple Lab. Back then, the devices were largely used for word processing to improve the drafting process for our students. OneNote and other apps we use today were stuff of the future, eagerly embraced once they were introduced by our Director of Digital Learning and Innovation, Ms Lisa Plenty, a decade later. If we wanted to show a film in class, we had to either swap rooms with another teacher or use the Leyshon Lecture Theatre. The luxury we have today of showing films in our classrooms through Vivi was unimaginable. And to think, when I first started teaching, we had to wheel a trolley with the television and VHS machine perched precariously on it into the classroom to view a film.
For the past 20 years at Radford, English teachers have been teaching film as a text, not as an alternative to reading a novel or as a lesson filler. When teaching a film, we teach about the language of film and how the intent of the filmmaker has been conveyed through camera angles, shots and movement, including dolly shots, panning and the like. Dialogue, costuming, lighting, diegetic and non-diegetic sound are all part of teaching film at Radford. For us as English teachers, it is very much an analytical exercise of the mind and an awakening in our students as to how we can be persuaded to see or feel things in a certain way.
Taking on a Year 10 English class in my last year at Radford, has provided the opportunity to teach so-called 'shorts' – short films, Ted Talks, short documentaries and the like – with the students comparing them to short stories and short non-fiction texts. We are always learning as teachers and keen to take on the teaching of new texts and text types.
So much has changed and yet so much stays the same. English teaching at Radford College always has and always will seek to improve the communication skills of our students, their ability to analyse language and gain a deeper understanding about what it means to be human.
By Reverend Andy Fleming, Associate Chaplain
There have been a number of events over the past few weeks where a witness would observe a strong spirit of community. I am thinking in particular of last weekend’s Twilight Fete and the campfire sing-along at the Year 3 camp. In fact, one of the aspects about camp that stands out is the opportunity for community building. Our Year 9 campers experienced the highs and lows of this aspect, relying on each other this past week as they trekked through all 4 seasons up at Cooleman Plains.
People in a community such as Radford become connected as their relationships develop and a sense of belonging grows as their shared interests and purpose become clearer.
The disciples and followers of Jesus knew something of this too. The Book of Acts provides an account of how the early Christian community grew through their connection with the disciples’ purpose and the sense of belonging they fostered. What stands out for me is the ‘others first’ approach and the invitation to share meals. This reflects the notion of ‘breaking bread’ that Jesus himself taught — to welcome people to your table out of hospitality. Jesus shows us that a vibrant inclusive community embraces hospitality. Regardless of one’s social or socio-economic status, an inclusive loving community welcomes all people.
Early in Jesus’ ministry, he calls on a tax collector named Levi to follow him. Levi, so impressed by Jesus, throws a banquet for Jesus where other tax collectors were among the invited guests — the very people that the temple authorities considered ‘unworthy’ (Luke 6.27–32). Through his actions of hospitality, Jesus shows us that community begins by welcoming those that are on the fringes and those we may not typically think of as part of the ‘in-crowd.’ This is perhaps a timely reminder for us as we approach the end-of-year festivities.
A prayer by Pádraig Ó Tuama
Jesus of the table,
You gathered unexpected people around
hearths of hospitality.
You stretched out your hand
for grapes and bread, for wine and welcome.
May we populate our tables
with all kinds of people.
Because at the table
our hearts can be glad
for a while.
Amen.
Go in peace,
Rev. Andy
News
By Mrs Kirsten Knight, Head of Co-curricular Music and Director of Strings
The co-curricular music offering at Radford College is extensive. With more than 30 groups rehearsing on any given day, there are many staff working with our students to help them achieve their personal best at every level.
Before students can participate in music making in a group, they need to acquire adequate skills on their chosen instrument. Many students start their instrumental journey at the College in the Year 3 strings or Year 5 band programs, but we have many who take up an instrument in their first year at the College. We are privileged to have as many as 30 specialist individual music tutors who work one on one with our students. Some have worked with the same student for more than a decade.
Most of our rehearsals take place before school and our groups are led by expert conductors, a few who are also Radford College teachers. Supporting our choir conductors are piano accompanists who attend rehearsals and concerts to perform with their groups.
Overseeing the 5 areas in music — bands, strings, choirs, ensembles, and keyboard — are our music directors. Behind the scenes our creative staff are well supported by our Performing Arts Administrator and Performing Arts Assistant.
To provide adequate performance opportunities for our groups and individual musicians, we run a busy schedule of concerts and recitals over the year. Term 3 is always the busiest, with more than one event every week.
Our concert series is made up of mixed group concerts such as the autumn and winter concerts and Spring Showcase, as well as events that cater for specific styles of music, such as Radford Rocks and Jazz Café. Our recital series is open to any music student and creates a platform for students from Kindergarten to Year 12 to perform for an audience. Our Evening of Fine Music is a very special recital event, showcasing our top Year 12 musicians. Throughout the year our groups and individual musicians also contribute to services and other school events such as End of Year Celebration.
This large team of passionate musicians enjoy working with our students to ignite and sustain a lifelong passion for music.
By Mrs Monique Glavonjic, Community Engagement Manager
Our 2025 Twilight Fete truly had it all: a little rain, a rainbow and plenty of sunshine to cap off a vibrant afternoon. The weather may have kept us guessing, but nothing could dampen the incredible spirit and energy that filled the College grounds from start to finish.
From the moment the gates opened, the Fete buzzed with excitement. The air was filed with music, chatter, laughter and the delicious aroma of food. Families browsed colourful stalls brimming with sweet treats, plants and handmade goods, while thrill-seekers flocked to the rides. The pony rides were a big hit with our younger visitors, leading to many magical moments and big smiles.
The car show drew a steady crowd, with enthusiasts admiring an impressive display of classic, vintage and modern vehicles gleaming in the afternoon sun.
Over in the T.B. Millar Hall, the friendly rivalry of the cupcake competition had bakers of all ages putting their best creations forward. College Principal, Mr Christopher Bradbury had the tough job of judging the entries, tasting, admiring and ultimately crowning the 2025 cupcake champions. Ryan (Year 7) took home the prize for the best overall decorated cupcake. Here are the names of the other winners:
Mini bakers (Pre-Kindergarten to Year 3)
1st – Alex (Year 2) for Penguins
2nd – Rhys (Year 3) for Chai Latte
3rd – Rhys (Year 3) for Toffee Apple
Junior bakers (Years 4 to 6)
1st Roman (Year 4) for Christmas Reindeers
2nd Charlie (Year 5) for Under the Sea
3rd Aniq (Year 6) for Spring Bloom
Senior bakers (Years 7 to 12)
1st Eloise (Year 7) for Green, green grass
2nd Constance (Year 11) for Munch Madness
3rd Maya (Year 7) for Chocolate Delight
Elsewhere, visitors were treated to a variety of experiences, from meeting some scaly friends at the reptile display, to enjoying a refreshing cup from Teddy’s Matcha, or cheering on our beloved mascots during the always-entertaining mascot run. The friendly Collegians vs Year 12 basketball and football games rounded out the afternoon with energy and school spirit, as crowds packed the sidelines to support their teams.
As twilight settled in, the sense of joy and togetherness was unmistakable. The Radford College Twilight Fete once again showcased everything that makes our community special – connection, creativity and a shared spirit of celebration.
A heartfelt thank you to our incredible Parents & Friends committee, parent and student volunteers, music and dance performers, Radford College staff – in particular the College caretaker, Mr Florin Suciu and our facilities team – and every member of the Radford community who helped make this event possible. It was your generosity, hard work and enthusiasm that made it a truly spectacular celebration.
Thank you to our sponsors: Taman Kuda Club and Tailored Accounts for their generous contributions that supported our giant slide and whirlwind rides this year. We further thank the following business and groups for their generous contributions towards our successful silent auction: Radford science and sports departments, Oscar's Bakery Café, Good Fills, Kumon Florey, Thoroughbred Park, Maker2Market and Café Mizzuna.
Thank you for making the 2025 Radford College Twilight Fete a day to remember!
Isobel named as finalist for 2025 CBR Sport Awards
Radford College is immensely proud to celebrate Isobel (Year 11), who has been named as a finalist for the 2025 CBR Sport Awards in the Rising Star category.
The CBR Sport Awards recognise excellence, resilience and innovation across all levels of sport, celebrating the extraordinary achievements of athletes who represent the strength and diversity of the Canberra sporting community.
Isobel’s nomination follows an exceptional year on the water. She claimed three gold medals at the 2025 Australian Rowing Championships in Tasmania, earned her first national cap with the Rowing Australia U23 Team, and went on to win silver in the PR3 Single at the 2025 U23 World Rowing Championships in Poland.
Being named alongside such high-calibre athletes is a remarkable achievement and a testament to Isobel’s dedication, perseverance and passion for rowing.
The 2025 CBR Sport Awards will be held on Thursday, 20 November, where the Canberra community will come together to honour its outstanding athletes and sporting leaders.
Congratulations, Isobel – the entire Radford community is incredibly proud of you!
Golden Oar Regatta
This past weekend Radford was proudly represented at the inaugural Golden Oar Regatta – an international event hosted by the Radford rowing shed's close neighbours at The Red Shed. The weekend featured a variety of activities and attracted international competitors from Croatia, New Zealand and Uganda, along with many of Australia’s top rowers and current national team athletes.
Isobel (Year 11) competed in the PR3 Double Scull entered by Rowing Australia, racing with her national team teammate from the U23 World Championships. The pair achieved an outstanding 2nd place finish in the Para Rowing Double Scull event.
Radford also entered 2 crews in the U19 Coxed Quad – a highly competitive category featuring crews from various academy and state institutes and schools across the country. The quads competed in a 1,500 m regatta on Saturday, followed by a 3,000 m time trial on Sunday morning, and wrapped up with a 450 m sprint on Sunday afternoon.
Both Radford crews finished the regatta with a B Final 4th and 6th place – strong results in a high-calibre field.
Off the water, Rowing Australia hosted an Indoor Rowing Relay, pairing National Training Centre athletes with ACT school students. This high-energy event was a fantastic opportunity for our students to connect with some of the nation’s best rowers.
Golden Oar representatives
U19 Mixed Quad #1
Hanna (Year 11)
Freya (Year 11)
Ciaran (Year 10)
William F (Year 10)
William H (Year 10) (coxswain)
U19 Mixed Quad #2
Lucy (Year 11)
Lilly (Year 11)
Benjamin (Year 11)
Alexander (Year 10)
Jackson (Year 11) (coxswain)
Indoor rowing relay
Female team
Catherine (Year 10)
Kate (Year 11)
Eliza (Year 10)
Lilly (Year 11)
Freya (Year 11)
Male team
Darcy (Year 10)
Benjamin (Year 11)
Ciaran (Year 10)
William F (Year 10)
Lincoln (Year 11)
2025 School Sport Australia Multi-Sport Games
The 2025 School Sport Australia Multi-Sport Games were held last week in Ballarat, Victoria, bringing together over 1,300 student-athletes and officials from across the nation for a week of exciting competition and camaraderie.
This prestigious event – hosted in partnership with the City of Ballarat – celebrates athletic excellence, teamwork and school pride, and provides representative students with an unforgettable sporting experience.
Radford College was proudly represented by a talented group of students across several ACT teams, showcasing determination, skill and sportsmanship throughout the week:
12&U girls' netball – Beatrice (Year 7), Emma (Year 6)
12&U girls' cricket – Tahlia (Year 6), Akshara (Year 5) and Zoey (Year 5)
12&U boys' cricket – Joseph (Year 7), Shubh (Year 7)
12&U girls' football – Millie (Year 6)
10–12 years swimming – Hunter (Year 6)
Congratulations to all our athletes for representing the ACT and Radford with pride – an outstanding achievement and a true reflection of our College spirit!
2025 Australasian Champion of Champions Futsal Tournament
We wish our Radford Year 4 boys' futsal team all the best as they compete in the 2025 Australasian Champion of Champions this weekend – the top-tier national school futsal tournament run by the Australian Futsal Association (AFA).
After winning the ACT AFA Tournament earlier this year, the team secured their place among the top 8 schools in Australia to represent the ACT and Radford College. This prestigious event brings together the best futsal schools from across the country to battle it out for the national title.
Laughter, colour and friendly competition filled the J.A. Mackinnon Oval as our Pre-Kindergarten to Year 1 students took part in this year’s Athletics Carnival. Bundled up against the cool weather, our youngest athletes showed boundless energy and enthusiasm as they ran, jumped, balanced and threw their way through the fun event.
The carnival is all about participation and community, and our students shone brightly in both. They gave every event their best effort, cheered for their House with pride and celebrated one another’s successes with genuine encouragement and joy.
A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated Junior School PE and sport staff, whose thoughtful planning and organisation made the day such a success. Their efforts ensured that every student could experience the excitement of the carnival in a safe and supportive environment.
Thank you to our families for braving the chilly conditions to support from the sidelines – your encouragement means so much to our young athletes.
Congratulations to all students for embracing the spirit of the day with courage, teamwork and big smiles!
By Miss Hayley Oldfield, Head of Houses
The much-anticipated announcement of the 2025 House Cup and Spirit Cup winners took place on Wednesday, 5 November, marking the culmination of another incredible year of House events and friendly competition at Radford.
Throughout the year, students from across the College have participated enthusiastically in a wide range of activities – from RadPAC and sporting carnivals, to trivia challenges and community initiatives. Each event showcased the spirit, teamwork and leadership that define our House system.
The competition for the Spirit Cup was exceptionally close this year, with just 22 points separating first and 8th place. Congratulations to Kurrajong who claimed the 2025 Spirit Cup for their enthusiasm, teamwork and unwavering House pride. Their positive energy and sense of community were evident in every event.
The House Cup was equally competitive, with only 16 points separating first and 8th place. Congratulations to Banksia, the 2025 House Cup champions, recognised for their consistent effort, participation and success across all events throughout the year.
A huge thank you to all House Leaders, Prefects and staff for their dedication and support in making this year’s competitions so memorable. 2025 has been a year of connection, pride and celebration – a true reflection of the Radford House spirit.
By Miss Melinda Hamilton, Junior School Teacher
Each year, the Radford Student Council (RSC) organises the Junior School disco in Term 3 and uses the proceeds from the ticket sales to support the Christmas Appeal of Capital Regional Community Service. This year the students raised $1,812 to put towards gifts and hamper items.
The Capital Regional Community Service put together over 100 hampers every year with Christmas gifts and food items for families in the Belconnen community who access their service and are known by the caseworkers and staff. These hampers help to ensure that no-one goes without over the festive season.
The RSC set off for Kmart early on Tuesday morning, with shopping lists and lots of ideas of gifts they’d like to purchase. We made our way around the store, filling baskets with toys, beauty products, scented candles, stationery, sporting goods, Christmas decorations and plenty more. It was great to see the students working together to choose and calculate their cumulative total to keep within their budget.
At the checkout, plenty of bags were filled to the brim with carefully selected items and our receipt was very, very long! Back at Radford all the gifts were placed in the Magic Bathtub in the Junior School reception.
If you’d like to contribute towards the Capital Regional Community Service's Christmas Appeal, please place unwrapped donations of gifts suitable for babies through to the elderly in the Magic Bathtub in the Junior School reception. Christmas decorations (bon bons, baubles and home décor) and special foods (chocolates, shortbread and candy mixes) are also warmly welcomed.
The items are being collected on Thursday, 27 November to allow time for CRCS to assemble and distribute the hampers in time for Christmas.