Deep thinking and meaningful action
By Ms Karen Mahar, Acting Deputy Principal, Head of Junior School
At Radford College, learning is not confined to the four walls of a classroom. It is a living, breathing, dynamic journey that inspires curiosity, challenges thinking and calls both staff and students to make connections and take meaningful action in the world.
From our youngest learners to our soon-to-be graduating Year 12 students, we see a vibrant tapestry of learning experiences, connections and purposeful action woven into daily life.
In the Junior School, our Year 6 students have embarked on their Primary Years Programme (PYP) Exhibition – a milestone learning experience that invites them to think conceptually, explore real-world issues and collaborate meaningfully. Grouped under the overarching concepts of influence, power, progress, impact and identity, the exhibition is far more than a project; it is a demonstration of agency, creativity and critical thinking in action.
This year, the PYP Exhibition is inspired by the following open-ended theme: x + y =
Far from being just a mathematical equation, for our curious learners, it becomes a provocation for student-led inquiry, community connections, action-oriented learning and whole-child growth through the Learner Profile. Students investigate topics that matter to them, applying their learning to propose solutions, raise awareness and inspire change.
Along the way, they develop skills and strengthen dispositions that will serve them well beyond school: curiosity, empathy, persistence and a belief that their voice matters.
In our Secondary School, the annual Dirrum Dirrum Festival amplifies these same values on a larger stage. Dirrum Dirrum 2025 embraced the theme "Tomorrow’s Promise", inviting our community to recognise our power not only to imagine change, but to create it. Guest speaker Stan Grant urged listeners to say 'Yes' to possibilities, challenging all of us to step into a future shaped by courage and conviction.
Our College values of Truth, Compassion, Wisdom were brought to life at the festival. We saw our values in action, through courage, empathy and integrity. These qualities, which we strive to embody every day, are the building blocks of a better world. Through the voices of guest speakers and our inspiring Year 12 student leaders, the event sparked deep reflection and called us to purposeful, meaningful action.
Whether in the collaborative inquiry of the PYP Exhibition or the thought-provoking conversations of Dirrum Dirrum, these experiences reflect a truth we hold dear: learning is not only about acquiring knowledge, but also about reflecting on humanity, sharing it and using it to serve others.
As John Dewey observed, 'We do not learn from experience; we learn from reflecting on experience.' At Radford, reflection is integral to how we learn – empowering students to articulate their thinking, celebrate their growth and take ownership of their journey.
This week in the Junior School, our Learning Journeys commenced, inviting parents and carers to step into their child’s learning spaces and walk alongside them to gain a deeper insight into their learning. More than a display of student work, Learning Journeys are vibrant celebrations of growth, understanding and joy. Students take the lead, guiding their families through classrooms, sharing achievements, engaging in hands-on activities and reflecting on their learning processes.
As Loris Malaguzzi, founder of the Reggio Emilia approach, reminds us: 'There are three teachers of children: adults, other children and their physical environment.' At Radford, these three are ever present across all learning environments. Learning is enriched by our specialist programs in art, music, physical education, Spanish, Godly Play, the library and well-being, as well as in the rich co-curricular offerings and meaningful service opportunities.
Across every age and stage, Radford College is a community of deep thinking and meaningful action, where learning is alive with curiosity, reflection and purpose. Or, as one of our Year 6 students expressed during their exhibition:
'Learning isn’t just about knowing more, it’s about doing more with what you know.'