Five minutes with Mrs Simone Yates

Radford College Registrar, Mrs Simone Yates, is one of our longest-serving and most respected team members. Having joined the College in June 2016, Simone celebrates nine years of dedicated service this year. But her connection to Radford runs even deeper – as both an employee and a parent, Simone has a unique insight into what makes our community special. That insight becomes especially meaningful as she welcomes prospective families – in what is often their very first connection to the Radford community – with warmth, empathy and deep understanding.

This year marks your nine-year anniversary at Radford Colleges. Over the years, you've experienced the College both as a dedicated staff member and as a parent. Reflecting on this unique dual perspective, what are the three things you’ve come to appreciate most about the Radford community?

Radford College has been a big part of my life for the past nine years. It’s where I’ve worked and where my three children have gone to school. Being both a staff member and a parent has been a special experience. It’s given me the privilege of seeing the College from both perspectives, helping me truly understand and appreciate our community.

Three things I’ve come to value most are: being part of a school that is always evolving, the opportunities I’ve had to grow professionally, and the chance to contribute to the educational journeys of so many families, including my own.

As the College Registrar, you’re often the first person our families speak to as they begin their journey with us. What’s your favourite fact to share about the school?

One of my favourite things to share is how welcoming and supportive the Radford College community is. From the moment families contact us – whether over the phone or when walking into reception – they’re met with genuine care and kindness. I also love highlighting the breadth of opportunities available to students at Radford.

What does a typical day look like for you as the College Registrar?

Busy and sometimes frantic! A day can include walking the campus with a prospective family, managing a full inbox, preparing enrolment interview packs, updating student data and responding to phone calls, walk-ins and emails. With around 250 new enrolments each year and a robust waitlist to manage, there’s always something happening.

What did you do prior to joining Radford College?

I worked in hotel management, facilities management and international tertiary student management.

Coffee or tea?

Tea - peppermint, please! I dislike the taste and smell of coffee, which makes me a bit of an outsider in my household of devoted coffee lovers.

Favourite spot on campus?

My office. I love the large windows and the green outlook. I often spot critters – and occasionally something slithery – passing by!

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Don’t forget to breathe. Work-life balance can be tricky, especially during peak enrolment times. That simple advice has really helped me over the years.

People would be surprised to know that …

My final interview for the Registrar role at Radford College took place in the Qantas Club Lounge at Adelaide Airport!