Introducing the 2025 Language Captains
By Ms Michele Sharp, Head of Languages
Each year, Radford appoints students to leadership roles, and in the case of the languages department, we select Language Captains to promote and assist with language learning.
The captains are mentored by staff to promote language experiences across the Secondary School. During the interview process, they expressed wonderful ideas to engage the student body, impressing on them the importance of language learning. We wish them well with their endeavours this year.
Ciaran Milthorpe – French Language Captain
Learning languages can give you a fresh insight and perspective into a country’s culture. At Radford, we could study four different languages and be involved in Languages Week, excursions and even exchanges. We can grow and evolve as a society when we understand communities separate from our own.
Growing up, I always had friends who came from diverse backgrounds, where they spoke different languages and practised unfamiliar cultures with different faiths. I had the privilege of connecting with these people, being able to learn about their lives and take their experiences with me.
Languages can significantly improve your social interactions and ability to communicate with others. They also help you with the pathways you may decide to pursue in life.
Nandhitha Gopalakrishnan – Japanese Language Captain
I have been surrounded by languages from a young age. Growing up in a family of Tamil background, in a multicultural country, and having the opportunity to learn a variety of languages at school, has allowed me to truly build a respect and curiosity for other cultures and the ways they communicate.
I was first introduced to Japanese through Radford’s Year 7 languages program. Throughout my Secondary School years, Japanese has been the reason for many unforgettable experiences, including watching My Neighbour Totoro during online learning, trying my first Obento box, making a video with Beanie Boos, the Daiso excursion that left a hole in my wallet and, of course, the Year 10 study tour.
Studying languages has always been a positive experience and a privilege for me. As a Language Captain in 2025, I hope to encourage and motivate others.
Tahlia Hunt – Chinese Language Captain
Learning languages has been proven to enhance academic performance across all subjects. Choosing to study Chinese (Mandarin) was one of the most daunting decisions I have made throughout my schooling. What began as a tentative decision in Year 8, has evolved into a transformative experience - one that I am immensely grateful I made.
Studying Mandarin has not only improved my language skills but also enhanced my diligence and study methods, enriching my learning in all subject areas. Additionally, my cultural awareness has expanded, providing invaluable insights into neighbouring regions.
My aim this year is to help alleviate the immense anxiety surrounding language choice and to demonstrate that, although it may seem difficult, learning a language is incredibly rewarding and offers unparalleled experiences.
Isobel Higgins – Spanish Language Captain
During my time at Radford, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to study a language every year. This experience has been nothing short of enriching, as it allowed me to immerse myself in various languages and gain a deeper appreciation for their different cultures.
Through my language studies, I have come to understand that language is not just a means of communication, but also a reflection of people's history, values and way of life. My interest in Spanish, for instance, dates back to when I was only eight years old and discovered that the Spanish version of Elizabeth was my name, Isobel. However, I later discovered that my name being Spanish didn't mean that my family necessarily had Spanish roots. My fascination with the language and culture stayed with me throughout the years. For this, I cannot express my gratitude enough.