Learning and Reflection
By Ms Karen Mahar, Acting Deputy Principal, Head of Junior School
At Radford, we believe in the power of reflecting on learning experiences. As the philosopher and educator John Dewey once said, “We do not learn from experience; we learn from reflecting on experience.” This principle lies at the core of our learning journeys, which are a component of our assessment and reporting process from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 6.
Learning journeys provide a unique opportunity for parents and caregivers to step into their child’s world during the school day, walking alongside them to gain a deeper insight into what and how they learn. It’s a time to witness firsthand the progress, creativity, and understanding that unfolds in our classrooms, affirming the growth and achievements of each student. By sharing these moments, we strengthen the connection between home and school, celebrating the joy of learning together, as a connected community.
Learning journeys are more than just a showcase of student work; they are vibrant celebrations of growth, understanding, and the joy of learning. These events empower students by giving them a voice and choice in how they share their learning. Students are encouraged to take the lead, guiding their parents and caregivers through various learning spaces, sharing their achievements, engaging in hands-on activities, and connecting with the significant adults in their lives. By doing so, students not only demonstrate their knowledge but also reflect on their learning processes, enabling them to gain a deeper understanding of their educational journey.
At Radford, we value student agency – encouraging students to make choices about their learning and to express their understanding in unique and authentic ways. As you walk through our Junior School during a learning journey, you can almost feel the energy and enthusiasm in every corner. The excitement is palpable as students proudly showcase their work and articulate the thinking behind their projects. It’s a testament to their hard work, the support of their teachers, and the rich learning environment that Radford College provides.
Loris Malaguzzi, founder of the Reggio Emilia approach, beautifully captured this with the statement, “There are three teachers of children: adults, other children, and their physical environment.” This philosophy is evident in our learning journeys, where students learn not only from their teachers but also from their peers and the spaces they explore every day. Each journey highlights how our community – students, educators, and families – collaborate to foster a love for learning.
Specialist teachers also play a vital role in our learning journeys by contributing unique learning experiences from their subject areas. From art and music to physical education, Spanish, Godly Play, library, and well-being, each specialist’s involvement enriches the overall learning experience, providing students with a broader perspective and a deeper appreciation of the diverse curriculum offered at Radford.
Our students are incredibly fortunate to be part of such a dynamic learning community. We are grateful to our families for choosing Radford as your child’s learning environment. Your engagement and encouragement are critical in supporting these moments of achievement, joy and reflection.
We look forward to facilitating many more learning journeys where we continue to celebrate the curiosity, creativity, and accomplishments of our students. Malaguzzi reminds us, “Nothing without joy.”