Engine Room Opening

The Junior School’s dedicated therapy space The Engine Room was officially opened this week.

The room is designed as a space for early intervention that closes gaps in development, learning and opportunity for Junior School students needing a little extra help.

A generous donation to the Radford Foundation by the late Emeritus Professor Geoffrey Brennan (ANU), his wife Margaret and their children, made the fit out of the Engine Room possible.

Foundation Chair Alistair Coe thanked the Brennan family, represented by Margaret, daughter Susan and Margaret’s niece Chris Stocks, for their generous gift that will provide opportunities to students they would not otherwise have.

The Brennan family is deeply connected to Radford, with a number of the children attending the College, and Margaret and Chris being former teachers at the College. Chris’ sons also attended Radford.

Acting Principal Andy Gordon explained the importance of the new facility.

“This is more than a space. More than a donation… a gift. More than a place for therapy. More than an idea. This is hope. This is inclusivity. This is equity. This allows all learners opportunities for their best life outcomes. This is love.”

Margaret addressed the Year 2 students, who had entertained the audience with a self-choreographed dance performance, telling them of her and her late husband’s long-time interest in helping to support students who needed extra assistance with their learning.

All important events in life involve a ceremony, a celebration which usually involves food and a gift. All Year 2 students received a special Engine Room iced biscuit to mark the occasion.