In the spotlight

Ms Tracey Markovic, Assistant Head of Junior School Operations

It has been an absolute joy to witness the growth and success of the Junior School over the past 17 years. Being part of the Junior School staff has provided me with countless opportunities to contribute and evolve. I began my Radford journey as a Kindergarten teacher before transitioning to Year 1 and later Year 3, allowing me to spend invaluable time in the classroom. I subsequently transitioned into project management, where I led the implementation of key College systems to enhance our operations before assuming my current role.

Now as Assistant Head of Junior School Operations, I oversee the daily operations of the Junior School. My responsibilities include developing staff and student timetables, coordinating relief teachers, managing College Traffic Supervisors, organising school events, overseeing Junior School camps and co-curricular programs, and ensuring we are compliant with College policies. This dynamic role brings new challenges each day, making it both fulfilling and rewarding.

Additionally, I am fortunate to have the opportunity to work across the Junior School in the area of service, further enriching my connection with our students and school community.

Student service opportunities have long been an integral part of the Secondary School experience at Radford College. Over the past few years, the Junior School has also been working to embed service in its values—guiding students to engage meaningfully with their community. Under the principle of ‘Never to, not for, but with’ we encourage students to move beyond charity and embrace a mindset of collaboration and empathy.

Service is not about simply giving to others but about working alongside them, fostering mutual understanding and creating a lasting impact. This commitment to service is embodied in our belief in working for the common good, reinforcing the idea that true leadership stems from a dedication to uplifting others.

By engaging in service, students develop a sense of social responsibility, learning that small acts of kindness contribute to a larger, collective effort towards a better world.

In the Junior School, these principles are brought to life through structured opportunities that empower students to make a difference. The introduction in 2019 of RAS (Radford Awareness and Service) Junior for Year 3 and 4 students has provided a platform for young learners to engage in acts of service through lunchtime meetings and community initiatives. This early exposure to service fosters empathy and instils the importance of contributing to the well-being of others from a young age.

As part of the Year 5 Sharing the Planet Unit of Inquiry, students visit Calvary Aged Care. These visits provide a powerful opportunity for students to connect with and support members of the wider community. By spending time with residents, sharing stories and engaging in meaningful interactions, students gain invaluable insights into the importance of companionship and care. These visits not only enrich the lives of those they meet but also teach students the profound impact of kindness and presence.

In Years 5 and 6, the Round Square pillar of Service further strengthens the College’s commitment to meaningful engagement. This initiative encourages students to take part in service projects that go beyond simple acts of giving and instead focus on working alongside others to create positive change. Whether through environmental projects, social justice initiatives or hands-on community engagement, students learn that service is about partnership and shared purpose.

One of the most meaningful ways our staff engage in service is through our involvement with Ronald McDonald House. Each term, members of our Junior School and Secondary School staff volunteer their time to prepare and cook meals for families staying at the house. These families are often going through challenging times as they support their children receiving medical care, and our goal is to provide them with a warm, home-cooked meal and a sense of comfort.

This initiative not only reflects our commitment to service but also strengthens our sense of community as staff come together to make a positive impact. It is a privilege to support these families in a small but meaningful way, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of generosity, compassion and kindness.

At Radford College, service is not just an extracurricular activity—it is a core value that shapes the character of our students. By instilling our philosophy, we nurture compassionate leaders who understand that true service is about building relationships, fostering understanding and working together for the common good.

Through initiatives such as RAS Junior, Year 5 visits to Calvary and the Round Square pillar of service, we empower our students to become active, engaged and ethical citizens who contribute meaningfully to the world around them.