Staff Insights
By Ms Karen Mahar, Acting Deputy Principal, Head of Junior School
I was delighted when one of our Junior School specialist teachers, Ms Claire Crocker, shared that she was inspired by a Bulletin article written earlier this year—The Power of Connection and Belonging—to inspire and enthuse Year 2 students to reflect on the question: What makes a good school?
Their rich discussions and thoughtful wonderings led to a creative and collaborative response, now a vibrant and meaningful display in the Junior School foyer.
As the students explored the idea of 'building' a school, they quickly realised that while bricks, mortar and classrooms are essential, it is the people—the community—who truly make a school special. Through inquiry and reflection, they identified key foundations such as kindness, trust, respect and support, recognising that these values help to stabilise and strengthen the Radford community.
We are reminded that learning is more than just academics. It is the people, relationships and a sense of belonging that enable each student to thrive.
While curriculum and content are important, our staff and students also prioritise connection. Research shows that when students feel safe, nurtured and connected, they are more engaged, experience greater well-being and achieve deeper learning outcomes across all areas of development—academic, emotional, social and spiritual.
Belonging doesn’t happen by chance. It grows through intentional conversations, shared experiences and meaningful daily interactions. Setting the tone and culture of a school means fostering an environment where students feel seen, heard and valued—where they have agency and are empowered to contribute. These elements create a culture of care, where every learner feels part of something bigger, and where connection and community are at the heart of all we do.
Congratulations to Ms Claire Crocker and our Year 2 students and teachers for this heartwarming reminder of the power of connection, creativity and community.
By Rev. Andy Fleming, Associate Chaplain
I recently had a surprising and meaningful conversation with my neighbour. It was unexpected because I didn’t know him. I had initially approached him about my frustration over his smoking, which was drifting through my open windows. I felt wronged and my sense of injustice was supported by my family and friends. In fact, I had even taken steps to see if there were laws that could force him to change his behaviour.
After a couple of months of deciding how to approach my neighbour, my son offered the most straightforward advice – just go and speak to him. It turned out to be great advice. The judgement and frustration I had been carrying immediately dissolved. My neighbour, unaware that his smoke was drifting into my windows, was not only apologetic but also suggested that he could call out to give me time to close my windows. There was none of the animosity or pushback that I had expected and feared. Instead, we had a pleasant and cooperative exchange. Now, whenever he comes outside, I hear him call out "Andy", and I know to close my windows.
The other night, when my neighbour called out, I asked how he was going and mentioned I hadn’t heard him call out much over the past two weeks. He told me that he was trying to quit smoking and finding it challenging due to the work culture he is part of. As we chatted, I learned more about my neighbour, and we now have a friendly connection.
This interaction reminded me of the memorable darts scene from the TV show, Ted Lasso, where Ted quotes Walt Whitman, “Be curious, not judgemental.” It’s easy to fall into a judgemental mindset when we don’t understand someone else’s situation. This is where asking questions can help us to gain a better perspective. And, as I discovered with my neighbour, the potential to develop a positive relationship that enriches life.
This experience offers an important lesson for our students: to use their natural curiosity about the world to ask questions when they don’t understand something, rather than jumping to conclusions. By encouraging them to be curious and open, we can help them see the potential for positive outcomes when they take the time to understand others.
Asking questions encourages us to leave behind our prejudices and fears and simply get to know others. A respectful and cooperative community grows as we gain a better understanding and appreciation of each other.
A prayer for peace and harmony - adapted from the Sisters of Mercy
Good and gracious God,
who loves and delights in all people,
we pray that you would provide us
with the courage we need to interact positively
with those who are different from ourselves.
Differences among cultures and races are
multi-coloured manifestations of your light.
May our hearts and minds be open to celebrate
similarities and differences among our sisters and brothers.
May our decisions be thoughtful and our actions kind
that we might live in loving harmony with others.
We ask these prayers in Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Go in peace,
Rev. Andy
News
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.
Radford rowers shine at Nationals
By Ms Megan Fritsch, Director of Sport
After five gruelling days on the water, the rowers have reached the finals of the Australian National Rowing Championships. The conditions at the scenic Lake Barrington in Tasmania haven't always been easy, with the rowers battling strong winds on Monday and Wednesday. However, they finished each day strong and Head of Rowing, Mr Gordon Marcks, was thoroughly impressed with the grit and determination shown by all Radford competitors as they attacked their races with confidence. Radford was mentioned frequently in the regatta commentary, praised for their strong technical foundations and teamwork.
Second gold medal for Radford
Radford’s Isobel Egan will be bringing home two gold medals from the Championships – in the PR3 (para rowing) Women’s Single Scull and R3 Mixed Doubles with Sam Stunell from Adelaide Rowing Club. It was a masterclass in finals rowing and Radford could not be prouder.
| Our top results at midday today: | |||
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Event
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Heat/Div
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Athlete/s
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Race
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U17W1x
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B Final
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Hanna Koch
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B Final - placed 3rd (11th in Australia)
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U17M1x
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B Final
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Charlie Knight
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B Final - placed 4th (12th in Australia)
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U19W1x
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B Final
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Lilly Soderblom
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B Final - placed 7th (15th in Australia)
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U19M1x
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B Final
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Josh Miller
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B Final - placed 4th (12th in Australia)
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PR3W1x
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A Final
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Isobel Egan
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A Final - 1st – Gold
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PR3Mix2x
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A Final
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Isobel Egan & Sam Stunell
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A Final - 1st - Gold
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U17M2x
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A Final
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Charlie Knight & Alexander Tailby
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A Final – placed 6th
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With two days to go, Radford College is placed 25th out of 47 clubs and schools competing at the National Rowing Championships and the third top school, behind Kinross Wolaroi and Sydney Grammar.
This year’s nationals are particularly special for Radford coach Angus Walker (Class of 2021). As a former rower, Angus was a key member of Radford’s 2021 Australian National Gold Medal Schoolboys Coxed Quad. Now returning in a coaching capacity, he described the experience as “simply amazing” but admitted he wished his 2021 teammates could be there alongside him to share such a wonderful week.
The road to the nationals
The Radford team flew from Canberra to Launceston via Melbourne on Saturday, before making their way to Devonport and finally arriving at the breathtaking venue. However, their boats and Head of Rowing, Mr Gordon Marcks, took the scenic route.
Transporting rowing boats across the country is no small task, and no one knows this better than Mr Marcks. In 2023, he tackled the immense drive to Perth, ensuring our boats made it safely across the Nullarbor. With this year's championships held in Tasmania, it meant another epic trip, complete with a crossing on the Spirit of Tasmania.
Mr Marcks takes it all in his stride, despite the trip not being without its challenges. His ability to execute a perfect five-point turn with a trailer in tow is unmatched—an essential skill when navigating tight spaces and appeasing traffic officers concerned about a little overhang from the Radford boats! With patience and precision, he made the necessary adjustments solely to secure the all-clear and continue the journey south.
If you would like to watch our Radford crews compete this weekend, the live streaming link can be found here.
Grand final wins
A total of 13 Radford basketball teams competed in the grand finals at Belconnen Stadium this past weekend and finished strong with a record seven wins and six losses.
Congratulations to the following winning teams:
• U14 Girls Division 3 Eagles (21-17)
• U14 Boys Division 3 Eagles (36-24)
• U16 Girls Division 1 Hawks (42-23)
• U16 Girls Division 3 Eagles (22-14)
• U19 Girls Division 4 Harriers (22-14)
• U19 Boys Division 3 Eagles (33-28)
Well done to all the players, coaches and managers involved and thank you to the parents and friends who cheered them on from the sidelines.
By Annette Carter, College Historian
“Oh how wonderful to dwell with all the Saints in glory, but to dwell with some of them on earth is quite another story” – Sister Julian.
As is the case with many children, Margaret Radford ended up following in her father’s footsteps. She was born in 1897, in England, and was the eldest child of Lewis and Maud Radford. The family migrated to Australia in 1909 so that her father could take up a position at the University of Sydney. Margaret excelled at school, winning prizes—much as her father had done—in divinity, the classic languages, French and mathematics.
During the First World War, and after her father had been enthroned as Bishop of the Goulburn Diocese, Margaret graduated with a Bachelor of Arts and taught French at Goulburn Girls’ Grammar School (the school ran into financial difficulty and eventually closed in 1920). Her mother died on 21 November 1929 and Margaret was instrumental in the family's home life while also working as the Commissioner for Training for the Girl Guides Association. She was heavily involved with the Girl Guides for a long time, having established the 1st Goulburn Company in 1922. So much so that a recreation hut at the Guides' permanent camp in Glengarry was named after her. Archival material suggests she was the only child still living in Bishopthorpe, the Bishop's residence in Goulburn, with her father in 1930 when it had extensive renovations.
Margaret trained at the University of Melbourne as a social worker before joining the Community of the Holy Name, an Anglican sisterhood founded in Melbourne in 1889. Their aim was to “serve God under religious vows by active mission work”. The Mother House was (and is) in Cheltenham, Victoria and there were branch houses in Goulburn and Papua New Guinea.
From the point that she joined the Community of Holy Name, she was known as Sister Julian CHN. During her time at this religious order, she wrote books including Joy Cometh and This is the Victory. Much as her father had been a huge advocate for religious education and instrumental in the foundation and growth of the Church Mail Bag School that delivered religious material to remote and regional locations, Sister Julian disseminated religious education through the airwaves. Her publications are a series of broadcasts made on ABC radio. The supervisor of religious broadcasts for the ABC said, “She has been given … a lively awareness of mind, a gift of humorously watching what is going on around her”. Sister Julian CHN was highly educated and clearly inherited her father's gifts for writing and communication. In 1945 when a new Diocesan Mission House opened in Adelaide, she went there as Sister Superior.
Sister Julian CHN also played a big part in the community, opening garden fetes for the Women’s Guild of St Augustine’s; as the speaker at the Women’s World Day of Prayer; giving an address at the Girls’ Friendly Society, telling attendees that “Each person is a thought of God expressed in a life and for each personality He speaks individually”; and appearing on other radio broadcasts as a guest speaker.
Sister Julian CHN died at the age of 67.
The Community of the Holy Name has donated Sister Julian CHN’s two publications to Radford College.
By Mrs Taryn Fisher, Junior School Teacher
World Down Syndrome Day, held annually on 21 March, is a global awareness day that has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012. Because many of our students dressed up in cultural dress or orange for Harmony Day last Friday, the Year 5 and 6 students came to school today in their brightest, boldest and craziest socks to raise awareness about Down syndrome.
The Lots of Socks campaign was launched to get people talking, and the goal is to help people understand and support those with Down syndrome better. This fun and colourful initiative is a simple but powerful way to start conversations about inclusion, acceptance and celebrating the diversity of people around us.
World Down Syndrome Day holds a special place in our hearts here in the Year 5 and 6 community, and we celebrate the strength, uniqueness and value of every individual.
If you missed the interview with Mrs Alison Steven, Acting Assistant Principal Teaching and Learning about her son Griff, a Year 6 Radford student with Down syndrome, you can read it here.
By Ms Tracey Markovic and Mr Nick Martin, Assistant Heads of Junior School
At Radford College, we believe that learning is not confined to the walls of a classroom. Outdoor education plays a vital role in developing internationally minded students who are resilient, collaborative and reflective.
Through immersive experiences, students deepen their understanding of themselves, their peers and the world around them. Our Year 5 and Year 6 camps provide an opportunity for students to challenge themselves, develop independence and build essential life skills—all while embracing the International Baccalaureate Learner Profile attributes.
Year 6 Camp: PYPx Urban Heart – A journey of discovery and change
In Week 5, our Year 6 students embarked on their camp titled The PYPx Urban Heart. Once again, it proved to be a transformative adventure to Sydney, where students and staff had the incredible opportunity to explore critical issues surrounding sustainability, well-being, equity and positive change.
The PYPx Urban Heart is a unique experience that plays a key role in preparing students for the PYP Exhibition process, equipping them with valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Each group undertook four modules over the four days. Students engaged with a variety of workshops facilitated by local organisations that are making a real difference in their communities. They met passionate individuals who are actively working towards creating positive change, providing a first-hand look at the impact of these efforts.
The modules
Sustainability – The ripple effect
Students visited Manly Beach to participate in an eco workshop. This included a beach clean-up with a focus on microplastics, as well as some time out on the water kayaking.
Positive change – Change makers
Students visited The Big Issue and heard from a specially trained guest speaker who has experienced homelessness and subsequently found employment at The Big Issue. They also learned about homelessness and marginalisation in Australia.
Equity – Connect and grow
Groups made their way to the spectacular harbourside ex-industrial and now heritage-listed site, The Coal Loader, where they engaged in discussions about Indigenous culture and history, learning about the traditional custodians of the land and their deep connection to the environment. Along the way, students gained insights into the important role that Indigenous knowledge plays in sustainability and ecological stewardship. This enhanced their understanding of both the past and present in shaping the world around them.
Well-being – Attitude of gratitude
Students spent a day participating in a Cook for Good workshop with the Kids Giving Back organisation. They spent time making care packages as well as cooking meals for the homeless.
The PYPx Urban Heart camp was a truly exceptional learning experience for all involved.
Year 5 Camp: Tallong adventure
In Week 6, Year 5 students set off on an exciting journey to Tallong, NSW, for a camp filled with adventure, teamwork and personal growth. Over three days, students embraced a variety of outdoor challenges designed to test their resilience, problem-solving abilities and collaboration skills. From high and low ropes courses to abseiling, mountain biking, canoeing and hiking, every activity pushed students beyond their comfort zones and encouraged them to take risks in a supportive environment.
Camp craft sessions and initiative-based challenges further strengthened teamwork, while the natural surroundings provided a perfect backdrop for reflection and connection. One of the many highlights was the delicious food prepared by camp chef, Cheffrey, whose meals kept spirits high and energy levels up for the action-packed days.
The Year 5 camp was a transformative experience that empowered students to step up as leaders, support their peers and develop newfound confidence in their abilities.
Lessons that last a lifetime
Both the Year 5 and Year 6 camps provided students with invaluable learning experiences that extended beyond traditional academics, fostering confidence, resilience and a sense of responsibility. These outdoor education opportunities reinforce our commitment to holistic learning, ensuring that students develop not only knowledge but also the skills and attributes necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world. It was wonderful to see our students embrace challenges, support one another and take meaningful steps in their personal and collective growth. We look forward to seeing how these experiences continue to shape their learning journeys.
By Rev. Dr Katherine Rainger, Senior Chaplain
Many people in Canberra and beyond do fantastic work to make life better for others. These individuals and organisations often rely on support in the form of time, advocacy and money.
At Radford College, we love helping people do what they do well. We acknowledge the generosity that God shows towards us and seek to be generous in a myriad of ways in response.
Junior School
Radford Reaches Out (RRO) is the annual Foundation Day fundraiser that invites Junior School staff and students to raise funds to support organisations working in communities near and far.
Students use agency by inquiring and then selecting where they’d like to donate funds. The Radford Student Council (RSC) oversees the allocation of funds and will share the results of RRO with the Radford community in Term 2.
RRO was launched at the Junior School Celebration in Week 7. Students and teachers in each year level have come up with a goal to aim for. Once confirmed, fundraising goals and details will be shared with families to view through Nexus year-level pages.
Families can send cash donations with their children and online donations can be made by clicking here (click on 'book now’ and follow the on-screen instructions to make your donation).
Secondary School
Secondary School students do fundraising throughout the year for organisations such as the Leukaemia Foundation through the World’s Greatest Shave, mental health organisations through the Push Up Challenge, the RSPCA through Cupcake Day and the Lions Club of Canberra's sponsorship of the World Festival of Magic for local families with children with disabilities.
In the lead-up to Foundation Day, we are encouraging donations to the Anglicans in Development Lent Appeal. Radford Awareness and Service (RAS) has already raised $600 for the appeal at the Athletics Carnival BBQ. Funds raised will be used to help women break free from violence, justice and oppression through support of gender action groups in Zambia, literacy programs in Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea, and economic empowerment in Kenya and the Philippines.
Thank you in advance for your generosity!
By Mrs Mackenzie Perfect, Junior School Teacher
Last year, Year 3 and 4 Radford Awareness and Service (RAS) Junior students identified that our native birds needed some improvements to their habitat options. As serendipity would have it, Secondary School Science Teacher Ms Tracey Craze had shared information about a local and sustainable habitat company, Habitat Innovation and Management. Through the Radford grapevine, RAS students caught wind of it and began the process of writing a proposal with gusto.
Fast forward to last Wednesday, we received a call from Radford Facilities Manager, Mr Craig Webber, notifying us that the birdhouses had arrived and were being installed that very day! As there are specific requirements for the installation of the birdhouses, Mr Webber spent considerable time locating the appropriate trees and engaging an arborist to mount the houses at least six metres high on the trunk.
As the fourth birdhouse was being installed on the Junior School Heart Tree, a handful of the 2024 RAS group were hastily brought together to witness the installation. What began as a simple idea to repair some existing bird feeders, became a longer-term and more sustainable reality.
The four Radford birdhouses are located near the Morison Centre, Gibbons Pavillion, The Chapel and the Junior School Heart Tree. We hope the native birds find these new safe habitats with ease and that we may have even played a small part in the protection of the swift parrot.
The swift parrot is a critically endangered, migratory bird that makes the journey towards the ACT, NSW and Victoria when the weather cools in Tasmania each winter and where they lay their eggs in the warmer months. Loss of habitat is a key factor in the significant decline in numbers and makes the actions our Junior School students have taken even more admirable.
By Mrs Kirsten Knight, Head of Co-Curricular Music
The Foundation Concert this year, entitled Wild Wonders, will be held in T.B. Millar Hall from 5.30 pm on Tuesday, 8 April. You are invited to join us for an evening of music exploring nature, the environment and other interpretations of what it is to be wild.
The evening will feature performances by the Chorale and Camerata choirs, Corelli Chamber String Orchestra and Big Band.
This is a free event and tickets are not required. Please come and join us for a wonderful evening of music.
By Mrs Monique Glavonjic, Community Engagement Manager
2025 Artshow@Radford
The Radford College Parents & Friends (P&F) Committee are thrilled to announce that tickets are now on sale for the Gala Opening Night of the 2025 Artshow@Radford.
Please join us as we celebrate the many artists who will exhibit works in a wide range of media: oils, watercolours, digital media, photography, sculpture, ceramics, woodwork and more. These pieces will be for sale.
This will be the 41st year that the Radford Art Show has celebrated the work of local and regional artists, as well as student art.
Kacy Grainger, founder of Grainger Gallery is our guest judge this year. Kacy owns the prominent art space that is located in the revitalised Dairy Road Precinct of Fyshwick. Established in early 2020, Grainger Gallery showcases a diverse range of artworks from both nationally renowned and emerging artists. The gallery is dedicated to fostering a personal connection between patrons and artists, emphasising the importance of art as an expression of identity and a meaningful addition to one's life. As an accomplished artist herself with a son who has also pursued a career as an artist, Kacy is dedicated to nurturing the local art scene and young emerging artists. This personal approach to gallery management have made Grainger Gallery a significant cultural institution in Canberra.
Kacy will present the judge awards at the Gala Opening including first prize ($2000), second prize ($1000) and emerging artist ($500). The People’s Choice Awards are awarded at the conclusion of the exhibition.
Tickets: $20 per person which includes drinks and canapés. Tickets for children aged 10+ are $5.
Book tickets for the Gala opening here.
Date and Time: Friday 16 May 2025 at 7 pm
Location: T.B. Millar Hall, Radford College
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Second-Hand Uniform Pop-Up Stall
Need to stock up on school uniform? Our Second-Hand Uniform Pop-Up Stall is back! Come and grab some quality, pre-loved uniforms at affordable prices.
Date: Sunday, 30 March
Time: 10.00 am - 2.00 pm
Location: Staff and student car park by the Facilities and Grounds Shed. Please refer to the map.
This is a fantastic way to save money, reduce waste and support our school community. All proceeds go towards P&F initiatives.
Donations of second-hand uniforms are always welcome. If you have uniforms in good condition that your child no longer needs, please drop them in the black second-hand uniform donation bin outside the Uniform Shop (Performing Arts Centre car park).