Staff Insights
Board appoints new Principal
Mr Chris Bradbury will take over the role of Principal in January 2025
Board appoints new Principal
Share this articleBy Mrs Vicki Williams, Chair of the Radford College Board
As advised to the Radford College staff and community on Monday, Mr Christopher Bradbury has been announced as the 7th Principal of Radford College commencing in January 2025.
Chris is currently the Principal of Northholm Grammar School – an Anglican co-educational independent school in Sydney – a position he has held since 2019.
Prior to Northholm, Chris was at King’s School in Sydney for 13 years, having held leadership positions including that of Director of Teaching and Learning and Head of House. He commenced his teaching career at Hurlstone Agricultural High School, which is also where he started his leadership journey in the boarding school, responsible for the well-being of over 300 students.
A lifelong learner, Chris holds qualifications from a range of international tertiary institutions, including a Bachelor of Education (Humanities and Social Sciences) and a Master of Education (both from Sydney University), a Certificate in Advanced Educational Leadership from Harvard University, in addition to completing the Executive Leadership and Strategy Programs at Oxford University. He is an award-winning teacher of History, Legal Studies and Politics, ACEL Scholarship winner and regular conference presenter and writer of educational thought leadership articles.
Chris has demonstrated exceptional leadership in driving an impressive turnaround in the academic, operational, pastoral and co-curricular performance of Northholm Grammar School during his tenure. He repositioned the school from 308th in the NSW HSC Rankings to 45th in 2023, lead two strategic planning processes that have transformed the student enrolments and initiated a program of staff professional learning, leadership and development, known as the Northholm Institute.
Chris’ passion for education is very clear when he speaks to his vision of what a high performing school should be. As a strong advocate for holistic education, inclusion and diversity, Chris is committed to the intellectual growth of students by providing an environment that promotes their spiritual, emotional and physical development.
In joining the Radford Community Chris has shared:
“It is an honour to be appointed as Principal of Radford. Radford has an exceptional reputation in many areas, notably its Christian ethos, its commitment to academic excellence and service, and the many co-curricular experiences and challenges available to all students. I look forward to getting to know the students, the community and staff of this outstanding school. My wife (Bernadette) and our two children (Daniel and Victoria) are very excited to be moving to Canberra and joining the Radford Community.”
An attitude of gratitude
Gratitude is tireless and provides hope . . . even when life doesn't go according to plan.
An attitude of gratitude
Share this articleBy Rev. Andy Fleming, Chaplain
Last week’s Winter Anglicare Appeal left me in awe of the generosity of our community. I heard that donations were in excess of $10,000. There was genuine gratitude expressed by the Anglicare staff as they picked up the donations.
Typically, when we think of being grateful, we understand it is being thankful for something we received personally that is of benefit to us. However, the Anglicare staff’s gratitude was more in line with the Biblical concept of gratitude that pays that favour outwards, or by giving grace and kindness as a response to receiving a personal gift or benefit. In the Ancient Greek, gratitude refers to the quality of showing appreciation and returning kindness.
Expressing our thanks doesn't necessarily mean we’re actually grateful. Perhaps we are simply being polite. Although an authentic attitude of thankfulness recognises the efforts made by others.
In contrast, Biblical gratitude is an attitude to intentionally respond in action with something that strengthens and sustains us. Gratitude has a greater depth than thankfulness. It is tenacious, tireless and provides hope. It is a positive response to experiencing the presence of God's goodness and grace in our lives. This means that even when we are experiencing challenges and life isn’t going to plan, we can place our trust in God’s goodness . From this perspective, we shouldn’t think of having gratitude for our circumstances, but rather having gratitude in spite of our circumstances. That is the basis for our attitude of gratitude, not in ourselves or our circumstances, but rather in the love that God has for us.
An extract from a poem by K.J. Ramsey, from The Book of Common Courage:
We can so easily become
that which has harmed us.
We pour thick concrete
around the softness of our souls
to protect ourselves
from more pain.
Poetry can penetrate
our layers of self-protection.
Beauty can call us
into resurrection.
Like words on the edge
of a cliff into death,
Goodness and Love can pull
us back from the ledge.
Goodness and Love
always do seek
us in the layers,
lodged under hard sheets
of concrete, too thick
to breath, too precious
to leave. They chase us
all our days and crack
open our shields,
calling us back
home to the beauty
of being healed.
Go in Peace,
Rev. Andy
News
Pantry Appeal
Record number of items collected
Pantry Appeal
Share this articleBy Rev. Dr Katherine Rainger, Senior Chaplain
As the weather gets colder, we know that more and more Canberrans will be relying on support from organisations such as St John’s Care. Radford College is proud to partner with this organisation.
In Week 3 and 4 Radford Student Council (RSC) and Radford Awareness and Service (RAS) organised a collection of food items, hygiene supplies and winter clothing to donate. Students were invited to wear ‘Winter Warmers’ or ‘Winter Woollies’ and bring in items to donate. RAS secondary students also ran a cake stall and hot chocolate stand which raised $500 to donate to St John’s Care.
We collected so much that Executive Officer Jason Haines and Operations Manager Robbie Speldewinde had to make two trips to Radford with the St John’s Care van to collect everything. A huge thank you to everyone!
Radford staff and students also participate in the monthly community lunches at St John’s Care as shown in this uplifting video. On other days you will find our service students stacking the shelves.
St John’s Care aims to bridge the gap and break the cycle of disadvantage, isolation, and economic hardship with compassion, advocacy, respect and encouragement through the provision of emergency relief and other programs.
St John’s Care is:
- A parish-based Anglican organisation working in partnership with Anglicare
- A recognised emergency relief provider in the ACT region
- Funded primarily through donations from community and church groups, businesses and individuals
- Proudly staffed by both volunteers and professionals
- Committed to the flexibility required to meet the individual needs of clients
To donate to St John’s Care click here.
Musical Theatre
Showcasing our students' talents
Musical Theatre
Share this articleBy Miss Melissa Markos, Dance Teacher
On Thursday, 30 May, the T.B. Millar Hall resonated with the vibrant energy of musical theatre as Radford College hosted a spectacular Musical Theatre Showcase. The evening featured remarkable performances by our talented Year 9 music and dance students, along with captivating vocal performances by singers from Years 10 and 11.
The showcase was a celebration of the rich and diverse world of musical theatre. The performers, who have been honing their skills with dedication and passion, delivered their acts with confidence and flair, much to the delight of the audience.
The success of this event highlights not only the talent and hard work of our students but also the dedication of the staff who helped put it together. We extend our gratitude to everyone who attended and showed their support for the performing arts at Radford College and we look forward to more events in the future to cheer on our brilliant performers!
Painting with light
Students Illuminate creativity
Painting with light
Share this articleBy Ms Dimity Kidston, Acting Head of Creative Arts
On Wednesday, 29 May, a group of Secondary School creative art students gathered in the media rooms for an extraordinary lesson in artistic exploration. The students had the unique opportunity to experiment with torches and take photographs in the dark, guided by the expertise of renowned light painting photographer Mr Peter Solness.
The workshop, designed to push the boundaries of traditional photography, introduced students to the captivating technique of light painting. With torches in hand, the participants used long exposure settings on their cameras to create intricate and vibrant photographs in the darkness.
Peter Solness, known for his mastery of light painting, shared his extensive knowledge and passion with the students. His guidance not only taught them the technical aspects of the art form but also inspired them to think outside the box and embrace the unpredictability of light painting.
The evening was a testament to the students' dedication and enthusiasm for the creative arts. The collaboration between the different year levels fostered a sense of community and shared learning. Adding to the excitement, the workshop also served as an introduction for the Year 10 students to the possibilities of photography as a subject. Next year, they will have the opportunity to choose photography as a BSSS subject, allowing them to further develop their skills and explore their artistic passions.
As the lights dimmed and the torches were turned off, the students carried with them a newfound appreciation for the magic that can be created with just a camera and a beam of light. The workshop was a memorable experience that will undoubtedly inspire future artistic endeavours at Radford College.
All aboard!
Kindergarten students learn about transport
All aboard!
Share this articleBy Miss Melinda Hamilton, Teacher
Kindergarten students are learning about ‘How We Organise Ourselves’ this term, which involves investigations into the properties of materials and design work to construct their own boat, flying vehicle and wheeled vehicle. To help learn about how these vehicles are made and move, the Kindergarten students have been lucky enough to enjoy two excursions.
In Week 2 of this term, the Kindergarten classes all went on a boat cruise with Lake Burley Griffin Cruises. They got to cruise up and down the lake in an electric boat, even getting a turn to drive and learn about how the rudder turns the boat. This helped students to then design and make their own model boats which were sailed in large tubs of water!
In Weeks 5 and 6 Kindergarten classes also had the opportunity to head out on an adventure that involved riding the Radford bus to the Canberra Train station before catching the CountryLink train to Bungendore. They loved looking out the windows and observing animals, traffic and nature as well as putting down the tray, reclining their chair and testing out the footrest!
After arriving in Bungendore, the students walked to the park where they had lunch and time to play. Some very tired students rode the bus back to school after such a great day out. Students will be using their experience with wheeled vehicles to help design and make a model vehicle in the coming weeks.
Going on the train was so much fun. We had tables and a footrest. We went through 3 tunnels and it was dark – Ethan
It was so fun playing at the park, there was this chain you pulled and the bucket came up – Reuben
The best bit was when we got to drive the boat and make it go side to side. We sailed under the bridge too! – Celina
Sports Report Term 2, Week 6
Cross country, basketball and camps
Sports Report Term 2, Week 6
Share this articleRegional Cross Country Carnivals
The cross-country season continued with Radford College students in both the Junior and Secondary Schools competing at the Belconnen Region (Years 2 – 6) and Associated Southern Colleges (ASC) carnivals during Weeks 4 and 5 at Stromlo Forest Park.
Radford was represented by 50 students at the Belconnen carnival and over 110 students from Years 7 –12 at the ASC carnival. All students competed with great enthusiasm and determination.
We are thrilled to report that several Radford students claimed podium finishes. Both competitions were fierce, but our students showcased their dedication and talent.
Podium Finishes
17 Years + Boys (ASC) – Owen Toyne (Boronia) – 2nd
16 Years Girls (ASC) – Astrid Evans (Banksia) – 1st
15 Years Girls (ASC) – Kaiya Barsby (Wandoo) – 1st
15 Years Boys (ASC) – Matty Maundrell (Wandoo) – 3rd
14 Years Girls (ASC) – Isla Murphy (Jarrah) – 2nd
12 Years Boys (ASC) – Patrick Maundrell (Wandoo) – 1st
12 Years Boys (ASC) – Elijah McKean (Banksia) – 3rd
12 Years Girls (ASC) – Elsie Osborne (Banksia) – 2nd
12 Years Girls (Belconnen) – Elena Quinn (Jarrah) – 2nd
11 Years Boys (Belconnen) – Oscar Eyers (Huon) – 1st
10 Years Boys (Belconnen) – Nathan Alaebo (Banksia) – 2nd
A special shout out to our Sports Captains, Jack Walker and Josie Holt, for their hard work running the BBQ at the ASC carnival. Their efforts contributed to the event's overall success, ensuring everyone was well-fed and energized.
Congratulations to all our students who competed and represented Radford with pride, and good luck to all students who have qualified for the ACT Cross Country Championships. Go Radford!
Jamie Pearman Basketball Cup
Radford College recently showcased their basketball talent in the annual Jamie Pearlman Cup, hosted by Basketball ACT. This exciting competition saw two Radford teams – the Division 2 Hawks and the Division 1 Raptors – compete with great enthusiasm and sporting ethics.
The Division 2 Hawks gave it their all throughout their three round games. Despite their strong efforts and cohesive play, the Hawks managed to secure only one victory. The team's challenge lay in their shooting, as they struggled to convert their opportunities into points. Nevertheless, their determination and collaborative spirit were commendable, and they gained valuable experience for future competitions.
The Division 1 Raptors dominated their round games, winning all three and advancing to the semi-finals with confidence. The Raptors maintained their momentum in the semi-final, securing a victory by 16 points. Their success continued into the grand final, where they triumphed with a 19-point win. This impressive performance earned the Raptors a well-deserved spot in the ACT finals, where they will face the top teams from the southside competition.
Radford College extends special thanks to the dedicated parents who attended the games, provided unwavering support, and diligently covered score table duties. Your involvement and encouragement played a crucial role in the teams' success and the smooth running of the event.
Congratulations to both the Hawks and the Raptors for their efforts and achievements in the Jamie Pearlman Cup!
Radford July Holiday Girls Cricket Clinic
The Radford Cricket Program will be running a free 2-day coaching clinic for female Radford students.
Click on this flyer for further information and the link to register.
Coerver Coaching Holiday Camp
Coerver Coaching will be running a Football Holiday Camp on the J.A. Mackinnnon Oval in the first week of the July school holidays – click here for more information.
Radford Rocks
12 June 5.30 pm in the Performing Arts Centre
Radford Rocks
Share this articleBy Ms Olivia Faletoese, Director of Ensembles
Join us for Radford Rocks on 12 June from 5.30 pm – 6.30 pm in the Performing Arts Centre for a wonderful evening of music featuring Contemporary Ensembles and invited groups. Our talented bands will showcase a diverse repertoire, from pop to rock to punk to jazz!
This event promises something for everyone, making it the perfect evening to enjoy a variety of musical styles and support our dedicated young musicians.
Entry is free and tickets are not required. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to experience the incredible performances our students have been working hard to perfect. See you there!
Join the Push-Up Challenge
Raising funds and awareness for mental health
Join the Push-Up Challenge
Share this articleFrom the 5 – 28 June, Radford College is taking part in the Push-Up Challenge, challenging students and staff to complete 3,249 push-ups in total.
The Push-Up Challenge is a free mental health and fitness event focused on pushing for better mental health for all Australians. Participants will complete 3,249 push-ups (or alternative exercises) over 24 days, representing the 3,249 lives lost to suicide in Australia in 2022.
Each day, participants will complete a different number of push-ups and receive a mental health fact, which relates to mental health statistics in Australia. The alternative exercises may be star jumps, sit-ups, squats or similar exercises.
Click here for a video on how it works.
We encourage students and family members to join their House team and Radford staff to join the staff team.
Raddy the Teddy finds a new home
Pre-Kindergarten student adopts Giving Day Teddy
Raddy the Teddy finds a new home
Share this articleBy Mrs Monique Glavonjic, Radford Foundation Administrator
The Radford Foundation would like to thank all the families that visited us at the Giving Day pop-up stall on Thursday 30 May. We are excited to announce that William Duan, PKNS, is the winner of our lucky draw and got to take Raddy the Teddy home yesterday.
Raddy forms part of the first Radford Foundation Giving Day at the College.
Donations to the Foundation will contribute to scholarships and the development of the Radford campus to navigate the future of education. All donations are tax-deductible.