Staff Insights
From the Chair
A place of gathering, learning and celebration.
From the Chair
Share this articleBy Mrs Vicki Williams, Chair of the Board
As our community marks its 40th year, the calendar remains full of opportunities to celebrate. This weekend’s Gala Ball, next week’s Foundation Concert and our 40th Foundation Day, including the Official Opening of the Collegians Centre, promise to be significant and special occasions.
When the Board signed off on construction of a Multi-Function Hall now known as the Collegians Centre, the stated vision was for it to become, first and foremost, a centrally located gathering place. Growing to more than 2180 students, the College has for some years lacked an indoor space large enough to accommodate all Junior School and Secondary School students and hundreds of staff for major events. The Whole College Commencement Service on February 9, 2024, was an impressive sight for all in attendance.
The Collegians Centre has also proven to be a world-class sports facility. In December 2023, Radford hosted a sold-out WNBL game between the UC Canberra Capitals and Adelaide Lightning. Our staff had just a few hours’ notice of the request to use the Collegians Centre, when the scheduled venue suffered a major power outage. The high praise from the players and 1500 fans after the game suggested this will not be the last time Radford is called on to mount a national sporting spectacle.
In February, the Collegians Centre played host to the first combined Anglican Schools Pathways Expo, with overwhelmingly positive feedback from exhibitors, students and parents. The event, which brought together over 40 exhibitors representing diverse educational and career pathways, provided invaluable insights for Year 10, 11, and 12 students.
In a few short months, the initial vision for the many ways in which the Collegians Centre would be used has been well and truly realised.
I am delighted that The Right Reverend Dr Mark Short, Bishop of Canberra and Goulburn, will officially open the building next Friday, with students, staff and VIP guests in attendance.
I thank Marcus Graham, himself a Collegian and parent, and his team at Stewart Architecture for their vision, FDC Construction & Fitout for realising those plans, and Arrow Projects for keeping this massive undertaking on track.
The plaque in the Collegians Centre will say this impressive facility was built “for every learner who has attended Radford College.”
It will continue to be a place of gathering, learning and celebration.
As we finish Term 1, I would also like to update you on the recruitment of our next Principal. Thank you to everyone who participated in the survey and forums around what you would like to see in our next Principal. This helped inform our recruitment agency in the approach to market and we are now moving onto the next stage of the process. We hoped to be in a position to make an announcement in early May. I would like to share the Board’s thanks to our Interim Principal Mr Andy Gordon and the rest of the Executive team for their outstanding leadership of our College over this time.
I wish you a safe and relaxing term break and hope to see many of you at our celebrations over the coming weeks.
I wonder . . .
Rev. Katherine and Amy Purvis' Easter insights.
I wonder . . .
Share this articleBy Rev. Dr Katherine Rainger, Senior Chaplain
I hope that the Easter weekend was meaningful and refreshing. The western church celebrates the Easter season (also known as Eastertide) for 50 days beginning on Easter Sunday. This gives us plenty of time to bask in the wonder of new life and hope found in the resurrection of Christ.
At the Easter service last week students and staff were invited to consider the parts of the Easter story that stood out to them. We heard from Year 11 student Rowan Harris who spoke about Jesus breaking free from the tomb. Year 6 teacher Mr Paul Gibson spoke about the power of hope even in hopeless situations. Acting Director of Service Learning Ms Kath Notley shared about the gift of second chances drawing on the story of the apostle Peter who denied Jesus and was then restored to friendship with him. Dance teacher Miss Melissa Markos shared the Greek custom of cracking hollow Easter eggs together to represent Christ’s resurrection and the empty tomb with the words Christos Anesti (Christ is Risen!) and Alithos Anesti (Indeed he has Risen!).
Year 12 student Amy Purvis has shared her reflections in writing, inviting us to consider the meaning of Easter today and every day. Amy writes:
“When we think of Easter, we think of chocolate eggs and those little fluffy yellow chicks. But it is much more than egg hunts and how many fluffy yellow chicks you collected. Easter is a time for reflection and a time for community. It is a time for gathering with friends and family and celebrating the things we are thankful for.
The Easter story tells us of the sacrifices God made for us and the love he has for all. This Easter I will spend time with my family and attend church, connecting with others and reflecting on the true meaning of the season. When I read the Easter story, one quote in particular sticks with me:
Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise. (Luke 23:43)
This reminds me that wherever we may go in life, God will always be by our side and will accept us all, no matter who we are or where we come from. This is because we are his children.
Thomas Kinkade created this artwork, reflecting on the spirit of Easter. The painting of three crosses standing atop a hill resonates with me deeply, providing a visual reminder that Jesus died for us and on Sunday we are reminded of the empty tomb. Jesus has risen and will come again.
Now more than ever it is important that we all take the time to pause and observe what is happening around the world. The devastation of war and homelessness leaves many behind, so we must give to and support those people, just as God gave his life so we could all have new life. I know that this Easter season I will be reflecting on the power of change and spending time with God, appreciating the beauty of the life that I have.
Finally, I encourage each of you to take a few minutes during the
Easter season to view this short
film.
I hope this film, the artwork, and the following quote by Rev. T.D. Jakes prompts you to take a
moment for reflection on the Easter story and what the season means to you."
"The great gift of Easter is hope – Christian hope which makes us feel we have confidence in God, in his ultimate triumph, and in his goodness and love, which nothing can shake."
News
Junior School Athletics Carnival
Students shine despite wet weather
Junior School Athletics Carnival
Share this articleBy Ms Hayley Oldfield, Head of Houses
Yesterday students taking part in the Radford College Junior School Athletics Carnival showcased a remarkable display of flexibility and resilience, despite experiencing all four seasons in one day.
The carnival was a testament to the dedication of everyone involved, ensuring that Junior School students had a memorable and successful day.
Despite the challenges posed by the weather, the commitment demonstrated by students, staff, and volunteers guaranteed the smooth running of the carnival. The resilience shown by the Junior School students was commendable, as they enthusiastically participated in various athletic activities and embraced the spirit of sporting ethics.
The Athletics Carnival highlighted the strong sense of community and dedication within the Junior School, leaving lasting memories for everyone involved.
Secondary School Athletics Carnival
A day to remember
Secondary School Athletics Carnival
Share this articleBy Ms Hayley Oldfield, Head of Houses
Last Thursday's Secondary School Athletics Carnival was a day filled with excitement, sporting ethics, and enthusiastic participation. Despite the hot weather, the carnival witnessed amazing performances, showcasing the talent and dedication of the students.
One of the standout features of the day was the incredible support from the Secondary School community. The event was well-organised, with precise implementation of systems that ensured the smooth running of the activities. Students showed unparalleled levels of participation and engagement, demonstrating their passion for athletics, and representing their respective House teams with pride.
The carnival was not just about athletic prowess, but was also a celebration of trust, support and teamwork. The enthusiastic participation in house chants and themes added a vibrant energy to the atmosphere, with students showcasing their creativity and spirit throughout the day.
A special mention goes to the student leaders for their outstanding support and preparation leading up to the event and on the day itself. Their dedication and leadership were instrumental in making the carnival a resounding success.
Overall, the Radford College Secondary School Athletics Carnival was a testament to the school's commitment to sporting ethics, inclusivity and community spirit. It was a day filled with memorable moments, and everyone involved contributed to making it a truly fantastic experience.
Shipping container becomes art
Year 10 students team up with artist for unique project
Shipping container becomes art
Share this articleBy Ms Dimity Kidston, Acting Head of Creative Arts
In week 8, visual arts students witnessed a remarkable display of creativity and collaboration. The Year 10 students embarked on an ambitious project to transform the shipping container situated outside the visual arts rooms into a colourful mural. The project was a collaboration between the students and renowned muralist, Bjarni Wark, better known as Happy Decay.
Bjarni, known for his dynamic and colourful art style, led the project with a vision that encapsulated more than just aesthetic appeal. The collaboration was not only a learning experience but also a bridge between the theoretical knowledge acquired in classrooms and the practical application in a real-world scenario. Over the span of three days, the blank metal canvas of the shipping container transformed into a kaleidoscope of colours.
The design of the mural was a collective effort, showcasing the interests of the visual arts students. Under the guidance of Bjarni, the students learned the intricacies of creating a large-scale artwork, from concept to the final brush stroke.
The mural has become a focal point in the visual arts area, radiating an upbeat energy that inspires not just the arts students but everyone who passes by.
This project highlights the importance of practical learning experiences outside of the classroom – when art becomes a communal experience, not just a personal journey, and the impact of art in public spaces. It serves as a reminder that art is not just confined to galleries and museums but aims to interact with the community in vibrant and engaging ways.
To watch a timelapse of the transformation of the shipping container, click here.
Remembering Jock Alexander Mackinnon AM
Radford’s Founding Principal
Remembering Jock Alexander Mackinnon AM
Share this articleBy Mrs Annette Carter, College Historian
Mr Jock Mackinnon AM was undeniably a figure whose impact still echoes through the Radford College campus.
Serving for 10 years as the Principal at Pulteney Grammar School, Jock Mackinnon felt that after such a time the school needed a change of leadership, so he went about looking for his next challenge.
When enquiring about the position of founding Principal for the new Anglican school (that was to become Radford College), he was initially concerned that his age would be a problem. He wrote an initial letter to Dr T.B. Millar AO to ask whether his age, of 54, would preclude him from being considered. Millar’s response, assuring Mackinnon that age was no barrier to merit (as long as there was at least five years until retirement), allowed Mackinnon to apply for the position.
Selected from a pool of 40 applicants, Mackinnon emerged as one of the five short-listed candidates. He was appointed to the position on 22 December 1982 and moved to Canberra in 1983 to take up the position in the middle of the year when construction had only just begun. T.B. Millar signed off the appointment letter with “We look forward to your joining with us in this venture”.
Supported by his devoted wife, Elizabeth, they both immersed themselves in the school community.
In 1988, Mackinnon marked a special milestone; witnessing the inaugural cohort of Year 8 students matriculate into Year 12. This was the year that Mackinnon thought suitable to retire, having seen five years in the position. In the words of Chair of the Board, Lawrie Willett “I do not believe Radford could have found a better foundation Principal”. He then embarked on a new chapter upon his retirement, guiding visitors through the corridors of Parliament House, showcasing his love of history.
Both the Mackinnon Senior School and the J.A. Mackinnon Oval are named after him.
Jock Mackinnon died in 2016 at the age of 87.
House Handball
Igniting house pride and camaraderie
House Handball
Share this articleBy Ms Hayley Oldfield, Head of Houses
Radford College's Best of the Rest Handball Tournament took centre stage over the past three weeks, captivating participants, and spectators over three action-packed days. With two rounds of thrilling matches every Wednesday, the tournament showcased athletic prowess and served as a catalyst for building house spirit and fostering unity across grade levels.
The tournament's purpose was clear: to ignite house pride and camaraderie through competition and sporting ethics. Students from different houses came together to engage in spirited handball matches that tested their skills, agility, and teamwork.
Support for the tournament was evident across all grade levels, with students cheering on their peers from the sidelines and demonstrating exemplary sporting ethics on the court. The tournament provided a platform for students to connect beyond their usual social circles, forging friendships and bonds that transcended house affiliations.
The Best of the Rest Handball Tournament culminated in a thrilling final day, where the best teams from each house competed for the coveted title. The intense matches showcased the players' talent and determination and highlighted the collective strength and unity within each house.
The Best of the Rest Handball Tournament exemplified the school's commitment to holistic development and fostering a sense of belonging among its students.
Sports Report Term 1, Week 9
Futsal results, holiday camps and more
Sports Report Term 1, Week 9
Share this articleACT School Futsal Titles
The ACT School Futsal Titles for Years 5, 6 and 8 took place in Week 7.
The Year 8 Girls unfortunately didn't make it through to the Grand Final after being defeated in a penalty shootout in the semi-finals. The Year 8 Boys were crowned Runners Up after being defeated by Lyneham High School in the Grand Final 2-0.
The Year 5 and 6 day saw 170 teams from across Canberra compete with only the top 8 Boys and Girls teams qualifying for finals. Despite the Radford Red Girls team being undefeated during the group stages, they just missed out on the quarter finals. Radford Red Boys team were also defeated in a play-off game to qualify for the quarter finals.
Football Referee Courses
Parents and students aged 13 and older are encouraged to consider refereeing. Refereeing is a great way to earn money (up to $70 a game), develop life skills and keep fit. Those who commit to refereeing at Radford will also have the cost of the course and registration and half the uniform and equipment cost reimbursed at the end of the season.
Click here for further information and course dates.
Please contact Radford College Sports Operations Manager Dianne Wilson once you have completed a course, so that you can be allocated to games.
Term 2 Football (soccer) Skills Clinic with Coerver Coaching
Coerver Coaching will be running a Football (soccer) Skills Clinic after school on Friday afternoons in Term 2 on the JA Mackinnon Oval for Junior School students.
Click here for further information and to register.
Coerver Coaching are also offering soccer holiday camps from Monday 15 April – Thursday 18 April. For more information and to register click here.
April School Holidays Sports Camps
International Sports Camps provide real sports coaching camps for players of all standards aged 5 to 15 and give junior players the opportunity to improve their skills and take their game to the next level.
International Sports Camps are offering Radford students a 35% discount for any camp they register for – please see the flyer for further information.
Rainbow Day for Radford Reaches Out
Make your mark this Friday.
Rainbow Day for Radford Reaches Out
Share this articleBy Rev. Dr Katherine Rainger, Senior Chaplain
There are so many people in Canberra and beyond who do fantastic work making life better for other people. These individuals and organisations often rely on support in the form of time, advocacy and donations to do the work that they do.
At Radford College we seek to be a generous-spirited learning community.
As part of our Foundation Day celebrations the whole College will participate in Radford Reaches Out, where we raise money for organisations chosen by students in the Radford Student Council (RSC) in the Junior School and Radford Awareness and Service (RAS) in the Secondary School.
Junior School
Students in the Junior School have been discussing a number of organisations they may wish to raise money for and have been setting fundraising goals in their classes. This year, one of the Junior School’s main charity focusses will be raising twelve months of sponsorship for our four Compassion Children as well as having a small reserve of funds to support anything that comes up through RSC.
Families are able to send cash donations in with their children or donate online through TryBooking. Click on ‘BOOK NOW’ and follow the instructions to make your donation.
Secondary School
Secondary students kicked off their fundraising with a BBQ at the Secondary Athletics Carnival last week. This will be followed up with a 'Radford Reaches Out fundraising day' on Friday 5 April.
The Secondary School is supporting:
- local organisation St John's Care, an Anglicare Partner.
- Anglicans in Development Lent and Good Friday Appeal. Supporting water, child nutrition and education projects in Gaza, Sri Lanka, Kenya and Jordan.
New Director of the Radford Foundation Board
Introducing Andrea Wang
New Director of the Radford Foundation Board
Share this articleBy Mrs Monique Glavonjic, Foundation Administrator
We are thrilled to announce the appointment of our new Director, Andrea Wang to the Radford College Foundation Board.
The Foundation was established to support the long-term advancement and development of the College’s educational programs and facilities. The Foundation is led by a Board of Directors who work closely with the Interim Principal and College Board.
Andrea is a parent of two children at the College and volunteers in a variety of roles including as a class liaison, at the College Fete and reading groups.
With an impressive track record and extensive experience as a public servant and in her role as co-chair of her Department’s Cultural and Linguistic Diversity Network, she is passionate about driving initiatives, conversations and achieving outcomes that foster diversity, inclusion, and equality.
In her downtime, Andrea channels her inner ‘dance mum’ to actively support the Radford Dance Academy and its performers at competitions and concerts. At other times you can find her pool side cheering on her son and the Radford Water Polo teams.
Andrea’s strong leadership skills and innovative thinking will undoubtedly contribute to the Foundation’s continued growth and success. Please join us in welcoming Andrea as we embark on this exciting new chapter together.
To learn more about the work of the Foundation, click here.
Artshow@Radford
Circle 17 May 2024 on your diary
Artshow@Radford
Share this articleThe Radford College Parents & Friends Committee are thrilled to announce that tickets are now on sale for the Gala Opening Night of the 2024 Artshow@Radford.
This will be the 40th year that the Radford Art Show has celebrated the work of local and regional artists, as well as student art.
Please join us as we celebrate 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. Student art will also be on display across the weekend along with a special tribute of artworks from students to celebrate the 40th Birthday of Radford College.
Prizes include Judge's Choice, People's Choice, and Emerging Artist awards.
Date and time: 17 May 2024, 7.00pm - 10:30pm
Place: T.B. Millar Hall, Radford College
Tickets: $20 per person that includes drinks and canapés and $5 per child (aged 10+)
P&F April Meeting
See you there tomorrow
Free Workshop for Parents
Managing parental stress
Free Workshop for Parents
Share this articleBy Ms Sophie Chang, School Psychologist
The Radford Secondary School Wellbeing team are excited to offer a 3-session workshop on Managing Parental Stress using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (pronounced as the word “ACT”) focuses on developing psychological flexibility and mindfulness for a better quality of life. It is a form of psychotherapy that teaches people to:
- let unpleasant thoughts and feelings that are out of your control come and go, and
- take action towards living a life you want to live.
The 3 workshops will focus on strategies including mindfulness, self-compassion and values to help you manage difficult thoughts and emotions that parents can experience.
This program is offered to all parents with a student in Years 7 -12 and the group will be capped at approximately 10 participants.
When: Thursday evenings 16, 23 and 30 May 2024
Time: 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Where: In person at Radford College, lower level of the Morison Building
Cost: Free
For more information or to sign up for the workshops, send an email to the workshop facilitator Sophie Chang at sophie.chang@radford.act.edu.au