WELCOME TO RADFORD COLLEGE

We are poised to commence a new chapter in our history. Our new Head of Senior School, Mr Allan Shaw, has now begun. It is the first time in two decades that we have welcomed in a new Head of Senior School and Allan Shaw is determined to build upon the outstanding traditions already established at Radford. There is an enviable learning culture amongst the students throughout the College. The whole community is committed to educational excellence in the fullest sense of that term and this is as evident in the Senior School as it is elsewhere. Balancing the pressures of the final two years of schooling and the Year 12 Certificate is a healthy balance of good humour and purpose in a relaxed environment.

In addition to the commencement of a new leader the Senior School will also witness the construction of superb new facilities, which will begin work this term. The new buildings will provide much-needed classrooms, a 211 seat Lecture Theatre (in addition to the recently refurbished Leyshon Lecture Theatre) and new Common Learning and recreational spaces. We have emphasised the need for flexibility and utility in the internal spaces, providing for individual as well as group study space and places for larger gathering both formal and informal.  The design also maximises the wonderful outlook towards the north afforded by Gossan Hill by using the sloping landscape above the existing buildings. A new link with the Art Design and Technology will join the Senior School with the existing spaces and create a new green “Campus Heart”, which will be large enough for the student community to gather and relax on a kind of “College Green”.  Construction will commence during the term ahead and we expect it to continue for around one year. By the middle of our thirtieth year of existence, the College will enjoy a truly superb new Senior School facility that will meet the needs of the future.

During the coming term, students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 will undergo their NAPLAN tests and a selection of students in Year 9 will complete PISA tests as part of the international testing program. The College continues to use such tests to provide invaluable feedback regarding student achievement, noting areas for attention as well as areas for celebration.

The vitally important co-curricular life of Radford continues with the annual College Musical (“The Pirates of Penzance”) in the early days of the term joining our full range of winter sports activities. With over 90% of the student community across the College participating in one or more voluntary co-curricular experiences, it is easy for students to feel connected. There is so much research confirming the importance of engagement for well-being and morale amongst young people and I continue to marvel at the positive impact that our staff and parents and senior students make upon the life of the College.

Have a wonderful term and I will see you at Radford.