‘helping out’ with sorting and folding for a short time during my visit last term! I have really enjoyed meeting members of staff around the campus, from the Development team to the Sports Centre staff and many people in between.
Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to contribute to this issue of the Bursar’s Bulletin – I hope you’ll be able to take some time to get to know your colleagues better and find out more about some of the projects going on around the campus.
We are always keen to hear from you with suggestions for stories to cover in future editions – please email Anna: AMTH.Haynes@radley.org.uk
Best wishes for the term ahead,
Introducing Rad-Leys Ball
Rad-Leys Ball is more than a game — it’s a celebration of partnership and shared growth and is designed to be as versatile and inclusive as possible.
The invention of Pete Bennett (Head of Sports Partnerships), the game is adapted from his own coaching, focusing on finding and using space. Combining elements of netball and basketball, it helps teach the skills of running, catching, throwing, agility and spatial awareness.
Once Radley’s Young Sports Leaders (YSL’s) had mastered it themselves,
Spotlight on: the sports centre team
Radley Sports Centre offers high quality facilities for Radley boys, while also serving the wider community. Alongside our pupils, we support over 900 Leisure Club members, more than 30 regular block bookers, and a swim school that welcomes over 400 children each week as they develop essential swimming skills.
As a team, we take great pride in the positive feedback we receive about our friendly, approachable, and supportive staff. Creating a welcoming and inclusive environment is at the heart of everything we do, ensuring that everyone who walks through our doors feels valued and encouraged.
We see the Sports Centre as far more than just a place to exercise. It is a hub for pupils, staff, and the local community to stay active, build confidence, form friendships, and improve wellbeing.
New staff may be surprised by the wide range of facilities and activities available at the Sports Centre. From fitness classes to kid’s fun sessions to squash and badminton, there is something for everyone.
The team you will meet over the next two pages are supported by our Leisure Assistants, who are responsible for lifeguarding the pool and setting up for bookings during evenings and weekends. We also have a team of Housekeeping staff, Becky Griffith and Libby Walters, who are based at the Sports Centre.
CAITLIN BAKER
Sports Centre & Commercial Operations Manager
Caitlin joined the team in 2019 as Apprentice Operations Manager, attending Oxford Brookes University one day a week while completing her degree. In September 2021, she joined the Commercial Enterprises team in her current position. Caitlin has always had a passion for dance, and you will find her teaching the weekly Dance FIT class as well as taking part in other classes, such as Barre and Pilates. The aspect Caitlin enjoys most about her role is “seeing the wide range of people who make use of our sports facilities – we work with over 30 different external hirers, ranging from local football clubs to national sporting tournaments which gives me the opportunity to interact with a diverse range of individuals.”
MILLIE DICKINSON
Commercial Operations Assistant
Millie started at the Sports Centre as a Leisure Assistant when she was 17 and then worked for the Commercial Enterprises team on a part-time basis during the holidays before joining the team full-time in January. Millie completed her BSc in International Business at the University of Manchester in 2025 and spent her year abroad in Sydney, Australia. You will spot Millie on the Sports Centre Reception during Swim School. Away from work, Millie enjoys swimming and running, having been a competitive swimmer when she was younger.
YIANNIS KARDITSAS
Sports Centre Duty Manager
Yiannis joined Radley in September 2024. Prior to this he worked at the White Horse Leisure and Tennis Centre, as a Duty Manager and part-time Tennis Coach. Yiannis likes the structure that his role has given him and says “everyone always says hello and is polite, this is hard to find nowadays, so the fact that it is the culture here is brilliant.” Outside of work, Yiannis’ main interests are tennis, football and bodybuilding, with more recent pursuits including clay pigeon shooting and archery.
EMILY KENNY Sports Centre Duty Manager
You might recognise Emily from the exercise classes she teaches – “this is the part of my job I’m most passionate about,” she says. “I love bringing energy to the classes, motivating people to push themselves and helping members build confidence in their fitness while having fun.”
The team share their tips for staying motivated and getting the most out of your training sessions:
Stay Hydrated
Most people don’t drink enough water. Get yourself a nice new water bottle and keep it topped up all day.
Try a Class
If you lack motivation, try a class! It’s a great way to get exercise in without having to plan out a workout. The class timetable can be found on the Sports Centre section of the College website.
Find a
Going to the gym – and exercise in general – can be so much more enjoyable with a friend to help motivate you.
Do what
you love
Emily served in the British Army, joining the Royal Artillery Regiment when she was 16. She has worked in the leisure and fitness industry for the past four years, joining Radley in October 2024. Emily represented England in boxing from a young age, testing herself against top competition. Her other passion is Speedway and she travels all over the world supporting the sport.
If you don’t like running, you don’t have to do it! Don’t force yourself to do exercise you don’t enjoy or it will become a chore. Remember it’s about staying active and moving your body and that can look different for everyone.
Rest and Recover
Allow yourself to rest. It can be easy to think that you have to exercise every single day but rest is just as important and will reduce your risk of injury and feeling overwhelmed.
JAMES MOORE
Sports Centre
Duty Manager
James joined the team in May 2023, having graduated from the University of York the previous year. After university, James trained as a Lifeguard and worked at the White Horse Leisure and Tennis Centre before joining the Radley team. James says “sport has always been part of my life. Along with the rest of the team, I assist with the running of Lifeguard Training for our Leisure Assistants.”
LES NEWELL
Head of Sports Centre & Commercial Enterprises
Prior to joining Radley in 2007 as Head of Sports Centre, Les had been a manager at Tilsley Park, Abbey Meadows Outdoor Pool and Faringdon Leisure Centre. His career in leisure followed his roles as a Project Planner at Thames Valley Police, EA Sports, and Didcot Town Council where he oversaw the design and construction of Willowbrook Leisure Centre. In September 2021, Les took on the new role of Head of Commercial Enterprises. He says “my job has been so varied over the years, particular highlights have been coaching boys’ football for seven years and managing to win the LB Cup on two occasions, as well as building the Sports Centre’s membership base.”
James is an Oxford United season-ticket holder and loves getting away at weekends to his favourite part of the Lake District, Wasdale Head. In September, James will embark on a Master’s degree in International Relations at the University of Liverpool, but he plans to be back at the Sports Centre during his holidays.
Away from work, you’ll either find Les running (he is the current British indoor and outdoor 800m Silver Medallist in the 50+ Category) or watching Oxford United.
EMILY NOEL-D’AVILA
Leisure Club & Commercial Operations Manager
Emily joined the team as a Lifeguard when she was 16 and became a Duty Manager at 17. After studying fashion design at Bournemouth University, Emily returned as the Leisure Club Manager in 2020. She recently finished her Personal Training Qualification and oversees the Leisure Club in her current role. Emily says “I love still being involved with the Sports Centre, our members are great! I feel we have built such a lovely community, and we know many of our members personally.” An interior design lover, Emily is currently putting her skills and passions into practice redecorating her home. Emily’s next project is a big one – she is expecting her first child in July!
All College staff are eligible to join the Leisure Club at the discounted price of £50 a year which includes:
FITNESS SUITE and access to Technogym’s wide range of virtual classes. These include spinning, HIIT, strength training, yoga, pilates and more.
WEIGHTS ROOM including Squat Racks, Smith Machine and dumbbells up to 45kg.
SWIMMING POOL – staff members can bring their children to Family Swim sessions, where they can make use of the diving boards, floats and balls. Times can be found on the Staff Noticeboard.
CLASSES including Circuits, Pilates and Aqua FIT.
CALLUM STUBBS
Enterprises Facilities
Callum joined in June 2022 as a Duty Manager but has recently qualified as an RLSS National Lifeguard Trainer. This enables him to deliver all in-house lifeguard training as well as running courses for external candidates. Prior to Radley, Callum worked at Sainsbury’s Heyford Hill as a Groceries Online Assistant, preparing customers’ online orders and scheduling driver routes. His current role allows him to build on his passion for customer service –Callum says “what I enjoy most about the job is the close interaction with customers and working with the Radley team. I really value being able to provide a homely environment for the community and getting to know our regular customers. I also enjoy connecting with other departments within the College when we cross paths during events and activities.”
STEVE WALL Leisure Club Manager
A qualified personal trainer, you may recognise Steve from running Aqua FIT, Circuits and Bodyburn. Steve has worked in the leisure industry for 20 years. His career includes working as a Regional Manager for three years. Looking to spend less time travelling, Steve joined the Radley team in 2024, taking on the role of Leisure Club Manager with a brief to help grow the business and services provided.
Steve says every day in his role is different, “we get to work with the public but also the boys, bringing varied aspects to the role.” Away from work, Steve enjoys spending time with family and playing or watching football – he describes himself as a huge Liverpool fan.
Tarmac and Shale
Rex has two main disciplines. His first is Short Circuit Road Racing, where he rides on some of the biggest and fastest karting circuits around the UK, reaching speeds of nearly 100mph.
The other discipline is Speedway, where the full-size bikes run on methanol and go from 0-60 faster than an F1 car... but this bike has no brakes. Rex is a mascot for the Oxford Cheetahs and regularly rides in Oxford’s Sandy Lane Stadium in front of 1,500 people. You can follow @OxfordSpeedway on Instagram.
OSEG
UPDATE
A Racing Journey gary
& Rex Austin
‘Spare’ Time
When Deputy Head Groundsman Gary Austin is not cutting grass or preparing pitches for Radley pupils, he travels the length and breadth of the country pursuing his other passion, motorcycle racing with his son, Rex.
Rex, who is 11 years old, inherited his Dad’s love for adrenaline-fuelled motorbike racing when he was only five years old. Since those early days, Rex has become a multidiscipline British champion.
If you would like to follow Rex’s racing journey, you’ll find him on Instagram @Rex.Austin991. Support is always needed and if anyone knows someone or would like their own company logo or name displayed on either or both of Rex’s bikes, please get in touch with Gary. All help is greatly appreciated.
Backstage Theatre Tour
Still wondering what the Operational Staff Engagement Group (OSEG) is all about and what is discussed at the meetings?
Keep an eye on your inbox in the coming days for an OSEG Bulletin from the Operations Director. Included will be details of what has been discussed over the past year, a thank you to the outgoing representatives for their work and collaboration, details of how to nominate yourself or a colleague to be a representative of this year’s group and when the next meeting will be.
Join Matt Barker (Theatre Technical Manager) and Lianne OakleyRowland (Costume Designer) for a backstage tour of Radley’s Theatre. From the extensive wardrobe to clever props and innovative lighting, Matt and Lianne will reveal some of their trade secrets and answer your questions.
More information will be shared later this term, including the date and link to sign-up.
Gary with son Rex, wife Sophie and daughter Isla. A big thank you to Isla for writing this article!
ALIVE WITH THE SOUND OF MUSIC
Theo (V, K)
“I have been so lucky to have access to all the various new practice rooms, amazing instruments, pianos and even a new chamber organ, as well as the opportunities to perform in the fantastic acoustics of the new Silk Hall and Recital Room.”
Sam (6.1, J)
“The new building has meant that it is so much easier to motivate yourself to go and practise in the mornings as it is such an incredible place to play.”
Will (V, F)
“Music at Radley certainly has more of a buzz around it. I can’t wait for the Flamenco Evening in April, hopefully it will be a great insight into a unique and interesting musical culture.”
SAM GLADSTONE PRECENTOR
“For me, the most important impact of this wonderful new space has been on the day-to-day musical life of the College: it has been a joy to see boys practising, relaxing (and revising!) together in the atrium, stopping for a chat with their music teachers... It is, simply, a happy, vibrant, inspiring space for our fabulous community of musicians.”
Louise Roques Music Administrator
“Moving into the building after four terms of exile in Upper Shrubbery, with pianos in bedrooms and offices in kitchens, has been an exhilarating ride. It’s a genuine privilege to be able to show visitors into the new concert spaces and show off the teaching talents of our VMT body.”
Tim Morris Succentor
“The new building is amazing – not just because we have so much space, but because it’s been thought through so well. We work with sound – so to have proper acoustic treatment and soundproofing between rooms is a revelation. My favourite space is the Song Room – taking chorister and choir rehearsals in there is a dream.”
Marcin Stefanski Caretaker
“I support the organisation of concerts and artistic events by preparing rooms, arranging chairs and music stands, and assisting with basic technical setup. The design and atmosphere of the new building make it a very welcoming place and the sound of music throughout the building brings me great joy.”
THE NEW MUSIC SCHOOL
From its unofficial opening in January, to the Opening Concert in March, the new Music School represents the last piece of the ten-year programme of expanding the College for 770 pupils. The project involved two and a half years of planning and design and then a year and a half of construction ... 100,000 hours of labour, 37 different types of acoustic panel and 65,000 bricks! We asked members of staff and boys how the new building has changed the way they work and the impact it has had so far on music at Radley.
Mike Ginger Head Gardener
“The design for the new planted area under the oak tree is taken from Japanese garden designs, using concentric circles to provide a zen-like calm and soften the straight edges of the building. The black granite and Cotswold stone remind us of the keys of the piano, while the use of grasses and bamboos bring the focus to music within nature, the wind through the delicate leaves, causing the bamboo stems to knock and keep rhythm with the world outside the Music School.
Edgeworthia Chrysantha ‘Red Dragon’ give us a ‘Radley red’, interplanted with Lupins, Gauras, Verbena, Alliums and Agapanthus for colour throughout the growing season and to attract pollinators and other insects.”
George English Head of Percussion
“It has truly been wonderful to see so many boys making great use of the spaces from the moment the building opened; the buzz has been palpable amongst staff and pupils alike. For the Drums & Percussion department in particular, the new space provides us with dedicated, sound-proofed spaces for teaching and rehearsing.”
Nico Bentley Head of Production
“Our new music building greatly expands what we can offer, with a professional recording studio, industry-standard rehearsal rooms and upgraded live and DJ equipment. Our mobile ‘gig rig’ allows professional-quality staging anywhere on campus, giving students real-world performance experience.”
Emma Griffiths & Tim Keasley Music Partnerships
“The new building has redefined our partnership work. Improving our connectivity with colleagues and helping to make our daily collaborations seamless. For us, the most exciting part is the power of the conversations sparked in these halls – they are already generating future projects, fresh ideas, and new ways of working together.
We especially enjoyed hosting the Music Flood Big Sing and Orchestral Day last term, with space now for sectional rehearsals. Seeing the pupils’ faces as they walked into Silk Hall was truly joyous and the atrium proved to be a wonderfully large space for primary pupils to meet and interact.”
A Warm Welcome
to staff who have joined us since January 2026:
Alfie Ambler, Leisure Assistant
Nick Barnard, Caretaker Supervisor
Georgina Bennett, Domestic Cleaner
Jack Bevan, Chef de Partie
Archie Campbell, Real Tennis Trainee Assistant Professional
Sian Caswell, Domestic Cleaner
Kei Lok (Sirius) Chau, VMT (Flute)
Phil Coleman, Leisure Assistant
Mark Cumming, Driver
Krzysztof (Chris) Drajewski, Security Porter
Lola Eggby-Walker, Domestic Cleaner
Congratulations
to the following on their recent promotions and new positions:
Julie Arblaster has moved from her role as Cleaner to the Laundry team as Laundry Assistant.
Piano Teacher Sam Mitchell becomes Head of Keyboard.
Emiliano Fernandes Martins, Kitchen Porter
Jools Gauger, Finance Manager
Lucy Godleman, Interim PHM J Social
Naw Mu Kapaw, Food Service Assistant
Myles McEvoy, Head of Video
Gavin Petrie, Electrician
Sharna Priest, Domestic Cleaner
Nelly Purcell, Domestic Cleaner
Louis Quick, Leisure Assistant
Svetlana Vesko, Housekeeping Manager
Baby News
Welcome to: Oscar William Todd, born on 19th February to Lucy Todd (Teacher of Biology), pictured (L) with his proud big sister, Lara; and Edward MorleyHeeks (R), born on 25th March to Robyn Morley (Teacher of Economics).
In Memoriam brian davies 1949 – 2026
It was with great sadness that we learned of Brian Davies’ passing in March after a short illness. Brian was part of the College community for 19 years, working as a Security Porter, based initially in the Bursary and then the Lodge. His commitment and dedication to the College were evident in all that he did. Leo Healy, Proctor, remembers him ...
Brian was one of the first people I met when I arrived at Radley and I came to know him as an exceptionally conscientious and diligent member of the team. He carried out his duties with great care and professionalism, and
his loyalty and trustworthiness were unwavering. Brian was always generous with his counsel and advice, which I, and many others, came to value greatly.
His passing has been deeply felt across the College. We have not only lost a wealth of knowledge and experience, but also a loyal and trusted colleague who was an integral part of the community. On a personal note, I have also lost a good friend. Brian will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of working with him.
Brian gave us moments of genuine humour that many of us will always remember. Back when security porters used their own vehicles to carry out checks around the College Brian received a call from a concerned resident reporting a
vehicle driving slowly around the grounds and asking him to investigate. While out on patrol, Brian received another call from the same resident, who insisted the suspicious vehicle was still making its way around the campus.
Brian continued his search but couldn’t find anything unusual. When he eventually returned to the Bursary, he called the resident back and asked for a description of the vehicle. As soon as they described it, Brian realised, with perfect timing, that he had in fact been following his own car around the College.
The story quickly became a favourite among the team and is a wonderful reminder of Brian’s good humour. It is moments like these that I will always cherish and remember with a smile.
Myles McEvoy Head of Video
Video Unit
Joined in February 2026. Previously worked as Film & Media Coordinator at Emanuel School in Wandsworth. Myles has been involved in video since he was 14, creating some award-winning films along the way.
Taking on this role at Radley has been really exciting, with a fantastic range of equipment and great opportunities to capture the wide range of activities that go on here. I look forward to working with boys who have a passion for film to help shape them into a great team of future filmmakers.
Loves to travel, seeking out adventurous trips and always hunting for stories to turn into films. Enjoys pub quizzes – hosted several, yet “won very few!”
Tracey Francis Administrative Assistant to Deputy Head (Pastoral) and Head of Admissions & Communications
Top Floor of Mansion
Joined at the end of August 2025. Prior to Radley, worked for organisations including Oracle and The National Trust and most recently for a small educational charity in Oxford.
I support Ed James’ safeguarding work and coordinate Sophie Langdale’s international travel. I love that each day is different. The best thing about working at Radley is how welcoming and helpful everyone is.
Enjoys yoga retreats and switching off for a while, preferably somewhere warm. At home you’ll find Tracey dressmaking, gardening or “rescuing my husband’s cooking!”
MEET
...
NICK BARNARD Caretaker Supervisor
Housekeeping Department
Joined in January 2026. Trained and qualified as a carpenter/joiner as part of AERE Harwell’s awardwinning apprenticeships programme, before working at an independent school and setting up a joinery shop to manufacture and install items such as furniture, doors and windows. Following this, Nick progressed to the position of Estates Manager, looking after four sites and most recently worked on prioritising the installation of energy saving systems, including a phased introduction of solar panels, air source heat pumps and modern, fuelefficient heating plants.
I started at Radley at a very busy time with the Caretaking team heavily involved in the move to, and opening of, the new Music School. I have found a very warm welcome from my team and everyone at Radley who have helped me to find my feet, and more importantly, my way around.
Charlie Hughes Partnerships
Administrator Partnerships Office / Bursary
Joined in November 2025 from Meadowbrook College, an alternative provision school in Abingdon. A varied career before that, in hospitality and events for 10 years, then with British Gas and latterly in property management.
I look after the logistical side of our partnerships and feel incredibly proud to be part of a team so passionate about making a difference. I’ve joined at such an exciting moment, with many new programmes emerging, and it’s inspiring to be involved in shaping the next steps.
Enjoys walking, gardening and taking part in ultra challenges, aiming to complete at least one a year... when not busy with family life.
some of Radley’s newest staff members! Myles, Tracey, Charlie, Nick and Svetlana have all joined since September in key roles around the College.
SVETLANA VESKO
Housekeeping Manager
Housekeeping Department
Joined in March 2026. Previously worked as a Cleaning Area Manager across hotels and the commercial sector, with over 10 years’ experience in housekeeping and cleaning operation. Svetlana developed a strong understanding of day-today operations, maintaining high standards, and ensuring efficient and well-organised working environments.
I am really happy to be joining Radley College and becoming part of the team. I’m looking forward to sharing my experience, supporting others and continuing to learn and grow together.
Away from work, Svetlana enjoys gardening and baking.
Married and lives in North Abingdon.
The Compass Curriculum
Continued from front page
... they introduced it to children in Year 4 at our five partnership primary schools in East Oxford.
At the end of last term, the first Rad-Leys Ball Festival took place in the sunshine at Blackbird Leys Leisure Centre. The event brought together 126 children for a morning of gameplay, with 15 teams competing. Radley’s Young Sports Leaders (6.1) hosted and led the day, supported by 16 Fifth form (Year 11) boys.
At its core, Rad-Leys Ball is about building meaningful connections between schools, community partners, and young people of different ages. The Festival offered valuable opportunities for our older students to develop leadership, communication, and mentoring skills, while the younger children gained confidence, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.
Most importantly, Rad-Leys Ball reminds us that growth happens when we learn from one another — and that when we play together, everyone moves forward together.
A New Curriculum
The new Compass Curriculum, launched last term, marks the next step in realising the vision of Radley Schools Group: to provide exceptional opportunities for every child, blending the best of tradition with innovation.
The Compass Curriculum will be delivered alongside each prep school’s existing academic and co-curricular programme and has been developed by prep and senior school specialists. The curriculum offers a flexible and collaborative framework that complements the distinctive strengths of every prep school in the Group. The aim behind Compass is to broaden pupils’ learning and encourage them to step beyond their comfort zone.
Modules for Year 7 children include ‘Philosophy & Ethics’, ‘Engineering & Communication’ and ‘Earth & Environment’, while the Year 8 modules focus on entrepreneurship, innovation and leadership. The prep schools will join together for events and residential trips, with the curriculum culminating in bronze, silver and gold ‘Compass Awards’. Pupils who complete the Compass Curriculum will arrive at their senior schools as confident, curious and capable learners with strong academic foundations and the judgement to engage fully in senior school life.
Scan the QR code to find out more.
ESTATES NEWS
Climbing Wall
Installation of the new climbing wall (below) behind Real Tennis will be carried out during the Summer Term, overseen by Ally Horton, Head of Facilities and Compliance.
New Music School
Rebecca Kitchin (Estates Surveyor), oversaw the Music team’s move to the new building and the clearing of the temporary spaces including 9 Upper Shrubbery and the Big Space portable classroom. Ahead of the Opening Concert in March the landscaping was completed around the building with the Gardens team working on Mike Ginger’s (Head Gardener) design for the new planting in the borders and planters. During the Easter break final snagging in the building continued with Lifebuild on site.
Theatre Foyer
The pods have been removed from the Theatre Foyer and the installation of new toilets, store and bar area is underway, due to finish before the summer break.
Solar Farm
Tenders for the Solar Farm have been returned and evaluated. Jonathan Bochenski (Bursar) and Rebecca Kitchin are working with Simon Valentine as acting Project Manager and are in discussions with the preferred solar energy provider to finalise plans and prepare for the next stage.
Other Projects
Additional welfare facilities at Gardens and Grounds have been installed, the two men’s toilets in Queen’s Court have been refurbished and works have continued on the Boathouse roof which is now water-tight.
Summer Projects
Work will continue on the E Social entrance development, with a refurbishment of D Social planned alongside the usual housemoves programme, as well as smaller projects which can be achieved whilst the boys are away and around our Commercial Lets.
Dogs of Radley
Oscar
Owner: Clive Browning Breed: Labradoodle Age: 3
Best friends: Pip & Reggie
Favourite treats: Dentastix, biscuits & sausages
Favourite toys: Rag toys & his squeaky Gonk.
Willow
Owner: Ray Smith Breed: Show Cocker Spaniel Age: 8
Favourite walk: Appleton to Radley,preferably through the muddy lake
Favourite toy: a nice rotting tennis ball from the bushes.
MY radley
Electronics Technician Diane Ritchie joined Radley’s Design department in 2007. Since then, she has seen plenty of changes within the department and has watched as boys’ ambitions for their design projects have grown steadily over the years. We asked Diane when she first became interested in the world of electronics.
I remember receiving an electronic radio kit as a child and thinking how amazing it was to get it working. I was captivated, and I think my passion for learning about electronics started then.
I began by building things like small circuits – my Dad would often take me to a shop called Maplin which felt like an electronics wonderland and sold everything from electronic components to soldering irons that I needed to make electronic projects. I was always taking electrical things apart to see how they worked (much to my parents’ dislike!).
I eventually became an Electronics Engineer for scientific companies, collaborating with scientists and mechanical engineers to design large systems for splitting atoms.
An advert for an Electronics Technician at Radley caught my eye in 2007 and I thought it would be really rewarding to work in the Design department and share my experience of electronics with the boys and help their skills and confidence grow.
What does your day-to-day job entail?
No two days are the same. Emma (Tamlyn, Diane’s fellow Electronics Technician) and I are on hand to support boys in all practical lessons, making sure things run smoothly and ensuring the electronics lab is an exciting and safe place to be. Emma and I work well as a team because we can bring our different individual skills and ideas together.
What aspect do you enjoy most?
The Fifths and Removes work on individual projects from concept to completion which involve things like making a circuit board with copper tracks and soldered components. There are many processes and lots of skill involved and I really enjoy helping the boys with their projects. Every year I am amazed to see how creative and skilled they are at producing outstanding pieces of work.
I am currently helping Ethan (6.1) with his chemistry project. It is a very complex electronic circuit and I have
really enjoyed sharing my knowledge and expertise and teaching Ethan some circuit building tips. He built it himself and has done an exceptional job!
Can you pick a favourite project?
There are so many to choose from. Some examples include a warning triangle that senses temperature and lights up in the event of a car breakdown, a notice board that lights up to advertise an event, and a fishing game using ping pong balls that give promotional discounts for cafes and restaurants.
What does Radley mean to you?
Radley means a lot to me. I thoroughly enjoy being here and feel very lucky to be part of the Radley community and Design department. The care, help and support shown is endearing and being in a beautiful setting and environment is the icing on the cake!
What has changed in your time at the College?
The Design department has grown so much in the almost 20 years since I arrived, especially the new technology that wasn’t around years ago. The addition of a plasma cutter, CNC Router, more powerful laser cutters and 3D printers has paved the way for boys to design and make the most amazing projects and showcase their talent and ideas.
When I first arrived at Radley in 2007, before the use of 3D printers, a ‘vacuum former’ would have been found in the Design department. It was used to create 3D shapes from flat plastic sheets over a wooden mould that the boys would design. The final object would be used to house their electronic projects.
Back then, the types of projects you would have found boys working on might have included room alarms, egg timers, amplifiers, bath temperature alarms and reaction timer games.
What might we find you doing away from work?
Spending time with my new grandson James is my favourite thing! I also love going on long walks in the countryside with my two energetic huskies, Ghost and Evie. I make jewellery and enjoy Lego, puzzles and painting Warhammer figures with my son Mick.
