2027 Sports and Cultural Options

The Agriculture Committee aims to have several events throughout the year, which range from guest speakers, workshops, fundraising, organising activities for the Preparatory School and Pre-school, and career days, as well as the Agriculture Awards at the end of the year. The Junior Young Farmer Regional competition is also a highlight, with competitors involved in training prior to competing. The Agriculture Committee also runs the StAC Ag Show in Term 3 each year, as well as te Gumboot Friday fundraiser associated with Boarders' assembly. 

The Agriculture Committee is for those interested in any form of primary industries, from dairy farming to equine or aquaculture. The focus is on exposing students to a variety of careers and experiences in agriculture.

General Information:

Athletics coaching is available and includes conditioning and event-specific coaching. Individual programmes will be written for committed athletes. Teams compete at all inter-school competitions. This includes cross country and road race.

Venue:

Athletes need to assemble on the front field beside the Boarding Houses by 3.30pm.

Student Commitment:

Athletes are expected to train twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays after school.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

Most technical equipment is provided. A College athletic singlet is available at the College Shop. Navy shorts must be worn.

Indicative Costs:

There are costs associated with entering events at inter-school competitions. There is a $120 cost per term to cover training provided by coaching staff.

General Information:

Badminton has competitive and social teams.

Student Commitment:

For competitive players, commitment to Wednesday lunchtime practice is essential. Students that participate in the interschool competitions must also commit to Wednesday games. No previous experience is required.

For social players, the session is on Friday lunchtime. This is the only session available for social players. PE gear and sports shoes are essential.

Venues:

Proper PE gear and shoes are essential. Games are at St Andrew’s College and various venues around Christchurch on a Wednesday after school, usually finishing by 5.00pm, or earlier. Transport varies between self-arranged UBER organised by the team captain.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

Competitive players need to supply their own racquets. The College PE uniform is to be worn for all inter-school matches on Wednesdays.

Social players have the option of using a school racquet. The College PE gear and soft-sole shoes are to be worn during practice sessions.

Indicative Costs:

$120.00 will be charged for court coaching and equipment maintenance for all students. If the student is involved in the interschool competitions, a flat transport fee of $50.00 is charged to the entire team should a teacher be transporting the team to and from the venue. If the team uses UBER, the cost will be split amongst all competitive players to ensure the cost is shared. All other costs for additional competitions will be discussed prior to registering for the particular competition.

General Ballet Company Information:

The Ballet Company completes the final two years of the five-year Diploma programme with Year 13 dancers graduating with our St Andrew’s College Ballet Academy Diploma. (Those with fewer years due to commencing later, may apply for cross-credits from prior study, or alternatively gain the Ballet Academy Certificate.)

We welcome dancers continuing through our programme and those new to St Andrew’s College. Over the two years, dancers continue their training and extends their abilities with high-level ballet and dance repertoire in all key genres. We endeavour to provide our dancers with an extensive programme, ‘wrapping’ the four plus hours of weekly training around the school day. Dancers perform in the annual Dance Revue and Ballet Productions.

NCEA Dance credits are taken at Level 2 and 3, and it is also possible to gain University Entrance in NCEA Dance over the two–year period in the Company.

Dancers may also be eligible to take the highest pre-professional examination of Solo Performance Diploma.

Dancers gain their School Blazer Award through this programme and may also work to achieve their Blazer Colour.  We consider our Company dancers to be our ‘role models of excellence’ and encourage the younger dancers to aspire to be like them.

Pre-requisites: 

Current Year 11 or 12 students: recent NZAMD examination results at Highly Commended or above, plus a strong work ethic and commitment to the programme

New students: must be an experienced dancer with equivalent background to St Andrew's College dancers. Email the Artistic Director, Dr Cairns, CCA@stac.school.nz, to check eligibility and attend a short audition (if necessary).

NB: Students wishing to take Ballet Company need to be aware they cannot also take Peer Support Leadership due to timetable clash.

Indicative Course Costs:

$450 per term, includes all classes, in-class guest tutors, repertoire half tutu, character skirts and shoes, contemporary skirts, and other incidentals.

Additional costs: 

Examination fees, costume hires, and optional classes outside the Company timetable

Venue – College Ballet Studio:

• Mondays Session 1: 2.35pm–4.15pm
• Thursdays Session 2: 3.30pm–5.45pm/6.00pm

General Information:

Competitive Basketball is played on Tuesday or Saturday depending on age, grade, and gender. 

Most teams practice either before and/or after school, or in the evening. Social basketball is played on Friday afternoons/evenings. Teams entered into social competitions do not have trainings.

Students who select competitive basketball, are not able to play social basketball. However, if they are not selected into a competitive team after the trials, then they will be placed into a social team.

Venue:

Practices take place in the two school gymnasiums. Games take place at various venues around Christchurch.

Student Commitment:

Students are expected to attend all practices and games or communicate when they cannot. No games are played in the holidays, except for the competitive weekend teams.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

All competitive teams will be supplied a basketball uniform during Term 1. Social teams must purchase their singlets from the College Shop, Thistles, and wear their navy PE shorts with these. All students are required to wear mouth guards at every game.

Indicative Costs:

Approximately $300 for weekend grades and $150 per Friday grade player to subsidise entry, transport, coaching, refereeing and BBNZ affiliation fees.

General Information:

Canoe Polo, an international canoe federation discipline, is a spectacular and rapidly growing sport. It is a game of two halves of 10-minutes where two teams of five players battle it out with a water polo ball in kayaks. The aim is to score into a goal, which is suspended above the water at each end of a rectangular ‘playing pitch’. Canoe polo is fast paced, combines kayaking and ball handling skills with tactics similar to basketball.

The main local competitive season is played on Wednesdays in Terms 1 and 4, with possibilities of additional South Island and New Zealand level weekend competitions. Existing kayaking and throwing skills may be an advantage but not a requirement or essential. The Coaching and Management group will provide all safety and technical instruction needed to have fun and play safely to a high level.

Venue:

Competition and training are generally held outside at Roto Kohatu Reserve or on site at the school campus. Transport to the lake is provided.

Student Commitment:

It is a water-based discipline so a positive attitude toward sometimes getting wet is essential. Students are expected to attend all practices and local competition games. In addition, the College will look to enter South Island and New Zealand Secondary School championships.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

All students will require a St Andrew’s canoe polo t- shirt. All other required specialist playing equipment (kayaks, paddles, PFD’s-lifejackets, helmets etc.) will be supplied.

Indicative Costs:

All players will have a base cost of $250 for the year to cover the core national and regional affiliations, uniform charge and entry to local competitions. Some additional costs may be required depending on any additional competitions or activities.

We have a number of chamber groups at St Andrew’s. Groups are formed each year according to the players available to perform at the annual Secondary Schools Chamber Music Contest, which St Andrew’s has supported by entering several groups each year.

St Andrew's College has a detailed policy for all involved in chamber groups.

For more information, please see Head of Music, Duncan Ferguson.

General Information:

Chess Club is held usually in the lunch hour on Tuesday. All levels of players are represented, from learners to advanced. The inter-school chess competition is played as a one-day competition at a venue to be confirmed.

Venue:

SB214.

Student Commitment:

One lunchtime, and two days for the inter-school team members.

For Years 9–13, this group forms an excellent training ground for the chorale while existing independently as a performing unit for school and community events. This is open to any student who enjoys singing, no audition required. Practice times are Tuesday 3.30pm–5.00pm and Wednesday lunchtimes in MS02. There is a focus on developing vocal skills, ensemble musicianship, and expressive, confident singing in a supportive environment.

Ngā Manu Tīoriori is our premier choir in the Secondary School, typically with around a group of 40 Year 10–13 students. This is an auditioned choir and performs a variety of repertoire that student find fun and engaging.

The group has opportunities for advanced ensemble work and leadership, including performances such as The Big Sing. There is a focus on refined tuning, blend, interpretation, and technical choral skills

Students must sign up for the full year to be part of this choir. Please discuss with Mr Ferguson if you think you might have a clash with summer or winter sport commitments.

Rehearsals are Tuesdays 3.30pm–5.00pm and sectionals on Wednesday lunchtime.

Indicative Costs:

There is annual uniform fee of $45.00.

General Information:

Cricket is played by boys’ teams in the Saturday competition; girls can play for a club side on a Saturday. A St Andrew’s College Cricket Club committee helps administer cricket at the College.

Venue:

Practice facilities with both grass and artificial pitches are available at the College.

Student Commitment:

Players are required to attend practices after school once or twice a week and to play on Saturday afternoons. 1st, 2nd, 3rd XI, Colts and U14A players start their matches in the morning. They play during the summer holidays.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

Some team equipment is provided, and players must wear whites and have a tracksuit top or blazer to wear when umpiring. Students are asked to take care not to damage or lose College cricket gear.

Indicative Costs:

There is an annual subscription of $200 per player.

General Information:

Cycling is divided into two different formats, with Mountain Biking being run as a summer sport in Terms 1 and 4, and Road Cycling being run as a winter sport in Terms 2 and 3.

Mountain Biking:

There is a downhill group which goes to the Christchurch Adventure Park on Wednesdays. Students will need to purchase their own lift passes and have an appropriate bike and safety equipment.

Transport:

Students can either be taken by their parents or go to the venue in transport provided by the College.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

Riders are expected to wear a St Andrew's long-sleeved top every Wednesday while at CAP. All riders are responsible for providing their own bikes and all associated safety equipment. A full-face helmet and knee pads/long pants are compulsory.

Regional and National Events:

Mountain Bikers can enter in the South Island and National schools' events, run at various times throughout the season. 

Indicative Costs:

For the CAP riders there will be a transport cost charged for buses, $70 for the sport, plus any event costs.

General Information:

Cycling is divided into two different formats, with Mountain Biking being run as a summer sport in Terms 1 and 4, and Road Cycling being run as a winter sport in Terms 2 and 3.

Road Cycling:

Road races and time trials are conducted on Wednesday afternoons, on the Old Tai Tapu Road. These races are also graded from a start of the season time trial so that you race against students of equal ability, rather than in age groups.

Transport:

Students can either be taken by their parents or ride out to the start from school.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

Riders are expected to wear a St Andrew's cycling top at all races. All riders are responsible for providing their own bikes and all associated safety equipment such as helmets, gloves, lights, visible clothing, etc.

Indicative Costs:

$130 plus any evet costs.

Regional And National Events:

South Island Championships in Christchurch and National Schools’ Championships in Manawatu, and the Schools Southern Tour in Blenheim. 

Track Cycling:

If a student wishes to compete in track cycling, they are welcome to enter the South Island or National event but there are no local events to Christchurch.

StAC Dance welcomes dancers of all levels throughout the year. It offers classes in the following disciplines: foundation contemporary, extension contemporary, junior jazz, intermediate jazz, senior jazz, foundation hip hop and extension hip hop, plus musical theatre, subject to interest.

Classes are generally held on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays after school in the Dance Studio, with additional specialist classes throughout the week.

In addition, the StAC dancers perform at assemblies and College events. StAC Dance also presents the Dance Revue in Term 3.

Indicative Costs:

Approximately $100 per term per class.

General Information:

Open to all secondary school students in any dance genre, gymnastics, or high-level sports training. Led by our professional tutor, this class develops your core strength and body flexibility.

For further information and enrolment contact Dr Carolyn Cairns on CCA@stac.school.nz.

Venue:

Mondays 7.30am–8.15am in the College Ballet Studio.

Indicative Costs:

$200 per semester (two semesters per year).

General Information:

Debating involves students from Years 9–13. Year 10–13 students are entered into the Canterbury Schools’ Debating competition which takes place approximately three Thursday evenings each term. Year 9 students will be involved in in-house development and coaching one lunchtime a week.

General meetings take place Thursday lunchtimes and in-house debate evenings will be held throughout the year, so students can fine tune their debating skills.

Some debaters will be selected for tournaments, usually held on weekends (2–3 per year).

Venue:

Meetings and coaching take place in AB405. Thursday debates run by the Canterbury Schools’ Debating Council are hosted at St Andrew's College for seniors, and St Margaret's College for juniors.

Student Commitment:

Students are expected to attend all meetings and coaching sessions, as well as take part in the competition debates. Regular communication via Microsoft Teams is important.

Indicative Costs:

$40.00–$120 depending on level of competition, with further disbursements made for opt-in competitions/tournaments.

The club is open to all students who are interested in expanding their abilities alongside like-minded peers. This is passion project driven with students receiving support appropriate to their ability and interest.

Whether it be working with block code or text-based languages such as Python or beyond, our goal is to have students use their coding ability to develop and create. Depending on interest, we may also cover Computer Science, Electronics, and Computer Hardware.

Students interested in how computers work can participate in the Recycle A Device programme that runs as part of Digitech Club. Students either refurbish or responsibly dismantle donated laptops. Refurbished devices are passed on to people in the community who might not otherwise have access to a computer.

Students should bring their own laptop.

Venue:

Digitech Club runs in The Green Library and Innovation Centre each Tuesday after school.

General Equestrian Information:

School teams compete in three one day events, dressage, one day horse trial and show jumping competitions, throughout the year. Students must have their own horse and transport in order to compete. Please be aware all riders will be expected to provide a helper at shows for 1–2 hours per event.

Indicative Costs:

Transport and event fees to be disbursed to students’ accounts.

The Film and Broadcasting Academy (FABA) is for students who are passionate about broadcasting and film production. Whether you're interested in working behind the camera or developing your performance skills, FABA offers something for everyone.

As a member, you’ll have the option of producing video content of researching, finding stories, and creating content from a wide range of college events.  StAC Chat is made every Monday after school. This is a collaborative project between prefects and FABA students to produce a weekly episode updating the school on current events and happenings.

On the filmmaking side, you’ll participate in workshops that build your skills in scriptwriting, camera operation, sound, lighting, and editing. These sessions take place during Film Club, which meets every Wednesday at lunchtime. Students are encouraged to create their own short films and enter competitions such as the StAC Film Festival and the 48 Hours Film Competition.

FABA also actively seeks students with an interest in video editing to support both Film Club and StAC Chat. Editors play a vital role in shaping the final product, and you’ll have the chance to develop advanced editing techniques while working on projects using industry-standard software.

FABA values student voice and creativity, and we’re committed to producing high-quality, engaging content using our multi-camera TV studio and field equipment. Students should be ready to collaborate as part of a dynamic team working toward a shared vision.

FABA is divided into two clubs - you can join both or either:

StAC Chat

When:

We meet Mondays after school from 3.30pm–4.30pm. A collaborative project between prefects and FABA students to produce a weekly episode updating the school on current events and happenings.

Note for StAC Chat:  Strong collaboration with the Prefect Team is essential for the success of StAC Chat. Student Heads of Media are encouraged to regularly meet with Prefects to strategise, plan content, and ensure alignment with student-led initiatives.

Film Club

When:

We meet Wednesdays at lunchtime. A space to discuss and learn about filmmaking. Students are encouraged to participate in the annual StAC Film Festival and the 48 Hours Film Competition and other external short film competitions.

Cost:

There is no cost associated with the Film and Broadcasting Academy.

General Information:

NFL Flag Football is a non-contact version of American Football, available to co-ed students fitting the 15U age group bracket. All teams will compete at American Football Canterbury's Youth Flag competition and an in-house Flag Tournament. One selected team will be chosen to represent the College at the NFL Flag Football Canterbury Tournament Open to both male and female athletes, teams must contain at least two players of the opposite sex.

Venue:

Training and in-house competition will take place at the College, dates TBC. 
AFC Youth competition: Marshland Doman, Friday nights from September to October
NFL Flag Football Canterbury Regionals: End of March (date TBC)

Student Commitment:

Athletes are expected to train once a week and attend games (day TBC).

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

Boots/cleats/touch boots – bladed and plastic tip preferred
Shorts/PE gear
Mouth guard

General Information:

All football teams will play in various age- group competitions on Wednesday afternoons in the Canterbury Schools’ Sports Inter-school competitions. Our top teams, which include our Years 9–10, Senior First XI and Girls’ First XI, all play in the Premier Schools’ Competition on Wednesdays. Practices are either held after school or at lunchtime and are once a week.

Student Commitment:

Students playing football are expected to be available on all playing days. Attendance at all practices and good communication with coaches/ managers is expected.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

All players require boots and shin guards. All players in our competitive teams will be provided with playing shirts, which are to be returned at the end of the season. Players will need to purchase football shorts and socks from the College Shop.

Indicative Costs:

1st XI subs are $220, and all other teams are $150. All players also incur $55.00 travel expenses and a uniform levy of $25.00 if provided. Senior 1st XI travel to nationals will be an extra cost.

General Information:

Futsal is played in both Term 1 and Term 4. All teams play in the schools’ competitions, held on Wednesday afternoon across Terms 4 and 1, run by Mainland Football.

Student Commitment:

Players selected for ‘A’ teams are expected to be available for one training per week, as well as all competition games and for the weekend of the Mainland Regional Tournament (Term 1). Players in the ‘A’ teams are also expected to be available for selection for the NZSS Futsal Tournament (end of Term 1).

All players are expected to be available for all competitive games and to communicate with coaches/managers when they cannot attend trainings and/or games.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

All players require non-marking shoes and shin-pads. Competitive players will be provided with kit with a uniform levy of $25.00 if provided. Recreational wear PE uniform.

Indicative Costs:

Recreational players have a subscription of $120. Competitive players have a subscription of $200, plus $55.00 travel costs. Travel and accommodation costs for National Tournament are an additional cost.

General Information:

Golf takes place on a Wednesday with structured coaching at Harewood Club, all students and ability welcome. Our competitive golfers are selected to compete in exchanges and secondary school tournaments. St Andrew’s has a fine tradition in these tournaments.

Student Commitment:

Students are expected to attend all sessions.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

College uniform may be worn with suitable golf or sports shoes.

Indicative Costs:

Approximate cost will be $110 a term.

General Information:

The College enters teams in appropriate grades of the Canterbury Hockey Association weekly competition for both boys and girls. All players must be prepared to play games right through Terms 2 and 3 and in the holidays.

Venues:

Games are at various turfs around Christchurch. All practices are held at the St Andrew’s College turf, with the exception of the 1st XI teams who will train once a week at Ngā Puna Wai.

Student Commitment:

Players are expected to attend all team practices. Note: Holiday play will be required.

UNIFORM/GEAR REQUIREMENTS:

Players need to provide their own stick, mouth guard and shin pads. Goalkeepers are encouraged to purchase their own gear but there is a limited amount of goalkeeper gear the College can provide. The 1st XI, 2nd XI, Colts and Thistles teams are charged a $30.00 uniform levy as the uniforms are supplied. All other teams are to wear their PE uniform, i.e. blue navy shorts, blue PE top, plus navy hockey socks.

Indicative Costs:

The following costs are estimates and depend on the amount of turf time used for both trainings and games: 1st XI $370, all other teams $280.

Important Dates:

The boys’ and girls’ 1st XIs compete in national tournaments during Winter Tournament Week. We select an U15 Boys team to compete at the Tanner Cup in Hamilton. This is held during the first four days of the first week in the July School holidays.

Trials:

Trials are held in Term 1, as most grades begin their competitions at the end of Term 1.

General Information:

The International Club is an opportunity to meet new people with a common interest in learning about different countries, customs, and cultures. Every second week the International Club come together in AB202, where students from different countries as well as our Kiwi students share food, language and experiences.

Venue:

AB202

Student Commitment:

Weekly meetings Terms 1–4. Students are required to select at least one other co-curricular activity if involved in the International Club.

Indicative Costs:

One shared lunch.

This is our award winning ‘Big Band’, playing music from the swing era as well as popular tunes, funk, and jazz/rock numbers. Saxophones, trumpets, trombones, guitar, bass, keyboard, and drums are involved.

Practice times are Friday lunchtimes in MS01 and Thursday nights from 3.30pm–5.00pm. Entry is by audition.

Each year there is the potential for this band to compete and perform at several festivals and concerts including the Blenheim Southern Jam, ARA Jazz Quest, and the National Youth Jazz Festival. A fee for travel and accommodation is chargeable for participation in these events.

This is for Year 7–11 jazz musicians (but is usually well supported by senior students) and focuses on developing basic musicianship skills. This group is part of our Jazz Tour which happens in Term 3.

General Information:

The Kapa Haka rōpū at St Andrew’s College provides an opportunity for Māori and non-Māori students to engage in and celebrate Te Ao Māori through performance and cultural learning. Students involved in Kapa Haka develop skills in waiata, haka, poi, and mōteatea while strengthening their understanding of tikanga, te reo Māori, and kaupapa Māori values. The rōpū meets regularly throughout term two and term three year, with a strong focus in preparation for key performances and events. 

Cultural events and performances:
The Kapa Haka rōpū performs at a range of school and community events throughout the year. These include pōwhiri, school assemblies, prizegivings, and special occasions such as welcoming distinguished visitors and participating in cultural festivals. The group may also take part in regional Kapa Haka festivals and competitions, showcasing their skills and representing the kura. 

Te Wiki o te Reo Māori and cultural celebrations:
Students in Kapa Haka contribute actively to Te Wiki o te Reo Māori and other cultural celebrations within the school. Activities may include performances, leading school-wide waiata, and supporting events that promote the use and visibility of te reo Māori. The rōpū may also help facilitate workshops and cultural activities to engage the wider school community. 

Indicative Costs:

TBC

General Information:

The Pasifika Group at St Andrew’s College is a wonderful opportunity for Pacific and Non-Pacific students to have the opportunity to learn and celebrate Pacific Cultures. The group meet frequently throughout the year, particularly during Term 1, when the group prepare for the annual Waitaha Polyfest.

Pacific Culture celebration weeks:
The group perform and run various activities, including shared kai and competitions, throughout a number of the nationally recognised Language Weeks, such as Samoan Language Week, throughout the year. Students also perform at Chapel services and official events, such as state visits, conferences and award evenings.

Indicative Costs:

$60.00

General Information:

Multisport includes the activities of Duathlon, Triathlon, Adventure Racing, Orienteering and Rogaining. These are conducted throughout the year. These activities are very student driven and to participate in this sport, the student will need to be motivated and a self-starter.

The main events that students participate in are the Canterbury Schools Duathlon, Triathlon Championships, Hillary Challenge and Get2Go Junior Challenge held annually. St Andrew's always has a large representation at these events as either individuals or teams, and often with good success.

Adventure Racing
Adventure Racing is a fast-growing sport involving mountain biking, trekking and/or trail running, kayaking, rock climbing, abseiling and anything outdoors related. St Andrew's has had considerable success at both South Island and National events in recent years. Other major events are the Get2Go one day event for Years 9–10 students and the Hillary Challenge for senior students.

Orienteering
While there no regular orienteering competitions run at school level, we have a number of students who compete for local clubs. St Andrew's sends competitors to South Island and National competitions at various locations throughout New Zealand.

Rogaining
Rogaining is similar to orienteering except it is usually done in small teams and for a set time frame, e.g. two, four or six hours. There are many local events and also South Island and National competitions.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

As these events are all conducted in the outdoors, good clothing and footwear for the conditions is a must. Each event will have a list of compulsory equipment and clothing that needs to be used. Where a bike is needed, students are expected to have a well-functioning bike appropriate to the discipline i.e. road bike or mountain bike. Usually kayaks are supplied for adventure races.

Indicative Costs:

$110 per year. As some of these events require travel and overnight accommodation, the cost of attending events is met by the participants for each event that they attend.

General Information:

Competitive netball is played by teams entered in the Saturday Christchurch netball competition. Our 9A and Senior A teams also compete in the Wednesday school competition. Depending on team numbers, some Year 9 and Year 10 lower-grade teams may also participate in the Wednesday school competition instead of the Saturday Christchurch netball competition.

Venues:

Practices are held either on the school courts or in the school gyms, depending on availability. Saturday games for all teams Year 10 and above are played at Ngā Puna Wai. Year 9 teams play at alternative venues on Saturdays, depending on court availability (for example, in 2026 Year 9 games were held at Pioneer). Game times can range from 8.30am to 5.30pm. Wednesday games are played at a variety of venues, starting at 3.30pm. Transport is provided to and from the venue for Wednesday matches.

Student Commitment:

All players are required to attend trials at the beginning of the season and must commit to attending all trainings and matches. By trialling, players are committing to being fully available for their team. The Saturday competition continues throughout the school holidays, and all players are expected to participate. Players selected for the 9A, and 10A teams are required to compete during the July school holidays. If a student is unavailable during tournament week, they will not be eligible for team selection. This tournament takes place from Monday to Thursday in the first week of the New Zealand school holidays.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

Players are required to purchase their playing dress from the College shop. Senior A team dresses are provided; however, a $30.00 uniform levy applies.

Indicative Costs:

Senior A players: $300
All other Senior players: $250
Junior players: $200
Social players: $100
Tournament costs will be invoiced after the tournament has been completed.
All Wednesday players will be charged approximately $50.00 for transport.

St Andrew’s has a large number of orchestral musicians and in order to cater for the varying abilities and interest we have three orchestras. The Chamber Orchestra is for advanced and senior players. It plays a variety of music that challenges the musicians’ technical and ensemble abilities. Rehearsals are after school on Monday and alternating Tuesday lunchtimes.

The Concert Orchestra is an intermediate ensemble, where the players begin to develop their ensemble skills with music that provides all instruments with moments to shine. More able Preparatory School students can join this group. Rehearsals are on Thursday lunchtimes and alternating Tuesday lunchtimes.

The Symphony Orchestra is our largest group with 60+ musicians. It is formed by combining the Chamber and Concert Orchestras. This gives the players the experience of playing in a large orchestra, with all the excitement that entails.

They play classical works and lighter music from shows and are the prime group for important school occasions such as Founders’ Day and Prizegiving.

All three orchestras are directed by Mr Hodgkinson.

Costs:

A fee-bearing bi-annual camp to Hanmer Springs in Term 1 is held for the orchestra.

General Information:

The St Andrew’s College Pipe Band has a proud history and strong tradition and performs in competitions and at many functions and occasions throughout the year. Currently there are over 160 students learning bag pipes, snare drums and tenor drums from world-class tutors.

Student Commitment:

Weekly lessons and practices are at the College throughout the year.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

Band uniforms are supplied.

On Mondays and Fridays after school the Music Department is dedicated to all things rock. All guitarists, keyboardists/pianists, bass players, singers and drummers are invited to be part of bands that work towards the Smokefree Rockquest. After Rockquest the bands work on songs for our StAC Rock School album and put together a 'set' for our Term 3 Rock Night.

A reasonable level of ability is required, as is ongoing tuition on your instrument (in or out of school).

Auditions are required for all musicians and singers, and everyone will be placed in a band according to their ability.

Six bands will be organised for 2027. Students not in Rock School bands are welcome and encouraged to form their own bands.

General Information:

Rowing is a hugely rewarding sport that requires a great deal of commitment in both training and competition. It is an excellent way to improve fitness and strength as well as being an enjoyable team sport. The St Andrew's rowing team is an incredibly supportive, yet highly competitive team. Our crews consistently place in the top 10 in New Zealand. In 2017 our senior boys’ won the prestigious Maadi Cup and Springbok Shield.

Venues:

Training takes place at Kerr’s Reach on the Avon River. Training camps occur at Lake Ruataniwha near Twizel and competitions are at Kerr’s Reach, Lake Hood, Lake Ruataniwha and Lake Karapiro.

Student Commitment:

Students new to rowing ideally need to complete a Learn-to-Row programme offered in Terms 1 and/ or 3 before being selected into the competition squad. Competitive rowers are expected to train at least four times per week, which includes some gym work. They are also expected to attend weekend regattas and two selection and training camps in the first week of December and the middle of January.

Indicative Costs:

Rowing costs cover entry fees, uniform, coaching, travel, capital contribution, food, and accommodation costs for two Twizel training camps and approximately five regattas will be disbursed to students' accounts throughout the rowing season. Typically, this amounts to $5500–$6500 per year for the students involved in every regatta, and every second year the Maadi Cup is held in the North Island, where the cost is typically $2500. Some assistance with the rowing fees can be applied for by emailing Hamish Bell HBE@stac.school.nz 

A parent committee has been established to assist with logistics and also fundraising to help with the costs.

Please note: When selecting rowing, no other summer sport is to be selected.

General Information:

Boys’ teams are entered in the Saturday competition organised by the Canterbury Rugby Union. 

Girls team(s) play in the Wednesday afternoon competition.

There are also typical tournaments for U15, U16 and 1st XV teams during Winter Tournament Week. These teams are selected based on eligibility at the end of the regular season.

Venue:

Teams practise twice a week after school on the College grounds. Extra resource sessions are also run pre-season for skill development plus strength and conditioning. There are 'in-season' strength and conditioning sessions available for all year groups as well.

Student Commitment:

Players are expected to attend all practices and games. Students are expected to make themselves available for training and games in Term 1 and 2 holidays. Excellent behaviour is expected both on and off the field.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

College jerseys are provided and laundered. Players need to purchase their own socks and shorts from the College Shop. Practice equipment and balls are supplied by the College.

Indicative Costs:

There is an annual subscription of $300 per player.

This group is made up of students serving in the choirs (for the singers) and the Jazz Big Band (for the musicians). Entry is by invitation from Head of Music, Duncan Ferguson.

This group is to be confirmed for 2027 and may be organised in a new and fresh way depending upon student interest.

The College enters a ski and snowboard team in the Canterbury and South Island events each year. Students who participate in winter race training provided by Mt Hutt or Porters race departments can apply to have this considered as a part of their school sport participation. Students not doing club racing must also select another winter sport or cultural activity.

During Term 3 there are regular trips on Sundays to commercial ski fields in Canterbury. These trips are organised as a weekend activity for boarders and day students.

Competitions:

• Canterbury Secondary School Slopestyle (Ski and Snowboard)
• Canterbury Secondary School Ski and Snowboard Slalom
• South Island Secondary School Ski and Snowboard Slalom and Slopestyle Competition

Indicative Costs:

Bus transport plus lift tickets and rental equipment as required.

General Information:

Table tennis is available as a winter sport either as a recreational or inter-school sport. Two or three teams are usually entered in the Wednesday sport competition.

Venues:

Practice and coaching sessions are held in Gym 1 on a Tuesday. Competition matches are usually played at the Canterbury Table Tennis Stadium, Blenheim Road, on a Wednesday afternoon.

Student Commitment:

Students opting for table tennis are expected to attend practice and coaching sessions on Tuesdays after school in the Gym. Some will have the opportunity to play in a team on Wednesdays.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

Participants need suitable non-marking shoes. Wednesday competition players will be required to purchase a team shirt. Bats are available, although participants should have their own.

Indicative Costs:

$120 plus transport fee of $40.00 if in a Wednesday team.

General Information:

The Tech Crew is for students who have a passion for technical operations and have an interest in developing their skills in broadcasting, performance and event production. You will manage the technical aspects of events and productions and handle audiovisual equipment, lighting, sound systems, and setup for activities such as chapel, assemblies, sporting and cultural events, as well as college special occasions. Working closely with teachers and event organizers you ensure smooth operation and execution of cues during these productions. You are the ever-important behind-the-scenes crew of events that ensure St Andrew’s College life is recorded and presented well.

When:

• Weekly Crew Meetings: Every Monday lunchtime to plan and crew upcoming events
• Event Crewing: Varies depending on the College calendar – flexibility is essential.
• Training Workshops: Held afterschool on Mondays (3.30pm–4.30pm), Tuesdays (3.30pm–4.30pm), and Wednesdays (2.30pm–3.30pm) depending on supervisor availability.
•  Student Leadership Team: Heads of Media meet weekly to coordinate and strategise.

Training Workshops for Tech Crew are run afterschool Monday, Tuesdays (3.30pm–4.30pm) or Wednesdays (2.30pm–3.30pm) but vary in occurrence depending on training supervisors’ schedules.

Students with a strong interest in live performance production can also join Theatre Tech Crew an offshoot of Tech Crew, which is a specialised team that supports the Theatre Operations Manager during performance events held in the theatre. This includes assisting with lighting and sound setup, stage management, cue execution during rehearsals and live shows.

Tech Crew also actively seeks students with an interest in video editing to support the Technical Operations Supervisor in content creation for school events.

Note:

It’s recommended that Tech Crew members also participate in Film and Broadcasting Academy (FABA) and Media classes – to further enhance your skills and understanding.

Note for Student Heads of Media: Effective collaboration with other departments is key to successful Tech Crew-supported events. Student Heads of Media should regularly connect with cultural groups, Communications, and teachers in charge to align on event needs and planning.

To become a member of the Technical Crew, you must receive approval from Ms D’Arcy (Head of Media Studies)

Indicative Cost:

As part of the Tech Crew, members are expected to wear appropriate crew attire during events. This includes:

• Crew hoodie and t-shirt – available for purchase
• Black pants and black closed shoes – must be worn during all official crewing duties

General Information:

Tennis teams are entered in the Wednesday sport competition, and these players practise one afternoon or lunchtime per week and also take part in traditional inter-school fixtures. There are also 'learn to play' opportunities for beginners to receive coaching.

Venues:

Practices and home games are held at St Andrew’s College and Elmwood Tennis Club. Other games are held at various school courts around Christchurch.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

Players need to provide their own racquet. Balls are provided. Wednesday competition players wear the sports polo uniform and navy shorts only. The uniform can be purchased from the College Shop.

Indicative Costs:

An annual subscription of approximately $135 per year is charged to subsidise entry fees and cover coaching costs.

General Information:

Theatresports is improv theatre. It is where teams of four make stuff up on the spot, usually involving their audience in the process. It is a hoot! It’s great training for real life, you learn to think on your feet by always having an answer on the tip of your tongue. The Teacher in Charge and a senior student coach both seniors and juniors every week, so come along if you enjoy quick wit, drama/comedy and seeing others make idiots of themselves in a safe environment. We participate in the annual Court Theatre competition and often have friendly competitions with other Christchurch schools.

Venue:

Blair Gough Drama Studio/Gough Family Theatre

Student Commitment:

Students need to attend weekly sessions and extra practices where required. Attendance is compulsory once students have committed to Theatresports.

Weekly Session Times

(Subject to change depending on Production): Wednesday after school and/or Friday lunchtimes.

Indicative Costs:

$50.00 per year.

General Information:

Competitive and social touch is played by both boys' and girls' teams in the Wednesday sport competition throughout Terms 1 and 4. 

Competitive teams: Available for Year 9 - 13 students. Teams train once a week.

Social teams: Available for Year 11, 12 and 13 students. Students get their own teams together but must have a minimum of 12 players to register. Teams do not have a scheduled practise.

Venues:

Practices and home games are usually held on the First XV rugby field and away games at various fields around Christchurch.

Student Commitment:

Players are required to attend practices after school, or lunchtime, and to play on Wednesday after school. For our top Senior Teams there are occasional traditional fixtures during school time.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

The Mixed Senior 'A' team are provided with playing singlets and shorts. Players in all other teams can purchase a St Andrew's College sports singlet from the College shop or can play in their PE gear. Wearing sports shoes or rugby boots is compulsory to play. Balls and cones are provided.

Indicative Costs:

A fee of $120–$150 is charged to cover coaching and transport two and from games for all players.

Travel and accommodation costs for tournaments will be disbursed to the accounts of individuals involved.

Please Note: We have a limit on the number of teams we can enter so you may not be successful in getting into a touch team. When selecting Touch, please select a second option.

General Information:

Trap shooting is a winter sport that students take part in through Terms 2 and 3.

Venue:

Practices are held at the Canterbury Clay Target Club at McLeans Island on Wednesday afternoons after school.

Pre-requisites:

Although previous experience is not absolutely necessary, students who have shot before will be given preference. Membership is through invitation, as for a number of reasons, we can only cater for limited numbers.

Student Commitment:

Students are expected to attend all practices as well as the fortnightly shoots on Sunday at Canterbury Clay Target Clubs and any other competitions as required.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

All equipment is provided.

Indicative Costs:

Approximately $2000–$3000. If selected for South Island Championships and/or Nationals, these costs are extra.

General Information:

VEX Robotics is an international robotics team sport running in 40 countries around the world. Students plan, engineer, program and test designs that are then used to compete at VEX Scrimmages. It is open to students from Years 7–13.

The season starts early February with the Canterbury Challenge, followed by the Worlds Game released in April, and runs through to March the following year. Students new to VEX are trained in existing teams until the National Championships have concluded in late February. Spaces are very limited.

Venue:

Scrimmages are held on alternating Saturday/Sundays in The Green Library and Innovation Centre.

Indicative Costs:

A fee of $60.00 per term will be charged to participating VEX students. This will cover team registration costs with the international body and also help to cover ongoing equipment costs throughout the season.

General Information:

Volleyball is an exciting summer team sport for both males and females, catering for players of all levels. Teams are entered into the Monday after school/ evening competitions throughout Terms 1 and 4. There are a number of tournaments held for teams to attend, such as Canterbury and South Island Championships, and an additional National tournament for the top Senior teams. For less experienced junior players, there is a 'Learn to Play' programme held during lunchtime to learn the basic skills, techniques and to have some fun. 

Venue:

Practices are held in the College gymnasiums. Games are held at school gyms around Christchurch.

Student Commitment:

Players are expected to attend all practices and to be available for all Monday games. Players selected into Senior teams are expected to attend all tournaments in Term 1, including the Canterbury and South Island Championships, as well as Nationals for our Senior 'A' teams. Players selected into our Junior teams are expected to attend the Canterbury and South Island tournaments held in Term 4.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

Students will be provided with a playing top which must be returned by the end of the season. A uniform charge of $30.00 will be disbursed to each players' College account. All girls’ teams will need to purchase their own black spandex to play in. Junior girls may wear their navy PE shorts if desired. Boys are to wear their PE shorts. Social teams are to wear full PE uniform.

Indicative Costs:

All players are charged a $150 subscription to cover Term 1 and 4 participation, and any additional travel costs will be disbursed at the beginning of the season. Travel and accommodation costs for tournaments will be disbursed to the accounts of the individuals involved.

General Information:

Water Polo teams are entered in the Wednesday competition in Terms 1 and 4. Term 1 is for juniors and seniors and Term 4 juniors only. Training for the 'A' teams is twice a week, all other teams, once per week dependent on pool availability.

Venue:

All games take place at Jellie Park, Christchurch Boys' High School or QEII.

Student Commitment:

Water Polo requires a reasonable level of swimming ability and general fitness. Students are expected to attend all practices and games. In addition, teams are entered into South Island and Canterbury Schools' tournaments, which usually take place over the weekend or as part of Summer Tournament week.

Uniform/Gear Requirements:

Players are required to have St Andrew’s College togs (boys $75.00, girls $99.00). 

Indicative Costs:

All players will have a subscription of $180 for Seniors and $160 for Juniors per term. If attending South Islands, there will be additional costs.

In 2027, the English Department will again be offering students the opportunity to attend a co-curricular writing class, held once a week in AB402. The aim of the class is to foster creative writing talent in the College, in both poetry and prose, and to further student success in writing competitions and publication opportunities. The class is run by our Writer-in- residence, Mrs Kerrin Davidson (Kerrin P Sharpe). It is open to any students who are interested in creative writing, regardless of experience. Students should commit to regular attendance.

Venue:

AB402.