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The Years 4–8 Athletics Sports Day was a highlight this week. Congratulations to Head of Physical Education, Isaac Leota, on his remarkable pivot from the postponement from Ngā Puna Wai last week, to hosting the sports at the College, on the top field, this week. An outstanding achievement. Isaac has an innate ability to make complicated things look easy – he is a class act! Also, sincere thanks to the Maintenance team for assisting with the gear and the marking of the track, and the Preparatory School staff involved on the day. They were superb, especially given several experienced staff were unable to be involved on Monday.
The highlight, of course, is always the children. There was unbelievable talent on show, and many children were able to shine under the pressure of performance. The really cool thing I like about our sports, is the fact all children are involved, and they can all achieve their own personal goals (whatever the level) on the day – and have fun.
StACTalks is our series of well-being evenings for parents. On Monday evening, this free session featured guest speaker, Jo Robertson, sex therapist and international presenter. Jo offered practical strategies and resources for navigating the online world with your child, covering topics such as: screen time, social media, gaming, pornography exposure, grooming, and exploitation. Jo has an Instagram account you may want to check out or subscribe to, by clicking here. Read more about this StACTalk further in the newsletter.
Melanoma
Melanoma is a form of cancer that develops in the skin’s pigment cells. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, and it can progress quickly. Anyone in New Zealand can get melanoma. It is treatable if diagnosed early, but if the cancer spreads to other parts of the body the prospects can be fatal.
Statistics
Risk Factors
Prevention
Slip on a long sleeved, collared shirt
Slop on sunscreen that is at least SPF30, broad spectrum and water resistant
Slap on a broad brimmed hat that protects the face, neck, and ears
Seek shade
Slide on close fitting sunglasses
All Preparatory School children are required to have a St Andrew's College wide-brimmed or bucket hat at school. We hope this protection continues when they are not at school.
Regards
Jonathan Bierwirth
Principal of Preparatory School
Deputy for Rector
On Monday, the Preparatory School held its annual Athletics Sports Day on the top field. The weather was sunny with a light breeze, creating ideal conditions for a successful event. This was after having to postpone the event from the usual Ngā Puna Wai track due to inclement weather. Students responded admirably to the change in location, showing great adaptability and enthusiasm throughout the day. Their positive attitude contributed to a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. The day concluded with a series of exciting class relays. The feedback from many students was that their class relay was their favourite event, and they thoroughly enjoy the inter-class competition. It was a pleasure to see so many whānau and parents present. Congratulations to our age group champions:
Year 4 Boy: Alexander Petelo; Year 4 Girl: Zoe Johnstone; Year 5 Boy: Theo Nelson; Year 5 Girl: Francesca Greer; Year 6 Boy: Samuel Carline; Year 6 Girl: Alessandria Greer; Year 7 Boy: Patrick Glover; Year 7 Girl: Sophie Jacobs; Year 8 Boy: Patrick O'Byrne; Year 8 Girl: Mila Rule.
See all individual event results by clicking here.
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On Monday, Jo Robertson presented a StACTalk session for Year 0–10 parents/caregivers, offering practical advice on keeping children safe online. Jo, an expert in sex education and digital safety, highlighted that excessive screen time (over two hours daily) can negatively impact children’s physical health. New Zealand’s average screen time is 42 hours weekly, well above the global average. Key online risks discussed included the ease of encountering pornography, a dramatic rise in online grooming (especially self-generated content among 7–10-year-olds), and the prevalence of grooming on platforms like Omegle, Kik, Snapchat, Telegram, Instagram, and Marco Polo. Jo recommended the following tips for parents:
For detailed information about this session, past StACTalks, links to the parent resources, or sign the 'Hold the Line ‘til Year 9' Parent Pledge, please visit our StACTalks page on StACNet.
The St Andrew’s College NFL Flag team travelled to Wellington to compete at the 2025 NFL Flag National Championships, earning an impressive sixth place finish among more than 70 teams from across Aotearoa. After a strong showing at the Canterbury Regionals, where they finished runners-up, the young team carried that momentum into Nationals. They fought hard through pool play, with two wins and two narrow losses, including a close one-touchdown defeat to eventual champions Hutt Intermediate School. Despite being one of the youngest and smallest squads in the competition, the players showed exceptional teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship throughout the tournament. A special congratulations goes to Indi Haydon-Uren (Year 7), who was recognised as one of the standout players of the tournament, earning an individual award for her all-round performance on both offence and defence. The group represented St Andrew’s with pride and passion, continuing to build the College’s growing reputation as one of New Zealand’s leading flag football programmes.
Millie Rosewarne (Year 7) competed at the John Jones Steel FEI South Island Three Day Event Championships held at McLeans Island. Competing in U21 at age 11, Millie was the youngest in her category. Millie competed in the 80cm class in Dressage, Cross Country and Show jumping. She went double clear in the jumping (no stops or rails) and finished on her dressage score. Millie finished in ninth place out of 35 – with only four points (equivalent of one rail) between first and ninth place.
Watson (Year 2) and Violet Winterbourn (Year 5) enjoyed some highland dancing success over the weekend at the Ashburton A&P show. Watson won the U8 Jig and a trophy for winning the Restricted U10 Jig; while Violet received a trophy for winning the U14 Waltz Clog.
Georgia Gregg (Year 8) competed at the Amberley A&P Show, winning Most Points U14 and the trophy for Most Points of the day.
Year 2–4 Speech and Drama students had a wonderful day performing their pieces for the annual Speech New Zealand Oral Communication Assessments. The children were excited to share their prepared talks, plays, and choral verses with the visiting assessor. Their enthusiasm, creativity, and confidence shone through every performance. Many parents who were in the audience remarked on the notable development in confidence they have seen since their child began Speech and Drama lessons at St Andrew's.
All Preparatory School parents/caregivers were sent an email regarding making their child's summer and winter sport options for 2026. Please refer to the email for more information, and to make your child's options selections via the link provided.
Options selections must be completed by Friday 7 November 2025 at 5.00pm.
This is a reminder that your confirmed commitment to the Australian Tour is required by Friday 14 November, if you wish your child to be considered to attend. The tour will take place Sunday 12 – Saturday 18 July 2026.
Please note that this tour is for netball, rugby, netball/basketball, and rugby/basketball, and for Year 7 and 8 (2026) students only. The total cost of this tour will be $3000.
If your child would like to be considered for the tour, then a $200 deposit needs to be made, and the Confirmation of Interest and Sports Selection form completed by 5.00pm on Friday 14 November via the link below:
COMPLETE THE CONFIRMATION OF INTEREST AND SPORTS SELECTION FORM HERE >
In the event that your child is not selected (selection takes place in early Term 1 2026), then the deposit will be fully refunded. If you have any questions, please email Deputy Principal of Preparatory School (Operations), Alex Kelley, at AKE@stac.school.nz.
We are excited to invite the St Andrew’s College community to join us at the Royal A&P Show of New Zealand from Thursday 13 – Saturday 15 November. You will find us at Site M33, where we will be reconnecting with Old Collegians and welcoming new families. Whether you are stopping by for a chat, to learn more about what is happening at St Andrew’s, or just to say hello – we would love to see you there.
From Monday 10 November we will be holding our annual Scholastic Book Fair in the Preparatory School Library. There will be a fantastic variety of children's books available for purchase and, with Christmas approaching fast, it's a great way to give the gift of reading!
The Book Fair will be open from Monday 10 November to Thursday 13 November, 8.00am–4.00pm. Purchases can be made by credit or debit card only. Please, no cash or cheques.
If you are unable to visit the Book Fair, your child can bring home a Wishlist for your approval. You may then complete your credit/debit card details on the back of the form and return it to the Book Fair with your child to purchase their chosen book/s.
The Scholastic Book Fair is an important event in the Preparatory School Calendar, with a generous percentage of sales from this event used to support our very successful Wide Reading Programme. Recipients of the Gold Wide Reading Award for 2025 will receive their book reward at this event.
Please note that the last day for submitting a completed Gold Wide Reading Booklet will be Friday 7 November.
We warmly invite our school community to participate in a meaningful initiative: Donate a Book for Christmas.
During our upcoming Scholastic Book Fair, we will be hosting a book donation collection box in support of the charity, Kiwi Christmas Books; the charity works to ensure that children and families who might otherwise go without are gifted new books during the festive season.
We encourage families to consider purchasing an additional book at the Book Fair to contribute to this cause. Your generous donation will help bring the joy of reading to those in need and make a lasting impact this Christmas.
For more information, please click the following link: Kiwi Christmas Books
Thank you for your support.
A Christmas Holiday Programme will be held at the St Andrew’s College Preparatory School from Monday 8 – Friday 12 December 2025. Children will enjoy a week of engaging activities both at the College and off-site, planned and supervised by staff. These will include sports, games and craft.
For further information and to register, please click here: https://stac.nz/HolidayProgramme.
The registration form will close at 5.00pm on Friday 21 November.
Please ensure medical information is up to date for your child in the Community Portal, by clicking this link: https://stac.nz/Details. Please indicate if there are any specific medical requirements or considerations we need to be aware of to assist in your child’s participation.
Unlock confidence, creativity, and expressive power through Speech and Drama. This programme nurtures students from Years 1–13, building communication skills, imagination, and self-belief that last a lifetime.
Existing students are invited to pre-enrol for 2026 to secure their place for next year. New students are warmly welcomed, whether stepping onto the stage for the first time or continuing to develop their voice and presence, every child is encouraged to shine. Join a supportive environment where students grow in confidence, connection, and courage – skills that go far beyond performance. Spaces are currently available for all year levels.
For more information, and to register your child for Speech and Drama Tuition, please click here.
If you made a PTA Christmas Goodies order, orders may be collected from the College's Second-hand Uniform Shop between 3.00pm–4.30pm on:
Please note, the final day for collection of orders will be Thursday 27 November.
Thank you once again and we hope you enjoy your Christmas Goodies.
From the St Andrew’s College PTA
Step into a world of enchantment, where fairies weave spells, a kingdom slumbers under a wicked curse, and true love awakens with a single kiss. Set to Tchaikovsky’s breathtaking score and brought to life through exquisite choreography, The Sleeping Beauty is a timeless ballet that blends grace, grandeur, and a touch of magic. Join Princess Aurora, the Lilac Fairy, and a cast of fairy tale characters in this radiant celebration of beauty, hope, and the triumph of love.
Dates and times:
Where: Gough Family Theatre – Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre
Tickets: Adult $38.00 | Student $20.00 (student ID may be requested on entry)
The College Shop – Thistles will be open in December with the following summer hours:
Thistles will re-open in 2026 with the following hours:
The final operating day for the Second-Hand Uniform Shop in 2025 will be Friday 19 December. In January 2026, the Second-hand Uniform Shop will be open with the following hours:
Join us for a captivating screening of Maurice and I, a documentary celebrating the architectural legacy of Maurice Mahoney and Sir Miles Warren. Featuring rare archival footage and their final interview together, the film explores how their partnership transformed Christchurch’s cityscape. The event will feature a Q&A with the filmmakers, Rick Harvie (OC 1989) – Director/Producer, Belmont Productions, and Jane Mahoney – Director/Producer and daughter of Maurice Mahoney. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear from the creators and reflect on Christchurch’s architectural heritage.
Date: Wednesday 12 November
Time: 6.00pm (6.30pm screening)
Location: Gough Family Theatre, St Andrew’s College
Tickets: $20.00 (includes a welcome drink and canapés)
All 2025 school photographs are now available to purchase online:
Details of how to order the photographs can be found on our website using the button below and you will need to log into StACNet using your St Andrew's College login.
If you have any questions relating to this service, please email photography@stac.school.nz
For any illness, students should stay home if unwell. Any student should also feel free to wear a mask if they wish to do so while at school.
For any absence, whether ill-health (including COVID-19) or otherwise, the College’s preferred platform for reporting this is via our online form which can be found at the button below:
If you are not able to report your child's absence using the online form, please report their absence via the relevant email address below. If you cannot get through to us via the form or email, please call our attendance line on +64 3 940 2031 (term time only).
