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Preparatory School Newsletter

Thursday 27 November 2025

Term 4 Week 7

Important Dates:

  • Friday 28 November – End of Year Prizegiving, 4.00pm, Wolfbrook Arena
  • Friday 5 December – End of Year Preparatory School Assembly, 10.40am
    • School finishes for the year at 12.30pm (No After-school Care available).

This Week in Action

Dr Carolyn Cairns: Ballet Academy Artistic Director

As my time at the College draws to an end, I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge Carolyn for her outstanding achievements over the last 15 years. What started as a handful of children having Ballet lessons in the Preparatory School Dance and Drama room, developed into a fully-fledged Ballet Academy across the College.

Carolyn’s talent, commitment, determination, and attention to detail is second to none. For many years, our Ballet dancers have achieved wonderful examination results. They have also had the opportunity to showcase their skills at the end-of-year Ballet Production on stage and under lights. This year, it is The Sleeping Beauty. What’s more, the show will include our very youngest students to our oldest. On Saturday, I will attend the performance in a packed theatre, and once again I know I will be stunned at the quality and talent.

Carolyn, thank you for bringing the gift of dance to our students. You are truly remarkable.  

 

Melanoma Awareness – Get Spotted

Thanks to those of you who donated to Melanoma New Zealand. You can still donate if you haven’t already.

Donate to Melanoma NZ > 

 

Remember to:

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

Regards


Jonathan Bierwirth
Principal of Preparatory School
Deputy for Rector

JBI

Around the School

251127 Advent Chapel

ADVENT CHRISTMAS CHAPEL

On Sunday, the Preparatory School held their annual Advent Service. It was a step back in time to see the manger scene with a real baby and donkey accompanying Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and of course the angels. Religious Education Teacher, Bridget Roth, spoke of the importance of love connecting humanity with the divine. The Junior choir sang an uplifting song called Come and Join the Celebration. Preparatory School Principal, Jonathan Bierwirth, lit the Christ Candle and the service finished with Cantare Choir almost lifting the roof with their beautiful descant voices singing the traditional Christmas carol, Once in Royal David’s City. The Christmas gifts generously donated by our community were given to the Christchurch City Mission to be delivered to children experiencing difficult circumstances.

JUNIOR DEPARTMENT CHRISTMAS CONCERT

On Monday, the Junior Department gathered in the Centennial Chapel for their annual Christmas Celebration and Year 3 Graduation. Guests enjoyed a delightful programme of festive music, with each class showcasing their talents on stage. Following the performances, Year 3 students were presented with graduation certificates, accompanied by sincere reflections shared by the children. In addition, two special Leavers’ Awards were presented to departing Principal, Jonathan Bierwirth, and Teacher, Caroline Gardiner, in recognition of their outstanding contributions and unwavering support of the Junior Department. 

Flickr >
251127 Y3XmasConcert D01 9017
251127 BarnDance 20251120 046A1287

YEAR 7 BARN DANCE

On Thursday last week, Year 7 students swapped their school shoes for dancing boots and headed to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve for an unforgettable Barn Dance! With 90 enthusiastic students in attendance, the evening was filled with laughter, lively music, and plenty of energy. From classic line dances to spirited group routines, everyone joined in the fun. The students showcased their moves and enjoyed the chance to celebrate together. A huge thank you to all who helped make this event possible, it was a fantastic way to bring our Year 7 cohort together and celebrate the year. 

Flickr >

ORCHESTRA

On Wednesday afternoon, the Preparatory School Orchestra conducted by Music Teacher, Ros Emeleus, performed in the Stewart Junior Centre to children in the Pre-school and Junior School. The orchestra presented a short programme of two Christmas carols and a piece written for the orchestra by Ms Emeleus' father, John Emeleus. The children were a very appreciative audience, and enjoyed listening and seeing the instruments up close. It is hoped that this will become an annual tradition.

YEAR 5 CAMP

Year 5 students enjoyed an exciting two days at Living Springs Camp. They kicked off their adventure with a visit to the farm park, where they had fun feeding the animals and studying the fascinating water creatures in the stream. The days were packed with energetic activities, including archery, bouldering, initiatives and swimming, all fuelled by delicious meals. A highlight for the children was riding the monorail and exploring the open spaces. A huge thank you to all our amazing parents whose involvement and support made the camp a great success.

Flickr >
251127 Y5Camp IMG 6255
251127 JBPre school Table

JONATHAN BIERWIRTH’S PRE-SCHOOL FAREWELL

The Pre-school farewelled Preparatory School Principal, Jonathan Bierwirth, at a golf-themed party last Friday. He wore the Pre-school’s special farewell Korowai and was presented a Leavers’ certificate, a special farewell book made by the children, and a hand-painted plate featuring the Pre-school playground on it.

Flickr >

Student Successes

MATHEMATICS

Jacob Wang (Year 8) recently received a Gold Award in the American Mathematics Olympiad (AMO) Grade 7. His outstanding performance has placed him first in New Zealand and eighth place globally.

251127 Maths

CREATIVE WRITING

A number of St Andrew’s students participated in The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition (QCEC) – the world’s oldest international writing competition for schools, organised by the Royal Commonwealth Society since 1883. It aims to give young people across the Commonwealth a platform to express their ideas, hopes, and perspectives through creative writing and attracts entries from over 50 Commonwealth nations (in 2025, 53,434 entries from 54 countries). Preparatory School students achieved the following results: 

  • Gold: Georgia Blyde (Year 5), Ava Blyde (Year 4), Aneel Bartlett (Year 8), Mia Zhang (Year 7);
  • Silver: Reva Bartlett (Year 5).

 

251127 ScienceBadges

SCIENCE BADGE

Over the past two terms at Friday lunchtimes, Year 7–10 students have been completing Science Badge activities, ranging from Sports Science to Meteorology and Forensics. The purpose of Science Badges is to get students interested in and working on a series of science activities. Students choose a badge (there are over 30 available) and are provided with an activity sheet for that badge. Students need to complete 20 points from the activity sheet. When completed, students receive a certificate and a badge to wear on their blazer, which is presented in assembly or Deans Hui. Special awards are presented to students when they complete the required number of badges. 

Elina Wang (Year 8) recently completed her 30th Science Badge and was awarded with her Platinum Star Badge. A badge, certificate and congratulatory letter will be presented to Elina at the End of Year Preparatory School Assembly. She also has her photo on the Science Award Trust Honours Board. She is one of only nine students in New Zealand who has reached this level this year. 

Science Badge Club is for Years 7–10. For students who wish to join, the club will start up again early in Term 1. If you would like more information about Science Badges, please visit www.sciencebadges.co.nz or email Science Teacher, Rebecca Richardson, at RRI@stac.school.nz. 

SWIMMING

Liam Botha (Year 4) competed in the 2025 Swimming Canterbury West Coast Junior Championships in Boys’ Aged 10 and Under this past weekend. He achieved the following results: 

  • 1st – Canterbury: 100m Fly;
  • 1st – 200m Backstroke;
  • 2nd – Canterbury: 100m Individual Medley;
  • 2nd – 50m Butterfly;
  • 2nd – 200m Individual Medley.
251127 Swimming
251127 ChlöeAnn Gymnastics

GYMNASTICS

ChlöeAnn Botha (Year 7) competed at the 2025 XP Gymnastics Nationals in Auckland. She achieved a proficiency score of 52.133.

CPSSA ATHLETICS

Twenty Preparatory School athletes put in a strong showing at Wednesday’s CPSSA Athletics held at Ngā Puna Wai. On a hot and windy day, the students battled tough conditions and represented the school with determination and pride. Thomas Franks (Year 5) was crowned champion shot-put thrower, with an outstanding throw of 10.20m. Joshua Smith (Year 8) tied for third place in the high jump, with a final successful jump of 1.45m. Diesel Mackie (Year 8) ran a superb race to finish second in the Year 8 Boys’ 1500m. Overall, it was a day of resilience, effort, and impressive achievements from all St Andrew’s competitors.

See all Preparatory School results>

See full event results>

CRICKET

On Monday and Tuesday, the Preparatory 1st XI competed in the two-day CJCA Cricket Festival at Hagley Park. Across the event, the team played four thrilling 12/12 matches, with two additional games unfortunately cancelled due to rain. The side produced some excellent cricket throughout, securing victories against Medbury School, Kirkwood Intermediate, and Christchurch South Intermediate. Their only defeat came in a low-scoring contest against the unbeaten Hillview School. Highlights of the festival included elegant stroke play, powerful hitting, disciplined bowling, and several outstanding catches. It was a superb effort all round.

Canterbury Representative

TOUCH

In addition to the five other students previously reported, Alessandria Greer (Year 6) was also named in the Canterbury U12 touch team. 

251127 Touch Rep

Notices

Summer Reading

SUMMER READING PHOTO CHALLENGE

The Library Team at St Andrew’s College Preparatory School is excited to invite all returning students to take part in our Summer Reading Photo Challenge!

Here’s how it works:

  • Snap a photo of yourself enjoying a great book in a sunny summer setting during the holidays.
  • Heading overseas? No problem – send us a cozy winter reading photo instead!

Why join?

  • Fantastic prizes await the most creative and fun photos!
  • Simply email your photo to THL@stac.school.nz.

Why is summer reading so important?

Reading over the holidays helps prevent the “summer slide” in reading levels and keeps your mind sharp. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to relax and explore new worlds. So, grab a book and read for pleasure this summer!

 

 

 

BALLET PRODUCTION: THE SLEEPING BEAUTY

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:

  • Thursday 27 November, 6.00pm–7.30pm
  • Saturday 29 November, 2.00pm–3.30pm
  • Saturday 29 November, 4.30pm–6.00pm

Where: Gough Family Theatre – Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre
Tickets: Adult $38.00 | Student $20.00 (student ID may be requested on entry)

Buy Tickets Online>
Sleeping Beauty 2 1
251113 Road Safety Notice

ROAD SAFETY AND DROP-OFF ZONE REMINDERS

A recent review of near misses from January to September has highlighted that many incidents have occurred around the Drop-off Zone and Road Patrol area. While no injuries were sustained, these situations could have resulted in harm under slightly different circumstances. We have introduced several safety measures over the past year and continue to work with the Christchurch City Council and New Zealand Police to improve safety. Police will provide occasional visits to enforce safe driving behaviours.

How you can help – Road Patrol

  • Please keep to the speed limit of 30KM during the following times when Road Patrol is operating: 
    • Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 8.00am–8.35am and 3.20pm–3.40pm.
    • Wednesday: 8.00am–8.30am and 2.25pm–2.40pm.
  • Avoid parking on yellow lines or people’s driveways.
  • Avoid stopping in the middle of the Road Patrol area.
  • Please use the Road Patrol and follow the instructions of our road patrollers.

How you can help – Drop-off Zone and Carpark

  • The speed limit is 5KM for drivers in the Drop-off Zone and Normans Road carpark.
  • Avoid parking on yellow lines.
  • Please remind your children to wait for your vehicle to park safely before attempting to open the door.
  • Please be mindful and present.

Your cooperation is essential to ensure the safety of our students, staff, and community. Thank you for your support.

CHARITY CLOTHING COLLECTION

Project Infinity is a voluntary initiative that assembles Christmas bags for school children in need, and sometimes their family members as well. The group works closely with Bromley Primary School and Opawa Primary School. Both schools have families who are struggling, and Project Infinity provides them with a new school bag filled with clean pre-loved clothing, new socks and underwear, and a small toy. Each year, the children are absolutely delighted with their unexpected gift. Bromley Primary School holds a celebration evening for the children who are chosen, and they enjoy the festivities with their families and then take home their special bags!

Your donation is needed: Community support makes this project possible. Donations of clean, pre-loved clothing for girls and boys aged 5–18 are warmly welcomed. Designer labels are not required – any contribution will be gratefully accepted. Clothing can be dropped off at the Preparatory School reception, with the final collection day being Friday 5 December. Thank you for helping make a difference this Christmas!

251113 Charity Donation Bags

JANUARY SPORT HOLIDAY PROGRAMME | REGISTER NOW | REGISTER NOW

The Preparatory School will run a Sport Holiday Programme during the last week of the January holidays (Monday 19 – Friday 23 January).

Who: Year 1–8 students
Time: 9.00am–1.30pm daily (drop-off from 8.30am in the Preparatory School Library)
Cost: $325 for the week (until 1.30pm) or $400 (until 3.30pm, includes supervision)
Daily rate: $80 (until 1.30pm) or $95 (until 3.30pm)
Sports: Invasion games, frisbee golf, basketball, futsal, pickleball, and more!
Lunch: Subway on Mon/Wed/Fri; pizza on Tue/Thu (extra $15 for foot-long option). Students bring morning tea and a water bottle.

Permission form and Subway orders must be completed by Friday 16 January.

Subway Order form >

Online Permission form >

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.

SPEECH AND DRAMA TUITION 2026

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. For those in Year 8, spaces at Secondary School are limited. 

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 Preparatory School year levels.

For more information, and to register your child for Speech and Drama Tuition, please click here. 

Thistles Shop MG 9151

COLLEGE SHOPS – SUMMER HOURS

The College Shop – Thistles will be open in December with the following summer hours:

  • Monday 1 December – Friday 19 December 2025, 8.00am–4.30pm. 

Thistles will re-open in 2026 with the following hours: 

  • from Monday 12 January, with uniform fitting appointments available during this period;
  • the opening hours during January will be 8.00am–4.30pm weekdays.

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:

  • Thursday 22 January: 10.00am–4.00pm
  • Friday 23 January: 10.00am–4.00pm
  • Monday 26 January: 10.00am–12.30pm
  • Tuesday 27 January: 3.00pm–4.30pm
  • Thursday 29 January 3.00pm–4.30pm

PHOTOGRAPHY ONLINE ORDERS

All 2025 school photographs are now available to purchase online:

  • All individual student photographs;
  • All classes and tutor groups;
  • Years 9 and 13 year-group photographs;
  • All sports, cultural, and leadership groups;
  • Large groups for rowing, Pipe Band, and Boarding houses;
  • Preparatory School sibling group photographs.

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

ORDER PHOTOGRAPHS ONLINE >

OnlinePhotographyOrdering

ABSENCES

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:

Recording a Student Absence>

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).