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Kia ora koutou
One of the many strengths of a Preparatory School education is the range of learning opportunities students experience beyond the classroom. Often referred to as Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC), these experiences encourage students to challenge themselves, strengthen friendships, build resilience and develop confidence in new situations.
Over recent weeks, and in the weeks ahead, students across Years 4–8 have been involved in a range of outdoor education experiences. Our Year 5 students recently returned from Living Springs full of stories, including the unexpected excitement of a power outage, while our Year 4 students headed to Woodend today. Our Year 6 and Year 7 students also look ahead to their camps later next term.
A huge thank you goes to the many parents and whānau who support these opportunities, whether by volunteering their time, helping students pack and label clothing, or ensuring they arrive prepared for their adventures. We are incredibly grateful for this partnership between home and school.
As I write this newsletter, I am in Tauranga supporting our Years 7–8 football team and Years 7–8 Mixed hockey team at the AIMS Games. It has been a privilege to spend time alongside this outstanding group of students. Beyond the competition itself, I have enjoyed seeing friendships strengthen, students support one another through both successes and challenges, and the pride they take in representing St Andrew's College.
When I asked students what they had enjoyed most about the week, their responses were telling. While some spoke about the coaching and competition, many highlighted the chance to spend time with friends, share meals together, enjoy the occasional smoothie, and create memories. As Seth Clenshaw shared, "AIMS Games is a really good trip to learn independence." It was a reminder that experiences such as AIMS Games are about much more than results.
I am also incredibly grateful to the staff who have coordinated and supported this event. A special thank you to Deputy Principal (Operations), Alex Kelley, who has led this significant undertaking alongside a fantastic staff team and parent coach, creating such a positive experience for our students.
I would also like to acknowledge the staff back at school who have continued to ensure learning, events and day-to-day life in the Preparatory School run smoothly. Their flexibility, teamwork and commitment are deeply appreciated.
As we look ahead to the coming weeks, we are excited for the many opportunities still to come, including the Tūhono Kapa Haka Festival on Saturday 19 September and ongoing rehearsals for the Music Festival on Thursday 5 November. We look forward to sharing these experiences with our community in the weeks ahead.
Ngā mihi nui
Leigh Fowler
Principal of Preparatory School
Deputy Rector
Thursday 17 September will be Casual-wear Day for Rutherford House.
Students in Rutherford House can wear casual wear clothes with a touch of blue.
For a full list of upcoming school events, please refer to the Fixtures page on StACNet (filter by "Preparatory School").
This term, Year 8 students have taken part in a hands-on Water Challenge unit, exploring how water moves through natural and human systems and why wai is considered a taonga. Through a series of practical investigations, students built model catchments to explore the water cycle, traced the journey of water through our environment, and examined how human activities can affect the health of waterways. These activities encouraged students to think critically about sustainability and the importance of protecting freshwater ecosystems.
Students then stepped into the role of engineers and scientists, designing and testing their own water filtration systems and constructing pipe networks to investigate how clean water is delivered to our homes. Working collaboratively, they collected data, evaluated the success of their designs, and refined their solutions using evidence gathered from their investigations. These challenges developed problem-solving skills while highlighting the engineering that supports safe and reliable access to water.
The unit culminated in a field trip to Strowan Stream, where students applied their classroom learning in a real-world setting. Acting as stream scientists, they investigated water quality, measured stream conditions, observed habitats, and searched for aquatic invertebrates that provide clues about ecosystem health. Using both scientific evidence and the Mauri Compass framework, students evaluated the health of the stream and considered how communities can help protect freshwater environments for future generations. The experience provided an authentic opportunity to connect science learning with environmental stewardship in our local area.
Flickr>Year 8 students have been working towards completing a Science Badge of their choice. This exciting opportunity gave students the chance to explore a scientific topic that genuinely interested them and take ownership of their own learning. From developing research questions to conducting experiments, students followed a scientific method to investigate a variety of tasks. Throughout the process, students learned how to gather information from reliable sources, develop hypotheses, and design fair and valid investigations. An important feature of the Science Badge was the focus on independence. Students set goals, planned their investigations, and monitored their progress.
To conclude the badge, students presented their findings using a range of visual and digital tools. These presentations showcased not only their scientific knowledge but also their growing confidence using a digital presentation tool. It has been wonderful to see the curiosity and perseverance demonstrated by the students throughout this learning journey. The teachers have been impressed by the effort the students have put into their work and the wide variety of topics they have explored while working towards their chosen badges. Their commitment, and willingness to challenge themselves has been wonderful to see.
What began as a Year 2 study of the classic novel Mr Popper's Penguins developed into an exciting inquiry into Antarctica and its remarkable wildlife. Inspired by their learning, students wrote individual letters (scanned and sent electronically) to Jamie McGaw, a Science Technician at Scott Base, asking thoughtful questions about life and work on the frozen continent. To the students' delight, a few weeks later Jamie responded personally to every letter, answering each child’s questions and sharing photographs from Scott Base, including images of Emperor penguins in their natural habitat. The experience brought Antarctica to life, with the students discovering that their voices mattered, their questions were worth asking, and people at the bottom of the world were willing to take the time to answer them. The Year 2 Learning Team is grateful to Jamie and the Scott Base team for their generosity and commitment to educational outreach. Their kindness created a memorable learning experience and inspired a special connection between St Andrew’s Preparatory School and Scott Base, Antarctica.
To farewell winter and welcome the promise of spring, the Junior Department enjoyed a Pyjama Day today. Children arrived in cosy pyjamas and slippers, with many bringing a favourite soft toy to join them throughout the day.
The event brought fun and warmth to the usual school routine, creating a shared sense of connection as students marked the changing of the seasons together while continuing with their learning.
Flickr>Theo Nelson (Year 6) has been selected to represent Canterbury at the Inter-Regional Cross Country Championships in September in Nelson.
Felix Johnston (Year 3) and his team won the annual Canterbury Ice Hockey U12 Tournament over the weekend.
On Saturday 5 September, Preparatory School students Cole Gordon-Glassford, Archie Gordon, Jack Bailey and Joshua Spencer (all Year 7) placed second in the Junior Championship division of the Canterbury Adventure Race, in the six-hour race. These results highlight the depth of talent within the College’s adventure racing programme and reflect the teamwork, resilience, navigation skills and determination shown by all students throughout the event.
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Monday 7 September saw the brave and the hearty take on the cool conditions of the Primary Sports Canterbury Duathlon at the Euro Marque Raceway. Twenty-four Preparatory students from Years 5–8 took part in the annual event that saw over 700 students from around Canterbury run, bike and run their way around the racetrack. Our St Andrew's students showed amazing determination and grit, with many students making their debut in the duathlon event.
The following athletes achieved a top 20 performance:
• Year 5: Ava Blyde 16th;
• Year 6: Theo Nelson 7th; Georgia Blyde 17th;
• Year 7: Cameryn Schmidt 18th;
• Year 8: Montgomery Fox 12th.
See the full results on the Primary Sports Canterbury website by clicking here.
Flickr>Jessica Nelson (Year 4) competed at the 2026 Canterbury Regional Gymnastics Championships representing her club. Jessie delivered strong and consistent performances across all four apparatus throughout the competition, earning two gold ribbons.
On Thursday 27 August, Year 5 students attended Camp at Living Springs, where they enjoyed a range of exciting outdoor and educational experiences. It was fantastic to see students demonstrating our school values of Creativity | Auahatanga and Inclusivity | Kanorau as they stepped outside their comfort zones and embraced new opportunities. Throughout the camp, students showed outstanding teamwork, collaboration, and perseverance. They encouraged one another, tackled challenges with a positive attitude, and actively participated in every activity. The willingness of students to support their peers and give everything a go was a highlight of the camp experience. Activities included orienteering, bouldering, archery, riflery, swimming, teamwork initiatives, DIY go-karts, and the monorail. Students also enjoyed the delicious food, an energetic dance party, an evening game of Spotlight, and spending time in the stunning natural surroundings of Living Springs. The camp provided valuable opportunities for students to build confidence, develop resilience, strengthen friendships and create lasting memories. We are incredibly proud of the enthusiasm, courage and positive attitude demonstrated by all of our Year 5 students throughout their time at camp.
Flickr>Last week, the Preparatory School was alive with excitement as students and staff came together to celebrate Book Week. This year's theme, Critters and Creatures, inspired a week of literary adventure and imagination, with the Preparatory School Library team leading a vibrant programme of events and activities.
Throughout the week, akōnga enjoyed a range of competitions, story-sharing opportunities, and engaging library sessions, during which they explored the work of a contemporary author through readings, recorded interviews, and creative activities that encouraged a deeper appreciation of books, authors, and the joy of storytelling. One of the main events was the fiercely contested Inter-Class Battle of the Books Quiz, with 8A emerging as the overall champions after an impressive display of literary knowledge. Students also enjoyed a delightful Story Walk, featuring The Whale and the Snapper by Jo Van Dam, kindly provided by School Library Association of New Zealand Aotearoa (SLANZA). The much-anticipated event of Book Week was, as always, our spectacular Book Parade. Led by piper William Keir (Year 8), students and staff paraded proudly across the campus dressed as their favourite creatures from literature. The parade was a colourful and memorable celebration of imagination and creativity.
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On Friday 28 August, the Preparatory School orchestra performed a bracket of pieces at the Ladies’ Circle gathering in the Centennial Chapel. The orchestra, made up of 30 students, was conducted by Music teacher, Ros Emeleus. They performed four pieces, including the world premiere performance of a work called Uncle Jed by Ros Emeleus’ father, Dr John Emeleus. This was also the first time the orchestra had performed for the Ladies’ Circle. The audience responded with warm applause and were treated to an encore. This was a wonderful performance opportunity for the orchestra that we are hoping can be repeated in 2027!
Flickr>The Community Dental Service van will be visiting St Andrew’s College Preparatory School to provide free dental check-ups for children who are currently due for an appointment.
During the visit, eligible students may receive:
If further treatment is required, students will take home a Care Plan outlining the care needed and how to arrange an appointment at a Community Dental Clinic.
For full details about the Community Dental Service, please click here.
For the first time, St Andrew's College's acclaimed Jazz Big Band joins forces with a String Orchestra to perform an exciting programme of jazz favourites, spanning artists from Ella Fitzgerald to Radiohead.
With special guests and local jazz legends, Kate Taylor (vocals) and Old Collegian Jimmy Rainey (saxophone), this is a concert not to be missed and promises to be one of the musical highlights of 2026.
Featuring some of St Andrew's College's finest young musicians, this special one-night-only performance will showcase the breadth and depth of talent within the College's Music programme.
When: Thursday 17 September, 7.00pm–8.30pm
Venue: Gough Family Theatre, St Andrew's College
Tickets: $5.00 General Admission
Registrations are now open for the Sport Holiday Programme, running from Monday 28 September to Friday 2 October for Year 1–8 students.
The programme includes a variety of sports and activities, with sessions running from 9.00am–1.30pm daily (drop-off from 8.30am). Lunch is provided, with an optional supervised programme available until 3.30pm.
Cost: $325 for the week (until 1.30pm) | $400 for the week (until 3.30pm) | Casual day options are also available.
Please complete the online permission form and return the Subway order form to the Preparatory School Office by 9.00am on Tuesday 22 September.
COMPLETE ONLINE PERMISSION FORM >
For further information, please contact AKE@stac.school.nz.
In July 2027, we are planning to take a group of Year 7 and 8 students to Australia for a sport and cultural tour, departing on Sunday 18 July and returning Saturday 24 July. This promises to be a fantastic experience – the students will visit Brisbane and the Gold Coast during their six-night stay, competing against a number of highly regarded independent schools in football, Girls' basketball, and Boys' basketball.
Steps to be completed if you wish your child to be part of the 2027 Australian Sports Tour:
1. Expression of Interest form – to be completed by 3.00pm on Thursday 24 September 2026.
Please complete the Expression of Interest form by clicking here >
2. Tour Presentation – Wednesday 21 October, 6.00pm in the Preparatory School Library.
3. Pay the $200 deposit – due Friday 6 November 2026.
4. Trials – early Term 1, 2027 (Deposit will be returned if your child is not selected).
5. Pay first Instalment: $1000 – due Thursday 1 April 2027.
6. Pay second Instalment: $900 – due Saturday 1 May 2027.
7. Pay final Instalment: $900 – due Tuesday 1 June 2027.
Please contact Preparatory School Deputy Principal (Operations), Alex Kelley, on AKE@stac.school.nz if you have any questions.
We are delighted to invite our parent community to the final StACTalks event for 2026: StACTalks: Becoming the Best Parent You Can Be with Joseph Driessen.
When: Tuesday 15 September, 7.00pm–9.00pm | Doors open from 6.30pm
Where: Gough Family theatre, Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre
Leading New Zealand educator and parenting expert, Joseph Driessen, will share practical strategies to help parents build strong relationships, establish healthy boundaries, and support their child's learning and well-being. With more than 40 years of experience working with families and educators, Joseph brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insights.
This free event has been made possible through the generous support of the St Andrew's College PTA.
We look forward to welcoming you for what promises to be a practical and valuable evening.
This event is free and open to all St Andrew's College parents and caregivers.
REGISTER FOR STACTALKS>Grandparents' Day is a cherished St Andrew's College tradition, celebrating the special role grandparents play in the lives of our students. This year, we are delighted to welcome grandparents from both the Preparatory and Secondary Schools to join us for a morning of entertainment, connection and lasting memories.
Registration is essential and all grandparents attending must be registered by parents/caregivers to ensure students can be released from class to meet them. Registrations close at 12.00pm on Tuesday 20 October.
Complete the Grandparents' Day Registration Form>
Delicious Christmas goodies, locally made with the highest quality ingredients. The perfect gift for Christmas or to treat your own family! All proceeds will go towards the PTA 2026 fundraising drive, supporting the StAC Jazz Combo.
More information about each of the PTA’s Christmas Goodies, including the ingredients list, can be found at the order link below. The products on offer this year are:
Closing date for orders: Monday 2 November 2026
Cake collection: Orders must be collected from the Senior School (there is no delivery option) on the following dates:
The following 2026 photographs are now available to order online:
Details of how to order the photographs can be found on our website by clicking the link 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>
All children are encouraged to arrive at school from 8.00am onwards and can access learning spaces from this time.
Before-school Care is available from 7.30am–8.00am for families who need to drop their children off early. As this service has limited capacity and is designed for essential use only, we ask that families utilise it only if necessary.
Before-school Care enables us to provide active supervision, ensuring student safety while our staff prepare for the day.
Children arriving before 8.00am will be taken to Before-school Care. The small cost for this supervision will be disbursed to your child’s College account.
After-school Care continues to operate until 5.20pm each school day.
If your child is unwell, please keep them at home. To report any absence (due to illness or other reason) please complete the Student Absence Form:
If you are unable to use the online form, you may report an absence by emailing the appropriate address:
If you cannot reach us via the form or email, please phone our attendance line (term time only) on +64 3 940 2031.
