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Dear Parents and Caregivers
Kia ora koutou.
There has been a lot to celebrate this term across the diverse range of activities that our talented students participate in, competing and extending themselves. Some amazing recent examples include our two Year 12 Mathematics teams winning first and third places in the regional Year 12 Mathematics Competition, and our top Chess students winning the Regional Interschool Chess tournament, qualifying them for the nationals – with a special mention of Anthony Song (Year 10) who was undefeated in this regional tournament.
In addition, Metua Cranwell (Year 12) placed third overall in Ngā Manu Kōrero Regionals, in both the Senior Māori Impromptu and Senior Māori Prepared Speech sections. At the National Flash Fiction Day awards ceremony hosted at Tūranga, several students received awards including Samuel Hu (Year 10) who was awarded first equal place in the International Youth Writing Competition for his short story, Fool's Gold. Continuing with creative talents, this week we hosted the annual Cultural Showcase, which was a fun and entertaining evening in our Gough Family Theatre, showcasing the talented work our students have been doing over the term, including outstanding performances from our choirs, rock bands, Theatresports, dance groups and soloists.
On the sports field last weekend, our Boys’ 1st XV team delivered an outstanding performance to win 41–21 against Christ’s College, in front of a large crowd at home. This game highlighted the wonderful aspects of sport between two old traditional rivals, getting the very best out of each other through competition and showcasing the great values of sportsmanship. A timely result following a proposal from some South Island single sex boys’ schools looking to set up an exclusive rugby competition for themselves and excluding schools who have girls attending (i.e. co-educational). Fortunately, through considerable background negotiations and media pressure (see link here) this proposal now appears unlikely to proceed under the light exposed on it.
In terms of living out our College’s values, a big “shout out” to members of our Pipe Band who performed in support of the annual community fundraiser, the 2025 BrainTree Ball, at which over $220,000 was raised for this good cause. Click here to view the video.
Thank you for everyone’s assistance and positive responses to the broken water main on Wednesday, which restricted toilet and water use on campus. With portaloos on site, this was, for many a throwback to the post-earthquake days. I am so pleased with how well everyone managed the circumstances.
This week concluded with the Secondary School Prefects’ Assembly – a fun and light-hearted way to finish the term and head off into the term holiday break.
Prefect Assembly Address >
Prefects’ Assembly Flickr >
I wish you all the very best for a safe and enjoyable term break.
Ngā mihi mahana
Mark Wilson
Rector
On Monday 16 June, the College commenced work on the Religious Education (RE) block in the Secondary School campus. This is the building adjacent to Strowan House and the front field. This work involves renovation and strengthening, along with classroom expansions, and will take approximately 6–7 months to complete.
A range of controls have been placed directly outside the RE block to keep students and staff safe from the activity occurring within. It is important to note, the Papanui Road entrance is being used as the main road into the construction site, and vehicle movements onsite are being monitored to ensure safety is maintained.
On Papanui Road, a full traffic management system has been set up to manage the influx of vehicles entering the campus. Please be mindful of the additional congestion this may cause.
Ko Poutini te kaitiaki, ko Waitaiki te puna – he taonga tuku iho nō te whenua, nō te wairua
Poutini is the guardian, Waitaiki the source – a treasured gift from the land and the spirit.
During the senior Māori classes trip to Māwhera (Greymouth) last weekend, our rangatahi engaged in meaningful and enriching learning experiences about pounamu (greenstone). They explored the cultural and historical significance of pounamu, learning its origins, its deep connection to the whenua (land), and kōrero tuku iho/the stories passed down through generations. This learning deepened their understanding of the taonga and its significance within Te Ao Māori. A highlight of the haerenga (trip) was the opportunity for rangatahi to find their own pieces of pounamu on the Arahura river and to use their pounamu to create their own taonga. With guidance from the skilled team at Bonz ‘n’ Stonz in Hokitika, the rangatahi were supported through the process of shaping and polishing their own unique pieces. This firsthand experience was both educational and empowering, allowing each ākonga to connect personally with the taonga they created. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the mana whenua of Arahura Marae for their warm welcome and for sharing their knowledge and kōrero (stories) with us. Their manaakitanga (hospitality) and mātauranga (wisdom) were deeply appreciated. We also thank Bonz ‘n’ Stonz for their expert guidance and support in helping our rangatahi create their own taonga.
On Monday, our year 13 Business students visited Whale Watch in Kaikoura, which is our case study business and is a fantastic example of an innovative and sustainable business. The group had kōrero with their CEO, Thomas Kahu, about the formation and history of the company and the students also learnt about the company’s tikanga.
The St Andrew’s College Pipe Band, led by Pipe Major Sam Foote (Year 12), supported the BrainTree Ball fundraiser by performing at the beginning of the evening. Held at Te Pae Convention Centre, the evening was a great successful for the BrainTree Trust, a charity that supports people living with neurological conditions.
At St Andrew’s, student well-being is at the heart of our sports philosophy, Balance is Better. In recent weeks, the Sports Department and Guidance team, led by Head of Guidance Tom Matthews, have teamed up with key stakeholders to develop resources to support the health of our young athletes. We’re proud to launch our first video in this series presented by Sharada Stewart, Clinical Director at Balance Physiotherapy. With over 20 years of experience working alongside St Andrew’s students, Sharada shares crucial insights into the rising trend of musculoskeletal injuries – particularly stress fractures and lower back pain in adolescents.
Back injuries and concussions remain among the most common concerns affecting our student athletes. To empower parents and students with clear, practical guidance, our Technical Media Crew has produced a short, informative video. We strongly encourage you to take a few minutes to view the video and join us in promoting a safer, healthier sporting experience for all students.
Watch the StACTalks: Back Health Video >
This week’s Coaches’ Breakfast was a valuable opportunity for our sports coaches. Former international cricketer and coach, Shane Bond, shared insights from his experience at the highest levels of sport, both as a player and mentor. Shane’s message to our coaches focused on the big picture of athlete development – that when coaches lead with care, clarity, and consistency, students benefit not only in performance but in confidence, connection, and enjoyment. As a parent within our school community, Shane also took a moment to commend our coaches for the positive impact they’re making. He reminded them that while winning is a goal, it’s not the sole measure of success. Enjoyment, personal development, and the opportunity to play with friends are equally important aspects of a thriving sports environment.
Music students had a great time last weekend recording their submissions for the Rodger Fox Big Band Young Jazz Band-it competition. Only 10 bands are selected for this competition, and entry is by video submission.
Watch the video >
Year 12 students embraced a photo challenge this term, where they were asked to submit photos showcasing specific themes and starring the letters of their core classes (STROWANHE). The most popular theme was ‘selfie with a staff member,’ where the Head of Secondary School, Evert van Florenstein was a popular choice. Photo feature highlights included Harold the Giraffe from the Life Education bus, Elmo, Rector Mark Wilson in his study, a passing pooch, and many other creative ideas. The students enjoyed getting out and about around the campus and collaborating with their buddy tutor class to submit their best photos. Core class R, made up of Steve Aldhamland’s and Jo Bigford-Fleming’s tutor groups, were crowned the winners. Tu meke Year 12!
This term, a Year 9 Drama class has been creating theatre with puppets, designing and making their own puppets, and writing scripts to perform with them. This week they shared their work with a delighted Year 2 class and the older students then spent time working with the younger ones sharing the fun.
On Monday, Year 11–13 French students visited University of Canterbury (UC) for a Secondary School French immersion day. The objective was for students to be immersed in the French language, while practising skills for NCEA. The day began with a keynote address from Sarah Dennis, who was a New Zealand diplomat posted in many French-speaking countries over her career. It was interesting to hear about her high-profile career and the opportunities speaking French gave her. Students also heard about the different courses available at UC and the many options for studying French. Following this, students attended two workshops. The theme for the day was ‘Les femmes remarquables,’ remarkable women, and the workshops were all based around one or more women who have had an impact on France and the world over the ages. The afternoon included a French-themed treasure hunt, and filming a French dance. It was a worthwhile day with a chance for students to interact in French and meet others studying the language.
On Wednesday, St Andrew’s College hosted Anglican Church Grammar School (Churchie) from Brisbane, Australia. In a fast and furious game, both teams played expansive, high tempo rugby. In the first half, Churchie took on the Celtics and they held their own against a bigger team. Much improvement in play was shown from the Celtics team, especially around the set piece. In the second half, Churchie took on the Bravehearts. The game was played in fantastic spirit and St Andrew’s took a close victory 24–22. The players from both schools enjoyed socialising together post-match. Noah Fihaki and Marshall Coles (both Year 10) were named as Best and Fairest from the encounter.
Throughout the year, students and staff have presented the first chapter, or an extended passage, from a text they've enjoyed to a group of students during Thursday lunchtimes. ‘First Chapter Thursday’ this week saw Iosefo Tito (Year 10) reading from LeBron James's biography, LeBron, by Jeff Benedict. This week, as the NBA Finals wound down, eventually crowning a champion, and the NBA Draft for 2025 took place on Thursday too. It was therefore fitting for Iosefo (a member of the Junior Blue basketball team) to read from LeBron's biography, and he was supported by a huge number of his peers, staff, and other keen basketballers.
The final International Club celebration for the term hosted food trucks on campus today. This was an opportunity for staff and students to enjoy something different. The food trucks were Kung Fu Dumplings, Roma, and Empire Chicken.
On Tuesday evening, the Preparatory School presented a concert of music items in the Centennial Chapel. The concert featured the Junior Choir (Years 3–5), Cantare Choir (Years 6–8), Preparatory School Orchestra, chamber group trio, and solo items by Music scholars Chenxiao (Leo) Yang (Year 8) and Caleb Waines (Year 7). The evening showcased a range of talent, from children performing in large groups to very experienced musicians playing in small instrumental ensembles. This was a great performance opportunity for the children and the first opportunity for parents to hear the Junior Choir, the chamber group, and instrumental soloists. The performers supported each other with enthusiastic applause. A supportive audience of parents and families thoroughly enjoyed the concert.
Flickr >
The annual staff vs Year 8A student basketball game was once again a thrilling showdown, marked by plenty of spirited play. The game was fiercely contested and surprisingly physical, with both sides determined to claim bragging rights. The Year 8A squad brought speed and energy, but the staff countered with experience and hustle. Miss Morriss and Miss Martin made standout debuts, bringing grit, athleticism, and several points to the scoreboard. The crowd was electric from start to finish, adding to what was a fantastic celebration of basketball and school spirit. At the final whistle, the teachers extended their unbeaten streak in this eagerly anticipated annual fixture.
FLICKR >On Thursday morning, Senior Constable Richard Brunton visited the Preparatory School from the local police station to provide our new Year 7 road patrollers with some very important training. Our road patrollers manage one of the most important school tasks every morning and afternoon – ensuring students, parents, staff, and members of the public can safely cross Normans Road. The training included sharing examples with plenty of visuals, a discussion, and a Q&A session. These learnings were then further solidified on Normans Road. Applying these newfound skills into practice and building confidence with our new road patrollers is extremely important. We are very fortunate to have Senior Constable Richard Brunton provide our students with the tools to manage road patrol safely. We look forward to seeing our new road patrollers in action from Term 3.
Yesterday, the Pre-school held a Pyjama Day in support of Ronald McDonald House Charities, which provides invaluable support to whānau who have tamariki in hospital. Pre-school tamariki were invited to wear their snuggliest winter pyjamas and slippers to Pre-school, and to bring a gold coin donation. The children also enjoyed a delicious second breakfast of Rice Bubbles and Marmite on toast! The morning’s activities were thoroughly enjoyed by both tamariki and kaiako, and the Pre-school is very proud to support such an important cause.
FLICKR >
BASKETBALL
The Senior Girls hosted Ashburton College in a deferred Whelan Trophy game on Monday evening. After a slow start, the team eventually found their footing late in the final quarter, pulling away for an 82–65 win to remain unbeaten for the season. Ava Jones (Year 12) scored five three-pointers, while Rosie Gaffaney (Year 11) secured 13 rebounds in this tightly contested game.
The Senior Boys hosted defending Secondary School champions, Christ's College, on Tuesday. After pushing out to an early lead, our team, missing a few players, fell behind going into the half, and, despite some strong patches, lost 81–107. Oliver Kirk and Jai Curtis (both Year 11) played well.
FOOTBALL
A dominant performance from the Boys’ 1st XI saw them take control early and maintain momentum throughout the match against Middleton Grange School. Strong finishes, sharp passing, and solid team chemistry led to a convincing 5–1 victory. The team maintained great energy and composure throughout.
The Girls’ 1st XI had a confident display in their match, combining discipline at the back with creativity up front. The team showed great connection and attacking flair, securing a well-earned 5–1 win over Rolleston College. This was a strong statement of intent for the season ahead.
HOCKEY
The Boys’ 1st XI bounced back in style last Thursday with a commanding 7–3 victory over Christchurch Boys’ High School. After a tough result the previous week, the team showed great character and attacking flair. Connor Sharp (Year 13) led the charge with a brilliant hat-trick, while Hugo Lewis (Year 11) and Lewis Tavendale (Year 12) each scored twice to round out the scoring. It was a strong all-round performance, with the team showing much improved finishing and composure in front of goal. This win marks a positive step forward as the team heads into a month-long break from competition. During the break, nine of our 1st XI players will be participating in the National U18 Tournament in Timaru.
The Girls’ 1st XI played a strong match against Villa Maria College, dominating possession in the first two quarters. Annabelle Barker (Year 12) opened the scoring with a composed penalty stroke in the first quarter. The pressure continued to build, and Imogen Smith (Year 12) capitalised with a well-executed penalty corner in the second. A solid performance and another positive step in the lead-up to tournament week.
NETBALL
Wednesday’s netball game marked the final match of the round, with St Andrew’s facing off against the ever-competitive St Margaret’s College. As expected, it was a fierce battle from the first whistle, with both teams matching each other point for point in the opening stages. However, as the game progressed, St Margaret’s began to edge ahead, gradually increasing their lead each quarter. Despite our team’s determined effort, the gap gradually widened, and the match concluded with a 21–27 loss.
RUGBY
Over the Matariki long weekend, our 1st XV took on Christ’s College, in front of a large crowd. This game is always a highlight on the sporting calendar as these two teams contest for the prestigious Deans-Anderson Shield in the biggest traditional match of the year. St Andrew’s started well, with Caleb Collins-Polata (Year 12) scoring a powerful try after three minutes (converted), along with a penalty goal by Fynn Harris (Year 13). The team showed consistent defensive efforts which was pleasing. The backline then broke through to score two more excellent tries through Oliver Jackways and Jett Timbrell (both Year 12). In the second half the score continued to climb, with Azaniah Roebeck (Year 13) crossing the line with a powerful run. Christ’s College fought back in the dying stages of the game, scoring three tries in quick succession. The final score was a 41–21 victory to St Andrew’s. This was also a special moment for newly capped players, Christian Knight (Year 13), Charlie Tanner (Year 12), and Jairo Senio (Year 11). The Deans -Anderson Shield was retained for the fourth year in a row, creating a new record.
Last weekend, Tavé Stuart (Year 13) competed at Relevé Dance Competition, and because of her performance, received a nomination for the PACANZ Young Performer Awards in Palmerston North in October for modern dance. She placed first classical championship; second modern championship; first classical; first variation; first equal barefoot; first neo-classical; first musical theatre; first contemporary; first lyrical.
At the National Flash Fiction Day awards ceremony at Tūranga on Sunday 22 June, Samuel Hu (Year 10) was awarded first equal in the international youth writing competition for his short story, Fool's Gold. Thomas Palmer (Year 12) placed second for his story, The Weight, and Cooper Harris (Year 13) received a Commended award for his piece, She doesn’t get the music I listen to. Kangwoo Moon and Hudson Blyde (both Year 9) were also shortlisted, and read their stories, Temperature of Heaven and The Gun Fires.
Baizhen (Tony) Chen (Year 9) successfully auditioned for the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra’s soloist programme. As a result, he has been offered the opportunity to perform as a featured soloist at A Night of Proms on Saturday 18 October, in the Christchurch Town Hall.
Two students participated in Ngā Manu Kōrero regional speech competitions held at Rangiora High School last Friday. The kaupapa of the competition is to bring rangatahi together from across Waitaha, to showcase te reo Māori and oratory excellence. The speeches reflected the depth of thought, cultural pride, and aspirations of our rangatahi today. The topics ranged from identity and resilience to the future of te ao Māori. Representing our kura were Metua Cranwell (Year 12) and Lucia Thorne (Year 9), who both embodied the whakataukī ‘He wāhine toa, he whakatere waka’ (a woman of strength who steers the canoe). Despite natural nerves, their courage and commitment, and their kōrero, were a testament to their hard work and dedication. The judges offered fantastic feedback for both kaikōrero, highlighting their potential and providing valuable guidance for their next steps in the world of Māori oratory. Metua Cranwell placed third in both the Senior Māori Impromptu and Senior Māori Prepared Speech sections and Lucia Thorne 15th.
Georgia Lewis (Year 12) had a successful final year in the Quarter Midget speedway racing class at her home track, Ruapuna Speedway. She completed 100% of racing laps, was the top female competitor, and finished fourth in season points. Georgia gained a fifth place, and two second places. Georgia also teamed with her Dad in the sprint car front end challenge, removing and refitting the car’s front suspension in 4 minutes 19 seconds. In the Mike Greer Homes series, Georgia was the top female competitor, finished fifth overall, and was awarded the Rising Star award for the driver with the most potential. Georgia will be moving into the 750cc Three-Quarter Midget class next season.
ChlöeAnn Botha (Year 7) competed at the Gymnastics Tri Star Senior Championship on Sunday 22 June in Auckland, in Step 5 All Around. She achieved third place on Balance Beam, was fourth overall, and achieved a nationals qualifying score.
The Preparatory School took two teams to the Years 1–6 Canterbury Interschool Chess Competition on Tuesday, and two teams to the Years 7–8 competition on Wednesday. Our Senior B Team placed fourth in the B Grade, and all the students had several successful wins.
Over the Matariki weekend, Aoife Forsyth (Year 8) competed in the Royal Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing (RSOBHD) New Zealand nationals in Taranaki. Competitors came from around New Zealand and Australia to participate. Aoife achieved third overall, with two first-place finshes, a second and a third place, five fourths, and one fifth place.
Georgia Gregg (Year 8) travelled to Hokitika last weekend to compete in the Hokitika Highland Dancing Matariki competition. She won Most Points U14.
The Abrahamson sisters performed at the Ashburton Highland Dancing Competition. Adelyn Abrahamson (Year 7) won Runner Up Most Points U12, and the CWCC Championship Highland Reel U12. Iaera Abrahamson (Year 5) won Most Points U10, Most Points of the Day, Most Points Irish Jig U10, CWCC Championships for the Sword Dance U11, and Highland Fling U10. Nayana Abrahamson (Year 3) won Most Points U8, and CWCC Championships for the Sailors Hornpipe U9 and the Irish Jig U8.
Jakob Dana (Year 10) has been selected for the U16 Canterbury Representative ice hockey team and will compete in their first round in Dunedin during the holidays.
Metua Cranwell (Year 12) has been selected for the New Zealand Māori U17 rugby league team. She has also been selected for the New Zealand South U18 rugby team.
Georgia Lewis (Year 12) has been selected to represent New Zealand at the International Mounted Games Exchange in Birmingham, UK. The team of five will compete against teams from the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia from late July through mid-August.
Good luck to all students who are representing the College over the holidays in sports and cultural activities:
Join us for the 2025 StAC Ag Show on Thursday 21 August. Students at all year levels can enter several fun categories, such as baking, art, flower arrangements, and Lego creations, with ribbons awarded for first to third place in each category. Some incredible grand prizes are available, including an animal care package from Rangiora Vet Centre for the animal categories, as well as prizes in the plant and food, and art and photography categories. There will be several raffles on offer, and anyone who enters may be in to win a spot prize! There is something for everyone at this free, A&P Show-inspired event. Come along to Gym 1 to experience all the art, baking, and pet entries, as well as the petting zoo – get set for a day of agricultural fun!
To enter your child(ren) into the StAC Ag Show, please complete the relevant entry form(s) below:
Experience the thrilling sounds of StAC Attack 2025! A St Andrew’s College Pipe Band event at the prestigious Christchurch Town Hall – James Hay Theatre, this highly anticipated showcase guarantees an unforgettable evening of traditional Scottish entertainment.
Immerse yourself in the rich harmonics of the bagpipes, the infectious beat of the drums, and the flair of the Highland dancers as they take the stage. With talented St Andrew's College students from Years 4–13 showcasing their skills, StAC Attack promises to be an action-packed performance.
Be a part of the magic at StAC Attack 2025!
The following 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).
The Community Business Directory is on our website and represents over 100 parent businesses. Please take a look at how many businesses you can support locally.
The St Andrew's College Community Business Directory >
If you would still like to register your business, complete the following form.
Community Business Directory Registration >
For a full list of upcoming school events, please refer to the fixtures page on StACNet.
