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Dear Parents and Caregivers
Kia ora koutou.
I saw our whole-school value of Faith in action last Friday evening at our Boys’ 1st XI hockey game against Christ’s College. Our team was struggling and not playing to their full potential, being down 1–2 with five minutes to go. Faith is about stepping up in confidence based on what you know is true. Our hockey boys knew their potential and skills, then finally chose to step forward and put these into action to score twice and claim the win.
While our value of Faith is based on our foundational Christian belief, this hockey example of faith in action resonated with me last Saturday, as we gathered as Board of Governors for our strategy session analysing our community ideas for our future direction.
Using the views and ideas gathered from our community over the last couple of months, our Board of Governors have started to set out our core strategic priorities to frame our new Strategic Plan for 2026 and beyond. This successful and engaging drafting work will continue over the next couple of months, as we weave the future with the threads of our values and traditions forming a strong and cohesive whole, just like our Ferguson tartan (thank you to our Head of Middle School and Director of Boarding, Matt Parr, for this metaphor).
In other sports action this week, congratulations to our Girls’ 1st XV rugby team, who on Wednesday, at a home game with a strong crowd, competed with great character and spirit against Christchurch Girls’ High School in the play-off final for the ‘Crusaders’ region, with the winner to then play a South Island final with the ‘Highlander’ region. While we did not win this game, our young developing team showed great growth and improvement. Meanwhile we wish our Boys’ 1st XV rugby team the very best, as they have qualified to travel to Nelson College this Saturday to play off for the semi-finals of the Miles Toyota 1st XV Rugby Premiership. In addition, this week in a dramatic sporting moment, our Boys’ Senior basketball team had a thrilling win against Rangiora High School, despite three of our starting players being absent, Rylan Cliff (Year 13) secured the win with a match-winning shot with four seconds to go.
On Wednesday afternoon, we warmly welcomed to our two Ōtaki Scholars, Harry Wood and Michael Onyemeziem. St Andrew’s annually hosts the Ōtaki Scholars who are from Robert Gordon’s College in Aberdeen, Scotland. This special programme links back to events in World War I, with the HMS Ōtaki, whose heroic Captain was from Robert Gordon’s College. These prestigious scholarships are financially assisted by the New Zealand government to enable these student visits to New Zealand.
This week also sees two important functions that illustrate our important and strong community connections, with the Ladies’ Circle AGM earlier today and the Old Collegians 40 Years On Reunion over this weekend. Both groups have long and strong established bonds with our College, that they are committed to maintaining and growing. This year was the 67th Ladies Circle AGM, which reflects the impressive time and support this special group of women have with St Andrew’s College.
Ladies' Circle AGM Flickr >
This wider network is a key strength of St Andrew’s. In assisting to foster and connect our community, I am delighted to announce the appointment of Thomas (Tomo) Yee to the new position of Head of Development and Community Relations. Tomo is an Old Collegian and was Head Boy in 2008, with strong career experience working for a marketing agency, including stakeholder engagement and client management.
On Monday we launched our two-week Annual Giving appeal, which has a particularly important project of seeking to raise donations to purchase solar panels to install at the College, to generate clean energy, and reduce our electricity costs and carbon footprint. We are very grateful that at the end of this first week, we have already received just over $85,000 in donations towards this appeal. Every dollar we raise will enable us to purchase more solar panels and increase our sustainability impact. Solar panel data will also offer current and future students hands-on learning opportunities in renewable energy, sustainability, climate change, and data analysis. More details on the fundraising appeal and how you can support this good cause are on our website: stac.nz/AnnualGiving2025
Ngā mihi mahana
Mark Wilson
Rector
Just like parents/caregivers and teachers, sports coaches play a powerful role in shaping young lives. In this latest blog, read how our dedicated coaches are embracing the Balance is Better @ StAC sport philosophy to support rangatahi in growing, staying active, and enjoying every step of their sporting journey.
Read the Blog >All Year 10 classes have now completed their Red Cross First Aid qualification. The students gained practical experience from qualified Red Cross instructors and can use this invaluable experience to count towards their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award.
Flickr >
On display in The Green Library and Innovation Centre for the next few weeks is the Year 11 Sculpture Exhibition, showcasing the incredible creativity of our Art students. After completing a visual inquiry of their tūrangawaewae during Term 1, students have been exploring these personal and cultural themes through sculpture and 3D form. The display reflects their engagement with one of two concepts: wā kāinga – a place that resonates with an individual and evokes the idea of home, along with all its emotional and cultural connotations; or ūkaipō – a concept that invites reflection on one's origins and ancestral journey, tracing back to what might be considered a homeland. Inspired by the work of New Zealand artists, Ghostcat and Peter Madden, students developed their own interpretations using a variety of materials and techniques. They were encouraged to use found or recycled materials for the project and work in high detail at a small scale.
On Monday and Tuesday, all five Year 13 Biology classes visited Orana Park in what was a fantastic opportunity to support the first week of learning of the 3.6 Human Evolution topic. This external begins with comparisons between skeletal features of apes and humans, then past hominins that had a mixture of these features. At Orana Park, students observed the biological features of the two gorillas in the Great Ape enclosure, as well as gibbons, spider monkeys and the lemurs. They also learnt about past hominins and observed features of model primate and hominin skulls in the Orana Park Education Centre.
Flickr >Year 10 students have begun the process of engaging with course selection for their first year of NCEA Level 1 in 2026, as Year 11 students. Head of Teaching and Learning, David Bevin, led an NCEA presentation to the Year 10 cohort, along with the Heads of Department for English, Mathematics, and Science, as well as Careers Advisor, Richard Webster.
In the early hours of Wednesday morning, the 35 students representing St Andrew’s College on the 2025 Australian Tour returned to Christchurch. They represented the College with distinction both on and off the field, performed admirably in their fixtures, demonstrated fair play, and competed in many challenging games.
BASKETBALL
The Senior Girls’ team travelled to Ashburton for a top four match-up. The team built a double-digit lead in the first quarter, leading the remainder of the game to secure a 97–67 win.
Our Senior Boys hosted third-seeded Rangiora High School for their game. Roma Tuimaunei (Year 12) led a second-quarter comeback, and the team then battled into overtime, with Rylan Cliff (Year 13) sinking the game-winning shot with four seconds to go, securing a solid win for the team.
FOOTBALL
The Girls’ 1st XI delivered a dominant performance in their match against Papanui High School, securing a 6–1 victory. The team played with confidence, fluidity, and attacking intent from start to finish. A clinical display in front of goal was matched by solid defensive organisation, showcasing the squad’s growing cohesion and intensity.
A strong team effort saw the Boys’ 1st XI earn a well-deserved 2–0 win over Lincoln High School. The boys controlled the tempo of the match, combining disciplined defending with sharp transitions. A composed finish in each half sealed the result.
HOCKEY
The 1st XI Boys’ team edged out Christ’s College in a dramatic 3–2 victory. Lucas Munt (Year 13) found the back of the net early to give the side a 1–0 lead. Christ’s then scored two unanswered goals to take a 2–1 lead heading into the final quarter. Lucas then netted a second goal to level the score, 2–2. As the clock ticked down, St Andrew’s earned a penalty corner on full time. Edward Connolly (Year 13) delivered under pressure, converting to secure a 3–2 win.
The 1st XI Girls’ team played Marian College on Friday. Despite conceding an early goal in the first quarter, Annabelle Barker (Year 12) equalised to make it 1–1. In the second quarter, Lila Waghorn (Year 12) found the back of the net after a brilliant one-two combination with Sophie Roberts (Year 13). Sophie then extended the lead in the third quarter, with a final goal from Ella O’Brien (Year 13) in the fourth quarter for a 4–1 win.
NETBALL
Saturday’s game against Revelation A saw an improved performance by St Andrew’s on the last game they played against this tough team. The girls came in stronger and managed to win two of the quarters. Despite this, Revelation edged St Andrew’s out to win narrowly, 40–38.
On Wednesday, the team faced off against Rangi Ruru Girls’ High School in a tightly contested match. The game started evenly, with the teams matching goal for goal. This intensity continued through the second quarter, with neither side able to gain a clear advantage. However, in the third quarter, St Andrew’s began to pull ahead with a five-goal lead, eventually winning 22–18.
RUGBY
The 1st XV travelled to Rangiora High School to contest the final round game of the Miles Toyota Cup last Saturday. The two teams were also playing for the prestigious Crusaders Co-Educational Trophy. To make the Top 6 play-offs, the team needed to secure a win and a bonus point (by scoring four tries). The boys showed good resilience to get the job done. Strong running from Jiutaisa Manumanuniliwa (Year 12), Jonty Lang (Year 13) and Jario Senio (Year 11) helped evaluate the score line to secure the win, 28–17. It was also a special day for Matthew Wilcox and Jacob Farrelly (both Year 12) being awarded their caps. The team’s fifth place position will next see them travel to play Nelson College in the quarter final this weekend.
Wednesday afternoon marked a milestone in St Andrew’s College sporting history as the Girls’ 1st XV rugby team played their first ever home game on College grounds. The 2.30pm kick-off drew many supporters; family, friends, and members of the wider community. Facing a long-established Christchurch Girls’ High School 1st XV, the St Andrew's wāhine showed heart and resilience throughout the match. Despite a 0–45 loss, the game was a celebration of progress and potential. Girls’ High now advance to the second round of the Miles Toyota Cup, but the day belonged to both teams for their role in launching the Marsh-Brooker Trophy, an honour that commemorates the legacy of two elite sportswomen from each school. This event was a powerful statement about the value women’s sport brings to the St Andrew's College rugby programme and community.
FLICKR >
The St Andrew’s College Dance team competed at the DanceNZMade Christchurch Regional competition on Monday at the Christchurch Town Hall. It was a busy day of workshops, rehearsals, and competition dancing in the evening. Tave Stuart (Year 13) is the team’s choreographer and coach, and this was the team’s first interschool competition. The team won third place in the Senior section, which qualifies them to compete in Nationals in Palmerston North in September. Our Heads of Dance Emily Brook (Year 12) and Nadia Marriott (Year 13) noted that it was an enjoyable day, and they are very excited to perform their dance on the national stage.
Kalisa Zhang (Year 10) competed at the 2025 Rhythmic Gymnastics Canterbury Championships last weekend. She achieved first place in Ribbon and Clubs, and second in Ball and Hoop. She placed first overall and was named Canterbury Champion.
Alexander Black (Year 13) recently refereed at the Christchurch International Cup, a premier youth football tournament. He refereed the game between Cashmere Technical and FC Nelson, and the final for the tournament, between the Wellington Phoenix and Fencibles United FC.
Alyssa Huang (Year 11) has been chosen to represent St Andrew’s College as part of the United Nations (UN) Youth High School Ambassador Programme for 2025. The programme offers unique, transformative experiences for young people who are passionate about civic engagement, global issues, and political leadership. Alyssa will attend a youth training hui, where she will meet other ambassadors and learn about her role.
The Green Library and Innovation Centre was filled with about 80 enthusiastic students last Sunday, who were attending the latest Canterbury Robotics VEX scrimmage. There was a solid turnout from St Andrew’s College VEX teams, across both V5 and IQ. V5 teams were able to practice their skills – an important part of ranking well at Nationals. Several of the St Andrew’s VEX IQ teams competed in the scrimmage and the results reflected the time and energy the teams have been spending in the VEX room lately. Team 88397N ‘The Yellow Calipers’ (Vitek Mencl, Zongze (Aaron) Li and Alexander Nuthall (all Year 7)) placed second and have progressed to the finals.
Swimming Canterbury West Coast held their regional Short Course Championships last weekend. Kelicia Rui En Purcell (Year 8) competed in the 12–14-years-old age group, and achieved five new Personal Bests, including attaining the fastest time for a 12-year-old in New Zealand in the last year in 200m Butterfly. Kelicia came in under the qualification time in 100m Breaststroke and 200m Backstroke for the New Zealand Short Course Championships in late September in Auckland. She placed first in 100m Butterfly, 200m Butterfly, 4x100m Medley Relay (Butterfly), second in 200m Individual Medley and third in 100m Breaststroke.
Good luck to all students who are representing the College over the weekend in sports and cultural activities including:
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!
Term 3 will see all students who are returning next year make their academic course selections for 2026. A series of events, presentations and the publication of the annual online curriculum information will take place during the first half of this term, leading up to the deadline for students’ selections on Wednesday 20 August. On Friday 8 August, 3.40pm–5.00pm, we will run our annual Course Selection Expo in Gym 1, at which several staff representing the different subject areas will be available to meet informally with students and their parents/caregivers to talk about the nature of courses next year. This annual event is for students in Years 10–12. The conversations with staff are invaluable in the decision-making process for students.
Please note that along with the academic course selection process, students who are returning in 2026 will also be making their co-curricular selections within the same timeframe.
For Years 9–10 families, the Parent Teacher interviews will be held online on Monday 11 August and in person on Wednesday 20 August. Further information will be emailed to parents during the week commencing Monday 4 August.
Preliminary examinations will take place in Weeks 8– 9 and will be followed by Academic Conferences with your child’s tutor on Thursday 18 and Friday 19 September. On Tuesday, Head of Teaching and Learning, David Bevin emailed whānau the latest NCEA Newsletters (click here to view) with further information about why we have Preliminary examinations and Academic Conferences, and what resources are available to support your child with effective studying.
Spirit of Adventure Scholarship (Year 11) – This scholarship provides support for one current Year 11 student to participate in a 10-day sailing on the Spirit of Adventure (choice of dates). Further information on the sailing can be found on the Spirit of Adventure website by clicking here. Please also see further information on the College website by clicking here.
Outward Bound Scholarship (Year 12) – This scholarship provides support for one current Year 12 student to experience an Outward Bound Mind, Body, and Soul course from Monday 5 to Sunday 25 January 2026. Further information on this course can be found on the Outward Bound website by clicking here. Please also see further information on the College website by clicking here.
Please note, only students can access and complete the application forms, and they have been provided with the links. The applications must be completed by 3.30pm, Monday 11 August. For further information, please contact Assistant Principal of Secondary School (Academic), Helaina Coote, on HCE@stac.school.nz.
The St Andrew’s College annual Dance Revue is back! Containing an eclectic range of dance styles including Jazz, Hip Hop, Ballet, and Contemporary, this fast-paced evening of dance will have something for all to enjoy. Performances will come from St Andrew’s College Ballet Academy, StAC Dance, soloists, groups. Come and celebrate dance.
When: Friday 22 August, 7.00pm–8.30pm
Saturday 23 August, 7.00pm–8.30pm
Where: Gough Family Theatre – Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre
Tickets: $20.00 General Admission
Buy Tickets Online>
This year, Grandparents' Day will be held on Friday 17 October. This special occasion will commence with entertainment in the Centennial Chapel at 10.40am. Please note, the PTA’s special Christmas cake will be present to sample before going into the Chapel. Cakes can also be ordered at this time.
Following the entertainment, everyone will leave the Centennial Chapel and meet up with the Preparatory and Secondary School children waiting in anticipation outside. There will be a photographer available outside of the Senior College to capture this special day with free family photographs for those who would like this option, with the day concluding at 12.35pm.
Visitors attending Grandparents’ Day must register to will ensure that the children are released from class to meet with them. Please use the link below to register for this special day.
GRANDPARENTS' DAY REGISTRATION >In support of the Boarders’ Assembly on Friday 1 August, the Agriculture Committee will once again hold Gumboot Day to support and raise money for youth mental health charity, ‘I am Hope’. Students and staff can wear (clean) gumboots to school. The gumboots are to be worn with the children’s school uniform. Wristbands will be available this year for $2.00 each, pay by cash or EFTPOS.
Donate online >
Please join us during Cultural Week 2025 for the annual St Andrew’s College Film Fest! This is a fun, family-friendly event where we celebrate our talented student filmmakers. Come along to enjoy their creative work and show your support. We encourage everyone coming along to get into the spirit of Film Fest by dressing up in your favourite sci-fi costume! Awards will be presented for Best Film, Best Director, Best Cinematographer, Best Actor/Actress, and more, including some exciting spot prizes.
When: Tuesday 12 August 2025, from 7.00pm
Venue: Gough Family Theatre – Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre
Dress code: Come dressed as your favourite sci-fi character!
Please register your attendance in advance via the link below. Online registration is free and helps with event planning. Alternatively, walk-ins are also welcome on the night, with entry by gold coin donation at the door (proceeds to Qtopia).
Register in advance online >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:
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.
