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Dear Parents and Caregivers
Despite the variable weather this summer, our St Andrew’s College cricket programme has begun the year in excellent form, with several teams delivering impressive early-season performances. Our 1st XI opened their campaign with a hard-fought first innings win over Christchurch Boys’ High School, while the 2nd XI followed with a convincing outright victory against Christ’s College. The Colts added to this momentum with a dominant performance, securing a 126-run win. These results are very encouraging and reflect the depth, skill, and positive spirit across our cricket programme. It has also been wonderful to see strong engagement from our female players, with 21 enthusiastic cricketers involved. We look forward to watching their continued development and achievements throughout the term.
I also value the opportunity to meet regularly with the Old Collegians Association executive. At our meeting on Wednesday evening, we discussed an exciting new project to scan and digitise our archival images, photos, and historical content. This initiative will help preserve valuable material and, in time, enable us to share our archives online with the wider College community through a new digital platform.
Strengthening connections within our community remains a priority, and next week we begin our annual regional visits. These provide valuable opportunities to reconnect with Old Collegians while also hosting information evenings for prospective boarding families.
On Tuesday evening, we welcomed Preparatory School parents to meet their child’s teacher, followed by a social function organised by the College’s Parent Teacher Association (PTA). These occasions are always important opportunities for our community to gather and connect. A similar opportunity was held on Thursday evening with the Year 11 NCEA Information Whānau Hui, led by Year 11 Dean, James Jenkinson, and his team. The evening provided important guidance to support families as students transition into the senior school years, including a clear overview of the NCEA qualification.
The week concluded with a wonderful Academic Assembly, where we came together to celebrate outstanding learning and achievement. It was particularly special to welcome back a number of our Year 13 leavers from 2025 to have their accomplishments formally acknowledged.
Rector’s Assembly Address>Academic Captains’ Morning Comment> Academic Assembly AwardS> Academic Assembly Flickr>
What a privilege it is to be part of St Andrew’s – such a strong, supportive community that seeks to make a genuine and positive difference.
Ngā mihi
Mark Wilson
Rector
On Tuesday, we received very pleasing news with the release of the 2025 Scholarship results. New Zealand Scholarship recognises the country’s highest-achieving secondary school students through challenging subject assessments that require deep understanding, critical thinking, and the ability to apply knowledge in complex contexts.
We are delighted to congratulate the students who embraced this challenge and worked so diligently. A total of 33 students (including eight Year 12 students) achieved 64 scholarships between them – 61 at Scholarship level and three at Outstanding level. Outstanding Scholarships were earned by Alex Manson, Luke Manson and Cohnor Walsh (all then Year 12). In addition, Cohnor also received a Top Subject Scholarship Award in Technology, an honour achieved by just 55 students nationally.
Thank you to all staff involved in supporting and coaching students through the Scholarship programme. 2025 was the fifth consecutive year in which St Andrew’s students achieved more than 60 Scholarships in a single year.
St Andrew’s College rangatahi recently spent five unforgettable days exploring the landscape, history, and wairua of Hokianga and Te Tai Tokerau. The journey began in Waitangi, where students deepened their understanding of Aotearoa New Zealand’s shared history and the significance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Travelling north through Panguru and on to Te Paki, students experienced the vast sand dunes before reaching Cape Reinga / Te Rerenga Wairua – a powerful moment for reflection on whakapapa, journeys, and connection. The return journey included travelling along Ninety Mile Beach, crossing the Rawene-Kohukohu ferry, and visiting Tāne Mahuta, reinforcing the importance of kaitiakitanga and respect for the natural world.
The trip concluded in true Hokianga style, with swimming and manu at the Ōmāpere and Opononi wharfs. Students returned home enriched, connected, and inspired by the stories and mana of the north. Karanga mai a Hokianga!
St Andrew’s College is pleased to introduce its rugby coaching team for 2026, led by Head Coach Willi Heinz and supported by Assistant Coaches Tony Fenner and Owen Franks. Together, they bring a strong combination of international playing experience, coaching expertise, and a shared commitment to developing young players both on and off the field.
Willi Heinz offers extensive international playing and coaching experience, blending strong local connections with fresh insight from his recent roles in club and secondary school rugby. Tony Fenner contributes a wealth of professional playing experience from both the UK and New Zealand, along with invaluable familiarity with St Andrew’s through his coaching involvement over recent seasons. Owen Franks needs little introduction, he brings world‑class preparation standards and a keen eye for detail as he transitions into coaching, including his current role assisting the Japan national team.
The coaching team’s focus for 2026 is to align and elevate the St Andrew's rugby programme across all levels, nurturing players to challenge themselves, grow in confidence, and continue developing a strong love of the game.
The Year 13 Agriscience class is currently investigating different farming systems used in egg production across New Zealand. With eggs commonly produced in free-range, barn and cage systems, students are exploring an important question: does the farming system make a difference to egg quality? To find out, students have been carrying out a range of laboratory and practical tests. One highlight of the investigation was a blind taste test, for which each type of egg was cooked in the same way. Rector Mark Wilson kindly joined a small panel of judges, helping students evaluate and score the eggs purely on taste. The activity created a lively atmosphere in the kitchen, with excellent teamwork on display and several students commenting on the “MasterChef‑like” feel of the room as the judges deliberated. The next stage of the investigation will see students analyse their laboratory results alongside the taste-test data, before drawing scientific conclusions about the different egg farming systems. It has been a hands-on and highly engaging learning experience, bringing agricultural science to life in a very practical way.
fLICKR >
Our Preparatory School ākonga are already enjoying their new playground, with plenty of smiles, movement, and outdoor play underway. The space has been designed to encourage active play, connection, and well-being, supporting students’ physical development and social interaction during the school day.
To view a video of the new playground, click here>On Wednesday, our Year 7 ākonga enjoyed a fantastic morning in the sunshine taking part in Top Team, delivered by Sport Canterbury. This event plays an important role in supporting Well‑being for All, helping students feel settled, connected, and confident as they begin their Year 7 journey.
Students worked in 16 mixed teams, a deliberate approach to building whanaungatanga – relationships and a sense of belonging that sit at the heart of well-being. Creating team names, planning costumes, and practising chants earlier in the term provided opportunities to collaborate, laugh together, and form positive friendships. The challenges promoted teamwork, communication, physical activity, and fun, with activities designed so all students could participate fully. Top Team is a key part of our Year 7 transition programme, reinforcing inclusion, pastoral care, and ensuring every student feels supported and valued.
Flickr >
Poppy Reynolds (Year 13) and Hugo Lewis (Year 12) have returned from their respective summer experiences on Outward Bound and the Spirit of Adventure. Poppy completed a 21‑day course in Anakiwa, embracing challenges that strengthened her self‑understanding, resilience, and confidence, while also forming lasting friendships. Hugo’s voyage took him from Picton to Wellington, with highlights including sailing across Cook Strait and climbing to the top of the mast. He returned with increased social confidence and a deeper sense of gratitude.
These opportunities are made possible through the generous support of a scholarship gifted by an Old Collegian. Applications for Year 11 and 12 students will open early in Term 3.
Louis Smith (Year 11) competed in the New Zealand Rotax Max Challenge in Rotorua, finishing an impressive third place against a strong national field.
At the beginning of last week, the Year 10 Colts and Girls’ teams travelled to Wellington for the annual cricket exchange against Scots College. The Colts enjoyed a successful tour, winning the 50‑over match and both T20 games, with each decided in the final over. The Girls’ team competed strongly throughout the exchange, securing a win in their second T20 and pushing all matches to close finishes. Both teams were extremely well hosted by Scots College.
The 1st XI hosted Christchurch Boys’ High School on day one of a two‑day match. Batting first, St Andrew’s compiled 202/6, with Ryan Bond (Year 13) scoring 100 not out, including 22 runs off the final over. Boys’ High replied with 122, with Otis Wheeler (Year 13) taking 3/20 and Benjamin Stewart (Year 12) 2/30. In the second innings, Spencer Hair (Year 13) made 71 and Ryan Bond added 89 not out, setting a target of 272. At stumps, Boys’ High were 169/5, with Harrison Horsley (Year 12) claiming three wickets.
The 2nd XI recorded an outright win against Christ’s College. Lucas Jemmett (Year 11) scored 59 and Nathan Andrew (Year 10) 53 not out on day one, before Samuel Cook (Year 13) claimed a hat‑trick in the second innings.
For the Colts, Carter Horsley (Year 10) made a well‑constructed 55, while George Hubbard (Year 10) took 4/28.
The Preparatory School Swimming Sports Prelims were held at Jellie Park on Monday and showcased fantastic participation, enthusiasm, and school spirit. Students represented the StAC‑Up values superbly, supporting one another and bringing positive energy to every event. For many Year 4 students, this was their first experience of Swimming Sports, and they showed impressive confidence and enjoyment.
Congratulations to our Year 4 Age Group Champions, Elara Momenan and Cooper Haydon‑Uren. We now look ahead to the Swimming Sports Championship Day for Year 5–8 students on Monday 23 February.
This week, Year 11 Art students visited the Christchurch Art Gallery to engage with the Whāia te Taniwha exhibition. The visit supported their current Visual Inquiry, which explores place, identity, and storytelling through art. Students encountered rich visual and cultural references, particularly Māori perspectives and relationships with whenua. The experience also provided important context for their upcoming study of Ōtamahua/Quail Island later in the term.
Liam Botha (Year 5) competed in eight events at the 2026 Long Course Championships at Parakiore Recreation and Sports Centre in January. Highlights included an 11‑second personal best in the 200m backstroke, first place in both the Boys’ 200m Individual Medley and 100m Breaststroke, and a new Canterbury record for Boys aged 9 in the 50m Butterfly, a record that had stood since 2010.
Jessica Nelson (Year 4) competed in her first tennis tournament over Waitangi weekend at the 2026 Waimairi Junior Open. She won two of her three matches and was named Runner-up in the 10 and Under Girls’ Division 2 Singles.
On Wednesday, the College held a 7.30am blessing ceremony to officially open the refurbished block now named the Burnett Wing, formerly the Religious Education Block. The name honours the Burnett family and their long‑standing relationship with the College, which dates back to the 1920s. Over many decades, the family’s generosity has included the Burnett Block built in 1965, the establishment of the St Andrew’s College farm in 1977 and sustained financial support for the teaching of Agriculture. St Andrew’s College is also the prinicpal beneficiary of the Burnett Valley Trust.
Invited guests, Board members and staff joined Rev. Paul Morrow and Teacher in Charge of Te Reo Māori, Wiremu Pickering, to bless two new Science laboratories, two refurbished Religious Education classrooms, and new Registrar and Timetabling offices.
Flickr >On Wednesday, the Commerce Department welcomed back Old Collegians Blair Williamson and Chris Simcock (both OC 2008) to speak with Year 11 Commerce students about their real‑world business experiences. Blair founded Limit Zero in 2010, an innovative fitness and personal training business focused on positivity, encouragement, and community. Chris established Impact Ventures and is a founding partner of the Impact Enterprise Fund, New Zealand’s first impact‑investing fund supporting businesses that deliver social and environmental outcomes.
Both speakers shared the pūtake (purpose) of their businesses, discussed challenges and growth, and highlighted how engagement, positive emotions, and perseverance support success. The session provided valuable real‑world connections to students’ learning, and the Commerce Department is grateful to Blair and Chris for generously giving their time.
On Tuesday, three of our Pacific Student Leaders attended the annual SPACPAC Collective Leadership Summit Retreat at the Multicultural Centre. Metua Cranwell, Moleli Lagokamu and Hannah Papali'i Taimalelagi Malietoa (all Year 13) took part, alongside Pasifika Coordinator, James Jenkinson, and teacher, Connor O’Rourke.
The summit provided opportunities to connect with other Pacific Student Leaders from across Waitaha through workshops games and speeches led by local Pacific community leaders. Metua, Hannah and Moleli reflected on the value of the day, particularly the leadership insights gained and strategies for championing Pacific cultures within the St Andrew’s College community. Staff also contributed to discussions around future events and opportunities, with a shared focus on strengthening the visibility and growth of Pacific cultures across the region.
Tuesday evening provided a warm and engaging start to the year with the Preparatory School Meet the Teacher event, followed by the popular PTA Wine and Cheese Night. These occasions are important opportunities to strengthen the partnership between home and school and to connect with parents who play such a vital role in the St Andrew’s College community.
Principal of Preparatory School, Leigh Fowler, welcomed families and thanked them for entrusting the College with their most cherished taonga. Parents spent time meeting their child’s teacher, visiting classrooms, and connecting with others in their year group. The PTA‑hosted Wine and Cheese Night was a highlight, supported by a stunning Christchurch evening. A sincere thank you to the PTA for creating such a welcoming and enjoyable event.
Charlie Sullivan (OC 2025) has been named one of the inaugural recipients of the 2026 BCITO Scholarship, announced as part of the Crusaders’ new partnership with the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO). The scholarship recognises Charlie’s commitment to both rugby development and trade training, providing tailored support to balance on‑the‑job learning with his Crusaders Academy pathway. A well‑deserved acknowledgement of his hard work, dedication, and talent.
Blair Currie (OC 2018) has signed with KTP in Finland’s second‑tier football championship. Formerly New Zealand youth team goalkeeper, Blair most recently played for Wellington United in the National League following a successful collegiate career in the United States.
Best wishes to Charlie Ryder (OC 2007) and his Christchurch born alt pop band Yumi Zouma as they begin their North American and European tour. The band has recently released its fifth album, No Love Lost to Kindness, and continues to collaborate remotely from New Zealand, New York, and London. They are hoping to return for a New Zealand show later this year.
Good luck to all students who are representing the College this weekend in sports and cultural activities, including:
For a full list of upcoming school events, please refer to the fixtures page on StACNet.
The College Shop, Thistles is open during term time only, with the following hours:
Read more about the College Shop by clicking here.
Weekly Feedback for Term 1 will begin on Friday 20 February, with the first reports available after 3.00pm. The final update for the year will be published on Thursday 13 November.
Each week, parents will receive an email summarising their child’s effort and attitude in each subject. Further information, including the criteria used by all teachers, is available here: stac.nz/WeeklyFeedback.
Year Group Deans will follow up with any student scoring a 1 or 2. Parents can continue to access scores and historical data through the Community Portal: stac.nz/StudentResults.
The St Andrew’s College has a Community Business Directory features over 100 businesses and professional services owned by families of current students. The Directory is a fantastic way to support local businesses, strengthen connections within our St Andrew’s whānau, and discover the range of services offered by fellow parents and caregivers. This year we’ll also be hosting business networking events – keep an eye out for upcoming dates and details.
THE ST ANDREW'S COLLEGE COMMUNITY BUSINESS DIRECTORY>
List Your Business: If you’re a current parent and would like to be included, complete the registration form at the link below, or email development@stac.school.nz to update a current listing.
Physiotherapy services are available at school Mondays to Friday in the Health Centre. Balance Physiotherapy provides a professional care from physiotherapists experienced in adolescent sports injury management and rehabilitation.
Appointments can be made by:
Date: Monday 2 March (Week 6, Term 1)
Time: 6.30pm–7.30pm
Venue: Centennial Chapel, St Andrew's College
Join us for StACTalks: The Power of Stories with Jehan Casinader. This special evening features award-winning journalist, author, and mental health advocate Jehan Casinader, who will share his remarkable journey from early success in television journalism to battling depression and suicidal thoughts – and how storytelling helped him survive. Jehan’s presentation is not a generic mental health talk. He offers fresh, compelling, and practical insights into how we can support our children’s well-being and strengthen resilience within our families. His storytelling approach provides tools to help us become the “authors” of our own lives and navigate challenges with confidence.
Jehan has spoken to educators, parents, and students across New Zealand, changing lives – and saving lives – with his unique message. His book, This Is Not How It Ends: How rewriting your story can save your life, has inspired countless readers to rethink how they approach adversity.
This free event is open to all St Andrew's College parents and caregivers. Complimentary tea and coffee will be served after the session in the Centennial Chapel foyer.
REGISTER >Meet our teachers who make the difference at our upcoming Open Days. Please help spread the word for interested families to register online.
Secondary School Open Day: Wednesday 4 March, 9.00am–12.00pm
Preparatory School and Pre-school Open Day: Thursday 5 March, 11.00am–12.30pm
Our South Island Boarding Roadshow events are a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the wonderful boarding environment at St Andrew’s College and meet with members of our Boarding team in a relaxed and informal setting over drinks and nibbles.
If you or someone you know is interested in Boarding with us, please see the Roadshow details below to register and find out more.
We’re excited to invite you to our first ever StAC Community Fête! This special event will bring students and families together on the Front Field for an evening of fun, food, and connection.
This event is all about bringing our community together – Pre-school, Preparatory, and Secondary Schools, and celebrating the start of the year in a relaxed, family-friendly way. With bouncy castles, activities, music, and food trucks, there’s something for everyone. Please note this is an alcohol-free event. Entry is free, but please register your attendance at the link below. We hope you’ll join us and make this inaugural event a memorable one!
REGISTER >
We’re excited to introduce a new initiative: Coffees and Catch-Ups. Held at The Coffee Cart, located in Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre, these informal sessions provide a relaxed opportunity for you to meet and chat with key staff throughout the year over a cup of coffee. No RSVP required – just drop in after drop-off!
We’re thrilled to announce that our first session will be attended by Rector, Mark Wilson, and Principal of Preparatory School, Leigh Fowler.
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.
