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Dear Parents and Caregivers
Our annual Boarders’ Weekend was once again a full-on experience of colour, energy, and passion. It was such a strong way to bring our boarding community together and create a genuine sense of belonging. I was particularly impressed to see our senior students positively leading, encouraging and mentoring the younger students through what might be described as an extended buddy-system, or, in Māori, a tuakana-teina approach.
On Monday, my wife Judi and I had the pleasure of attending our annual Marlborough Boarding Roadshow in Blenheim, combined with our Old Collegian Association gathering. We welcomed a wonderful crowd of more than 60 people, who enjoyed the opportunity to connect, share, and be updated on new developments at the College. These events are clearly valued by our Old Collegians as a chance to reconnect with one another, current staff, and families.
Our Parent Teacher Association (PTA) meets monthly and provides an opportunity for me, along with the Principals of the Preparatory and Secondary Schools, to share updates and information. Tuesday evening’s meeting was once again a valuable opportunity to connect with this engaged group of parents, particularly with Leigh Fowler, our new Principal of Preparatory School, able to speak directly with them following her first four weeks in the role.
I am always struck by how St Andrew’s is such a diverse community, with many different parts, yet remains strongly connected. There is a shared commitment to our vision of creating an ongoing successful College where we all belong, grow, and flourish to make a positive difference in our world.
Last night, we held our first Board of Governors meeting for 2026 and received very positive reports from across the College on the strong start to the school year. The Board was encouraged by the rollout of our new Strategic Plan, including the successful relaunch of our PERMA‑V well-being framework. We also reviewed a pleasing interim report from McIldowie Partners on the progress of our property master plan, as the process moves from the Define and Discover phase (engagement and consultation) into Development and Design.
Finally, congratulations to our senior tennis players on their outstanding results at the Canterbury Secondary Schools Tennis Championships held at Wilding Park this week, and to our Year 9 students and staff who have embraced the exciting challenges of the outdoor education programme at Castle Hill during these opening weeks of the year.
Ngā mihi
Mark Wilson
Rector
The Middle School Ethics Olympiad team placed an impressive seventh out of 50 teams in the International Middle School Ethics Olympiad, finishing as the highest‑placing team from New Zealand. This outstanding result reflects the students’ commitment, thoughtful preparation, and rigorous engagement with complex ethical issues. The team members were Angela Yang (Captain), Samuel Hu (both Year 11), Kangwoo Moon, Louis Hyland‑Cook, and Hudson Blyde (all Year 10). Ethics plays a vital role in students’ learning, particularly for those considering future pathways in areas such as medicine, law, and other professions where sound judgement and integrity are essential. Experiences like this develop critical reasoning, moral awareness, and the confidence to articulate and defend ideas, skills that will serve students well beyond the classroom.
With beginning‑of‑year assessments now complete, targeted learning in Mathematics is well underway across the Preparatory School. In one Year 8 class this week, students explored number properties with a focus on building confidence in working with positive and negative integers. To extend this learning, students undertook a creative mathematical challenge by constructing a hexaflexagon – a folded geometric model that reveals multiple hidden faces when flexed. The task reinforced mathematical thinking through careful measurement, symmetry, sequencing, and an understanding of transformation, offering an engaging way to explore patterns and deepen conceptual understanding.
In this week’s Well‑being Blog, Head of Well‑being Kerry Larby shares the four core beliefs that shape our approach to supporting student well‑being at St Andrew’s College. These beliefs underpin our PERMA‑V framework and guide how we teach, relate, and support young people to grow. They reflect ongoing staff conversations and form the foundation of the new PERMA‑V guide now used across the College.
Read the full blog>
The boarding houses were buzzing last weekend during the 2026 Annual Boarding Sports House Weekend, the one dedicated “stay‑in” weekend each year for boarders. The programme was led entirely by Year 13 House Leaders and kaiāwhina, who took full responsibility for planning and delivery. The weekend also marked the opening of the House competition for the Dianne Needham Cup.
A strong focus was placed on building belonging through genuine connection, with every boarder participating enthusiastically and supporting one another throughout the activities. Events included Invasion, House Entrances, Tabloid Sports, Pot Games, The Amazing Race, and Multi Sports, along with a new addition, a Valentine’s Dinner complete with surprise blind dates. The weekend concluded with the first Boarders’ Chapel Service of the year, where students proudly displayed their House colours. It was an energetic and inclusive start to the year, shaped by the commitment and leadership of our senior students.
Flickr>During Term 1, the Pre‑school is focusing on its learning priority of Respectful Relationships / Whanaungatanga. This includes exploring how tamariki build and sustain warm, respectful, and reciprocal relationships with people, places, and things.
This week, Pre‑school tamariki warmly welcomed new Principal of Preparatory School Leigh Fowler. A group of tuakana visited her office to present a welcome card and sing one of their favourite songs, You Are My Sunshine. Tamariki and kaiako are looking forward to getting to know Mrs Fowler as she settles into her new role.
A warm welcome to our newest class at St Andrew’s College. With new uniforms, big bags, and huge smiles, Class 1CW has had a wonderful start to school life. The children have settled in beautifully, quickly becoming familiar with daily routines and forming positive friendships.
This term focuses on getting to know one another and building strong connections, and it has been lovely to see personalities beginning to shine. Teacher Anna Wylie has been impressed by the confidence and progress the children have shown in such a short time.
Genevieve and Katrina Wallis (both Year 12) represented New Zealand in waterskiing at the Oz Kiwi Challenge, held at Lake Hood earlier this month. While Australia won the team event, both Katrina and Genevieve recorded strong individual performances in the U17 Girls’ division. Katrina achieved Silver in Tricks, Bronze in Jump, and Bronze Overall, while Genevieve secured Bronze in Tricks, fourth in Jump, and fifth Overall.
The following students have represented Canterbury in touch.
Te Waipounamu Tournament:
Youth Nationals:
New Zealand Nationals (upcoming):
Fourteen students competed in the Canterbury Secondary Schools Year 11 and Senior Tennis Championships at Wilding Park on Monday and Tuesday. With weather‑related changes requiring adaptability and resilience, all students performed strongly.
Top results included:
All players are to be congratulated for their determination and adaptability in challenging conditions.
Flickr>Cohnor Walsh (Year 13) delivered an outstanding performance at the two‑day Individual Coast to Coast, placing third in the school category and 18th in the Open/Elite category. George Ranken and Cameron Sharpe (both Year 12), alongside Oliver Barker (Year 13), completed the demanding team race despite severe weather and equipment challenges. Seth Vargo (Year 11) competed as part of a composite team with Darfield High School, completing the alternative mountain run. Harry Stocker (Year 11) and his mother placed third in their category, while Science teacher Anna Hood completed her first individual Coast to Coast event, having previously competed four times in team events.
Eva Willcox (Year 10) competed in the 2026 Southern Regions Surf Lifesaving Championships at Warrington Beach near Dunedin. Representing South Brighton Surf Lifesaving Club, Eva achieved strong results across individual and team events.
The 1st XI recorded a convincing outright win over St Thomas of Canterbury College in a two‑day match. Batting first, St Andrew’s made 237/7, with Spencer Hair (Year 13) scoring 108 and Tom Simpson (Year 13) 41 not out. Strong bowling and fielding dismissed St Thomas for 129, with Harrison Horsley (Year 12) taking 4/38. In the second innings, Liam Costeloe (Year 13) made 64 and Ryan Bond (Year 13) 49 not out, setting a target of 282. St Thomas were then bowled out for 143, with Hugo Fairweather‑Logie (Year 13) taking 5/37.
Other notable performances included:
Last Friday, a St Andrew’s College XI played Nelson Boys’ College 1st XI. Batting first, St Andrew’s found it challenging to build sustained partnerships and was bowled out just short of 120 runs. In reply, Nelson Boys’ College were made to work hard for the chase, losing seven wickets before reaching the target.
2nd XI Flickr>
The Secondary School House Swimming Sports were held at Jellie Park on Monday, with 112 swimmers competing across a full programme. Five new school swimming records were set – four by Edward Garbutt (Year 10) and one by Keira-Leigh Watt (Year 10). The champion sports House was MacGibbon, followed by Erwin second, Rutherford third, and Thompson fourth.
Flickr>Tuesday 17 February marked the beginning of the Chinese New Year, the Year of the Horse. The International Club created decorations and displays in The Green Library and Innovation Centre to mark this occasion. Celebrations will continue until Tuesday 3 March, with lunchtime activities held over the next two Mondays and a Chinese New Year quiz running until Friday 27 February.
French students celebrated Mardi Gras by making crêpes during lessons held in the Senior College Cafeteria. Students explored the cultural tradition, learning about its significance before Lent, and discovered that making crêpes the traditional way takes practice. The experience provided a hands‑on and enjoyable connection to French culture.
Senior Te Reo Māori students began their whakairo course at the Whakaraupo / Lyttelton Carving Centre. Guided by kaiwhakairo Matua Damian Mackie, students learnt foundational carving skills while exploring tikanga, cultural narratives, and creative expression. The kaupapa strengthened connection to whakapapa and fostered confidence, patience, and whanaungatanga.
The whakataukī Mā te huruhuru ka rere te manu – With feathers, the bird can fly – reflects how skills gained through whakairo support students to grow and carry their culture forward.
Year 13 Geography students conducted coastal fieldwork at Taumutu Beach and Waimairi Beach to collect primary data for their NCEA research assessment. Weather‑related changes required students to adapt plans, providing a valuable real‑world learning experience while comparing different coastal environments.
Flickr>Twenty‑seven Year 9–10 students attended a half‑day creative writing workshop led by Writer in Residence Kerrin P. Sharpe and Head of English Rebecca Ball. Students explored exemplar writing, learned about publication opportunities, and developed their own creative projects. Participants will continue refining their work with support throughout the term.
Flickr>
At this week’s Year 10 Dean’s hui, Assistant Principal (Academic) Helaina Coote shared an opportunity for students to apply for a five‑day Spirit Discovery voyage with the Spirit of Adventure. A mixed group of 10 students will be selected to join the voyage alongside students from other schools. Applications close on Monday 2 March.
A few students competed at the Rangiora Highland Dance Competition over the weekend. Georgia Gregg (Year 9) won Most Points U14, the Highland Reel Merit Award, and the Most Outstanding Dancer U14 trophy. Eleanor Nortje (Year 4) placed Runner‑up for Most Points U10.
Year 4 students visited the Christchurch Art Gallery to explore the Whāia te Taniwha exhibition, deepening their understanding of Māori art and storytelling and then created their own artworks. Back at school, Imagination Station delivered a hands‑on programme focused on teamwork, problem‑solving, and urban design, with students creating LEGO® city models. This experience highlighted our strong connections with local organisations, showcased meaningful community engagement, and contributed to the vibrant learning events that continue to enrich our students' experience.
The Centennial Chapel was filled with laughter during the annual Shrove Tuesday pancake race. Representatives from the Preparatory School kaimahi competed in a closely contested race, with teachers Bid Constanti taking first place and Jayde Mayberry finishing second.
Flickr>This week, Pre‑school tamariki explored the Lunar New Year through stories, art, and shared experiences. Health and Safety Manager, Art Preuss, presented a martial arts demonstration inspired by the Chinese Zodiac, while children learned the story of Nian and created lanterns and decorations. The activities celebrated cultural diversity and strengthened relationships within the Pre‑school community.
Our first Coffee and Catch Ups session on Thursday morning provided a warm and welcoming start to this new community initiative. More than 90 parents gathered at The Coffee Cart to connect with one another and spend time with Rector Mark Wilson and Principal of Preparatory School Leigh Fowler, who hosted the session.
It was a relaxed and enjoyable morning, with great conversation, breakfast treats, and plenty of coffee. A special thank you to Kendall Ball for generously providing complimentary coffees for those who attended
Coffee and Catch Ups will continue throughout the year, each session featuring a different theme and hosting staff member. The next gathering will be held on Tuesday 17 March, hosted by PTA President Tim Gibb.
Flickr>
Drum Sergeant Lance Rairi (OC 1988) will perform at Eden Park this weekend as part of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Lance developed his piping skills during his time at St Andrew’s College before joining the Tattoo Pipes and Drums in 2023 and later being appointed Drum Sergeant. He is particularly looking forward to performing in his home country as the Tattoo celebrates its 75th anniversary, a significant milestone in an impressive international journey.
Custodian Mike Johnston (OC 1974) is currently representing the Grey Caps, New Zealand’s Over‑70s cricket team, at the Over‑70s World Cup. The tournament features eight teams competing in a round‑robin format, with the top teams progressing to the final at Hagley Oval on Thursday 5 March. During the competition, the Grey Caps will face teams from Sri Lanka, Australia, the United States, India, England, and Canada.
On Monday, we were delighted to reconnect with Old Collegians living in the Marlborough region at our annual Blenheim gathering. Around 60 guests attended, including Old Collegians and their partners, as well as current and prospective parents, creating a warm and lively atmosphere. It was wonderful to see such a broad range of year groups represented, from 1953 through to 2021.
Guests enjoyed sharing stories and memories, reconnecting with familiar faces, and forming new connections. Rector Mark Wilson and his wife Judi were also pleased to attend and spend time with members of the Old Collegians community. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the evening such a success.
Flickr>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.
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 >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:
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.
