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Dear Parents and Caregivers
The Year 11 Semi‑formal was held last Saturday evening at Riccarton Raceway, providing an opportunity for students to come together in a social setting. My thanks to Assistant Head of Middle School, Liz Gormack, Year 11 Dean, James Jenkinson, and the Year 11 tutors and prefects for their contribution in making this such a successful evening.
Thank you to Custodian, Mike (Scrump) Johnston, and the Rugby Committee for their organisation of last Saturday’s Rugby Club Day, including hospitality for the College community and the much-enjoyed BBQ. My thanks also go to Head Groundsperson, David Fisher, and his team for preparing the grounds. A full report and photos are included in this week’s newsletter.
In sport, our Senior A Girls’ netball team has made history by achieving promotion to the Premier 1 Senior Netball competition for the second half of the season. The team currently leads both the Wednesday school competition and the Saturday Premier 2 competition. This places St Andrew’s as the only school team competing in the adult Premier 1 league – an outstanding achievement that reflects the team’s hard work and high-quality performances.
A highlight this week has been the Preparatory School’s production Looped, a student‑led project with the script written by Preparatory School students and the music composed by Secondary School students. Thank you to Dance and Drama teacher, Ginnie Thorner, for directing this impressive student-led production, and to all students involved in bringing the show to life so brilliantly.
On Tuesday evening, we hosted our StACTalk on Digital Well-being, including presentations from staff and parent Roger Dennis. This contributed to the College’s ongoing work to support families, including initiatives such as the Preparatory School Hold the Line pledge for parents to endeavour to not give their child a smartphone until at least the beginning of Year 9. Please read more in this newsletter.
At the College AGM last night, it was confirmed that our Board Chair, Felicity Odlin, will step down in September after more than five years in the role and over 10 years of service on the Board. Deputy Chair, Nick Letham, has been unanimously elected by the Board of Governors as the new Chair, effective from September 2026.
We are deeply grateful for Felicity’s professional and generous voluntary service to the Board and the wider College throughout her tenure, along with her support as a parent of two sons who attended St Andrew’s College.
Nick, an Old Collegian (OC 2001), has served the College community in a number of capacities, including President of the Old Collegians Association from 2014 to 2016, a Foundation Trustee from 2015 to 2019, and as the staff-nominated member of the Board for the past seven years.
You can access the College’s 2025 Annual Report by clicking here.
Today marks the conclusion of the 2026 Annual Giving appeal, which has focused on supporting the College’s scholarship programme. Contributions to date exceed $200,000, with the final total to be confirmed and shared in the coming weeks. We are grateful to all who have contributed to supporting access for others to a St Andrew’s education.
Ngā mihi nui
Mark Wilson
Rector
Last Friday, a group of 21 Year 12–13 students studying Art, Media, and Design and Visual Communication (DVC) travelled to Wellington for a day of learning across tertiary settings. The programme began at Massey University’s College of Creative Arts, where students participated in workshops including mould‑making, app design, film challenges, and creature creation.
The group also visited Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington, touring the Faculty of Architecture and Design Innovation. Across both campuses, students gained insight into creative study pathways and experienced specialist facilities, supporting their understanding of future options beyond school.
Level 3 Geography students completed a field trip Castle Hill, supporting their study of geographic processes and internal assessment work. The programme began in the Christchurch CBD with a visit to Quake City, before continuing to Castle Hill for field‑based investigations.
Students explored local geographic features and visited Porter’s Ski Area, where they heard about the management of a ski field. The trip also included collaborative activities and structured challenges, linking fieldwork experience with key concepts from the course.
The Year 13 Biology Extension and Enrichment class has been studying biotechnological techniques and their applications. As part of this learning, students used a gel electrophoresis kit, kindly provided by the University of Canterbury, to separate and analyse DNA samples.
The practical experience allowed students to develop laboratory skills, including using micropipettes and working with small‑scale samples, while reinforcing the importance of precision in scientific investigation.
Year 4 students explored 3D shapes through a hands‑on activity, constructing models using toothpicks and marshmallows. Working collaboratively, they built shapes such as cubes, pyramids, and prisms, representing edges and vertices through the materials.
The task supported understanding of geometric properties, with students identifying faces, edges, and vertices while applying mathematical vocabulary in context.
More than 120 parents attended this week’s StACTalk, focused on Digital Well‑being and supporting young people in their use of technology. The session revisited the College’s developmental approach across Year 1–13 students, including practical strategies to support balanced and informed use of digital devices.
Head of Guidance, Tom Matthews, facilitated the evening, joined by Head of Well‑being, Kerry Larby, who shared research on adolescent development and its connection to motivation and well‑being. Head of Middle School, Matt Parr, provided insight into day‑to‑day impacts within the College context, while Preparatory School Deputy Principal, Vicki Pettit, reflected on progress in their Hold the Line till Year 9 initiative. Parent speaker Roger Dennis shared perspectives from home, offering practical guidance around establishing boundaries and consistent expectations.
The evening highlighted the importance of a shared approach between school and families, reinforcing that digital well‑being is supported through ongoing communication and clear, consistent expectations. To see the handout shared on St Andrew's philosophy for best supporting technology use, please click here.
This approach draws on research by David Yeager, emphasising the importance of motivating the adolescent brain through respect. Please note, a video recording of this StACTalks session will be shared with all parents/caregivers via email.
This term, Year 9 students have focused on the PERMA‑V pillar of Vitality through goal setting and physical activity. As part of this, the cohort participated in a dodgeball competition held over three weeks.
There were some fabulous games, with the final played on Thursday between the two tutor groups making up Class 9A (BHU and EJO), with BHU finishing as the winning team. The competition provided an opportunity for participation, teamwork, and physical engagement, supported by the organisation of Year 9 Dean Liam Smith, Physical Education teacher Brad Munt, and Middle School leaders.
Year 8 students have been exploring the PERMA‑V framework this term, focusing on how each element contributes to their own well‑being. A particular emphasis has been placed on Positive Emotion, with students reflecting on ways to build and sustain positive experiences.
As part of this learning, students created gratitude jars, inviting contributions from family, friends, and teachers. These messages will be used as part of an ongoing reflection practice into next term, encouraging students to pause and recognise positive moments. Classroom discussions have explored how positive emotions support learning and relationships, and how small, consistent actions can contribute to overall well‑being.
The Pre‑school marked “Fluoro Friday” in support of Hato Hone St John, with tamariki invited to wear bright clothing and accessories and bring a gold coin donation. Funds raised will contribute towards the development of new ambulance stations.
The day also provided an opportunity for learning focused on safety and community helpers. Children explored the role of emergency services and discussed ways to keep themselves safe, particularly when using the roads. College Health and Safety Manager Art Preuss visited to speak with tamariki about safe road‑crossing behaviours, reinforcing practical strategies in an engaging way.
Flickr>Five students competed at the South Island Canoe Polo Championships in Dunedin. Luke Cleugh (Year 12), playing for Wolf Pack, progressed through the tournament undefeated until the final to claim silver in A grade.
Isabella Davies (Year 11) and Mila Lovelock (Year 10) represented the only female team at the tournament. They were promoted to B grade during the competition, recording five wins from seven matches to secure bronze. Nate Randall and Maxim Taylor (both Year 10) were part of the Enforcers team, who won gold in C grade.
Students competed at the Canterbury Primary Schools Cross Country Championships at Ngā Puna Wai on Wednesday, with strong fields of more than 120 runners per race. Qualification required a top‑six finish at zone level.
Franklin Rahman (Year 7) placed first in his race, with additional top‑10 finishes from Theo Nelson (Year 6), sixth; Clara Jones (Year 7), seventh; and ChloeAnn Botha (Year 8), tenth.
Flickr>A number of students achieved strong results in the recent New Zealand Academy of Highland and National Dancing examinations. See all the results by clicking here.
Georgia Gregg (Year 9) also competed at the Ashburton Highland National Dance Championships, placing first in the Highland Fling U14 and Most Points U14, and at the Oxford Competition where she won Most Points U14.
BASKETBALL
The Senior Girls defeated Villa Maria College 103–21, holding their opponents scoreless across the first half. Lucy Cliff (Year 12) recorded 17 points, nine rebounds, five assists, and eight steals. The result extends the team’s regional unbeaten run to six years.
The Senior Boys travelled to face Shirley Boys’ High School. In a competitive match, St Andrew’s maintained control through consistent scoring, with Roma Tuimaunei (Year 13) contributing 27 points, alongside 12 rebounds, five assists, and five steals in a 99–76 win. The result moves the team into a share of first place.
Across the competition, both teams now hold a combined 13–1 record and will face a challenging double-header week in the final week of term, with four key games to come.
FOOTBALL
The Girls’ 1st XI secured a 7–2 victory over Papanui High School, controlling possession and creating multiple scoring opportunities through structured attacking play. Defensive efforts supported transitions and limited Papanui’s chances.
The Boys’ 1st XI faced Cashmere High School in the opening Top 8 round, going down 9–1. Despite the scoreline, the team continued to compete throughout, with their goal highlighting positive attacking play under pressure.
HOCKEY
The Girls’ 1st XI drew 2–2 with Rangi Ruru Girls’ High School after trailing 2–0 at half time. The team lifted intensity in the second half, with Annabelle Barker (Year 13) scoring to begin the comeback and debutant Sabine Waghorn (Year 10) equalising from a penalty corner. Defensive effort and team structure were key in closing out the result.
The Boys’ 1st XI defeated Cashmere High School 3–2 in a closely contested match. In the spirit of the game, St Andrew’s loaned a goalkeeper prior to the match when Cashmere was unable to field one. The fixture remained evenly balanced, with St Andrew’s taking key scoring opportunities to secure the result.
NETBALL
The Senior A team secured the Premier 2 title with a 43–34 win over St Nicholas B. The match began at high intensity, with both teams level through the first quarter. St Andrew’s established control in the second quarter through defensive turnovers and accurate shooting, with Carley McNee (Year 13) outstanding under the hoop. St Nicholas narrowed the margin to three goals entering the final quarter, before St Andrew’s lifted again to close out the match. Zara Kleindyk (Year 12) was named MVP, with Sophie Schouten (Year 11) recognised for the Team Moment. The win secured promotion to Premier 1 – a significant achievement and a rare milestone, with few school teams competing at this level.
The team began their Premier 1 campaign against competition leaders Lincoln University A on Monday. A strong defensive start created multiple opportunities, with a competitive third quarter seeing St Andrew’s score eight goals. Despite the 22–67 result, the team showed resilience and gained experience against an established side, including several former Tactix players. Charlotte Galvan (Year 13) and Rosie Gaffaney (Year 12) were named joint MVPs.
On Wednesday, the team played St Margaret’s College in the SupaNet competition. After a slow start, St Andrew’s worked back into the match late in the first quarter, with improved defensive pressure. The final quarter was the most effective, finishing 7–7. Despite a 17–33 loss, St Andrew’s continues to lead the overall competition. Rosie Gaffaney was named MVP and Hannah Radford (Year 12) was recognised for the Team Moment.
RUGBY
The Boys’ 1st XV defeated St Thomas of Canterbury College 35–28 on Club Day, in a strong and composed performance. St Andrew’s established an early 21–0 lead before St Thomas responded to level the scores in the second half. The team regained momentum through structured play and finished strongly with two further tries to secure the win.
The Girls’ 1st XV was defeated by Christchurch Girls’ High School in a challenging match this week. Maddison Kitson (Year 12) made her debut, while Metua Cranwell (Year 13) scored St Andrew’s try. Madeline‑Rose Topless (Year 11) was named Attacker of the Match and Taylor Esler (Year 9) Defender of the Match.
fLICKR>Rugby Club Day was a fantastic occasion, bringing together teams from across the College, with Preparatory School and Junior teams playing in the morning and Secondary School teams in the afternoon. A full programme of fixtures was played on site, providing a centralised day for the wider community.
Highlights included a nail-biter 2nd XV win over Christ’s College and a 1st XV victory over St Thomas of Canterbury College.
A standout contributor to the day was parent and Rugby Committee member, Richard Sidey (OC 1986) and his incredible BBQ effort. Thank you to Richard and his team for their tireless work behind the scenes and to Andrew Stokes (OC 1993) for donating the meat. We would also like to acknowledge the wider St Andrew’s Rugby Committee for their contribution in making the day such a success. As Scrump said, "it was the best Club Day in 26 years" – high praise indeed, and a fitting endorsement of a brilliant day.
fLICKR>
his week, Year 7–8 students presented the original production Looped, combining student‑written script and music composed by Secondary School students. Each performer brought energy, commitment, and creativity to the stage, while the student crew demonstrated equal dedication behind the scenes. It was inspiring to see students rise to the occasion and support one another throughout the process.
The production involved performance, technical, and backstage roles, with contributions across year levels and highlighted the value of arts learning, fostering not only performance skills but also resilience, collaboration, and the confidence to step beyond comfort zones. This production was supported by staff, Old Collegians, senior students, and parent volunteers across costume, choreography, and technical roles.
A special acknowledgement goes to the creative team for their vision and many hours of preparation. Thank you to parent helpers Alice Wilson and Nicole Feaver for costume design, Hana Pearce (OC 2019) for choreography, Head of Music Duncan Ferguson for his extensive musical contribution, and Director Ginnie Thorner, for set design, direction, and overall creative leadership. The standing ovation at the final performance was well deserved and a fitting celebration of the talent, hard work, and spirit of everyone involved.
Flickr>The Year 11 Semi‑formal was held in style last Saturday at Riccarton Raceway, providing an opportunity for students to gather in a social setting. The evening included music, dancing, and a programme of informal awards recognising a range of contributions and participation. With its spacious setting, disco lights, fantastic DJ, and an abundance of supper, it provided the perfect backdrop for the evening. Students arrived promptly at 7.30pm, bringing glamour and excitement with them – with elegant dresses, sharp suits, glowing tans, and beautifully matched corsages. There was no shortage of fun competition throughout the night, with a range of prizes up for grabs. Highlights included Best Dressed, Best Shoes, Most Enthusiastic, and the ever-popular Cutest Couple awards – each warmly contested and celebrated.
Prefects supported the event by assisting staff and helping to ensure a positive and inclusive environment. Thank you to the Middle School Leaders for all their work behind the scenes in organising the event. The Semi‑formal was a night full of laughter, energy, and memories to last a lifetime.
Flickr>
The Business Studies Night Market was held on Monday, featuring more than 30 student‑led stalls showcasing innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Students from St Andrew’s College, St Margaret’s College, Rangi Ruru Girls’ School, and Cashmere High School presented a range of products and services, from handcrafted products and baked goods to well-being solutions and practical services, applying learning in entrepreneurship and business.
The event attracted strong community attendance and provided an opportunity for students to engage with customers, test ideas, and present their ventures in a real‑world context.
Flickr>June marks Pride Month, and this week the College recognised Schools’ Pride Week Aotearoa through activities led by the Rainbow Group. The week focused on affirming identity, strengthening belonging, supporting a culture of inclusion and reduce the experiences of bullying for rainbow youth.
The rainbow flag flew proudly on the main flagpole, The Green Library and Innovation Centre featured an Out on the Shelves book display, and today students and staff wore colourful accessories. Prefects also led a lunchtime ‘dance it out’ session in the quad, contributing to a visible and shared celebration of diversity.
International Languages Week was marked alongside Schools’ Pride Week this year, with activities celebrating cultural diversity across the College. Students participated in an International Languages Quiz and a range of food‑based experiences.
Highlights included pain au chocolat for sale at lunchtime on Tuesday and today a giant one mitre wide chicken and chorizo paella prepared by Spanish teacher Alexis Evlampieff. The week connected to broader global themes, including the international focus of major events such as the FIFA World Cup.
The Years 2–3 Disco, held on Friday 12 June, was led by our Year 13 prefects. The Junior Department’s Learning Hallway was transformed with ‘In the Garden’ themed decorations, and students danced enthusiastically and cheered each other on in a fun class dance-off. Bringing our younger and most senior students together in this way fostered a strong sense of belonging, whānau connection, and pastoral care, highlighting the importance of shared experiences in nurturing our school community.
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Rowing – Ben Taylor (OC 2017) and Oli Welch won gold in the Men’s Pair at the second World Rowing Cup regatta in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Their time of 6:09.04 was just 0.54 seconds outside the world best time set at the London 2012 Olympic Games by legendary Kiwi duo, Hamish Bond and Eric Murray.
Sleep Research Award – Dr Josh Leota (OC 2008) has received the 2026 Sleep Research Society Outstanding Early Investigator Award, recognising his research on the relationship between evening exercise and sleep. This award honours exceptional early-career researchers, with only three recipients selected worldwide this year.
Good luck to all students who are representing the College over the weekend in sports and cultural activities, including:
1st XV vs Shirley Boys’ High School.
For a full list of upcoming school events, please refer to the fixtures page on StACNet.
Each term, new St Andrew’s College Road Patrol students are trained by Constable Richard Brunton to safely manage the school crossing. The training includes both classroom theory and practical application on the road, with students required to demonstrate competency in both areas before being certified.
Road Patrollers provide an important service to the College community, supporting the safe movement of students and pedestrians during busy times.
How you can you help
* abide by the road rules;
* when operating a vehicle, drive at 30km/h or below during peak times;
* do not stop or park on yellow lines or across driveways;
* if within 20m of the crossing, please use it.
Road Patrol Hours
* Mornings: Monday – Friday: 8.00am–8.30am.
* Afternoons: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 3.15pm–3.35pm; Wednesday: 2.20pm–2.35pm.
Thank you for your support in helping keep our community safe.
The objective of the presentation is to provide parents/caregivers with the knowledge and tools to engage in conversations more confidently with their children regarding the steps involved in transitioning from school to the next stage of their life.
When: Tuesday 28 July, 6.00pm–7.00pm
Where: Gough Family Theatre
Please note: While all parents are welcome, the content of this presentation may be particularly relevant for Senior College parents of students in Years 12–13. Key topics we will cover include:
This one-night-only event features our Junior and Senior Performance Awards, Secondary School NCEA dances, and a special premiere of a collaborative new work with Alina Kulikova (Royal New Zealand Ballet, Dance Educator). Our Junior and Intermediate Company dancers from the Preparatory School will also showcase their new repertoire.
Important Ticketing Information:
Each year, the Sustainability Council runs two clothing drives to support members of our wider Christchurch community. We invite students, staff, and families to contribute any surplus winter clothing that is in good condition, suitable for all age groups – from infants through to adults. Collection bins (large plastic boxes) are located in the following areas across the College:
Your generosity will help provide warm clothing to those in need during the colder months. The clothing bins will be collected on Friday 26 June. Thank you in advance for your support.
Become a homestay family with St Andrew's College and open your home to a rewarding global experience. Hosting an international student provides not only a reliable source of extra income, while enriching your family's daily life. You will gain insight into new cultures, traditions, and creating lasting bonds along the way. St Andrew's College will provide the guidance and support for you and your family to feel confident throughout the experience.
Please contact Director of International Students and Exchanges, Palē Tauti, at PTU@stac.school.nz for more information.
More information>
Experience the thrilling sounds of StAC Attack 2026 – celebrating 20 years!
Date: Friday 17 July
Time: 7.00pm–9.00pm
Venue: Christchurch Town Hall – James Hay Theatre
Tickets: Adult $72.89 | Child $44.13 (via TicketMaster)
A St Andrew’s College Pipe Band event at the prestigious Christchurch Town Hall – James Hay Theatre, this highly anticipated concert promises an unforgettable evening of traditional Scottish entertainment.
Be immersed in the rich harmonics of the bagpipes, the infectious beat of the drums, and the flair of Highland dancers as they take the stage. Talented St Andrew’s College students from Years 4–13 will showcase their skills in this action‑packed performance, along with members of our Old Collegian community. Join us for a special 20th anniversary celebration at StAC Attack 2026.
PURCHASE TICKETS VIA TICKETMASTER>The very popular Pipe Band Ceilidh (pronounced “kay-lee”) returns in 2026, celebrating St Andrew's proud Scottish heritage. Come along to a good old-fashioned Scottish knees-up and enjoy a friendly, fun and energetic night of haggis, music, spot prizes, drams and dancing in a relaxed atmosphere. Bring your dancing shoes and wear a touch of tartan!
This much-loved fundraiser is a wonderful way to celebrate our Scottish heritage while supporting the St Andrew's College Pipe Band as they travel to Scotland to compete at the World Pipe Band Championships in August this year. The proceeds from this event will go towards supporting this trip.
As part of the evening, there will be a fundraising live auction featuring a range of fantastic prizes, along with a silent auction that will open for bidding two weeks prior to the event. Those unable to attend the Ceilidh will still be able to participate and place bids in the silent auction – more information coming soon!
When: Saturday 18 July, 7.00pm–12.00am
Venue: Gym 1 – St Andrew's College
Tickets: $79.00 (includes a drink on arrival and supper throughout the evening)
PURCHASE TICKETS>
We are delighted to invite parents and caregivers to the inaugural StAC Business Network evening, taking place on Tuesday 21 July in Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre. This event will bring together members of our school community for an evening of connection, conversation, and insight. Guests will enjoy drinks and canapés, followed by a presentation from Tony Alexander, one of New Zealand’s most respected economists, who will share his perspectives on the local and global economy. The StAC Business Network series aims to create regular opportunities for parents and business owners to connect, share ideas, and engage with the school community beyond the school gate.
When: Tuesday 21 July, 6.00pm–8.00pm
Where: Gough Family Theatre, Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre
Tickets*: Adults $20.00 | Students $15.00 (includes drinks and canapés)
* A small levy is included in the ticket price, contributing to the build cost of Ngā Toi – Performing Arts Centre.
Please note: Students attending are expected to wear full school uniform.
We look forward to welcoming you to what promises to be an engaging and informative evening. Spaces are limited.
Purchase tickets>Join us for an unforgettable evening of inspiration, connection and impact – beyond the court. This special netball fundraising event brings our community together to celebrate the power of sport and the difference it can make. The evening will feature inspiring guest speakers, including Lou Heller – Personal Fashion Stylist, Creative Director, Style Educator and Brand Collaborator – sharing insights on confidence and personal style, and Marianne Delaney-Hoshek – High-performance Coach, Speaker, Media Commentator and Cancer Society Ambassador – speaking on resilience, leadership and making a meaningful impact. Enjoy a relaxed evening while connecting with great people and hearing stories that inspire.
Funds raised will go towards improving equipment for both our Preparatory and Secondary School netball teams, while also supporting the wider netball programme. Join us in making a difference, beyond the court.
Date: Saturday 8 August
Time: 5.30pm–10.00pm
Venue: Gym 1, St Andrew's College
Tickets*: $90.00 (includes light supper; cash bar available)
*A small levy is included in the ticket price, contributing to the build cost of Ngā Toi – Performing Arts Centre.
The following 2026 photographs are now available to order online:
Details of how to order the photographs can be found on StACNet. Parents will need to log in using their St Andrew's College login credentials.
For photography enquiries, please contact: photography@stac.school.nz.
Order Photographs Onlibe>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.
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.
