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Dear Parents and Caregivers
I trust everyone enjoyed our first three-week term break in July, even if the dry, warm autumn-like weather wasn’t ideal for those hoping to spend time on the ski fields.
As we begin Term 3, the winter sports season is shaping up to be an exciting one. Many of our top senior Secondary School teams are well placed as they enter the final stages of competition, reflecting the commitment and hard work they have shown throughout the season. During the term break, a number of teams were competing around the country, and overseas, including our impressive Year 9 netball team who completed an undefeated campaign to win the 2026 South Island Secondary Schools Junior Championship Year 9 title.
The Pipe Band community was also busy over the break, hosting our annual highland celebration of pipes, drums and dancing at the StAC Attack performance in the James Hay Theatre at the Christchurch Town Hall, followed by the Ceilidh, a fun social fundraising event, with dancing, haggis, pipe band performances, auctions, and plenty of opportunities for connection and celebration.
Another highlight of the break was the inaugural Future Leaders International Exchange Programme to Beijing, China. Ten senior students participated in the fully funded programme through the New Zealand China Friendship Society and the Beijing NGO Network for International Exchanges. The experience provided valuable insights into the political, economic, and cultural significance of the New Zealand–China relationship.
On Tuesday evening, we hosted our inaugural StAC Business Network event in Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre. The event brought together members of our community for an evening of networking and discussion, with leading economist Tony Alexander sharing his perspectives on the local and global economy. Led by Head of Development and Community Relations, Tomo Yee (OC 2008), the Business Network events will provide ongoing opportunities for connection and engagement across our business community.
A “heads up” that in August we will be distributing our biennial community survey to students, staff, and parents. The survey provides an important opportunity to gather feedback on what is working well and where there may be opportunities for improvement. The insights gained are highly valued and help inform our ongoing commitment to continual improvement.
The Board of Governors held its July meeting on Thursday, with a particular focus on reviewing the draft Property Master Plan developed over the past eight months with the assistance of McIldowie Partners. This work is helping shape a long‑term vision for the College campus, and we look forward to sharing further details with the wider community later this year.
Ngā mihi nui
Mark Wilson
Rector
All Year 13 Biology classes visited Orana Wildlife Park this week as an introduction to the 3.6 Human Evolution topic. As part of the course, students compare the skeletal features of humans and other primates before investigating past hominins and the evolutionary changes that have occurred over time.
At Orana Wildlife Park, students observed a range of primates, including gorillas, gibbons, spider monkeys, and lemurs, examining the physical characteristics that support comparison studies. Students also explored model primate and hominin skulls in the Education Centre, helping to connect classroom learning with real-world observations and supporting preparation for the external assessment.
This term, a new group of Year 8 students has begun their Food Technology programme, building on the skills and experiences developed during Year 7. Students are strengthening kitchen routines and food preparation techniques while developing greater independence and confidence in practical tasks.
Alongside cooking, students will explore nutrition and healthy eating, examining topics such as food choices, sugar consumption, and fast food in contemporary society. Through discussion, inquiry, and practical learning, students will deepen their understanding of how food choices influence health and well‑being, supporting informed decision‑making both now and in the future.
Harrison White (Year 11) and Adam Beaman (Year 13) represented New Zealand in the Ironblacks age‑group teams at the Festival of Football held at Trusts Stadium in Auckland over Matariki weekend. Harrison was selected for the U16 team and Adam for the U18 team, with both students playing at quarterback.
The tournament featured a series against Australia and marked the first time in 20 years that the event had been hosted in New Zealand.
Georgia Lewis (Year 13) has been selected for the New Zealand U18 Mounted Games team for the 2026 Open World Team Championships in France next month.
Ming Macarthy (Year 7) has been selected for the New Zealand U13 Kiwi Blacks Inline Hockey team to compete at State Wars 2026, being held 21 July – 3 August in Fort Wayne, Indiana, USA.
Ava Jones (Year 13) and Emilia Ainley (Year 12) recently represented New Zealand at the FIBA U17 Women’s Basketball World Cup in Czechia. Both players were members of the starting five, with Ava serving as team captain.
The team achieved a historic fifth‑place finish, the highest placing by a New Zealand women’s team at an international basketball event.
Charlotte Galvan and Carley McNee (both Year 13) represented Christchurch U18 Whero at the National Championships held in Christchurch, Monday 13 – Thursday 16 July.
Hayley Stowell (Year 11) was also selected for the Christchurch U16 Whero team, which competed during King’s Birthday weekend.
St Andrew’s students achieved outstanding results at the Basketball U18 and U16 National Championships.
A group of students represented Canterbury at the National U18 Hockey Championships during the holidays.
Hanxi (Cicy) Chen, Fraser Walls (both Year 12), Angela Yang, Samuel Hu, and Daniel Kenyon (all Year 11), represented St Andrew’s College at the 2026 Senior High School International Ethics Olympiad Final yesterday.
Competing against 62 teams from New Zealand, Australia, Asia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, the students demonstrated outstanding critical thinking, ethical reasoning, respectful dialogue, and the ability to engage with complex contemporary issues. While the team did not place among the medal winners, they were recognised in the competition's Honourable Mentions and will each receive an International Ethics Olympiad certificate in recognition of their selection and participation. Their achievement reflects the College’s commitment to fostering thoughtful, globally minded young people who are prepared to engage with the ethical challenges of our world.
On the final day of Term 2, Angela Yang and Samuel Hu (both Year 11) represented St Andrew’s College at the South Island Brain Bee Final and Neuroscience Experience Day held at the University of Canterbury.
Students participated in activities to deepen their understanding of neuroscience including brain dissections, practical challenges, and presentations from neuroscience researchers. Angela was also awarded a prestigious University of Otago Neuroscience Internship, providing an opportunity to gain first‑hand experience within the University’s Neuroscience Department during the Spring break.
On the final day of Term 2, 11 students took to the stage at Tūranga to compete in Speaking for the Planet (S4P) 2026, an Australasian competition that empowers young people to use their voices, creativity, and critical thinking to advocate for positive change. This year’s theme, “Seeding Change: A Feast for the Future,” was inspired by United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger, challenging participants to explore innovative, ethical, and sustainable approaches to food security and future food systems.
Notable results included:
Two St Andrew’s College chamber groups, along with two mixed-school ensembles featuring St Andrew’s students, performed at the Southern Regional Chamber Music Final on Saturday 27 June.
Sparks Trio, featuring Ethan Waines (Year 10), was awarded second place and selected for the NZCT Chamber Music Contest National Final, to be held at The Piano on Saturday 1 August – click here to purchase tickets.
The trap shooting team of Charlotte Oliver, Josh van Asch (both Year 13), Samuel Jones (Year 12), Joshua Lowe and Jack Fredericksen (both Year 11) travelled to Hamilton to compete in the Hamilton Boys' High School Interschool Shoot on Friday 3 July and the North Island Secondary Schools Championships on Saturday 4 July.
Charlotte Oliver placed second overall in the Girls’ category, second equal in Single Rise and third in point score at the Hamilton competition, while Samuel Jones placed eighth in the Single Rise, was High Overall Champion in Single Barrel, and fourth overall at the North Island Championships.
During the second week of the holidays, two teams competed in the Junior South Island Netball Tournament in Christchurch, with the Year 9A team completing an unbeaten campaign to win the championship, marking only the third time St Andrew's College has won this event.
The team recorded a strong 47–9 win over Darfield High School, a 25–21 win against Central Southland College, and convincing wins over Dunstan High School (35–15) and Southland Girls' High School (36–25). They defeated Christchurch Girls' High School 38–22 in the semi-final and a 39–31 win against Rangi Ruru Girls’ School in the final. Annabel Magrath (Year 9) was named Team Player of the Tournament for her outstanding shooting performances. The Year 10A team competed strongly throughout the week, recording wins over Queen’s High School, Craighead Diocesan School and St Margaret's College, before finishing ninth overall.
Flickr>During the term break, the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Orienteering Championships took place in Christchurch, with three Preparatory School and seven Secondary School students competing across relay, long, sprint and rogaine events. Felix O’Byrne, Harry Stocker and Toby Maw (all Year 11) competed in all four disciples and completed all courses successfully. Toby Johnson (Year 9) recorded the best individual result, placing sixth in the Junior Boys’ Sprint event.
Nine students represented St Andrew’s College at the South Island Schools Road Cycling Championships at Ruapuna Motorsport Park during the term break, competing in an individual Time Trial, Team Time Trial and Road Race – all on the motorsport track.
Katalina Williams (Year 10) placed third in the U16 Girls’ Individual Time Trial, while Cooper Pringle (Year 12) placed second in the U20 Boys’ category. Katalina also competed at the North Island Track Cycling Championships in Cambridge, placing fourth overall in the Omnium (total points form the four different races).
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Hannah Papali'i Taimalelagi Malietoa and Metua Cranwell (both Year 13) were selected for the New Zealand Under 18 Girls’ Pathways Squad.
The six‑day camp in early July brought together 50 of the country's leading young players, providing opportunities to develop technical, tactical, physical, and personal skills, culminating in the annual North vs South U18 fixture.
Students achieved strong results at the New Zealand Highland Dancing Championships in Blenheim from Thursday 9 – Sunday 12 July.
Highlights included:
Old Collegian Siara Clarke (OC 2024) was Runner-up New Zealand Champion in the 18 Years and Over category and won four individual New Zealand Championship titles: Highland Fling, Sword Dance, Highland Reel and Reel O’Tulloch.
St Andrew’s students achieved outstanding haiku results in the New Zealand Poetry Society International Poetry Competition.
In the Secondary category:
In the Primary category:
Jack Foley and Thomas Ambury (both Year 11) won Highly Commended awards, and Oaklan Marshall, Cartier Barrett-Rawiri (both Year 13), Cooper Rogers and Jack Wilkins (both Year 11) won Commended Awards. In the Poetry Box Favourite Place Poem Challenge, Xinrui (Sophia) Xu (Year 3) had her poem, Summer Beach, selected for publication on the Poetry Box website.
St Andrew’s students a chieved a range of placings at the Ōtautahi Vocal Competitions during the holidays.
Special mention to the duet performances by Samuel Hu and Matilda Tombros (Year 11), who sang Phantom of the Opera, and Saskia Fifield-Kraal (Year 11) and Angela Yang, who sang Purcell’s Sound the Trumpet. While they were not placed, both performances were highlights of the competition.
Everley Gilmore (Year 10) attended the 2026 New Zealand Dressage Awards following an exceptional season with her pony, Dennis.
Everley won the Pony Medium and Above Section of the AMS Pony Rider League and was named National Pony Rider for the series. She also achieved both Canterbury and national championship honours in the Pony Elementary to Advanced Medium Section of the Tackshop.co.nz Pony Rising Stars League.
Two junior Preparatory School teams (Years 1–6 and Years 7–8) competed at the Canterbury Interschool Chess Competition at the end of last term.
The Senior team of Tianyu (George) Feng (Captain), Anqi (Angie) Qin (both Year 8), Alexander Mazey, Henry Streeter (both Year 7) placed fourth in the B Grade competition, with students recording a number of successful individual results.
Students travelled to Queensland during the holidays for the 2026 Australia Tour, combining sport, cultural experiences, and team development.
Across rugby, netball, and basketball fixtures against Matthew Flinders Anglican College, St Andrew’s Anglican College, and John Paul College, students demonstrated strong sportsmanship and determination. Highlights included a rugby victory over St Andrew’s, a girls’ team unbeaten basketball campaign, and a final‑match netball win. The tour also featured visits to the Sunshine Coast Aquarium, Australia Zoo, Sea World, Wet’n’Wild, Mount Tamborine, and Movie World. Daily Random Acts of Kindness awards recognised students who consistently helped others and represented St Andrew’s College values with distinction.
fLICKR>Over the term break, more than 30 students competed at the Christchurch Speech and Drama Competitions across poetry, public speaking, drama, prepared reading, and improvisation categories.
Students achieved numerous placings and commendations across age groups (U8 to U19), including several first‑time competitors. The competition provided opportunities to develop communication skills, stage presence, and confidence.
HOCKEY
Week 9, TERM 2 – The Boys’ 1st XI secured top spot in the SSP competition with a 4–1 win over Christ’s College in the final round-robin fixture. After Christ’s opened the scoring, St Andrew’s responded with a controlled performance to take charge of the match. Oliver Connolly (Year 12) converted four penalty corners, and the team secured the Connetics Challenge Shield.
The Girls’ 1st XI concluded the opening round of the SSP competition with a 3–0 win over Villa Maria College. St Andrew’s controlled territory throughout the match and combined strong attacking pressure with disciplined defence. The result saw the team finish third on the ladder, just one point behind second place heading into the next phase of the season.
BASKETBALL
Week 1, Term 3 – The Senior Girls’ team began the term with a catch‑up Whelan Trophy fixture against Christchurch Girls’ High School. Maiyah Martin (Year 10) and Eva Jeffries (Year 13) led the scoring as St Andrew’s recorded a convincing 40‑point victory, maintaining an undefeated record heading into next week’s playoffs.
FOOTBALL
Week 1, Term 3 – The Boys’ 1st XI produced a committed performance against St Bede’s College. After going into halftime locked at 1–1, St Andrew’s took the lead early in the second half and played some of its best football of the match. St Bede’s responded strongly in the final stages, capitalising on key opportunities to secure a 5–2 result.
The Girls’ 1st XI did not have a fixture this week.
RUGBY
Week 9, Term 2 – The Boys’ 1st XV travelled to Blenheim for their final Miles Toyota Premiership round-robin match against Marlborough Boys’ College. St Andrew’s established a 12–0 halftime lead before both teams traded tries through a physical second half. The team held firm to secure a 26–19 victory and finish the round‑robin phase strongly.
Week 1, Term 3 – The Girls’ 1st XV fixture against the Christchurch Girls’ High School Development team was defaulted, so the teams instead played a 10‑a‑side match, with St Andrew’s finishing on top.
1st XV AUSTRALIAN TOUR
The Boys’ 1st XV spent eight days in Brisbane during the holidays, hosted by Anglican Church Grammar School (Churchie). The tour included two fixtures against quality opposition and a range of training and cultural experiences.
The first match was against St Andrew’s College (South Africa), a school sharing both the St Andrew’s name and Scottish heritage. St Andrew’s College produced a strong all‑round performance to record a 69–14 victory. Former 1st XV captain Moses Armstrong‑Ravula (OC 2022), now based in Brisbane and involved with the Fijian Drua Super Rugby programme, presented the team jerseys before the game. The second fixture was against Napier Boys’ High School, a strong Super 8 side. St Andrew’s started strongly to lead 14–7 after 20 minutes before Napier Boys’ responded to hold a 26–14 halftime advantage. The teams exchanged tries throughout the second half before Napier Boys’ secured a 47–33 victory.
Alongside the rugby programme, students attended an NRL fixture at Suncorp Stadium, visited Wet’n’Wild, toured the Brisbane Broncos training facility, and trained with the Churchie 1st XV. The tour provided valuable opportunities for rugby development, team building, and experiencing different playing environments.
Flickr>
NETBALL
Week 9, Term 2 – Senior A Netball Premier 1 Competition – The Senior A team continued to gain valuable experience in the Premier 1 competition against Lincoln University B. While the final score was 64–41 in Lincoln’s favour, St Andrew’s showed resilience and adaptability throughout the match. Zara Kleindyk (Year 12) received the Team Moment Award for her outstanding defensive efforts and ability to create pressure through the court.
Week 1, Term 3 – Senior A Netball Premier 1 Competition – The Senior A team faced Kereru A on Monday evening in a highly competitive contest. With several players unavailable through injury, Gemma Hawker, Caitlin O’Donnell, and Grace Smith (all Year 13) stepped up from the B team and made valuable contributions. St Andrew’s remained competitive throughout the first half before Kereru created separation in the second half to win 63–31. Sophie Schouten (Year 11) was named MVP after leading the attack and combining effectively with a range of shooting partners.
Senior A Netball SuperNet Competition – On Wednesday, St Andrew’s played Christchurch Girls’ High School A in the SuperNet competition. With several players unavailable, Gemma Hawker (Year 13) and Mia Wilkins (Year 10) stepped into the attacking end. The team started strongly before Christchurch Girls’ reduced the margin in the second quarter. Adjustments at half time allowed St Andrew’s to regain momentum, with improved defensive pressure creating turnover opportunities and more consistent conversion at the attacking end. St Andrew’s finished with a 36–27 victory. Mia Wilkins (Year 10) was named MVP after making a confident contribution at Goal Shoot, while Hayley Stowell (Year 11) earned the Team Moment Award for an intercept that sparked a decisive run of goals.
Flickr>The James Hay Theatre was filled with members of the College and wider Pipe Band community for StAC Attack 2026, celebrating 20 years of the event, the title of which was inspired by the tune written by Old Collegian brothers Ben McLaughlin (OC 2005) and Jeremy McLaughlin (OC 2003) while they were students at St Andrew’s College. The evening featured performances from the College’s A, B, and C Pipe Bands, emerging leaners on chanter and drum pads, and Highland dancers, showcasing the depth of talent across the programme.
A highlight was the finale performance of StAC Attack, with Ben McLaughlin joining the Pipe Band on stage for the special occasion. The event also celebrated the achievements of the A Band as current New Zealand Juvenile Champions ahead of their trip to the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow, Scotland. Special presentations were made to Ben McLaughlin, who received a framed copy of his tune, and Hayden Lam (OC 2024), who was recognised for creating and producing many of the performance backing tracks.
Flickr>
More than 160 members of the College community gathered in Gym 1 on Saturday 18 July for the biennial Pipe Band Ceilidh. Guests enjoyed an evening of Scottish music, dancing, auctions, and entertainment in support of the A Pipe Band’s trip to the World Championships in Scotland.
The event provided supports to come together while raising funds for the upcoming tour. The College extends its thanks to all who attended and contributed, particularly volunteers Renee Brook, Lisa Young, and staff member Bid Constanti, whose work helped make the evening such a success.
Flickr>The inaugural StAC Business Network event was held on Tuesday evening, bringing together parents, business owners, professionals, and students from across the College community. The event provided an opportunity to connect, share ideas, and strengthen professional relationships within the St Andrew’s network.
The evening began with drinks and canapés, providing an opportunity for guests to connect, share ideas, and build new relationships. Guests then heard from economist Tony Alexander, who shared insights into New Zealand’s economic outlook, housing market trends, and key factors influencing future growth. His ability to explain complex economic trends in a practical and accessible way sparked plenty of interest, discussion and laughs among attendees. The evening marked the beginning of a new initiative designed to foster ongoing engagement within the College’s business community.
This year, Community Service has once again been a meaningful part of House culture at St Andrew’s College through the Cans for Humanity Challenge. In Term 2, students from across the College enthusiastically collected more than 700 non-perishable food items for the Christchurch City Mission.
Now in its third year, the initiative continues to be an important expression of service within the College community. The collection reflected the generosity of students and families, while reinforcing the value of supporting others through practical action. Tim Riley (OC 1987) accepted the donation on behalf of the City Mission.
Ten St Andrew’s College students joined with nine from St Bede’s College for an eight-day educational and cultural exchange programme in Beijing. Funded by the New Zealand China Friendship Society and the Beijing NGO Network for International Exchanges, the programme focused on developing understanding of the New Zealand–China relationship and its cultural, economic, and political significance.
Students visited schools, universities, cultural landmarks including the Palace Museum (Forbidden City), the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace and the Great Wall of China, technology centres, and the New Zealand Embassy, gaining insight into Chinese history, education, innovation, and international relations. A particular highlight was the opportunity to stay with local families, providing a firsthand experience of daily life and culture. The programme fostered international understanding and strengthened relationships between participating schools and organisations, with a reciprocal visit planned for 2027.
Flickr>Refereeing – James Munro (OC 2004) officiated his 150th Premier rugby match last weekend, becoming one of only three referees to reach this milestone.
Photo credit: Peter Meecham
Rugby – Old Collegians are representing four nations at the World Rugby Nations Cup 2026: Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula (OC 2021) for Fiji, Joel Lam (OC 2020) for Manu Samoa, Telusa Veainu (OC 2008) for Tonga, and Shilo Klein (OC 2017) for the United States.
Seven Old Collegians have also been selected for National Provincial Championship squads:
Equestrian – Gemma Lewis (OC 2023) has been selected for the New Zealand Mounted Games team for the 2026 Open World Team Championships in France next month. She will also be joined by her sister Georgia Lewis (Year 13), who has been selected for the U18 team. Gemma will also compete at the prestigious Royal Welsh Show during her time overseas.
Good luck to all students who are representing the College over the 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’s term dates have been set for 2028 and can now be viewed on our website by clicking here.
Join us during Cultural Week 2026 for the annual St Andrew’s College Film Fest, a fun, family-friendly evening celebrating the creativity and talent of our student filmmakers.
This year’s theme is Reality Is Not What It Seems, inspired by films such as The Truman Show, The Matrix, Black Swan and Inception. Guests are encouraged to get into the spirit of the evening by dressing in an uncanny costume – interpretation is entirely up to you!
Awards will be presented for Best Film, Best Director, Best Cinematographer, Best Actor/Actress and more, with spot prizes also up for grabs on the night.
When: Tuesday 18 August, from 6.00pm
Where: Gough Family Theatre – Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre
Tickets: Free. Please register your attendance in advance to assist with event planning. Walk-ins are also welcome on the evening, with entry by gold coin donation at the door. Proceeds will go to Qtopia.
Join us for the 2026 StAC Ag Show on Thursday 20 August. Students at all year levels can enter several fun categories, such as photography, art, flower arrangements, and Lego creations, with certificates awarded for first to third place in each category and a prize for first place.
There will be a raffle 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!
Parents and family members are very welcome to come along on the day and share the fun.
To enter your child/ren into the StAC Ag Show, please click to complete the relevant entry form/s below:
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:
The Beyond the Court Netball Fundraiser, scheduled for Saturday 8 August, has been postponed due to unforeseen circumstances and insufficient support to deliver the event as planned.
St Andrew’s College thanks everyone who expressed interest, donated prizes, volunteered their time, or offered support. The College hopes to revisit the event in the future and appreciates the community’s ongoing support of the netball programme.
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>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.
