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Dear Parents and Caregivers
The second of our Year 10 classes headed up to our Kura Tawhiti Castle Hill Outdoor Education Centre this week for their four-night winter camp. Through activities including skiing, snow caving or alpine camping, climbing, and tramping, the Year 10 students are challenged in the core classes to develop confidence, resilience, and teamwork as part of the Adventurous Journey section of their Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award Bronze programme.
I am delighted to share that a further six students have completed their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award, while another 16 have achieved their Silver Award. These internationally recognised awards reflect commitment across service, physical recreation, skill development including leadership and organisation, and adventurous journeys, and play an important role in developing capable and well-rounded young people.
In sport, our Boys’ 1st XV rugby team has enjoyed an excellent season, finishing third in Miles Toyota Premiership competition, our strongest results since 2020. The team has demonstrated strong culture, resilience, and an exciting attacking style of rugby throughout the season. We wish them well this weekend as they begin their regional finals campaign, hosting St Thomas of Canterbury College on Saturday.
In performing arts, we welcomed home our Jazz Band following a successful tour to Nelson for the Nelson Jazz Festival. Across four days, the Big Band, Jazz Combo, Senior Soul Group, and Junior Soul Group performed at a variety of venues, gaining valuable performance experience and confidence. The tour concluded with a gala concert featuring participating schools and tutors.
This week, we were pleased to once again host our Otaki Scholar, Fraser Ettie, from Robert Gordan’s College in Scotland. This annual exchange for a senior student reflects the strong relationship between our two schools and complements the opportunities our own Robert Burns Scholars enjoy when travelling to Scotland each year.
On Tuesday evening, we hosted our annual Supporting Your Teen’s Journey Beyond School presentation for parents of students in Years 11–13. Now in its fourth year, the event continues to be well attended, providing practical guidance on career pathways, tertiary study options, scholarships, student finance, well‑being support, and planning for life beyond school. We are grateful to Careers Counsellor Richard Webster for leading this important initiative. Parents who were unable to attend and would like further information are encouraged to contact Richard Webster, at RWB@stac.school.nz.
It is also a busy time for our young filmmakers. This weekend, six Secondary School teams are competing in the Vista Foundation 48Hours Film Competition, New Zealand’s largest guerrilla filmmaking challenge. We also look forward to our annual Film Fest on Tuesday 18 August, when the top 10 student films will be screened in the Gough Family Theatre. This year’s theme, Reality Is Not What It Seems, promises another entertaining and creative evening with all attendees encouraged to dress up.
Ngā mihi nui
Mark Wilson
Rector
The Senior Digital Art Exhibition is currently on display in The Green Library and Innovation Centre, showcasing work from Year 12 and 13 students studying Graphic Design, Character Design, and Photography. The exhibition features portfolio work developed throughout the year and highlights the creativity, technical skill, and individual interests of students across the Digital Art programme.
The exhibition provides an opportunity for students to present their work to the wider College community while reflecting the progress and development of their artistic and design practice.
Year 13 Business Studies students visited Whale Watch Kaikōura as part of their preparation for the NCEA Level 3 Business Studies external assessment. Whale Watch Kaikōura provides an excellent case study, with students examining its growth over four decades into one of New Zealand’s leading tourism businesses while maintaining a strong commitment to its founding values.
Students participated in an educational session exploring the history of the organisation, its role within the local community, and its approach to sustainable business practice. They also experienced a whale‑watching excursion, observing several whales while gaining insight into the tourism operation firsthand. The trip provided valuable context for their classroom learning and assessment preparation. Several international students on the trip also enjoyed the opportunity to experience one of New Zealand’s best-known tourist attractions.
Year 13 Accounting students recently visited PwC Ōtautahi to gain insight into accounting and business careers. During the visit, students toured the PwC offices and heard from partner Pete Cody and members of the PwC team.
Discussions focused on career pathways within the accounting profession, graduate opportunities, and the increasing influence of artificial intelligence across the industry. The visit helped students connect classroom learning with professional practice and gain a broader understanding of future career opportunities.
Year 7 students have begun a six-week swimming programme at Wharenui Pool as part of their Health and Physical Education learning. The programme focuses on swimming technique, water safety, endurance, and personal survival skills.
Designed to cater for a range of abilities, the programme allows students to build confidence in and around the water while setting individual goals and tracking their progress. Swimming remains an important life skill, and the programme provides valuable opportunities for students to develop both competence and confidence.
Year 4 students have been exploring ultimate frisbee through a unit focused on skill development, teamwork, and game understanding. Through partner activities, skill challenges, and modified games, students have developed throwing, catching, movement, and decision‑making skills.
The unit also explores the values of ultimate frisbee, including self‑officiating, fair play, and respect for others. Students have demonstrated growing confidence and teamwork while applying these skills in game situations.
Flickr>Year 3 students recently visited the International Antarctic Centre as part of their inquiry unit Animals and their Habitats: From Aotearoa to Antarctica. The visit provided opportunities to explore how animals adapt to different environments through a range of interactive experiences.
Activities included visiting the Penguin Rescue facility and their Little Blue Penguins (Kororā), experiencing an Antarctic storm simulation in the Storm Dome, exploring interactive displays the Antarctic Gallery, and participating in the Husky Encounter. Students also experienced the thrill of a 4D movie, complete with moving seats and sea spray. The visit helped bring classroom learning to life while supporting students’ understanding of habitats, adaptation, and the unique Antarctic environment.
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The following students have been selected for Canterbury Metro representative rugby teams for the upcoming U16 programme:
Their selection recognises strong performances throughout the season and provides an opportunity to compete alongside some of Canterbury’s leading young players.
Two students represented Canterbury Development indoor cricket teams during the term break:
This week, the College recognised a third group of students who have completed their Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award, bringing the total number of Silver Award recipients this year to a record 65 students. The Silver Award requires six months of regular, physical recreation, community service, and skill development, along with preparation and training for both a practice and qualifying Adventurous Journey.
Silver Award recipients: Sienna Boyes, Harry Brennan, Hanxi (Cicy) Chen, Honour Fraher-Richardson, Alfie Guest, Hugo Lewis, Christian Li, Vanessa Li, Lucy McAlister, Ruby Millar-Bell, Sophie Paterson, Hannah Radford, Shuxuan (Alice) Ren, Emma Symes, Isabella Williamson, Jake Wilson (all Year 12) and Katie Chan (Year 13).
The College also congratulates Samuel Cook, Daniel Liu, Corbin Revis, Teresa Steiner, William Wiffen Lal and Toby Wilson (all Year 13) whose Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Awards have now been formally confirmed. Completion of the Gold Award represents the highest level of achievement within the programme and reflects sustained commitment, resilience, and personal growth.
Senior Rock Band Pretty When It Burns, comprising Annie Young, Ethan Lam, Oliver Hill (all Year 13) and Hamish Bilton (Year 11), has been named among the top 20 bands in Smokefree Rockquest 2026 from a field of more than 1000 bands nationwide.
The group now awaits confirmation on whether they have progressed to the National Finals in Wellington on Tuesday 18 September. Their selection reflects years of commitment to the College rock programme and continued growth as performers and songwriters.
Watch their National Finals consideration submission>Students achieved strong results at the NZCAF Aerobics Christchurch Regional Championships last weekend, earning qualification for the National Championships in Dunedin later this year.
Jasmine Ryan (Year 9) competed in the NZCAF U14 Fitness Team category as part of a team representing several schools. The team placed second and has qualified for the National Championships with the same routine.
Alice Howard (Year 13) has enjoyed a successful season, including competing at the Pacific Open in Sydney earlier this year, where she gained valuable international experience. At the New Zealand Open, her fitness team placed third in the FISAF Junior Division. At the Christchurch Regional Championships, her team won the NZCAF U19 Fitness Team division and placed third in the NZCAF U19 Division 2 category. Both routines have qualified for the National Championships in September.
Students travelled to Nelson during the holidays to participate in the Nelson Jazz Festival, performing as part of the Big Band, Jazz Combo, Senior Soul Group, and Junior Soul Group.
Across four days, students performed at schools, cafés, and venues throughout Nelson, gaining valuable performance experience in a variety of settings. The festival concluded with a gala concert featuring participating schools and festival tutors. Edward Park and Juno Park (both Year 10) performed with every ensemble across the tour.
One of the highlights of the tour was performing at primary schools, where it was wonderful to see the students dancing and enjoying the music together. These performances showcased not only our students' musical talents but also the joy that live music can bring to a community. The experience provided opportunities to develop musicianship, performance confidence, and teamwork, while representing the College within the wider festival community.
Flickr>On Friday 24 July, the Preparatory School hosted the annual ISSA Winter Tournament, with teams competing for places at the Primary Sport Canterbury Winter Tournament.
The Years 7–8 Mixed hockey and Years 7–8 football teams both finished unbeaten to win their respective competitions. The Years 7–8 netball team finished equal first on points before placing third on countback. The Years 5–6 football team finished runners‑up, while the Years 5–6 hockey team placed third. Two invitational football teams represented the school with great enthusiasm and sportsmanship, with the Years 7–8 Invitational football team theoretically finishing second overall had their results been included in the official standings.
The tournament provided students with the opportunity to compete in a highly competitive environment while demonstrating strong teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship throughout the day.
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BASKETBALL
The Senior Girls’ team hosted Hillmorton High School in a Whelan Trophy play‑in quarter‑final, with a place in the semi‑final at stake. St Andrew’s established control from the outset with a dominant first quarter and continued to build on that advantage throughout the game, securing a 125–30 victory.
The Senior Boys travelled to Cashmere High School for their final Thomson Trophy regular season fixture. After a closely contested opening quarter, St Andrew’s gradually gained momentum and pulled away during the second half to record a 107–76 win. The victory also secured the Dowson Cup.
HOCKEY
The Girls’ 1st XI delivered an impressive 8–0 victory over Cashmere High School on Friday night. St Andrew’s combined effective attacking play with disciplined structure, scoring four field goals and converting four penalty corners. The team maintained consistent pressure throughout the match while limiting opportunities at the defensive end. The result provides strong momentum heading into the next fixture against Craighead Diocesan School.
The Boys’ 1st XI did not have a fixture this week.
NETBALL
The Senior A team recorded its first victory in the Premier 1 competition, 60–43 against St Nicholas Netball Club. St Andrew’s established a lead during the opening quarter and maintained control throughout the match. A strong final quarter, won 19–10, sealed the result as the team combined speed and confidence through the attacking end with effective full‑court defensive pressure. Hannah Papali'i Taimalelagi Malietoa (Year 13) was named MVP for her performance at Wing Attack and leadership across the court. The Team Moment went to Maniah Taefu (Year 12) and Charlotte Galvan (Year 13) for a series of important rebounds.
The Senior A team followed up with a convincing 57–20 win over Ashburton College in the SuperNet competition on Wednesday night. St Andrew’s made an excellent start, leading 17–4 after the opening quarter, and maintained intensity across all four quarters. The team moved the ball efficiently and remained committed to its attacking and defensive structures throughout the match. Joint MVPs were Emilia Ainley (Year 12), who shot 48 goals at 94 percent, and Hayley Stowell (Year 11), whose impact was felt at both ends of the court. The Team Moment was awarded to Grace Smith (Year 12).
RUGBY
The Girls’ 1st XV produced a significantly improved performance against Selwyn Combined, narrowly losing 43–34. Having been comfortably beaten in the previous meeting between the teams, St Andrew’s showed strong development and determination, with the result reflecting the progress made by the group throughout the season. Lauren Nicholson (Year 9) was named Attacker of the Match, while Hannah Papali'i Taimalelagi Malietoa (Year 13) was recognised as Defender of the Match.
The Boys’ 1st XV did not have a fixture this week.
The Senior School gathered today to celebrate John Ruge’s 11 years of service as Head of Senior College. The occasion began with a flag‑raising ceremony, accompanied by a piper and drummer, before students and staff reflected on John’s significant contribution to the College.
Principal of Secondary School, Evert van Florenstein, together with Head Prefects Charlotte Galvan and Tom Simpson, acknowledged the positive culture and strong sense of community John has helped foster within the Senior School. The assembly featured waiata, a collection of photographs from across his time at St Andrew’s, and a final Year 12–13 Challenge. The celebration concluded with an emotional haka performed by Senior School students. As John prepares to take up a new role in Bathurst, Australia, we thank him for his dedicated service and wish him and his wife, Kathryn, every success for the future.
fLICKR>Tom Elliott has been appointed as the new Preparatory School Chaplain and will commence in Term 4. Tom joins St Andrew’s from St Patrick’s Catholic School in Kaiapoi, where he teaches Year 7 students and holds a number of leadership responsibilities. He brings extensive experience working with young people through both education and ministry, along with a strong commitment to nurturing the well-being, character, and faith development of children.
Before entering teaching, Tom worked in youth ministry and pastoral leadership roles within Anglican churches across Canterbury. His experience in education, pastoral care, leadership development, and community engagement aligns strongly with the values of the Preparatory School. We look forward to welcoming Tom and the care, faith leadership, and pastoral support he will bring to students and families.
This week, St Andrew’s College has hosted Fraser Rettie, the 2026 Otaki Scholar from Robert Gordon’s College in Aberdeen, Scotland. The Otaki Scholarship, established in 1937, is awarded annually to the Head Boy of Robert Gordon’s College in Aberdeen, Scotland, and honours Captain Archibald Bisset Smith VC, a former student of the school and captain of the SS Otaki.
Fraser joined Robert Gordon’s College in 2019 recently completed his final year where he was Head Boy and an active contributor to both academic and sporting life. He studied Advanced Higher Statistics, German, and Spanish in his final year. He is a talented sportsman, playing a key role in the 1st XV’s Scottish National Plate win in 2024/25 and vice captained the team to the Schools National Shield in 2025/26.
During his visit, Fraser has experienced life at St Andrew’s College and continued the longstanding relationship between our two schools.
Cricket – The following Old Collegians have been named in New Zealand domestic cricket squads for the 2026/27 season:
Zak Foulkes (OC 2020) and Henry Nicholls (OC 2009) have been awarded New Zealand Cricket central contracts and will be part of the BLACKCAPS contracted player group for the 2026–27 season.
Over the weekend of 24–25 July, the College welcomed back the Class of 1986–1990 for their 40 Years On Reunion. Thirty‑eight Old Collegians and their partners returned to reconnect and celebrate the friendships formed during their time at St Andrew’s, with attendees travelling from throughout New Zealand, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
The weekend included a Cocktail Party and Reunion Dinner, with former teachers Mike Woodlock, Joe Leota, and Ian White joining the celebrations. Highlights included Stu North setting the tone for the dinner as MC, a memorable Address to a Haggis by Ed Butler, complete with piping accompaniment, a Toast to Absent Friends from Mark Rowley (Head Boy 1990), and reflections on College life from Andy McNee and Rector Mark Wilson. The reunion provided a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, share memories, and celebrate the enduring connections that continue long after leaving St Andrew’s College.
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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.
We’re looking forward to our first Coffees and Catch Ups session for Term 3 on Tuesday 4 August.
Join Principal of Preparatory School, Leigh Fowler, Head of Pre-school, Mandy Jenkins, and PTA President, Tim Gibb, for a cup of coffee and chat about any questions you may currently have.
Join us between 8.00–8.45am – no need to RSVP, just drop in after drop-off. We hope to see you there!
At this week’s Year 11 and 12 Dean’s hui, Assistant Principal of Secondary School (Academic), Helaina Coote, promoted two scholarships that have been generously sponsored by an Old Collegian. The objective of these scholarships is to encourage personal discovery through experiential learning and develop leadership potential in young adults. Both scholarships provide 80% funding, with the remaining 20% and travel funded by the recipient.
Spirit of Adventure Scholarship (Year 11) – This scholarship provides support for one current Year 11 student to participate in a 10-day sailing on the Spirit of Adventure in early 2027.
Outward Bound Scholarship (Year 12) – This scholarship provides support for one current Year 12 student to experience an Outward Bound Mind, Body and Soul course from 6–26 January 2027.
All Year 11 and 12 students have been provided a link to the relevant online application form via their year-level Teams page. Please note only students can access and complete these forms.
Deadlines: Applications for both scholarships close on Monday 17 August 2026 at 3.30pm.
For further information, please contact Assistant Head of Secondary School (Academic), Helaina Coote, on HCE@stac.school.nz.
The St Andrew’s College annual Dance Revue returns for 2026 with The Greatest Show, a spectacular celebration of dance featuring Contemporary, Jazz, Hip Hop, Highland and Ballet styles. Showcasing the talents of the St Andrew’s College Dance programme, Ballet Academy and NCEA Dance students, this vibrant production celebrates creative movement, artistry and performance. Inspired by the excitement and magic of live entertainment, The Greatest Show promises an unforgettable evening of dance at St Andrew’s College.
When: Sunday 30 August, 3.00pm–4.30pm and 7.00pm–8.30pm (two shows)
Where: Gough Family Theatre – Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre
Tickets: $20.00 (including $5.00 levy)
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:
AG SHOW RAFFLE TICKET PRE-ORDER | CLOSES SUNDAY 16 AUGUST
This year’s Ag Show Raffle is now open for pre-orders, with funds raised supporting the Ag Show and the Christchurch City Mission. Purchase a ticket for your chance to win an incredible giant lollie bouquet, which will be on display during the Ag Show. Raffles can also be purchased during the Ag Show.
Raffle Tickets: $2.00 each
Pre-order deadline: 5.00pm, Sunday 16 August
Pre-order Ag Show raffle tickets by clicking here.
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.
