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Dear Parents and Caregivers
As I write this, I am preparing to travel to Scotland to support our national champion St Andrew’s College Pipe Band as they compete at the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow. This will be the band’s seventh tour to Scotland since its first visit in 2007 and continues a proud tradition of the Pipe Band at St Andrew’s that stretches back to 1919. Since winning the World Championship title in 2013, the band has remained a consistent force on the international stage, with placings of fifth in 2015, second in 2018, and third in 2023. We wish all our students, staff, and supporters the very best for what promises to be an exciting and memorable experience with this year’s World Pipe Band Championships event being held next Friday, 14 August.
While our rock band Pretty When It Burns was not selected for the Smokefree Rockquest National Finals, reaching the Top 20 from a field of more than 1,000 bands nationwide is a significant achievement. Congratulations to Annie Young, Ethan Lam, Oliver Hill (all Year 13), and Hamish Bilton (Year 11) on their success and the contribution they have made to the College’s contemporary music programme.
In sport, congratulations to our Boys’ 1st XV rugby team for their convincing win last weekend, progressing to the regional premiership semi-finals. The team has demonstrated commitment, resilience, and strong team culture throughout the season, and we wish them well for tomorrow’s challenging semi-final against St Bede’s College.
Over the past two years, the College has been undertaking several significant digital transformation projects designed to enhance the experience for students, parents, and staff. These include the introduction of Toddle, our new learning platform, and Veracross, our new school management system, which will replace several existing systems. Toddle will become the primary platform for students, parents, and teachers from the start of next year, and we look forward to sharing further information as implementation progresses.
Alongside these projects, we are introducing new HR and payroll systems to improve efficiency, automation, and the overall user experience. Together, these initiatives represent a substantial investment in the systems that support learning, communication, and school operations. My thanks to the many staff members who have contributed to this work over an extended period.
Please do click through to read through this week’s newsletter to learn more about the many activities and achievements taking place across the College. Among the highlights is today’s Boarders’ Assembly, which I understand was a wonderful way to conclude Week 3.
Ngā mihi nui
Mark Wilson
Rector
Many Preparatory School students are currently taking part in optional academic competitions and assessments, including ICAS and the Australian Mathematics Competition. These parent‑choice opportunities provide additional challenge for students who enjoy extending their learning beyond the classroom programme.
The assessments encourage students to apply their knowledge in unfamiliar contexts, develop problem‑solving and critical thinking skills, and demonstrate creativity and reasoning. The online format also supports confidence in digital assessment environments while building skills such as time management, independence, and perseverance.
The latest Well-being blog post explores the PERMA-V pillar of Meaning and why contributing to something bigger than self is such a core part of well-being for young people. Through everyday moments, school experiences, and family conversations, it looks at how young people come to feel they matter and find their place in something larger.
Read the Well-being Blog Post>
Year 8 students recently participated in the annual Life Education Trust programme with educator Keri and Harold the Giraffe. As their final visit to Harold’s Classroom before transitioning to Secondary School, the programme provided a valuable opportunity to explore a range of health and well‑being topics relevant to young people.
Students discussed stress and its impact on physical and emotional well‑being, explored positive strategies for managing challenges, and examined the potential consequences of drug use. Sessions also focused on drug use and vaping, with students receiving evidence‑based information about the contents of vaping products and the associated health risks. The programme encouraged thoughtful discussion and informed decision‑making as students prepare for the next stage of their schooling journey.
The NZCT Chamber Music Contest National Final was held at The Piano on Saturday 1 August. Sparks Trio, featuring Ethan Waines (Year 10), was one of just eight ensembles from around New Zealand selected for the final.
While not placed among the prize winners, the trio received a June Clifford National Finalist Award, recognising the significant achievement of reaching the national final of this prestigious competition.
Four St Andrew’s students competed at the 2026 New Zealand Cross Country and Relay Championships at Hagley Park on Saturday, producing strong performances against some of the country’s leading athletes.
Eight St Andrew’s College swimmers represented the College at the New Zealand Secondary Schools Swimming Championships in Auckland, Thursday 30 July – Sunday 2 August. The team achieved an impressive five medals, 15 top‑10 finishes, and 18 personal best times.
Kelicia Purcell (Year 9) led the way, winning gold in the 13‑year‑old Girls’ 200m Breaststroke, silver in the 200m Butterfly, and bronze medals in both the 100m and 200m Individual Medley events. Edward Garbutt (Year 10) won silver in the 14‑year‑old Boys’ 400m Freestyle, while Hunter Donnithorne (Year 9) recorded fourth place in the 100m Backstroke.
The team also achieved strong relay results and finished 29th overall on age‑group points from 126 schools.
Kelicia Purcell (Year 9) achieved excellent results at the Swimming Canterbury West Coast Short Course Championships, recording eight personal best times from 11 events.
St Andrew’s students achieved outstanding results at the Canterbury Secondary Schools Slopestyle Championships at Mt Hutt on Sunday 2 August, winning four golds and two silvers.
Students achieved excellent results at the New Zealand Physics and Mathematics Competition Canterbury Regional Finals, held at the University of Canterbury on Saturday 1 August.
St Andrew’s claimed all three top placings in the Canterbury Junior Division:
The competition included a 90‑minute examination followed by workshops and activities. Qualification for the regional finals was based on strong performances in Round 1 of the national competition earlier in the year, where Samuel achieved equal first place in the Junior Division and Benjamin placed equal sixth.
Six student-led teams took part in the Vista 48Hours Film Competition over the weekend, creating complete short films within a 48‑hour period.
Students were required to write, film, edit, and submit their productions while incorporating a prescribed genre and a range of compulsory elements. Teams were led by Scarlett Ryan (Year 13), Louis Tappin (Year 12), Harrison Mugford, Rory Miller (both Year 11), Kangwoo Moon (Year 10), and Hana Baddeley (Year 9).
Participation in the competition provided an authentic opportunity to develop creativity, collaboration, problem‑solving, and filmmaking skills under pressure.
St Andrew’s dancers represented the College at this year’s DanceNZMade competition. Four works were entered in the Senior Division, showcasing talent from both the Dance Competition team and the Ballet Academy. Several dancers also took part in a full day of workshops, learning from leading industry professionals and dancing alongside students from other Christchurch schools.
The Competition team performed Gasping for Air and Ghost, while the Ballet Academy presented Mambo and Hairspray. The Ballet Academy Year 11 dancers’ performance of Hairspray, choreographed by Ballet tutor Hayley Watts, won fifth place and is expected to qualify for the national finals, pending confirmation.
Frederick Paterson (Year 11) was also awarded a DanceNZMade Golden Ticket, recognising his talent and earning him an invitation to the DanceNZMade Gold Awards.
The first VEX Robotics competition of the new season was held in The Green Library and Innovation Centre on Sunday.
In the VEX IQ competition, Team Code Red (Jack Blyde, Zongze (Aaron) Li, Vitek Mencl, and Wyatt Petre, all Year 8) achieved a Skills score of 80 and won the Teamwork Challenge in partnership with a team from Breens Intermediate School. The event provided students with an opportunity to test and refine their robots ahead of the season’s major competitions.
Cultural Captains Scarlett Ryan and Alice Howard (both Year 13) hosted a cultural showcase on Wednesday evening, celebrating the diversity of talent across the performing and visual arts.
The audience enjoyed performances from the Chamber Orchestra, Dance Competition Team, Hip Hop Crew, Theatresports, a rock band, and a singer‑songwriter, as well as displays of student visual art. The showcase highlighted the breadth of artistic opportunities available at the College and the contribution students make to the cultural life of the school.
Preparatory School teams hosted Huntley School on Wednesday for a sports exchange featuring hockey, football, netball, and rugby.
The hockey fixture produced an exciting 5–5 draw, while the football team recorded a convincing 7–2 victory. Rugby and netball were both closely contested, with Huntley taking the wins. Overall, it was an enjoyable day of competition and connection between the two schools.
Flickr>
On Wednesday, the Years 7–8 Girls’ A basketball team competed at the Primary Sport Canterbury Indoor Basketball Tournament. Drawn in a highly competitive pool, the team narrowly missed a place in the top playoff bracket after a two‑point defeat.
The girls responded strongly, showing resilience and teamwork to finish ninth overall, concluding the tournament with a dominant 20–0 victory over Marshland School.
fLICKR>ChlöeAnn Botha (Year 8) achieved excellent results at the Southern Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Dunedin.
Across two days of competition, she was crowned Step 6 Unders All‑Around Champion and won gold medals on Vault and Uneven Bars. On the second day, she added silver medals on Beam and Uneven Bars, bronze medals on Vault and Floor, and achieved her highest all‑around score of the season.
BASKETBALL
The Senior Girls’ team had a bye after securing the top seed heading into the Whelan Trophy playoffs.
The Senior Boys travelled to Christ’s College with a home semi‑final on the line. In a closely contested match where neither side established a significant lead, St Andrew’s secured a hard‑fought four‑point victory to earn second seed.
FOOTBALL
The Boys’ 1st XI defeated Rolleston College 2–1 on Wednesday. After conceding early, St Andrew’s responded through Corbin Revis (Year 13) just before halftime. A change of formation during the break helped the team gain control of the match, with Samuel Cook (Year 13) scoring the winner in the second half.
The Girls’ 2nd XI produced an outstanding performance to defeat Rangi Ruru Girls’ School 8–1, combining confident attack with excellent teamwork throughout the match.
HOCKEY
The Boys’ 1st XI began the second round of pool play against Christchurch Boys’ High School, with the SSP Challenge Shield also on the line. In difficult weather conditions, St Andrew’s remained composed and opened the scoring before Boys’ High equalised. Three goals in the final quarter secured an impressive victory and the shield, with Hugo Lewis (Year 12) scoring a hat‑trick.
The Girls’ 1st XI recorded a convincing 6–1 victory over Craighead Diocesan School on Friday. St Andrew’s combined clinical finishing with disciplined structure, establishing control in the first half and maintaining momentum throughout the match.
NETBALL
In Premier 1 competition, the Senior A team played Kererū B. After a closely contested opening quarter, St Andrew’s struggled to convert opportunities during the second quarter but responded strongly after halftime. The team won the final quarter and took valuable learnings from the 41–51 result.
In SuperNet competition on Wednesday, St Andrew’s defeated Ashburton College 52–33 to finish pool play strongly. Emilia Ainley (Year 12) was named MVP after shooting 39 from 40 attempts, while Charlotte Galvan (Year 13) produced several important intercepts. Hayley Stowell (Year 11) earned the Team Moment award for an outstanding intercept and conversion. The victory sees St Andrew’s progress to next week’s semi‑final.
RUGBY
The Girls’ 1st XV was defeated by Christchurch Girls’ High School, who currently sit at the top of the competition table. The team remains third overall and continues to enjoy a strong season.
The Boys’ 1st XV hosted St Thomas of Canterbury College in a Miles Toyota Premiership quarter‑final. St Andrew’s established a 26–7 halftime lead through strong possession and disciplined execution. A try to Macully Greer (Year 12) soon after the break kept the momentum with St Andrew’s. Dominance at set piece created numerous opportunities, and the team finished strongly to record a convincing 54–14 victory. The result secures a semi‑final against St Bede’s College this Saturday.
TRAP SHOOTING
Last Sunday, the College trap shooting team competed at the Ellesmere Clay Target Club as part of the Canterbury Circuit competition. In total there were 18 shooters from St Andrew’s, with a number of new shooters at their first competition shoot.
One of the most anticipated events on the College calendar, the annual Boarders’ Assembly was held today. This year’s theme, Murder Mystery – Who Killed Mr George?, combined humour, creativity, and student leadership in an entertaining and engaging presentation.
Year 13 boarders shared aspects of their lives beyond the boarding house through a series of cleverly constructed alibis, highlighting the diverse talents, interests, and experiences within the boarding community. The assembly was led by Heads of Boarding, Katie Taggart and Henry Tayler (both Year 13), and showcased the contributions of boarders from across the College.
A highlight of the morning was William Paton’s (Year 13) Morning Comment, which focused on confidence and encouraged younger students to embrace opportunities and learn from mistakes. Boarders also promoted Gumboot Friday and its support of youth mental health. Assistant Director of Boarding Struan George was presented with the annual Boarders’ Good Sort Award, before the assembly concluded with a rendition of Wonderwall and the traditional dance segment.
This week, St Andrew’s College joined schools across New Zealand in celebrating National Boarding Week, recognising the unique experiences and opportunities that boarding provides. A range of activities highlighted boarding life while helping strengthen connections both within the boarding community and across the wider College.
A highlight of the week was the Great Boarding House Dinner Swap, with boarders from St Andrew’s College, St Bede’s College, Christ’s College, Rangi Ruru Girls’ School, and St Margaret’s College visiting one another’s boarding houses for dinner. The initiative provided an opportunity for students to reconnect with friends from home and experience boarding life at other schools. The week also included recognition of ‘behind-the-scenes’ heroes, the many support staff who contribute to the smooth running of the boarding programme, and the Year 9 boarders had the chance to “Bring a mate to lunch” – a great opportunity for them to share a glimpse of daily boarding life with their day-school friends.
The Sustainability Council delivered more than 350 items of clothing and footwear to the St Chad’s Distribution Centre this week, marking the conclusion of the annual Winter Clothing Drive. The initiative supports individuals and families across Christchurch during the colder months and represents the largest collection achieved through the programme to date. The project was led by Carter Evans, James Ryan, Grace Smith (all Year 12), Rufina Kim, Olivia Chang, and Emma Zhang (all Year 9), whose organisation and leadership helped coordinate the donation drive.
The College extends its thanks to the many students, staff, and families who contributed. The success of the initiative reflects the generosity and service-minded spirit of the St Andrew’s community.
Cross Country – Eva Pringle (OC 2019) claimed another national title with a standout performance at the 2026 New Zealand Cross Country Championships.
Cricket – Rhys Mariu (OC 2019) has been selected for the New Zealand A squad for the Top End T20 Series in Darwin, Australia, before competing in a programme of one-day matches against South Australia, Tasmania, and Nepal.
Rugby – Liam McCormack (OC 2018) and Ben Innes (OC 2019) have been selected for the 2026 Mid Canterbury Heartland squad.
Rugby – Richie Mo'unga (OC 2012) scored the match-winning try for Canterbury against Auckland in his first NPC appearance since 2020 (Photo credit: Photosport).
Visiting Academic – Luke Zhu (OC 2022) returned to the College this week to speak with students about his experiences studying at Harvard University and the University of Oxford. Luke shared insights into university life, mathematical research, and future study pathways, providing students with a valuable perspective on tertiary study opportunities at leading international institutions.
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.
Term 3 will see all students who are returning next year making their academic course selections for 2027. A series of events, presentations and, in particular, the publication of the annual online Curriculum Book information take place this term, leading up to the deadline for students’ selections (Friday 11 September).
On Friday 28 August, from 3.40pm–5.00pm, we will run our annual Course Selection Expo in Gym 1, at which time a number of staff representing the different subject areas will be present to meet informally with students and their parents to talk about the nature of courses next year. This annual event is for students in Years 10–12, and both students and their parents/caregivers are strongly encouraged to attend; the conversations with staff are invaluable in the decision-making process for students!
Please also note that, along with the academic course selection process, students who are returning in 2027 will be making their co-curricular selections.
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.
View a fun promotional video letting you know what to expect at this year’s Film Fest>
Register your attendance>
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.
