You are logged in as
Logout
You are logged in as
Logout
Dear Parents and Caregivers
It is great to be back in New Zealand this week following a wonderful trip supporting our Pipe Band, which placed third in the Juvenile Grade at the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow. This outstanding result was built on the dedication, discipline, and hard work of our students over many months. It is a powerful reminder that, while the outcome is worth celebrating, the process is equally important as we seek to develop exceptionally talented people of strong character.
That combination of character and skill has also been evident across an extraordinary winter sports season for several of our premier teams. Last Saturday, our Boys’ 1st XV once again “slew their giant”, producing a remarkable late comeback from 40–24 deficit against Southland Boys’ High School to win the South Island final 41–40. The performance demonstrated not only considerable skill, but also the team’s belief, resilience, and composure under pressure.
The result has secured the team a place at the New Zealand Top Four finals in Palmerston North next week, for the first time since 1991. This will be the third time St Andrew’s College has competed at the national finals, following previous appearances in 1986 and 1991. We wish the players, coaches, and management team every success as they prepare to test themselves against the leading school teams from around the country.
Our Senior A Girls’ and Senior A Boys’ basketball teams also displayed exceptional character and skill in winning the Whelan and Thomson Trophy regional championships respectively. The Girls’ title is their seventh consecutive Whelan Trophy, an outstanding level of consistency in school sport. The Boys’ team emerged from a closely contested and high-quality premiership season to win the Thomson Trophy. This marks the first time in the history of the competitions that the same school has held both Division 1 titles in the same year.
Congratulations also to our Girls’ 1st XI hockey and Senior A netball teams, which both qualified for their respective regional finals. Although they were narrowly unable to claim the titles, both teams have enjoyed excellent seasons and now turn their attention to next week’s national tournaments.
On Wednesday, our Boys’ 1st XI football team reached the Secondary Schools’ Premiership Plate Final for the first time, securing the team’s best-ever placing in the competition. Although they were defeated 2–0 by Christchurch Boys’ High School, this was a significant milestone and a season the players, coaches, and managers can be very proud of.
The New Zealand Secondary Schools Winter Tournament Week will provide another opportunity for students across a variety of sporting codes to test themselves against strong national opposition. These experiences enable our young people to develop their skills, resilience, teamwork, and independence. My thanks to the staff, coaches, managers, and families whose considerable organisation and support make these opportunities possible.
Following the World Pipe Band Championships, I visited six leading independent schools in Scotland before concluding my trip in London, where we hosted a special Old Collegians’ gathering at Canalside Bar in King’s Cross. Around 40 Old Collegians attended, reconnecting with schoolmates and sharing their experiences and different pathways since leaving St Andrew’s. As the new Rector, I greatly appreciated the opportunity to meet them, hear their positive reflections on their time at the College, and experience their ongoing connection with St Andrew’s.
Commitment to excellence is also evident across our creative arts. This week, we were delighted to announce that three of the 10 finalists in the 2026 National Schools Poetry Award are from St Andrew’s College: Hanxi (Cicy) Chen (Year 12), Thomas Palmer (Year 13), and Head Prefect Charlotte Galvan (Year 13). The students will travel to Wellington this weekend to receive their prizes, meet the other finalists, and participate in a poetry masterclass at the International Institute of Modern Letters at Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington. This is the second consecutive year Thomas has been selected as a finalist, making his achievement particularly significant.
Alongside the start of Winter Tournament Week this weekend, our dancers will take to the stage this Sunday for two performances of our annual Dance Revue. This year’s event, The Greatest Show, brings together students from the College Dance Programme, Ballet Academy, and NCEA Dance in a celebration of Contemporary, Jazz, Hip Hop, Highland, and Ballet. It promises to be a vibrant showcase of their creativity, artistry, and commitment, and I wish all our dancers and staff the very best for both performances. Tickets are available via the link in the notices.
Finally, our Senior Choir, Ngā Manu Tīoriori, is also making history this week as it takes part in the Big Sing Finale at the Christchurch Town Hall, having been selected as one of the top 24 secondary school choirs in New Zealand. The choir gave a stunning performance yesterday and will return to the stage late this afternoon, followed by the Gala Concert on Saturday evening. I wish all our singers and staff the very best for their remaining performances.
Ngā mihi nui
Mark Wilson
Rector
This term, the Year 12 Physical Education class has been working towards Achievement Standard 2.2, Improving My Game, exploring key concepts in motor skill learning, functional anatomy, and biomechanics. Students began by investigating how teaching and practice methods can be adapted according to the learner and the characteristics of a particular skill. They are now examining the biomechanics and functional anatomy involved in achieving an effective technique across different sporting movements.
As part of Achievement Standard 2.6, Dare to Lead, the Year 12 Physical Education and Recreation class has been applying leadership and coaching strategies with a Year 9 class. Through adapted sports and Touch variations, students have supported group development while strengthening their own leadership, communication, and mentoring skills. Both Year 12 classes have also worked with coaches from MIXX to learn the rules, skills, and tactical strategies of Korfball, with these practical experiences forming the basis of their sports performance assessment.
St Andrew’s College marked Philosophy Week 2026 with a programme designed to encourage students and educators to think critically, question assumptions, and engage with diverse perspectives. The Senior Thriving Minds Conference included live sessions with Dr Chris O’Neill from the University of Oxford, involving 16 St Andrew’s College students. The conference concluded with an impromptu organ performance in the Centennial Chapel by Sea‑Am Thompson (OC 2024).
The Junior Thriving Minds Conference supported younger students to build confidence in exploring and discussing complex ideas, while daily House debates brought an accessible and engaging dimension to the week, supported by Fraser Walls (Year 12) and Louis Hyland (Year 10). The Ethics Symposium also welcomed educators from nine Canterbury schools for professional learning, including a presentation from Professor Daphne Hampson of the University of Oxford. The programme was delivered in partnership with Julie Arliss and the UK-based Thriving Minds team.
Flickr>Year 7 Extension Mathematics students have been exploring shares, investing, and the stock market, learning what it means to own a share in a company and why share prices change. Students have investigated how businesses can be evaluated as potential investments and considered the relationship between risk and reward.
As virtual investors, students have created simulated portfolios, selected companies, and monitored how their investments perform over time. They are using percentages, graphs, data analysis, and problem-solving to calculate gains and losses and make informed decisions about whether to buy, hold, or sell. The unit provides a relevant, real-world context for applying mathematical thinking and developing financial literacy.
Year 4 students have been investigating pāua, learning about their life cycle, the protective function of their shells, and the ways they are adapted to their marine environment. Students have developed skills in drawing and labelling scientific diagrams and using magnifying glasses and microscopes to observe fine details. Their next step will be to compare pāua with other molluscs, identifying similarities and differences in their structures, habitats, and adaptations.
Preparatory School teacher Christina Fitzgerald and Secondary School Science teacher Connor O’Rourke have developed a range of practical investigations to extend this learning. Year 8 students have supported the Year 4 classes with experiments and observations, creating a tuakana–teina partnership that strengthens leadership, collaboration, and communication across year levels. The use of ethically sourced pāua specimens has also helped students connect their classroom learning with the natural world and deepen their understanding of this treasured New Zealand taonga.
Pre-school learners joined class 8A for a shared music session exploring beat and rhythm through a variety of songs, from It’s Raining, It’s Pouring to The White Stripes’ Seven Nation Army. Students played bongos, drums, and congas, learning to recognise and maintain a steady beat while performing together.
The Year 8 students guided and encouraged their younger buddies throughout the session, supporting their participation and introducing them to different instruments. The experience provided an engaging opportunity for musical learning while strengthening connection, confidence, and collaboration across age groups.
To farewell winter and welcome the promise of spring, the Junior Department enjoyed a Pyjama Day today. Children arrived in cosy pyjamas and slippers, with many bringing a favourite soft toy to join them throughout the day.
The event brought fun and warmth to the usual school routine, creating a shared sense of connection as students marked the changing of the seasons together while continuing with their learning.
Flickr>St Andrew’s College athletes heard from Old Collegian and BLACKCAP Zak Foulkes (OC 2020) at the College’s Blazer and First Team Awards evening. Zak, who was part of the St Andrew’s 2019 Gillette Cup-winning team before progressing to international cricket, shared insights from his sporting journey with students and families.
His address focused on three key themes: responding constructively to disappointment rather than dwelling on setbacks, maintaining balance in sport and life, and keeping enjoyment at the heart of participation. First team captains then asked Zak questions about professional sport, resilience, leadership, and the habits required to perform at a high level.
The evening recognised the achievements of St Andrew’s first team athletes and provided an encouraging send-off ahead of South Island and national Tournament Week competitions.
Flickr>
Each year, the National Schools Poetry Award celebrates leading senior secondary school poets from across New Zealand. This year, three of the 10 finalists are from St Andrew’s College: Hanxi (Cicy) Chen (Year 12), Thomas Palmer (Year 13), and Head Prefect Charlotte Galvan (Year 13).
The students will travel to Wellington this weekend to receive their prizes, meet the other finalists, and participate in a poetry masterclass at the International Institute of Modern Letters at Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington. This is the second consecutive year Thomas has been selected as a finalist, adding further significance to his achievement.
Read their award-winning poems >George Reynolds (Year 11) has been selected for the Canterbury U19 squash team. He will represent the region at the Junior National Teams Event in Auckland in October.
George Reynolds (Year 11) competed at the South Island Age Group Squash Championships in Waimea. After winning his first two matches, George progressed to the U17 final, which developed into an intense five-game contest.
George held his composure to win the deciding game and claim the U17 South Island title.
The latest VEX Robotics Scrimmage was held in The Green Library and Innovation Centre last Saturday, with teams continuing to develop and test their robots for this season’s VEX IQ game, Level Up. Three St Andrew’s College teams had robots competing in the qualification matches.
After qualifying second for the finals, Team Code Red – Jack Blyde, Zongze (Aaron) Li, Vitek Mencl, and Wyatt Petre (all Year 8) – continued its strong form from the previous scrimmage. The team scored 54 points to secure a closely contested win over Breens Intermediate.
Flickr>
A group of Year 9 girls attended EngineeringHer Day at the University of Canterbury, exploring mechanical, mechatronics, civil, and environmental engineering through interactive workshops. Students programmed robotic hands to play simple tunes on a piano, designed electric vehicles, and investigated hydrogen production through water electrolysis. They also heard from engineering students about university study and Old Collegian Jackson Page (OC 2018), who discussed completing a trade as an alternative pathway into engineering.
For Zhuduanrui (Rita) Wu (Year 9), the shake table challenge was a highlight. Working within a five-minute time limit, students designed and built structures before testing them on an earthquake simulator modelled on the Christchurch and Kaikōura earthquakes. Rita’s team created a structure named ‘the rabbit’, inspired by its triangular shape and a pointed addition made during the final 30 seconds. She described how “half of one’s structure jiggled like jelly, while the top stubbornly stayed upright”, concluding that the day was “a great experience to give engineering a go”.
The Preparatory School hosted Medbury School on Wednesday 26 August for a winter sports exchange featuring rugby, hockey, and two football matches.
The hockey match was closely contested, with Medbury securing a narrow 4–3 victory. In rugby, St Andrew’s continued to compete strongly against a well-organised Medbury team, with Andre Esler (Year 7) scoring three long-range tries and being named Medbury’s Player of the Day. Both St Andrew’s football teams recorded wins, finishing 4–0 and 5–0. Jeffery Zhang (Year 8) scored four goals in the 2nd XI fixture, while Angus Sutherland (Year 8) scored twice for the 1st XI. Across all four fixtures, students demonstrated commitment, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Two Preparatory School rock bands performed at the recent Bandquest competition in Christchurch, marking their first appearance at the event. The competition provided students with an opportunity to develop their confidence and ensemble skills while performing before a live audience.
New Collegians placed third following performances of It’s a Long Way to the Top and You’re the Voice, with Luke Russell (Year 8) joining the band on bagpipes. The Thunder Thistles performed Bon Jovi’s Livin’ on a Prayer, while Cole Gordon-Glassford (Year 7) was named Top Drummer of the Night.
Several Preparatory School students have had their writing published or recognised through external literary opportunities. Book reviews by Lola Henderson and Xinrui (Sophia) Xu (both Year 3), Ava Blyde (Year 5), Georgia Blyde (Year 6), and Claire Zhao (Year 8) have recently been published.
Jessica Whitehead and Alfred Lash (both Year 8) received Editor’s Choice recognition for work published in the New Zealand Poetry Society’s Anthology 2026. Claire Zhao also achieved third place in the Primary/Intermediate division of the New Zealand Poetry Society competition, with her work included in the anthology.
Year 8 students visited Mt Hutt on Monday for a day of skiing and snowboarding. The programme began with two-hour lessons led by experienced instructors, allowing students to develop their technique and confidence at an appropriate level. During the afternoon, students applied their learning across a range of runs.
More experienced skiers and snowboarders returned to the learner areas to encourage and assist classmates who were still developing their skills. This support contributed to an inclusive environment in which students could challenge themselves, build confidence, and celebrate their progress. Staff and parent volunteers supported the organisation and safety of the trip throughout the day.
Eleanor Nortje (Year 4) competed with the Empire Athletics Cheerleading team, Sapphires, at the United Cheer Competition in Wellington. The team placed second in a large division.
Eleanor performs as a flyer within the routine and contributes to the team’s tumbling section.
RUGBY
The Boys’ 1st XV hosted Southland Boys’ High School in the South Island final on Saturday, with the winner progressing to the New Zealand Top Four tournament. Jett Timbrell (Year 13) opened the scoring with a penalty from 40 metres before Southland responded with the first try of the match.
St Andrew’s gained momentum through strong ball carrying and physicality, scoring three tries in quick succession. Southland then capitalised on a turnover to score a converted try before the break, with St Andrew’s leading 24–14 at half-time. Southland scored soon after the restart and controlled possession over the following 10 minutes, adding an intercept try and another from a kick-through and regather. With 15 minutes remaining, Southland held a 40–24 lead. St Andrew’s returned to its systems and began building phases, scoring two tries to reduce the deficit to 40–36 with five minutes to play.
With one minute remaining, St Andrew’s earned a penalty at the breakdown and took a quick tap. The ball was moved wide before consecutive penalties provided an opportunity to attack through a lineout. A driving maul was brought down short of the line, but St Andrew’s retained the advantage and continued to apply pressure. Lennox Kopelani (Year 12) then drove over from close range to secure a remarkable 41–40 victory.
The result sees St Andrew’s progress to the New Zealand Top Four tournament in Palmerston North for the first time in 35 years.
fLICKR>
BASKETBALL
Both Senior A teams competed in their respective regional finals at Cowles Stadium on Tuesday evening, with each facing Cashmere High School.
The Senior Girls combined a balanced attacking performance with sustained defensive pressure to secure a 101–30 victory in the Whelan Trophy final. Ava Jones (Year 13) was named Finals MVP after recording 20 points, eight rebounds, and six assists, with six St Andrew’s players scoring in double figures. The result secured the team’s seventh consecutive Whelan Trophy title, extending an unbeaten regional run dating back to 2019.
Flickr>
In the Thomson Trophy final, the Senior Boys trailed after the first quarter before responding to take a 10-point lead into half-time. A strong third quarter extended the margin to 20 points, with St Andrew’s going on to record a 107–89 victory. Benjamin Marsh (Year 12) was named Finals MVP after contributing 30 points, four rebounds, and nine assists, with six players again scoring in double figures.
This is the Senior Boys’ first Thomson Trophy title since 2008 and marks the first time in the history of the competitions that one school has held both the Whelan and Thomson Division 1 titles in the same year. The College acknowledges the staff, sponsors, families, and supporters who contributed to both teams’ seasons.
Flickr>
HOCKEY
The Boys’ 1st XI faced St Bede’s College in the SSP playoff for third place, looking to reverse the result from their earlier Challenge Shield fixture. St Andrew’s played with patience and discipline, controlling extended periods of the match while creating a number of scoring opportunities.
Sustained pressure produced the opening goal before St Andrew’s added a second to lead 2–0 heading into the final quarter. St Bede’s pressed in the closing stages, but the defensive unit remained organised and composed to protect the lead and secure third place. The team now turns its attention to the upcoming Rankin Cup national tournament.
The Girls’ 1st XI faced St Margaret’s College in the SSP final before a large crowd. St Margaret’s established an early advantage, scoring three goals in the opening quarter. St Andrew’s regrouped at the first break and produced a more controlled performance throughout the remaining three quarters.
The team created several opportunities but was unable to convert against a strong St Margaret’s defensive unit and goalkeeper. The match finished 3–0, with St Andrew’s concluding the SSP season as regional runners-up before turning its attention to national Tournament Week.
fLICKR>NETBALL
Premier 1 Competition – The Senior A team faced St Nicholas A in its final Premier 1 fixture on Monday evening. St Andrew’s began strongly, combining sharp attacking play with connected defensive pressure to lead by three goals at the first break. A clinical second quarter extended the advantage to 12 goals, with players across the court making effective contributions. St Andrew’s maintained control through the second half to secure a 58–44 victory. Zara Kleindyk (Year 12) was named MVP for the pressure she applied defensively, while Hayley Stowell (Year 11) received the Team Moment award for controlling the tempo at Centre.
The result places the team in a strong position to retain its Premier 1 place next season, should the current competition format continue.
Nearly 600 students attended the Senior Formal at Te Pae on Saturday evening. This year’s theme, Velvet and Vines, transformed the venue with twinkling lights, floral arrangements, and elegant table centrepieces, providing a memorable setting for students to celebrate together.
Students arrived dressed to impress and enjoyed an evening filled with music, dancing, and laughter. Old Collegian April Oakley (OC 2016) provided the evening’s music, keeping the dance floor busy throughout the event. The upbeat, relaxed and inclusive atmosphere gave students an opportunity to strengthen friendships and enjoy time together as a Senior School community.
The event was organised by Preparatory School Receptionist Kelsey Williams, Senior School Office Administrator Jocelyn Simmons, and the Senior School Council. Their considerable planning and attention to detail helped ensure the evening was a tremendous success and one that will be remembered fondly by all who attended.
Flickr>
Genevieve Wallis (Year 12) and Lily Proffit (Year 11) have been selected as the College’s 2026 Spirit of Adventure and Outward Bound Scholarship recipients.
Genevieve will travel to Anakiwa in January to complete a 21-day Outward Bound course, while Lily will undertake a 10-day voyage aboard the Spirit of New Zealand early next year. Both programmes will provide opportunities to develop confidence, leadership, teamwork, and resilience through outdoor challenge and adventure.
The scholarships are generously funded by an Old Collegian and awarded annually to support the personal development of young people. The scholarship supporters acknowledged the high calibre of this year’s applicants and look forward to hearing Genevieve and Lily reflect on their experiences when they return.
The Pre-school marked Daffodil Day today with a ‘Dress in Yellow’ day in support of the Cancer Society. Tamariki were invited to wear yellow and bring a gold coin donation, while also taking part in activities including face painting, yellow playdough, and creating daffodil cards for their whānau.
Recognising that cancer affects many people and families, the day provided an opportunity to gently introduce age-appropriate ideas about caring for those impacted by the disease and supporting the people working to prevent and treat it.
fLICKR>
20 YEARS ON REUNION
On Saturday 22 August, members of the Class of 2006–2010 gathered to mark their 20 Years On Reunion. Several began the day at St Andrew’s College, where they watched the Boys’ 1st XV secure their South Island final victory over Southland Boys’ High School, before reconnecting with classmates later that evening.
Former teachers Jo Bigford-Fleming, Joe Leota, and Ian White joined the gathering. This was the first 20 Years On Reunion held for several years and provided a valuable opportunity for those able to attend to renew friendships and reflect on their shared experiences at the College.
fLICKR>On Monday 24 August, around 40 Old Collegians gathered at The Lighterman in King’s Cross, London, for a special evening with Rector Mark Wilson and his wife, Judi. Attendees represented College years spanning from 1961 to 2023, reflecting the strength of the St Andrew’s network across generations.
The gathering provided an opportunity to reconnect with schoolmates, establish new connections, and share memories and experiences with Mark and Judi. Bringing together so many Old Collegians on the other side of the world highlighted their enduring connection with St Andrew’s College.
fLICKR>
ROWING – Ben Taylor (OC 2017) and Oli Welch will compete for gold in the Men’s Pair at the 2026 World Rowing Championships in Amsterdam after a dominant semi-final performance.
The defending world champions led from the opening strokes and recorded a time of 6:39.99, the fastest of the two semi-finals, to secure their place in the A Final. Ben and Oli will return to the water for the gold-medal race at 2.43am NZST on Saturday morning as they pursue consecutive world titles.
Photo credit: Rowing NZ
CANOE SPRINT – Olympic gold medallist Olivia Brett (OC 2019) and the New Zealand K4 500 crew will compete in the B Final at the 2026 ICF Canoe Sprint and Paracanoe World Championships in Poznań, Poland. We wish Olivia and her teammates all the very best for the race.
Photo credit: Axel Di Bert
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 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)
Year 9 and 10 students have been preparing for their end-of-year school examinations and NCEA assessments, which will take place during Week 8 of this term.
Students received an email on Wednesday containing their personalised timetable, including examination dates, times, and locations. The complete timetable is also available through each year group’s Microsoft Team. Head of Teaching and Learning Simon Bevin has met with students to explain the examination processes, procedures, rules, and expectations. The presentations shared during these meetings are available on the relevant year group Team.
Examinations will take place during the school day, with most held in Gym 2, the College’s main venue for school preliminary and NCEA examinations. When students are not sitting an examination, they are expected to attend their usual classes.
Why school examinations are important
School examinations:
Device readiness
A number of examinations and assessments will be completed online. Students must ensure their device:
NCEA Common Assessment Activities
Year 10 students will also complete the remaining NCEA Common Assessment Activities, which contribute towards the NCEA Literacy and Numeracy co-requisite.
Most Year 10 students will complete the Literacy – Writing assessment. A smaller number will sit the Literacy – Reading and/or Numeracy assessments if they require a second opportunity to achieve the relevant standards.
A small number of Year 11 students will also sit one or more of these assessments as they work towards completing the NCEA co-requisite. All participating students have been advised of the times and locations of their assessments.
Students completing NCEA Common Assessment Activities must also remember their NZQA Learner Login details.
Please note: Students in classes 10A and 10W will complete their programme of examinations and NCEA assessments during Week 9.
Year 7–12 parents are being offered the opportunity to attend the six-week Emotion Coaching course, Tuning into Teens (TINT). The programme will be led by Julie Forman (Counsellor/Mediator) from Āwhina Mai, and St Andrew’s College Psychologist, Kate Scott.
You will learn how to manage your own and your adolescent’s emotions in ways that help you to remain close and keep communicating. By learning these skills, you are less likely to have as much conflict within your family and your teen is more likely to talk to you about the challenging issues they face. These are factors that have been found to reduce the risk of mental health and substance abuse problems.
Tuning Into Teens Emotion Coaching Course
When: Six-week programme on Tuesdays, 6.00pm–8.00pm, starting on Tuesday 15 September until Tuesday 3 November (during Weeks 9–10 of Term 3, and Weeks 1–4 of Term 4).
Where: St Andrew’s College – Preparatory School Library
Booking: email Kate Scott at KSO@stac.school.nz, 14 places available
Cost: $200 for the six-week course and $250 for a couple.
Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. If you have any questions, please email KSO@stac.school.nz.
For the first time, St Andrew's College's acclaimed Jazz Big Band joins forces with a String Orchestra to perform an exciting programme of jazz favourites, spanning artists from Ella Fitzgerald to Radiohead.
With special guests and local jazz legends, Kate Taylor (vocals) and Old Collegian Jimmy Rainey (saxophone), this is a concert not to be missed and promises to be one of the musical highlights of 2026.
Featuring some of St Andrew's College's finest young musicians, this special one-night-only performance will showcase the breadth and depth of talent within the College's Music programme.
When: Thursday 17 September, 7.00pm–8.30pm
Venue: Gough Family Theatre, St Andrew's College
Tickets: $5.00 General Admission
We warmly invite parents, caregivers, family members, and friends to come along and support these talented young performers. It promises to be a memorable evening of outstanding music and entertainment.
PURCHASE CONCERT TICKETS >
We are delighted to invite our parent community to the final StACTalks event for 2026: StACTalks: Becoming the Best Parent You Can Be with Joseph Driessen.
When: Tuesday 15 September, 7.00pm–9.00pm | Doors open from 6.30pm
Where: Gough Family theatre, Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre
Leading New Zealand educator and parenting expert, Joseph Driessen, will share practical strategies to help parents build strong relationships, establish healthy boundaries, and support their child's learning and well-being. With more than 40 years of experience working with families and educators, Joseph brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insights.
This free event has been made possible through the generous support of the St Andrew's College PTA and open to all St Andrew's College parents and caregivers..
We look forward to welcoming you for what promises to be a practical and valuable evening.
REGISTER FOR STACTALKS>Normal is overrated.
They’re creepy, they’re kooky, and delightfully chaotic. Step into the world of The Addams Family Musical: School Edition, where the iconic characters we know and love meet a fresh, contemporary edge that today’s audiences can’t get enough of. With a nod to the classic Addams charm and the darker tone popularised by Wednesday, this musical is a wickedly funny celebration of the strange and unusual. When Wednesday Addams falls for a perfectly “normal” boy, both families are thrown into a night of secrets, surprises, and unexpected revelations. With ancestors caught between life and death watching on, nothing unfolds quite as planned. Featuring Year 9 and 10 performers, this production is filled with humour, heart, and a deliciously dark twist, promising an entertaining evening for the whole family.
When: Tuesday 20, Wednesday 21, Thursday 22 and Friday 23 October (four performances)
Times: 7.00pm–9.30pm
Where: Gough Family Theatre, Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre, St Andrew's College
Tickets*: Adults $35.00 | Students $17.50 (school-aged children only; ID may be requested on entry)
*A small levy is included in the ticket price, contributing to the build cost of Ngā Toi – Performing Arts Centre.
Grandparents' Day is a cherished St Andrew's College tradition, celebrating the special role grandparents play in the lives of our students. This year, we are delighted to welcome grandparents from both the Preparatory and Secondary Schools to join us for a morning of entertainment, connection and lasting memories.
Registration is essential and all grandparents attending must be registered by parents/caregivers, to ensure students can be released from class to meet them. Registrations close at 12.00pm on Tuesday 20 October.
Complete the Grandparents' Day Registration Form >Delicious Christmas goodies, locally made with the highest quality ingredients. The perfect gift for Christmas or to treat your own family! All proceeds will go towards the PTA 2026 fundraising drive, supporting the StAC Jazz Combo.
More information about each of the PTA’s Christmas Goodies, including the ingredients list, can be found at the order link below. The products on offer this year are:
Closing date for orders: Monday 2 November 2026
Cake collection: Orders must be collected from the Senior College (there is no delivery option) on the following dates:
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.
