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"St Andrew’s College has enjoyed a very positive end to the school year and there has been time to reflect upon the many achievements and successes, individual and collective."
Dear Parents and Caregivers
Kia ora koutou katoa
St Andrew’s College has enjoyed a very positive end to the school year and there has been time to reflect upon the many achievements and successes, individual and collective. Now that NCEA examinations and classes have finished, the campus is quieter, however, the student holiday programme, an invitational volleyball tournament, and property maintenance are all underway and most support staff are still busy with transitioning to the new school year.
Our traditional Prizegiving ceremony was a wonderful celebration of so many student successes and the entertainment from our talented musicians, singers, dancers, kapa haka and pipe band, was first class. The finale, Stairway to Heaven, with over 100 singers and musicians caused quite a stir going viral on social media and giving StAC a few moments of fame on the world stage. The final Preparatory School Prizegiving, Pre-school Nativity Concert and the Junior School Graduation, 2024 Prefect camp at Castle Hill, the Year 13 Leavers’ Dinner, the Ballet Academy’s Trilogy Production, and the Pipe Band Strowan Gathering were other special events over the last two weeks which celebrated the various stages in the lives of our tamariki. As always, it was lovely to celebrate these occasions with whānau and I thank you all for your support, not only of your children but all those who are part of this special StAC community.
Our staff have finished the school year with some professional learning and Secondary School teachers have completed their biennial First Aid training. There have also been opportunities to thank our staff and farewell those who are leaving at the end of this year.
St Andrew’s College Parent Survey Report:
97%: Satisfied overall;
97%: Students experience a sense of belonging.
In this final message to you at the end of the school year, I am delighted to deliver a report on our 2023 Parent Survey. Earlier this year in August ISNZ (Independent Schools of New Zealand) surveyed member schools. Ninety-six per cent of member schools responded, representing 29,331 students across New Zealand.
St Andrew’s whānau submitted 475 responses to this survey and as a result of this excellent result, we have been able to use our data to inform the satisfaction of our parent group across a number of areas.
St Andrew’s College strives to meet the educational needs of whānau and their tamariki regardless of their individual talents, skills or preferences. This is articulated in our commitment to our value of inclusivity. Our strategic framework for 2019–2023, “Together, building better people, for life”, has focused on initiatives which have enriched student experience, encouraged personal growth and excellence, supported personal and collective well-being, guided balanced commitment to academic and co-curricular activity, provided a breadth and range of opportunities, celebrated success, and demonstrated commitment to future-focused and innovative approaches, sustainability and Te Ao Māori principles.
In partnership with whānau, our school plays an important role in shaping the future of Aotearoa. Most parents expect their children will face distinct challenges and opportunities, characterised by increased use of technology, emerging industries and jobs, a faster pace of change, and that there are critical technical skills required to be effective in life beyond school. It is encouraging to see that most of our parents believe St Andrew’s is effective at preparing their children for such circumstances.
Just as important is the development of character and resilience and the celebration of diversity and individuality. Once again, our survey data indicates strong parent satisfaction in these areas.
Thank you to all those who contributed to this data. Our commitment at St Andrew’s is that we will continue to strive for continuous improvement, protect that which is considered fundamental to well-being, personal success and the collective good, and keep an eye on the future. Your voice will continue to be important to us.
Please click here or click the image below to view the summary page detailing further parent responses. We will use this data to continue to review our curriculum, student care and holistic offerings at St Andrew’s College.
Summary Review Against Whole School Goals 2023
The Whole School Goals, identified in October 2022, have been well met. These goals resulted from the publication of our 2019–2023 Strategic Framework, click here to view.
Thanks to the planning, focus and attention of the staff responsible, significant progress has been made in all areas.
Dimension 1: Values and Culture
Student Voice and Well-being: In 2023 rangatahi were encouraged to give their voice to social and environmental issues including sustainability, gender identity, equity, diversity, climate change and well-being.
The Well-being Committee, representing both students and staff, promoted a healthy life balance between work and study, leisure and social connection. Ākonga voice was represented through the Ask Your Team engagement survey. Our commitment to our College value of inclusivity was highlighted in our emphasis on Pride Week, Pink Shirt Day, and Mental Health Awareness and Well-being assemblies which emphasised character awards and diversity. Students once again nominated those amongst them to receive the Mahia te Aroha awards and St Andrew’s participated in cross-school collaborative events.
Sports Development: Co-curricular commitments for each student were reviewed to better guide individual choices and prevent burnout. A collaborative process led to the development of a Sports Framework which will better connect students, coaches, teachers and parents with a shared understanding of values and processes for selecting, training, encouraging and challenging our athletes whatever their abilities and aspirations.
Te Ao Māori: The Preparatory School Kapa Haka, Tikanga, Aotearoa Histories Curriculum and Mātauranga Māori were important in kaiako development and experience for all rangatahi. The Year 9 programme for all ākonga included introductory te reo Māori, Karakia, waiata and Te Tiriti principles and how these have affected events in Aotearoa history.
Dimension 2: Teaching and Learning
Innovative Strategy and Practice: A whole school programme developed ideas for teaching and learning partnerships, new technologies and real-world contexts for learning. In English, podcast recording skills were integrated into persuasive writing tasks and the ‘Writers Toolbox’ was used to give real-time feedback to students and teachers on the development of writing skills for those in the Accelerated Learning programme.
Year 13 Digital Technologies: A number of projects explained real-world contexts through developing a website including the creation and sharing of recipes, Pure Nature Pasture Farms, interactive cheeseboards, and organisation of Pipe Band music resources.
Use of Artificial Intelligence: Students become familiar with the benefits and pitfalls of AI through Year 9 Digital Literacy classes and Year 10 Digital Technologies.
Engagement with community projects included Girls in Coding and Programming, and Māori and Pasifika ākonga collaboration with Ara in exploring digital tools to devise solutions for social challenges. Ākonga also participated in a number of competitions with Year 7 and 8 Future Problem Solving teams placing first, second and third in the national finals and a Year 10 team placed first in the South Island find of the South Island Ethics Olympiad.
Literacy and Numeracy Review (Years 7–10): Student data PAT and MidYIS were used to analyse areas of strength and work ons for ākonga. Students at risk were identified and supported. In the Preparatory and Junior Schools, structured literacy techniques strengthened early reading and writing efficacy for our youngest ākonga. By the end of Year 10, all ākonga had completed the NZQA Literacy and Numeracy examination and assessed whether they had achieved the requisite benchmark for NCEA accreditation.
NCEA changes: Agriculture and English report increased clarity and understanding of the Level 1 changes. The updated 2024 curriculum book and professional development gave clear guidelines to teachers and parents. Responsibility for Literacy and Numeracy efficacy lies with all teachers. Greater understanding was developed of Te Tiriti, Tikanga and Te Reo Māori and all teachers’ responsibility to reflect these principles in their programmes.
Department Review: External reviews by Evaluation Associates provided effective feedback for teachers and departments of Commerce, Mathematics and Languages.
Aotearoa, New Zealand Histories Curriculum and Te Reo Māori:
Dimension 3: Leadership and Governance
Policy Development: The SchoolDocs framework was successfully implemented and aligned with our best practices. Visibility and review of policies will be streamlined under this new model.
Te Ao Māori: Ngāi Tahu representation on the Board and commitment from senior leadership saw further strengthening of commitment to Te Tiriti principles including Whanaungatanga, Manaakitanga, Kaitiakitanga, Te Reo Rangatira, Mātauranga Māori and Rangatiratanga. The Cultural Narrative was completed, the cultural design was completed for Ngā Toi, we had a strong representation at Polyfest, and the cultural integration into a five-year landscape design was completed. The use of Tikanga was strengthened throughout the College including Karakia, Waiata, Hangi, Haka, Kapa haka and Manu Korero.
Community Feedback: Leadership responded to feedback from staff engagement survey. A strong parent response to McCrindle satisfaction survey indicated a high level of parent satisfaction with St Andrew’s College indicating a 97% satisfaction with the offering overall, and a 97% response that parents believe their child has a sense of belonging at St Andrew’s.
Senior and Middle Leadership Development (staff): Outside resources gave the staff the opportunity to reflect upon and further develop their leadership capability. Self-awareness increased which will in turn positively strengthen team dynamics and effectiveness – particularly in areas of strategic focus.
Ākonga Leadership: A review and overarching document on student leadership captured best practices across the College. A character strength and leadership programme was developed and will be introduced in a timetabled slot for all Year 12 ākonga in 2024.
Dimension 4: Resources and Environment
Sustainability: Progress was made in measuring our carbon footprint. A rubbish and recycling initiative was introduced with a new rubbish bin system to be introduced in 2024. The grounds and maintenance team have been using sprays, chemicals and fertilizers which are sympathetic to the environment. The kitchen has used recycling practices for some time. The student Sustainability Council have continued with tree planting, beach clean-up, Earth Hour participation and the College plant nursery, and has this year initiated paper recycling bins in classrooms. A new secure staff bike shed has been built to encourage staff to bike to school, reducing traffic and carbon emissions.
Performing Arts Centre: This major project is due for completion in early 2024. A Theatre Manager has been appointed to begin in February 2024.
Human Resources: A focus on best practices has continued to improve staff employment processes and management. Documentation has been reviewed and policies updated.
Health & Safety: A new position was created, and a Health & Safety Manager was appointed in July 2023. Planning, reporting of events, and campus safety and EOTC activities have been a focus.
Comms Review and Future Strategy: A new, cleaner website has been designed and will launch in early 2024. The College continues to focus on effective storytelling which reflects our College brand of “Together, building better people, for life”.
Development, Alumni and Foundation: The Alumni office hosted nine official reunions throughout the year with ever-increasing engagement for each event. The generosity of our community, parents, grandparents, staff and Old Collegians resulted in $146,874 raised for the College, and $300,000 raised for the Foundation, with a total of $446,874 throughout 2023.
Digital Transformation: The College continued to review data processes, operational insight, standardisation of information gathering and cyber safety across the College.
So They Can: This year the College has once again supported the students of Mwikansti Primary School through the charity we support So They Can. Our annual donation has been made to the school totalling $21,451, which has been raised through a combination of student fundraising, community donations, The One Human Race appeal, and 3% of donations gifted to StAC through our Development office. Please click here to read a message from the students of Mwikansti Primary School.
Conclusion
These initiatives, deliberately introduced throughout 2023, made further improvements towards our strategic purpose of operating as a top quality, well-resourced organisation which is “Together, Building Better People, for Life”.
Best wishes for a blessed Christmas and a safe and restful holiday break with family and friends.
Ngā mihi o te kirihimete
Kia noho haumaru koutou katoa.
Christine Leighton
Rector
Head Prefect: Meg Simpson
Head Prefect: Hugo Ranken
Deputy Head Prefect: Holly Maraki
Deputy Head Prefect: Carter Rhodes
Head of Girls’ Boarding: Gretal Tavendale
Head of Boys’ Boarding: Alex Kinney
Benjamin Ashman
Ruby Beynon
Isobel Bhatia
Siara Clarke
Tamaroa Connelly
Shaun Cooper
Jack Flanagan
Sam Gamble
Elliot Graves
Thomas Heffernan
Jenna Howell
Brooke A Hughes
William Kamo
Grace Kempthorne
Hayden Lam
Libby McNee
Áine Molony
Molly-Belle Morrow
Xanthe Pearce
Edward Pitts
Billie Revis
Timothy Richardson
Jack Satterthwaite
Sienna Spark
Sea-am Thompson
Grace Vincent Parr
William Voice
Chantelle Xiong
Neve Aitken
Lucia Apse
Oliver Barker
George Bissland
Amelia Blockley
Harvey Croft
Hugo Fairweather Logie
Jacob Farrelly
Cooper Fleming
Sam Foote
Charlotte Galvan
Iona Garrett
Reece Glennie
Matthew Graham
Sylvia James
Isla Kempthorne
Rebecca Kingsbury
Ania Kuziel
Charlotte Kyle
Aaron Li
Daniel Liu
Hannah Papali'i Taimalelagi Malietoa
Ewan Mander
Thomas McIntosh
Sasha McIntyre
Tadhg Molony
Olivia Ratcliffe
Scarlett Ryan
Tom Simpson
Katie Taggart
Henry Tayler
Lila Waghorn
Xanthe Ward
Henry White
Matthew Wilcox
Annie Young
Jinyang (Yang) Zhang
Ellie Zhou
Thank you to all the families who gave a gift to the Christchurch City Mission this year. We had an outstanding and humbling response from students and the Christchurch City Mission are truly grateful for these gifts, which will be given to the many families in need this Christmas.
JANUARY
31 Term 1 Commences Years 1–9
FEBRUARY
1 Term 1 Commences Years 10–13
1 Secondary School Mihi Whakatau and Assembly, 8.30am
2 Secondary School Leadership Assembly, 8.25am
6 Waitangi Day observed – College closed
12 Boarders' Chapel Service, 6.30pm
15 Year 11 NCEA Information Evening, Centennial Chapel, 7.00pm
16 Secondary School Academic Awards Assembly, 8.25am
21 Secondary School Wednesday Summer Sport Competition commences
21 Senior College NCEA Information Evening, Senior College Common Room, 7.00pm
23 Secondary School Athletic Sports Day
26 Middle School Chapel Service, 7.00pm
Please view the fixtures on the College intranet for more upcoming events. The intranet is updated daily.
Thanks to the generosity of the previous Board member, Jay Scanlon, each Prizegiving we recognise a teacher with the Marily Scanlon Award for Teaching Excellence. This year we selected a teacher whose contribution to the Language Department spans over 32 years – Japanese teacher, Virginia Simcock, who has been teaching at the College since 1992.
Mrs Simcock has been the sole Japanese teacher during those 32 years and has seen a lot of change over that time. But what hasn’t changed is her commitment and dedication to her students, inspiring them with her love of Japanese language and culture. In leading nine language trips to Japan, she is well known as a great organiser with attention to detail and many great connections.
The winner of the David Wilton Prize for the DUX of St Andrew’s College for 2023 is Lachlan Odlin.
Lachlan was also awarded the Newton Cup for Deputy Head Boy, the Physical Science Prize and a General Excellence Prize.
Gemma Lewis and Annika MacDonald are the joint Proxime Accessit, runner-up to the Dux for 2023. Gemma was also awarded the Biology Prize, a General Excellence Prize and a Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Gold Award. Annika was also awarded the Timothy Sturge Cup for Mathematics, a General Excellence Prize and a Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Gold Award.
The J R Bierwirth Cup for Dux of the Preparatory School: Sophie Schouten
The M J Hill Cup for Proxime Accessit of the Preparatory School: Alexander Allan
David Wilton Prize for the Dux: Lachlan Odlin
Proxime Accessit: Gemma Lewis and Annika MacDonald
Amelia McGoldrick Memorial Cup for the Best All Round Sportswoman in Year 8: Hayley Stowell
Cartwright Cup for the Best All Round Sportsman in Year 8: Toby Lang
St John Trophy for the Best All Round Student in Year 8: Danica Minson
Dennis McIlraith Cup for a student making a Positive Contribution to the Year Group (Year 9): Zoe Robinson
St Andrew’s Cup for All-round Excellence in Year 9: Hanxi (Cicy) Chen
St Andrew’s Cup for the Best All-round Junior Sportswoman: Sophie Lampe
Mauger Family Cup for the Best All-round Junior Sportsman: Findley Curtis
St Andrew’s Cup for the Most Positive Contribution to the Year Group (Year 10): Jinyang (Yang) Zhang
J R Little Memorial Cup for All Round Excellence in Year 10: Charlotte Galvan
Box Family Cup for Middle School Sporting Excellence (Boys): Sam McAlister
Scott Family Cup for Middle School Sporting Excellence (Girls): Amber de Wit
Burrows Family Cup for the Most Valuable Contribution to the Year Group (Year 11): Isabella Cody
S J Long Cup for All-round Excellence in Year 11: James Anthony
Bill Thompson Memorial Cup for All-round Excellence in Year 12: Megan Simpson
E. N. T. Reese Memorial Award for the Top Academic Performance in Year 12: Aaron Moore
Duke of Edinburgh Hillary Gold Awards: Abby Baxter, Max Blockley, Grace Burnett, Joseph Connolly, Naomi Dana, Mia Fraser, Gabriella Kenton-Smith, Tom Kerry, Gemma Lewis, Annika MacDonald, Josh McPhail, Noah Mellish-Temple, Jake Patterson, Poppy Rumble, Campbell Searle, Torin Ward
Tuu’u Family Cup for an Outstanding Contribution to Intercultural Relationships: Lily Champion-Smith
Collins Cup for Culture: Mia Walker
Charles Young Cup for Senior Music: Naomi Dana
Prize for Excellence in Chamber Music: Miu Kim
Duncan Field Cup for all-round contribution to Year 13: Bede Miller
Tapper-Green Cup for Citizenship: Radha Vallabh
A. R. Liddell Memorial Trophy for Service to Sport: Torin Ward
Rocklea Cup for Champion House (Tompson 2023): William Russell and Nikkita McIntyre
Ullrich Trophy for all-round Sporting Excellence (Boys): Benjamin Ashman
Ladies Circle Cup for all-round Sporting Excellence (Girls): Penelope Taulafo
Trophy for Senior Sportsman of the Year: Sebastian May
Ladies Committee Cup for Sportswoman of the Year: Sienna Stowers-Smith and Lauren Whittaker
McKenzie Cup for Service to the House: Portia Bennie
D. C. Wilson Memorial Prize and the Dianne MacDonald Cup for Head of Girls’ Boarding: Friederica Todhunter
D. C. Wilson Memorial Prize and Letham family Cup for Head of Boys’ Boarding: George MacLeod
Oughton Cup for Deputy Head Girl: Poppy Rumble
Newton Cup for Deputy Head Boy: Lachlan Odlin
Clive Crozier Memorial Prize and Brookes Family Cup for the Head Girl: Lily Champion-Smith
Clive Crozier Memorial Prize and Yee Family Cup for the Head Boy: Torin Ward
Faletoese Cup for best all-rounder in Year 13 (Boys): Marco Leighs
Suter Family Cup for best all-rounder in Year 13 (Girls): Gemma Lewis
Secondary School Prizegiving WinnerS FULL LIST > Preparatory School Prizegiving Winners FULL LIST > Preparatory School End of Year Assembly Award Recipients >
Each year thousands of students sit these examinations in various subjects and most years at our Prizegiving we recognise one or two of our students who achieve an ICAS Gold Medal, gaining the top mark in New Zealand for their year group. This year, two medals have been achieved in Mathematics and Science
Over the last term all Year 10 students have completed their Qualifying Journey for their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award at Castle Hill. As each class came off camp, they were required to reflect on their journey by completing a report and submitting it online. Students also worked hard to complete all other aspects of the award, so that their award can be signed off over the Christmas Holiday period.
In Year 11, a group of 33 students completed their Silver Award over the course of the year and can now step up to the challenge and begin their Gold Award next year. The Gold Award takes at least 14 months to complete and for most 18 months.
We are delighted to once again have a large number of recipients celebrate the completion of their Gold Award at our recent College Prizegiving. 13 Year 13 students completed the award this year, which is the second highest number of awards in a given year for St Andrew's College.
Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Gold Awards: Abby Baxter, Max Blockley, Grace Burnett, Joseph Connolly, Naomi Dana, Mia Fraser, Gabriella Kenton-Smith, Tom Kerry, Gemma Lewis, Annika MacDonald, Josh McPhail, Noah Mellish-Temple, Jake Patterson, Poppy Rumble, Campbell Searle, Torin Ward
The 2023 Leavers’ Dinner was a wonderful celebration for a superb year group. Held at Te Pae, The Christchurch Convention Centre, the 212 Year 13 Leavers and their parents/caregivers were treated to musical items, acknowledgement of the year group from their Dean, Ms Donna Jones, and a stunning address from Year 13 Leaver Kyri Spenner, as well as plenty of opportunities to catch up with friends and classmates. The departing Year 13 group have impressed with not only achievements but also their display of gratitude, respect for staff, positive demeanour and support for each other.
As is tradition at St Andrew’s, the Leavers of 2023 will present a gift to the College to celebrate and give gratitude to the school. The Leavers of 2023 have decided upon a wooden carving to be hung in the Senior College Atrium. This choice was made as the carving will symbolise their diverse year group and the legacy left in a space that has been so significant to them.
The carving will measure approximately 1.2m x 0.75m and will be hung opposite the Senior College reception entrance, alongside a plaque commemorating the Leavers of 2023. The carving will represent the rich tapestry of their College’s cultural heritage. This aligns with St Andrew’s College’s ongoing cultural narrative, celebrating both our Māori and Presbyterian Scottish heritage by incorporating elements of both into the carving.
Christchurch-based wood carver; Alex McLeod has generously offered to undertake the carving. McLeod himself is of both Māori and Scottish descent and has over 20 years of experience with Māori wood carving and Ta Moko art. To ensure the design truly reflects the year group’s legacy, it is being designed in collaboration with Year 13 students from our Māori and Pasifika group and Te Reo teacher Pete Westrupp.
The piece is planned to be completed in February of 2024, in time for Leavers to view it before many of them leave Christchurch to pursue university or work.
Our Ballet Academy finished the year with a triple bill production, Trilogy – showcasing three different performances presentations in one show: Kaleidoscope, Peter and the Wolf, and an original new ballet choreographed by Ballet Academy Artistic Director, Dr Carolyn Cairns called Winterscape. The dancers were challenged to reach their artistic best and shine in their dance roles.
Next year we all look forward to our new theatre with our much-awaited production of The Nutcracker.
FLICKR >Last week, the Year 10 students had their Rite Journey ‘Homecoming’ ceremony which celebrated their completion of the Te Waka programme. The students reflected on their growth and achievement throughout the year in their Te Waka groups, and identified goals for future personal development, which they recorded on a board. They then got to break the boards, symbolising the strength and perseverance needed to reach their goals. It was a very special and meaningful day for all who were involved.
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Our Prefect team for 2024 enjoyed a couple of days up at Castle Hill at the beginning of December. One focus was on team building and they certainly didn't have a problem coming together as a team. A couple of hours was spent at the rocks getting to know each other and also had lots of fun playing some team games. The current Heads and Deputies joined the group and answered questions about their experiences this year. The prefects are all looking forward to achieving great things in 2024.
A group of 70 Year 11 and 12 Peer Support Leaders were involved in a busy two-day workshop early this week. The aim was to learn activities and games which they can then use with the incoming 2024 Year 9 students. Discussions on leading, supporting and being in charge of equipment were had, and it was wonderful to see them get into the spirit of things, as some of these photos attest to. Thanks to Miss James, Mr Hughes, Miss Gormack and Mr Evlampieff, and Seb Norman who all helped make this workshop a success. A special thanks to Ms James who has helped lead the Peer Support programme for a number of year but is now handing this over. She has been instrumental in setting up amazing resources and is an organiser extraordinaire.
The best of St Andrew’s Scottish Highland traditions were on display at The Strowan Gathering, hosted by St Andrew’s College in partnership with the Canterbury Caledonian Society Pipe Band on Sunday 3 December. All things Scottish were celebrated at this wonderful event, with a hint of Christmas cheer. The sizeable crowd enjoyed piping, drumming, Highland dancing, Scottish country dancing, and a Pipe Band contest. With a bouncy castle, food vendors and a licensed bar, there was something for everyone to enjoy at this fun, family day out.
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Stacchorus spent the afternoon at the Diana Isaac Retirement Village last week sharing a programme of Christmas songs for the residents. This was followed by an afternoon tea together.
FLICKR >During the last week of term, a Junior Art Exhibition was held in the Quad. There was a lot of positive feedback on the quality of the work, with a few pieces selling to staff members and some students.
Art teacher, Michelle Lawrence would like to thank all the students involved, for putting in such great effort into their work and seeing the year out in style, plus to Henrietta MacMillan (Year 10) who took the photos below.
On Friday 1 December the Year 4–6 students enjoyed their annual Christmas Assembly. Each year the Christmas Assembly is completed planned, digitally presented and hosted by the Year 6 students. This year we enjoyed a fashion show, carol singing, plays, Kahoot challenges, class Spirit of Christmas, Scientist and StAC-Up awards and endless entertainment from our Year 6 hosts. It was a time of celebration, fun and enjoyment for our team at one of the last team gatherings for 2023.
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The Preparatory School Kapa Haka performed at the Tūhono Ngāhau Festival on Saturday 22 November in the Christchurch Town Hall Auditorium. Approximately 90 students from Years 4–8 performed in the festival along with students from nine other kura. The kapa have been ably led throughout the year by Kapa Haka leaders Alyssa Blackman, Ella Aldridge, Zoe Harbrow and Katherine Morris (all Year 8). Alyssa and Toby Lang (also Year 8) introduced our performance, and we began with an assortment of traditional Māori instruments with Theo McNeill (Year 8) on the kōauau, Hunter Morrow (Year 8) on the purerehua and Hunter Donnithorne and James Laurenson (both Year 6) on the conch shells. We were accompanied on the guitar by Matua Steve Leota and Bella Dean (Year 7).
Our first waiata was Pokarekare Ana and we were accompanied by Charlie Gregg (Year 8) on the bagpipes. The sound of the bagpipes with the traditional song was spine tingling. A welcome song and haka (Toia Mai) were next, followed by the girls performing their poi item to the waiata Whiti te Marama. To conclude, was a rousing performance of our haka led by Rico Cantwell (Year 7) and Toby Lang. Having a large number of Year 7–8 students participating along with the strength of our Middle Syndicate learners, ensured that our performance had ihi, wehe and wanawana.
FLICKR >Last Wednesday the Junior Department celebrated a wonderful year with a trip back in time to Ferrymead. Children took part in a variety of Christmas activities that children would have enjoyed over the last 100 years.
Activities included making Christmas cookies, Christmas decorations, Boxing Day games, and participating in a nativity scene.
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Last Tuesday afternoon the Junior Department gathered in the Centennial Chapel for their Christmas Concert and Year 3 Leavers’ Celebration. Parents, Grandparents and family friends were treated to some joyous Christmas Carols and an item performed by each class, including Christmas poems, action songs, dances and instrumental performances.
The Year 3 students shared heartfelt memories of their time in the Junior Department, before being presented with their leaving certificates, and piped out of the Centennial Chapel by Charlie Gregg (Year 8).
This celebration was a wonderful way to finish the year, and to acknowledge our Year 3 leavers as they transition out of the Junior Department.
FLICKR >Last Thursday afternoon saw the Pre-school host whānau and friends for a very successful Christmas celebration. Tamariki sung some beautiful heart-felt Christmas carols to an attentive and appreciative audience, before everyone came together for some shared kai, provided by whānau – a wonderful way to wrap up an amazing year.
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Last Friday, the Preparatory School celebrated the achievement of students during Term 4 at the end-of-year assembly. In addition to the recognition of achievement, those attending were welcomed by the newest performers of the pipe band as they entered the chapel, Yutian (Tianna) Chen (Year 8) performed a wonderful solo of Adam Gorb’s Tango Argentino on the trumpet, the kapa haka performed Toia mai and Whiti te Marama, and the departing Year 8 students entertained with a video recording to Rick Astley’s Never Going to Give you Up!
FLICKR >Last Sunday, the Preparatory School enjoyed a lovely end-of-year Chapel Service lled by Rev. Paul Morrow and Preparatory School Chaplain, Mrs Jillian Fenton. In addition to the traditional Christmas carols, those attended were treated to items from the Cantare and Junior Choirs.
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On Wednesday 6 December, the staff embraced ‘Barbie Land’ at the new Elmwood Bowling Club. It was the third annual highly anticipated event which encourages connecting with colleagues and staff well-being.
This year’s event was brighter than ever, with staff entering the pink world of Barbie. The winning team was “Kenough” featuring Hamish Fauls, Rev. Paul Morrow, Hannah Gallagher and Lynn Smith. Best Dressed was hotly contested with Dave Hart being a standout dressed as Barbie in a pink and white checkered number. Best Bowl in the final went to the first-timer Hannah Gallagher who showed that netball might not be her forte, but bowls certainly is! A fantastic event to round off another busy year.
Graduating Year 13 students Kavanah Lene and Lauren Whittaker have been invited to attend the prestigious Steven Adams High School Invitational for 2023: a collection of the top senior basketballers in the country.
This is the second year that St Andrew’s College has had multiple invitees, with Maddie Morrow and Karereatua Williams (OC 2022) attending in 2022.
Jonah Cropp (Year 13) has been named in the New Zealand team for the World Athletics RaceWalking Team Championship to be held in Turkey next April.
Racewalking is similar to speed or powerwalking and has two main rules – one foot must be on the ground at all times and competitors must keep their bottom leg straight until the leading leg lands. He won the 10km event at the New Zealand road running championships in September. His time of 47min, 23sec in the U20 event qualified him for the world championships. Jonah's long-term goal is to qualify for the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028 or Brisbane in 2032.
Our Senior Mixed Touch team have been crowned the 2023 Bunnings New Zealand Secondary Schools' National Touch Champions at the competition held in Rotorua. The College last took out this title in 2012 with the then Year 13 student Richie Mo'unga on the team.
In a challenging field of 41 teams, St Andrew’s secured the prestigious title undefeated through intense pool play and a thrilling quarterfinal triumph against Mount Albert Grammar School. The players exhibited exceptional skills to overcome last year's champions, Rolleston College, in the semi-final by a narrow margin of two points. Despite facing adversity with the untimely loss of key player Holly Maraki (Year 12) due to injury just before the final game against Manukura School, the team secured an early lead, ultimately claiming victory and the Championship.
Team co-captains Macklan Robertson (Year 12) and Sienna Stowers-Smith (Year 13) were recognised as MVPs for the tournament.
The Girls’ 7s rugby team qualified for the Condor 7s Tournament played at Mount Maunganui from Friday 1 – Sunday 3 December. Fixtures were played at Blake Park in perfect conditions, with schools from all across New Zealand. The St Andrew’s team played with pace and courage but were seeded into a pool with two other previous top four teams. They played last year's champions, Manakura School, in their first game and lost 12–39 – a very encouraging performance against a 7s powerhouse school.
The second game saw St Andrew’s take on top 4 team, Hamilton Girls’ High School, which they narrowly lost 14–24. The final game of day one was against Epsom Girls’ Grammar School, which unfortunately resulted in a 5–20 loss.
Day 2 saw the team seeded in the Plate Competition. They played a robust Whangarei Girls’ High School team and dominated with a 29–5 win. The girls then faced a very tough Southland Girls' High School team and won 28–19 to earn a place in the Plate Final, facing Auckland Girls’ Grammar School. The team lost a few small moments and eventually went down 24–36 in a tight contest. It was a performance to be very proud of and the team ended with a finishing position of 10th in New Zealand.
The St Andrew’s Business Studies team came a very close second in the Programming Māori Pacific Potential (PMP Haumi) pitching competition held at the Te Puna Wānaka wharenui at Ara. The team was led by Te Koha Ware (Year 13) and included Harata Galvan and Hanna Papali'i Taimalelagi Malietoa (both Year 10), and Manaia Taefu and Hanaatia Te Kane Hakiwai (both Year 9). The team narrowly lost out to St John’s College from Napier who developed a concept around an app that translates from Te Reo Māori to English and also giving whakapapa (history) around words e.g. place names. The St Andrew’s idea was an app that would add interactive content choices to families watching sport matches, for example different camera angles, Q&A with ex-players, a referee camera and rules around certain decisions – all aiming to enhance viewer experience and engagement as an add on for the likes of Sky Sport.
The Julie Hawke School of Highland Dance presented the Button Box at St Andrew’s College on Sunday 3 December. This involved 22 students from the Preparatory School and six students from Years (10–13).
Each button from Granny’s Button Box told a magical story of family history and travels through dance, with the performance thoroughly enjoyed by all in attendance.
Last weekend the VEX IQ Nationals were held in Palmerston North, where teams across New Zealand compete for qualification spots for the VEX World Championships in Dallas, Texas 2024. The competition was called Full Voume, and the object of the game was to score as many points as possible with your alliance partner by scoring coloured blocks into three goals, clearing a loading zone and either fully park or partly park in the loading zone at the end of the match. The teams also had to compete in a series of driver and autonomous programming challenges and the entire process of the design, development, building and programming of their robot needs to be documented in an Engineering Notebook that shows their understanding of the design process.
Our Year 7 team, We are Cool with their robot Straw Hats, was made up of Alex O’Neill, Harry Sibson, Jacob Brinch and Oliver Gibb, and our Year 8 team, Cinimiminim with their robot Beatle, was made up of Charlotte Withers, Matilda Atkins and Lyra and Zoe Spenner. By the end of the first day, the Year 7 team placed 15th and the Year 8 team 26th. In the end, our Year 7 team finished 20th overall in the main competition and 22nd in the skills testing, and the Year 8 team finished 28th overall and 19th in the skills testing.
The 50th New Zealand Secondary School Athletics National Track and Field and 48th Roadrace Championships was held in Christchurch last weekend. St Andrew’s athletes performed well winning four medals (one gold, two silver and one bronze). Jonah Cropp (Year 13) was the standout performer, successfully defending his Roadrace title despite rainy conditions. Sophie Lampe (Year 9) won individual silver in the Year 9 Girls’ 3km Roadrace and was a member of the Junior Mixed 4x400M relay team, along with Oliver Jackways, Kupa Rule and Abigail Scott-Douglas (all Year 10). Miah Taylor (Year 12) finished third in the Senior Girls’ Pole Vault with a height of 2.90M to win her first National Schools medal.
Kupa Rule (Year 10) placed eighth in the Junior Boys’ 1500m and Beau Robertson (Year 10) just missed the final in the Junior Boys’ Long Jump, finishing ninth with a jump of 5.56M. Daisy Thake (Year 10) was ninth in the Junior Girls’ Javelin, although was the eighth placed New Zealand athlete, and Abigail Scott-Douglas was ninth in the Junior Girls’ Steeplechase. Oliver Jackways was unfortunate to not get a second run in the Junior Boys’ 400m, after semi-finals were dropped, finishing 10th in 56:46. The Junior Girls’ 4x100 relay team of Amelia Cody (Year 9), Olivia Ratcliffe (Year 10), Sophie Paterson (Year 9) and Sasha McIntyre (Year 10) qualified for the final in sixth place, but had an injury warming up and had to withdraw. The Junior Boys’ team of Oliver Jackways, Beau Robertson, Kupa Rule and Ricco Peauafi Symonds (Year 10) just missed their final, finishing in ninth.
Other Results >
FLICKR >The Year 9 team had a great win over Sydenham in the Year 9 cricket final which was hosted at St Andrew’s College. Batting first, St Andrew’s amassed 221 with Zachary Hoshek 59 and Benjamin Stewart (both Year 9) 50 the main contributors. All the bowlers bowled very well and they restricted Sydenham to 126.
This was a great result from a team that has really grown and developed as a team as the season has progressed.
A group of 79 Year 9–12 rowers, coaches, and staff were at Lake Ruataniwha in Twizel on Thursday 8 December for the annual December rowing camp and regatta. With the weather forecast predicting some disruptions over the weekend of racing, the rowers used the calm water on Thursday and Friday to train. Unfortunately, with gusty winds coming and going throughout the weekend, the squad only got around half a day of racing completed, with some of this being raced over the shorter distance of 1000m. The rowers pushed hard across the board, especially the Novice Girls’ 8, who were narrowly beaten by a strong Rangi Ruru Girls’ School crew. After a barbecue dinner with parents and supporters lakeside, there was a special boat naming celebration of two new boats, an eight named “Gus Williams” and a double named “Liz Inglis”.
The novices departed Twizel on Sunday, as the returning rowers embarked on their training camp and it was great to have our full squad together for the first time. The squad is working hard to implement our ‘He waka eke noa’ framework, led by Sam Gamble (Captain of Rowing 2023/2024).
FLICKR >
Lizzie Stevenson (OC 2017, Head Girl, pictured left) graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB) with Distinction in Dunedin on Saturday. She was also awarded The Dean of the Otago Medical School Prize for outstanding service to the University of Otago Medical School by a graduating student. She was the only one of her cohort to receive the prize, which is awarded at the discretion of the Dean.
Lizzie was inspired by her big sister Annie (OC 2013 and Head Girl) who graduated with the same degree with distinction in 2020. Annie also graduated at the weekend with a postgraduate Diploma in Child Health.
Next year, Lizzie will take up a position at Nelson Hospital, working as a junior doctor alongside Annie.
The Christmas Eve Chapel Service will take place on Sunday 24 December at 6.00pm in the Centennial Chapel.
Everyone is welcome to this family-friendly service.
Wednesday 31 January
8.20am Classes as normal.
Wednesday 31 January
8.20am Peer Support Leaders guide students to the Secondary School Quad
8.30am–9.00am Welcome from Head of Middle School, Mr Matt Parr and Year 9 Dean, Mr James Jenkinson in the Centennial Chapel
9.00am–9.30am Chapel service, Centennial Chapel, Welcome Year 9.
Thursday 1 February
8.00am Dean and student buddies meet new students in front of the Middle School Centre.
8.25am Mihi Whakatau and Assembly in Quad (Gym 2 if wet).
Thursday 1 February
8.25am Mihi Whakatau and Assembly in Quad (Gym 2 if wet).
Please be advised that from 2024, the College Cafeteria will be going cashless. Cash payments will no longer be accepted, as we have gone fully electronic. This means students will need to have an EFTPOS or Debit card in order to purchase from the College Cafeteria. The Cafeteria is open at morning interval and at lunchtime for all Secondary School students to purchase food and drink. Fair prices are charged and profits are utilised to provide amenities for the College, making this an important service within the College.
What if my child doesn’t have an EFTPOS/Debit card? For students who don’t have an EFTPOS or Debit card, we suggest parents/caregivers consider signing up for one in time for the 2024 academic year, if their child wants to make use of the Cafeteria. An alternative option to a traditional bank card, such as a Visa Prezzy card, may be preferred, which can be pre-loaded and topped up as required. The Prezzy Card can be loaded from $25 to $1000 (plus fees). Please note credit card payment surcharge fees apply if you choose to use this method. Read more about how the Prezzy card works by clicking here.
We thank you for your support and understanding of this initiative ahead of our new and improved Cafeteria opening in 2024.
The St Andrew’s College ICT Services team will be offering an opportunity for new students to have their laptop set up in preparation for the new academic year.
Current students who will have a new device in 2024 are also welcomed to bring it along during the onboarding sessions.
To book your time slot, please visit:
Day Students: stac.nz/ICT_Onboard
Boarders: stac.nz/BoarderOnboarding
Day Students:
This will take place in The Green Library and Innovation Centre (entrance from the main Secondary School Quad).
Tuesday 23 January, 9.00am–4.00pm
Wednesday 24 January, 9.00am–4.00pm
Thursday 25 January, 9.00am–4.00pm
Friday 26 January, 9.00am–4.00pm
Boarders:
This will take place in ICT (upstairs in the Technology Centre, accessed through the Secondary School Quad).
Monday 29 January, 10.00am–2.00pm
Tuesday 30 January, 10.00am–4.00pm
The College Shop – Thistles will be open on the days below over the summer holidays:
The last opening day for 2023 will be Friday 15 December.
The College Shop will re-open on Thursday 11 January 2024.
The College Shop holiday hours of 9.00am–4.30pm will apply during the term break.
Click here for further information about the College Shop, Thistles.
The Second-hand Uniform Shop is located beside the College Shop, Thistles, next to the Normans Road carpark. Before school starts back for 2024, you can drop off any good quality, clean uniforms and/or purchase second-hand uniform items. 70% of the sale price on uniform items goes back to the parent/caregiver and the remaining 30% goes to the PTA.
The Second-hand Uniform Shop will be open the following days in January/February 2024:
Opening Hours Term Time: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3.00pm–4.30pm
A full list of items that can be sold on behalf of parents can be found here.
