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LogoutThis week, staff and children have been discussing how to be sun safe during the summer months.
There were many children and staff who supported the ‘Spotty’ Theme Day today. Please click here to donate.
Get Spotted Theme Day Flickr >
ABOUT MELANOMA
Melanoma is a form of cancer that develops in the skin’s pigment cells (melanocytes).
Prevention
• avoid sunburn through the use of sunscreen;
• protect your skin during the time of the day when UV radiation is highest – between 10.00am–4.00pm (October to March).
Slip on a long sleeved, collared shirt
Slop on sunscreen that is at least SPF30, broad spectrum and water resistant
Slap on a broad brimmed hat that protects the face, neck, and ears
Seek shade
Slide on close fitting sunglasses
The information for the event has been emailed to parents. It is likely to be very hot tomorrow. Please ensure your child leaves home with water and with sunscreen applied. More sunscreen will need to be applied during the day.
Regards
Jonathan Bierwirth
Principal of Preparatory School
Deputy for Rector
Year 8 students visited Orana Park on Thursday 31 October (8T and 8C) and Monday 4 November (8A and 8S). The purpose of the trip was to observe a selection of animals at Orana Park and find out about their different habitats and adaptations (structural, behavioural, and physiological) to help them survive in their habitats.
On Monday morning, the two Year 3 classes headed off to Pūtaringamotu/Riccarton Bush and Riccarton House to conclude their learning related to green spaces in our school and local environment. During the bush walk, the students enjoyed closely examining the unique flora and fauna in a truly remarkable part of our city. Some highlights included seeing the magnificent kahikatea trees towering above the other trees, spotting some piwakawaka (fantail), and hearing the korimako (bellbird) in amongst the trees.
The students also had the opportunity to investigate the social history of early European settlement in Christchurch through the eyes of the pioneering Deans family at Riccarton House. First, the students explored Deans’ Cottage and Riccarton House and learnt about the joys and tragedy faced by Jane, John and William Deans as they began a new life in what was to become Christchurch. Lots of fun was had exploring the beautiful Riccarton House and venturing up into the attic where typewriters and old-fashioned games were available for the students to play with.
The visit ended with a lovely picnic lunch together in the stunning grounds of Riccarton House. A big thank you to the special group of parent helpers who joined us for the outing, and to Anthony and Muriel, our two wonderful Canterbury Museum educators.
Flickr >Emmett Lawler (Year 8) competed at the National Future Problem Solving finals in Auckland last weekend. He competed as an individual junior and won first place in the Junior Division. Coach Sonia Lewis is thrilled for Emmett and congratulates her Year 8 team, which made it through to the national finals also and consists of: Ethan Zhao, Joy Zuo, Juno Park and Cong (Zilong) Chen.
The students took part in the Global Issues Problem Solving section of the contest, solving challenges and creating future challenges around the topic of Autonomous Transportation. It was a great weekend, and the students enjoyed the experience to take part in the tournament as well as meeting other future problem solving students from across the country. A big thank you to teacher Kelly McBride for the wonderful support in the organisation of the trip.
On Tuesday morning, Year 2–3 Speech and Drama students took the stage for their Speech New Zealand (NZ) Oral Assessment. With parents in the audience, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement as children showcased the items they had rehearsed. Dressed in costumes, they confidently performed plays, then delivered talks and engaging group poetry pieces. At the end of the term each child will receive a report from Mrs Bartlett, a Speech NZ examiner from Hawkes Bay, along with a Speech NZ blazer badge and certificate to celebrate their achievements. A heartfelt thank you to Speech and Drama teachers Mrs Carran, Mrs Morton-Jones, and Ms Jones for preparing the students to such a high standard. The learning outcomes of confidence building and communication skills truly shine through.
Last weekend, Kelicia Rui En (Kelicia) Purcell (Year 7) competed at Cromwell’s Spring Carnival swimming meet. She raced in 11 events, finishing with eight first placings, a second, and one third place. She also won Highest Points in her 11–12 age group, and additionally was the top female point scorer, receiving a cash prize and trophy for the year.
Georgia Gregg (Year 7) and Ruby Bradbury (Year 2) danced at the Amberly A&P Show last Saturday. Georgia won Most Points U12, Most Points U14, and Most Points of the Day, while Ruby won Most Points U8.
This year the St Andrew’s College Ballet Academy proudly presents The Nutcracker. The Nutcracker is a timeless holiday classic and one of the most beloved ballets around the world, enchanting audiences with its magical storytelling and unforgettable music. Set on Christmas Eve, the story begins at a festive holiday party where young Clara receives a special gift—a nutcracker doll. That night, as the clock strikes midnight, Clara is swept into an enchanting adventure where the Nutcracker comes to life, leading her on a journey through a battle with the Rat King and into the dazzling Land of Sweets. With its blend of joy, wonder, and fantasy, The Nutcracker captures the magic of the holiday season, making it a cherished tradition for audiences young and old. We hope you enjoy the beauty, grace, and excitement of this ballet, which continues to inspire and delight with its timeless charm.
When: Friday 29 – Saturday 30 November 2024 (four performances)
Times: 2.00pm–3.30pm and 6.30pm–8.10pm (Friday), 1.30pm–3.10pm and 4.00pm–5.40pm (Saturday)
Where: Gough Family Theatre – Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre
Tickets: Adult $35.00 | Student $20.00 (student ID may be requested on entry)
We have two programmes running this summer. One at the start of the holidays and one towards the end, shortly before the children are all due back at school. This two-day programme provides an opportunity for students to boost their creativity and problem-solving skills via Minecraft Education.
Working in small groups, students will take on the task of constructing remarkable structures, overcoming building challenges, and utilising specialised design software to modify and perfect their creations.
Each programme will have a unique set of challenges ensuring that the engagement level remains high for children participating in both programmes.
Programme One: Monday 9 – Tuesday 10 December 2024
Programme Two: Thursday 16 – Friday 17 January 2025
Time: 9.00am to 3.00pm (drop off from 8.30am)
Location: The Green Library and Innovation Centre, St Andrew's College (in the Secondary School Quad)
Activities:
What to bring:
Cost: $150 inclusive of GST for each programme (parents/caregivers will be sent an invoice).
REGISTRATION: Register for the Years 5–8 Minecraft Holiday programme by completing the registration form before Monday 9 December at 5.00pm. Please register by clicking here.
The programmes will be run by Nathan Campbell with support from Wilj Dekkers. Nathan has experience running Minecraft education programmes for the Christchurch Libraries and Wilj Dekkers is an experienced educator who has worked in a contract capacity for Microsoft Mojang, the developers of Minecraft Education.
Should you have any questions, please email wilj@wdekkers.nz.
The online sales for the following 2024 photographs are now available:
Details of how to order the photographs can be found on our website using the button below and you will need to log into StACNet using your St Andrew's College login.
If you have any questions relating to this service, please email photography@stac.school.nz.
For any illness, students should stay home if unwell. Any student should also feel free to wear a mask if they wish to do so while at school.
For any absence, whether ill-health (including COVID-19) or otherwise, the College’s preferred platform for reporting this is via our online form which can be found at the button below:
If you are not able to report your child's absence using the online form, please report their absence via the relevant email address below. If you cannot get through to us via the form or email, please call our attendance line on +64 3 940 2031 (term time only).