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Dear Parents and Caregivers
Kia ora koutou katoa.
I was very pleased to hear the news yesterday that Mr Mark Wilson has been appointed as the next Rector for St Andrew’s College. Mark is a highly respected colleague in the education sector whom I have known for many years. I congratulate Felicity Odlin and the Board on their very thorough and professional recruitment process and know that Mr Wilson will enjoy his new position at St Andrew’s, bringing with him impressive expertise and commitment to our school and community. Mr Wilson is a genuine, caring, principled, engaging, and wise educator and leader, who enjoys being around young people.
This morning, the Secondary School assembly returned to Gym 1 where, with a capacity of over 1,000, we can accommodate all year groups (Years 9–13). During the building process for Ngā Toi a reduced capacity for the gym meant we have been using the Centennial Chapel for assemblies over the last two and a half years. It felt great to be back in the “old assembly” space and to acknowledge the impressive successes in sport, culture, and Duke of Edinburgh Silver Awards. Head Prefect, Meg Simpson introduced the new StAC Sports Framework and the value of whanaungatanga (respect) represented by the deep roots of our thistle emblem.
To profile Samoan Language week, Hannah Papali'i Taimalelagi Malietoa (Year 11) introduced a Samoan game to the assembly and spoke of the importance of family and respect in the Samoan culture. The assembly music item was presented by the Jazz Big Band who impressed with their rendition of Greasin’ the Skids.
Rector’s Assembly Address > Assembly Morning Comment > Assembly Awards > Assembly Flickr >
On Wednesday, our Alumni Co-ordinator, Lisa Clark, and I travelled to Dunedin where we connected with a group of 30 Old Collegians, currently studying at university. Representing leavers from 2018–2023 they were engaging and pleased to share their university experiences.
Last weekend the Black and Bling Ball, organised by parent hockey and netball committees, put on a fantastic evening for around 400 parents and friends all dressed up in their finery. Gym 1 was unrecognisable and served as a wonderful venue for socialising, dancing, enjoying a great meal, and an auction with generous donations and support for the two sporting codes. Thank you to everyone who supported this biennial event, the eighth Black and Bling Ball since it was first held in 2008. A particular thank you to the organising committee and all the helpers in the preparation and assistance on the night.
After a busy first four weeks of term, I am sure everyone will be pleased to enjoy a long weekend.
Whakamātau ana i te wiki tūturu.
Ngā mihi nui
Christine Leighton
Rector
In this blog post, Head of Well-being Kerry Larby reflects on the importance of rest. Kerry considers how winter provides an invitation for us to slow down, retreat, and reflect, and how the act of ‘wintering’ is a necessary rhythm in our busy lives.
Read the Well-being blog >
Last Saturday night saw the eighth biennial Black and Bling Ball hosted at the College. The hard-working committee put on another spectacular evening, with Gym 1 transformed into a wonderful sparkling ballroom and the band, Black & Gold, keeping guests on the dance floor for most of the evening.
Winners of our raffle were:
Whilst exact numbers are not yet available, the committee are expecting another successful fundraising effort. Our sincere thanks go to all the businesses, families and individuals who have contributed goods, services, or time to this fundraising event. The Committee is particularly grateful to Ben and Vicky Lewis at Trenzseater for their huge support as the primary sponsor for the Ball. Funds raised at this event will benefit the St Andrew’s College hockey and netball communities, with a percentage of funds raised also being used to support Full Bellies, a Christchurch-based charity providing food in local primary schools.
The Committee has been extremely grateful also for the support we have received from many members of staff to make the Ball a success. A special mention to the Communications and Finance teams and staff responsible for hockey and the netball. Also, a huge thank you to the Ball Committee who have spent many hours preparing for the Ball – thank you and well done! Finally, thank you to the St Andrew’s College community; the support for this event was overwhelming.
FLICKR >On Sunday evening the Middle School gathered in the Centennial Chapel for an evening chapel service. The theme of the service was ‘the comparison trap’ and Assistant Chaplain, Ben Hughes, gave a message that explored the dangers of comparing ourselves and our achievements to others around us. The audience enjoyed two excellent performances from Stacchorus, led by Music teacher, Bryan Botting. An offering was collected to support the work of World Vision New Zealand. It was great to see so many parents in attendance and to see such a full chapel, with all in attendance singing with energy.
Last Wednesday, a group of 10 Year 12–13 French students travelled to Akaroa for two days of French immersion, to discover Akaroa through a French lens and complete filming ‘interact’ internal assessments. Students visited the Akaroa Museum, where they learnt about the history of the first European settlers in Akaroa and how the South Island could have become a French colony. Students prepared a dinner of raclette and had an opportunity to try garlic snails. The group went to Ethel’s Cinema to watch Chacun Chez Soi (The Kids Are Back) and took part in The Akaroa Amazing Race, followed by a lesson at the Akaroa Cooking School. The students helped prepare a roasted apple and lemon pastry and then watched a demonstration of chicken fricassée with garlic mashed potato and crème brûlée. The students also browsed the French book collection at the Akaroa Library. The evening meal was followed by some French games and a competition to create ‘Mrs Vandertramp,’ something used to remember verbs. The Year 13 team was the winner and hopefully Mrs Vandertramp will never be forgotten. On Friday morning students visited A La Boulangerie, the French bakery in town, where each student made their own sweet crêpe. It was a very enjoyable two days, where students connected with each other and were excellent ambassadors for the College.
This week 34 students visited Queenstown and the Oamaru region to look at career pathways and tertiary options in the tourism industry. Visits to the Queenstown Resort College, KJet, Skyline and Highlands Motor Park provided lots of opportunities to enjoy the best of Central Otago. The last night was spent in North Otago visiting Moeraki and experiencing the delights of Oamaru.
This week all 200 Year 7–8 students went to the Secondary School Music Department recording suite to prepare the tracks for their upcoming production, The Aurora Stone. The Year 13 students have composed the music and prepared backing tracks for the cast to use. Rather than have lots of microphones, the production team pre-record the students singing to help with the final mix in the Gough Family Theatre.
At the beginning of Term 2, four Year 8 classes embarked on their annual class camp to Kura Tāwhiti (Castle Hill). They braved the early onset of winter to camp out overnight, as well as do a variety of outdoor activities, including abseiling at the Castle Hill rocks. The students developed whanaungatanga, established a positive group culture, and built resilience.
On Wednesday morning, basketballer Lauren Whittaker (OC 2023) and her brother, Mason (who attended Christ’s College) came to speak to Year 9 students at their Deans Hui. The siblings shared their stories about sporting successes, overcoming adversity, resilience, and taking opportunities. Lauren spoke about her time at St Andrew’s College and ‘leaning in’ to getting out of your comfort zone.
The College celebrated Vaiaso o le Gagana Samoa – Samoa Language Week with the theme: 'Tautua i le alofa, manuia le lumana’i – Serve in love for a blessed future. Our tagata aoga (students) celebrated with activities, including cookies from the café where students saying a greeting/phrase in Samoan received a cookie. This was so popular that the cookies ran out in five minutes! The ula lole (lolly necklace) making on Wednesday lunchtime was another popular activity. Yesterday students acknowledged the week with a tatalo (prayer) and hymn (pese) during chapel.
The Pre-school teachers are immensely proud of the multicultural context in which they learn and teach and look for a variety of ways to celebrate that our learning community is made up of aiga/whānau/families from a diverse range of cultures. Language Weeks are a great starting point for learning about the languages and traditions of other countries around the world. This week the Pre-school celebrated Vaiaso o le Gagana Samoa (Samoan Language Week) in a variety of ways, including listening to Samoan music, learning to count to sefulu (10), exploring motifs used in traditional Samoan art forms, and tasting some popular Samoan foods, pani popo (coconut buns) and koko alaisa (chocolate rice).
RUGBY
The 1st XV took on a robust Christchurch Boys’ High School team at their Club Day played at Straven Road in front of a big crowd. In a very physical clash, both teams played with passion and endeavour, highlighting the intense rivalry between both schools who were playing for the Bill Thompson Memorial Shield. Boys’ High were direct and relentless, dominating possession and territory in the early stages. When St Andrew’s held the ball and built phases, they were able to put Boys’ High under pressure, however, some costly turnovers, and not capitalising on 22m territory entries, proved costly. Boys’ High went on to win the game 43–0.
FOOTBALL
The Boys’ 1st XI football team faced a tough match against Christ’s College, losing 0–2. It was a tightly contested game that provided plenty of excitement for the spectators. Despite the loss, the boys showed great determination and skill throughout the match. They are already eagerly anticipating next week's game, eager to bounce back and display their abilities on the field once again.
The Girls’ 1st XI also played a challenging match against Avonside Girls’ High School, narrowly losing 1–2. Like the boys' match, it was a closely fought contest, with both teams displaying impressive athleticism and sportsmanship. Despite the loss, the girls remain at the top of the table and are already looking ahead to next week's game with optimism and determination to maintain their position.
NETBALL
The Senior A team showed strong teamwork skills in their close-fought game against Kereru C on Saturday. Despite being behind by a few goals initially, they managed to level the score and take the lead with a few goals. This was the recurring pattern throughout the game. Unfortunately, the final score was 56–53 in the opposition’s favour, but the closeness of the score ensured StAC gained a bonus point.
Wednesday’s game was against Rangiora High School. With a considerable number of injuries and illnesses St Andrew’s were down in numbers, however the girls who filled in enabled the team to be competitive and saw a 38–32 win.
HOCKEY
The Girls’ 1st XI had their first official game of the season on Friday against Marian College 1st XI. Marian came out strong and put the girls under pressure early and in all areas of the game. With several players out due to injury, players in new positions and 2nd XI players stepping up, the St Andrew’s girls showed a lot of grit and determination to come away with a 2–2 draw, with goals scored by Rylee McBride (Year 12) and Lila Waghorn (Year 11).
On Friday night the Boys’ 1st XI hockey team had a seesaw battle against Christchurch Boys’ High School. Boys’ High scored first but St Andrew’s came back to equalise just before half time. The second half was a tight affair and both teams had their chances. Boys’ High scored late in the match to win 2–1.
BASKETBALL
The Senior Girls’ team played Christchurch Girls’ High School on Tuesday evening (away), who are coached by Old Collegian Sam Jenkins (OC 2020). The home team took control early, and St Andrew’s trailed going into halftime for the first time this season. Rallying the troops at halftime, the girls battled back to bring it even, then take a narrow lead in the final quarter. Ophelia Powell, Rafferty Powell (both Year 13) and Ava Jones (Year 11) were key contributors in leading St Andrew’s to a 62–52 comeback victory, keeping the unbeaten Whelan Trophy streak alive for another week.
The Senior Boys’ team also played an away game against the defending Thomson Trophy Champions, St Thomas of Canterbury College. An early injury put St Andrew’s on the backfoot, however with balanced contributions from Carter Rhodes, Hugh Kenny, Marcus Isitt (all Year 13) and Bronson Curtis (Year 12) the second quarter belonged to St Andrew’s. Leading at halftime and going into the final quarter, St Andrew’s fought back a spirited comeback to secure the game on a pair of Bronson Curtis’s free-throws, winning 101–97.
The St Andrew’s College ‘eth-letes’ (ethics athletes) entered the South Island Senior Ethics Olympiad last Friday against tough competition. The Year 13 team of Chantelle Xiong, Jack Li, Aaron Moore, James Hart, and Oscar Reed placed third, while the Year 11 team of Matthew Bluck, Ellie Zhou, Sam Foote, Daisy Huang, Jinyang (Yang) Zhang, received an Honourable Mention as well as Most Improved Team.
On Friday night, all the St Andrew’s College rock bands performed in the new Gough Family Theatre in preparation for Rockquest. The students felt pretty special performing on the new stage with an amazing light show. On Saturday, nine bands then went on to compete in Rockquest. Two of our bands have been selected for the regional final on Saturday 8 June at the Ngaio Marsh Theatre, University of Canterbury. They finalists are The Awthentix (Hugo Ranken, Jack Flanagan, Tamaroa Connelly, William Ruge and Daniel Ruge (all Year 13)) and The ECHO (Hayden Lam (Year 13), Ethan Lam and Oliver Hill (both Year 11)). Voltage (Amina Pabst, James McIver, Aaron Moore, Harrison Justice (all Year 13) and Sam McAlister (Year 12)) had a beautiful song but unfortunately were not selected for the regional final. All the bands worked hard and produced a lovely performance.
Last Saturday, nine of our Chamber Music groups competed in the Senior Ensemble section of the annual CSM May Music Festival as a build up to the first round of the National Chamber Music Competition, to be held in mid-June.
Elsa Meng (Year 9) travelled to compete in the Otago U15/19 Tournament last weekend, winning three titles – U15 Singles, U15 Doubles with Cherry Zhang, and equal winner U15 Mixed.
Three students travelled to Timaru on Sunday for the South Island Secondary Schools Cross Country event. Sophie Lampe (Year 10) won the U16 Girls’ race with Abigail Scott-Douglas (Year 11) in seventh place. Elliot Graves (Year 13) was fourth in the Senior Boys’ event.
Last Saturday, over 100 students from eight Christchurch schools gathered at Tūranga for the finals of the VEX Robotics Canterbury Challenge. The St Andrew’s College Preparatory School team of Oliver Gibb, Alex O’Neill, and Harry Kempthorne (all Year 8) competed in the Junior VEX IQ Challenge, Rise Above. They showed perseverance after experiencing some technical issues and came third overall.
Seven Secondary School teams attended the Senior VEX V5 competition, Balance Point, with six teams making it to the playoffs. The ‘The Mischievous Fellas’ – William Couper and Flynn Blackler (both Year 13), ‘Team 3’ – Luke Manson, Alex Manson, George Bissland (all Year 11), and ‘Updated’ – Aki Hansen, Edison Pang, and Oliver Cooper (all Year 12), made it as far as the semi-finals. Unfortunately, none progressed through to the final, which was won by a Burnside High School/Hillmorton High School alliance.
The Preparatory School had two teams of four at the Year 7– 8 Canterbury Chess Competition on Tuesday. Our A Team placed fourth and all the students, in both teams, had a number of successful wins.
Last weekend, Georgia Gregg (Year 7) won the trophy for U12 Irish Jig, was first in U12 Fling and U12 Sword, and placed second in Sailors.
Agnes Buist (Year 5) also competed last weekend and won the Novice Highland Fling U14 at the Oxford Highland Dance Competition.
Molly-Belle Morrow (Year 13) has been selected into the Junior New Zealand Women’s Development Team to compete in the Australian Junior Volleyball Championships (AJVC) in Adelaide.
Rutherford Boarding House Manager, Ian White, was acknowledged for his 35 years’ service to Boarding at the recent New Zealand Boarding Schools Association (NZBSA) annual dinner in Auckland. Rutherford Boarding House tutor, Liam Smith, was also awarded a certificate for completion of Tiaki Taiohi, which is a NZBSA competency course specific to boarding.
Tom Rae (OC 2022) has made quite an impression in the international Milky Way Photographer of the Year competition. His stunning photograph Lightning Lake showcases the Milky Way galaxy against the backdrop of New Zealand’s highest mountain, Aoraki / Mount Cook. The top 25 images from around the world were selected, showcasing the beauty of our galaxy photographed from various locations, including the deserts of Jordan and the landscapes of Patagonia. This is the second time one of Tom’s photographs has been selected.
Kavanah Lene (OC 2023) has committed to continue her collegiate career with the University of Montana. Kavanah chose Montana after evaluating offers from several superb NCAA Division 1 schools across the USA. She will head over to Missoula on a full scholarship after the FIBA Asia Cup.
On Wednesday, the College had the pleasure of hosting a gathering of Otago Old Collegians at Lone Star in Dunedin. More than 30 of our recent leavers from 2018 to 2023 were welcomed to the event. The group was predominantly composed of current University of Otago students who are pursuing a variety of fascinating and diverse degrees. It was truly inspiring to listen to their academic journeys and future aspirations. For Rector Christine Leighton, this event marked her final visit to the region in her official role, and she was thrilled to reconnect with our alumni community.
Flickr >Good luck to all students who are representing the College this long weekend in sports and cultural activities.
Please join us in the Centennial Chapel next Tuesday evening from 7.00pm for our annual orchestra and chamber music concert. This year we have 10 music groups competing in the upcoming New Zealand Chamber Music Competition. This concert is an ideal way for our ākonga to gain experience performing in front of a receptive audience. We will also be featuring some of our school orchestras.
On Sunday 9 June, the Preparatory School is holding a Quiz Night at The Elmwood (end of Normans Road) as a fundraiser for this year’s Preparatory School Australian Sports Tour.
Arrival at 6.00pm, the Quiz Night starts at 7.00pm. $20.00 entry per team member with teams of six to eight people.
With raffles, games, and a silent auction this is a night not to be missed! Tickets will sell fast so get in quickly and email Keryn Ford at by clicking here to reserve your team a place.
Experience the thrilling sounds of StAC Attack 2024! A St Andrew’s College Pipe Band event at the prestigious Christchurch Town Hall – James Hay Theatre, this highly anticipated showcase guarantees an unforgettable evening of traditional Scottish entertainment.
Immerse yourself in the rich harmonics of the bagpipes, the infectious beat of the drums, and the flair of the Highland dancers as they take the stage. With talented St Andrew's College students from Years 4–13 displaying their skills, StAC Attack promises to be an action-packed performance.
Be a part of the magic at StAC Attack 2024!
When: Sunday 28 July 2024
Time: 5.00pm – 7.00pm
Venue: Christchurch Town Hall, James Hay Theatre
Tickets: Adults $49.00, students/children $29.00 (student ID may be requested).
The Aurora Stone is a mystical crystal that fell from the sky and brought peace to two fighting realms. After a mishap with the stone, three children must find out if they are the chosen ones to return the stone and help the people of Norina. Will they be able to fulfil the prophecy?
Come along and see this delightful show performed by all Year 7 and 8 students. This musical script and lyrics have been written by Preparatory School students, with music written by Year 13 Music students.
When: Monday 24 – Thursday 27 June 2024 (four shows)
Time: 7.00pm–8.00pm
Venue: Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre – Gough Family Theatre
Ticket price: $22.00
Are you a proud supporter of St Andrew’s College? Whether you’re cheering on the Pipe Band or braving the elements at a sports event, our St Andrew’s College branded Blunt Metro Umbrella is your perfect companion. The St Andrew’s College Pipe Band has teamed up with Blunt Umbrellas to bring you this stylish St Andrew's College-branded, Blunt Metro Umbrella in our iconic navy blue. At just $139, it’s the same price as Blunt’s limited edition Metro umbrellas. Every purchase directly contributes to supporting the St Andrew’s College Pipe Band. Funds raised will help us purchase new equipment and cover expenses for the New Zealand Pipe Band Championships in 2025 (Invercargill) and our next World Championship trip to Scotland!
Collection Information:
Are you curious about how to support your child’s interest and engagement in sport? Interested in finding out the latest research on concussion? Join our upcoming StACTalk, where we’ll explore practical strategies and insights to support the ongoing development of our students. This event is for parents in the Secondary School who want to understand how to help their young people flourish in sports. Students are also encouraged to attend.
What to Expect:
Speakers:
Date: Tuesday 11 June
Time: 6.30pm–8.00pm
Location: Centennial Chapel
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).
The Community Business Directory is on our website under Alumni & Community and represents over 100 parent businesses. Please take a look at how many businesses you can support locally.
The St Andrew's College Community Business Directory >
If you would still like to register your business, complete the following form.
Community Business Directory Registration >
For a full list of upcoming school events, please refer to the fixtures page on StACNet.
