CO-CURRICULAR BOOKLET
CONTACTS
Arts, Culture, and Enrichment
Groups Key Contacts
Mary Lin
Director of Performing Arts
+64 7 827 9899 ext 608 mary.lin@stpeters.school.nz
Marg McMurray
Performing Arts Co-Ordinator
+64 7 827 9899 ext 869 margaretm@stpeters.school.nz
Christy Mills
Performing Arts Administrator
+64 7 827 9899 ext 768 christy.mills@stpeters.school.nz
Rachel Morton-Jones
Performing Arts Administrator
+64 7 827 9899 ext 480 rachel.mj@stpeters.school.nz
Sarah-Jane Flexman
Performing Arts Administrator
+64 7 827 9899 ext 647 sarahjane.flexman@stpeters.school.nz
Michael Schroeder
Head of Music and Performing Arts
+64 7 827 9899 ext 452 michaels@stpeters.school.nz
Ashleigh Gibson
Head of Dance
+64 7 827 9899 ext 712
ashleigh.gibson@stpeters.school.nz
Jaimy Goble
Head of Drama
+64 7 827 9899 ext 473 jaimy.goble@stpeters.school.nz
Dwight Ashton
Head of Speech & Drama
+64 7 827 9899 ext 647 dwight.ashton@stpeters.school.nz
Jason Wilcox
Head of Guitar
+64 7 827 9899 ext 647 jason.wilcox@stpeters.school.nz
Sam Cleaver
Head of Voice
+64 7 827 9899 ext 647 samc@stpeters.school.nz
Performing Arts Enquiries performingarts@stpeters.school.nz
Sport Key Contacts
Ange Russek
Director of Sport / Head of Athletics and Cross Country
+64 7 827 9899 ext 490 angelar@stpeters.school.nz
Eliza-Jane Rieger
Sports Co-ordinator
+64 7 827 9899 ext 765 elizajane.rieger@stpeters.school.nz
Glen Taylor
Year 7 & 8 Sports Co-Ordinator
+64 7 827 9899 glen.taylor@stpeters.school.nz
Amigene Metcalfe
Director of Netball
+64 7 827 9899
amigene.metcalfe@stpeters.school. nz
Carl Perry
Director of Rugby
+64 7 827 9899 ext 763
carl.perry@stpeters.school.nz
Chris Dowdle
Director of Hockey
+64 7 827 9899 ext 630 chrisd@stpeters.school.nz
Dna Wells
Head of Equestrian
+64 7 827 9899 ext 729
dna.wells@stpeters.school.nz
Josh Wedlake
Director of Rowing
+64 7 827 9899 ext 489
josh.wedlake@stpeters.school.nz
Kaylin Wren
Lead Rowing Coach
+64 7 827 9899 ext 714
rowing@stpeters.school.nz
Mark Jones
Director of Football and Futsal
+64 7 827 9899 ext 447
mark.jones@stpeters.school.nz
Owen Steverson
Director of Cricket
+64 7 827 9899 ext 468 owens@stpeters.school.nz
Rushlee Buchanan
Head of Cycling / Sports Convenor of Triathlon
+64 7 827 9899 ext 466
rushlee.buchanan@stpeters.school.nz
Sam Voss
Sports Administrator
+64 7 827 9899 ext 707
sam.voss@stpeters.school.nz
Shay Veitch
Sport Convenor of Touch, Basketball, Water Polo
+64 7 827 9899 ext 728
shay.veitch@stpeters.school.nz
Simon Thomas
Director of Golf
+64 7 827 9899 ext 688
simont@stpeters.school.nz
Stuart Pitu
Sports Convenor of 3x3, Badminton, Squash, Table Tennis, Tennis, and Volleyball
+64 7 827 9899 ext 764
stuart.pitu@stpeters.school.nz
Tash Featherstone
Sport Convenor of Lacrosse
+64 7 827 9899 ext 408
tash.featherstone@stpeters.school. nz
Todd Barker
Head of Strength and Conditioning
+64 7 827 9899
toddb@stpeters.school.nz
Tori Peeters
Performance Excellence Pathway
+64 7 827 9899 ext 408
tori.peeters@stpeters.school.nz
Zach Taylor
Head of Swimming
+64 7 827 9899 ext 707
zachary.taylor@stpeters.school.nz
Physio
Foundation Clinic
+64 27 489 6629
Book via portal or here
WELCOME
At St. Peter’s, we believe that by engaging the whole individual – through a philosophy of mind, body and spirit – we prepare well-rounded young people through progressive curricular and co-curricular pathways that allow them to pursue their passions and realise their potential.
‘Co-curricular’ refers to activities, programmes, and learning that complements what students learn in school, and these play a central role in developing students for life, learning and leadership.
Co-curricular activities have many benefits, including:
• Improved academic performance.
• Providing a balance to academic life.
• Increased social and emotional development.
• The development of life skills.
• Encouraging greater community involvement.
• Supporting curricular subjects.
So much great activity happens every week at St. Peter’s, with lunchtimes earmarked as a time of cultural bustle and engagement. A busy schedule of sports, clubs and societies are spread across the week to enable students to dabble, diversify or deepen their co-curricular interests and involvement.
The options are endless with new clubs and societies being added every year depending on the level of interest from students. Whether it be philosophy and ethics, food digital technologies, debating or something more performative like dance and musical theatre, students can explore and develop their different interests.
We view sport as integral to the holistic development of our students as it encompasses participation, athletic development, high performance and leadership development. There are an extensive array of opportunities and programmes to develop all sporting passions and abilities. From traditional team sports such as cricket, football, hockey, netball, and rugby to individual pursuits such as athletics, swimming and tennis, St. Peter’s students engage in a wide variety of activities both within the timetable and outside of school hours.
St. Peter’s also embraces cultural diversity and human connection through a rich array of cultural programmes. Our students participate in Kapa Haka and Pasifika programmes, providing a platform for students to connect with their heritage, develop cultural pride, and build a sense of community.
All co-curricular activities are led by experts in their field and make use of our exceptional facilities, including our state-of-the-art auditorium and performing arts centre to the world-class Grassroots Trust Velodrome, rowing facilities and equestrian and golf centres on campus.
Quite simply, there is something for everyone at St. Peter’s.
PERFORMING ARTS
A place of limitless creativity, St. Peter’s celebrates creativity, cultural diversity, and human connection through both traditional and contemporary performing arts. Our students have the opportunity to explore and nurture their unique creative potential through both curricular and co-curricular opportunities across music, dance, drama, and visual arts.
With guidance from a faculty of internationally renowned facilitators and tutors, our students receive expert mentorship within our inspiring facilities. Catering to a wide range of abilities, we encourage participation in expressive and visual arts, supporting our students to achieve both breadth and balance in their studies. For those most aspirational, we provide pathways to pursue excellence in their chosen creative fields.
ACTIVITIES ON OFFER
PERFORMING ARTS
AV Club
The AV (Audio Visual) club is for Year 9-13 students wanting to get involved in the cultural scene at St. Peter’s but would prefer a behind the scenes role than be centre stage. In AV club students will learn skills such as show lighting, sound mixing and more, as well as provide technical support in school shows, events and assemblies. The group meets Friday lunchtimes.
Chamber Ensemble Groups
St. Peter’s Chamber programme benefits our most advanced musicians with complex and challenging repertoire. Entry is by invitation, and students would need to continue playing in Petra Musica.
The groups are led by experienced staff who are active in the orchestral and chamber field.
Chamber groups take part in the NZCT Chamber Music Contests in June. Weekly rehearsals with a tutor will be confirmed at start of the year, and the programme will run Term 1-2.
Commercial Music
Students will attend weekly rehearsals with a rock band tutor, to work on repertoires suitable at their level, covering rock and pop songs. Advanced groups will be encouraged to write their own songs with the tutor. Bands will participate in performance opportunities within the school (lunchtime concerts, STARS, Rock of Ages, etc), but also, Bandquest and Rockquest regional competitions representing St. Peter’s.
Further opportunities for advanced students include but not limited to- recording cover and original songs, industry studio visit, and entry for Playitstrange songwriting competition. We encourage students of similar ability, experience and musical taste to form their own bands to be a part of the commercial band programme. Alternatively, students can sign-up stating their playing experience and level, and musical preference, and we can then audition and place students in suitable groups.
Drama Club - Year 7-8
The St. Peter’s Year 7-8 Drama Club is open to all students who wish to join from Year 7–8 and is limited to 25 students. The club’s focus is on building an understanding of what drama is, through looking at the dramatic elements and techniques and how to use them effectively in performance. The club also links to both the Junior and Senior drama curriculums. The club meets Thursday lunchtimes.
Drama Club - Year 9-13
The St. Peter’s Year 9-13 Drama Club is open to all students who wish to join from Year 9-13. It would be beneficial for the students to have prior drama experience, but this is not a necessity. This club leads on from the Year 7-8 Drama Club and focuses more in depth on building dramatic skills and improving on character development and performance. Each term will have a different focus to offer a diverse performing experience to our club members, including theatre sports, scripts, Shakespeare and drama creation. Participation in the club is highly recommended for Year 9-13 Drama students, as it closely aligns with the NCEA drama curriculum and offers significant benefits. The club meets Thursday lunchtimes.
Eclipse Dance Troupe
Eclipse is led by senior curriculum dance students and will be supported by a dance captain. This troupe is our entry and open level troupe for all Year 7-9 students interested in dance. It is currently capped at 20 students. Whether students have prior dance experience or not, they will join at the beginning of Term 1 and are expected to attend the weekly rehearsal until the end of the year.
The group will work to improve their technique, performance, and ensemble awareness through the learning of a contemporary or jazz dance sequence. Students will then have the opportunity to perform this sequence at events such as Aspire Dance Showcase or competitions like DanceNZMade.
Impact Percussion Ensemble
Impact is open to all students and aims to create and find innovative rhythmic uses for standard everyday items, as well as extending students playing technique through our extensive range of tuned and non-tuned percussion.
Students are challenged in their music making through the exploration of complex rhythms and ensemble skills, as well as their own contribution to the creation and arrangement of pieces ensuring that no one performance is ever the same. This is a great opportunity for all musicians to explore their skills in a new and collaborative way.
Instrument and Vocal Lessons
The aim of the specialist tuition programme is to develop students musical, social, and personal awareness through participation in individual music instruction to support involvement in musical performances. Private tuition operates during the school day on a schedule that compliments classroom learning. Lessons take place at a mutually agreed time and caters for absolute beginners through to advanced students. There is a fee associated with this activity to cover the cost of tutoring.
Jazz Band
Our Jazz Band welcomes students who wish to play their instruments in a variety of jazz styles, such as swing, latin, blues and funk. The ensembles are performance orientated, with a fun and social approach. We include vocals, brass, woodwind and rhythm section instrumentalists (Bass, Drums, Percussion, Piano, and Guitar). The ensemble is ideally suitable for students Grade 3 or above, as there is a level of reading needed. Jazz improvisation is also taught, as we aim to develop a comprehensive musical skillset. The Jazz Band will compete in the annual Waikato ITM Music Festival in August, as well as various performance opportunities in school and around the community.
Mosaic Dance Troupe
Mosaic is led by the Head of Dance and supported by senior dance captains. Students from Years 9-13 are eligible to audition and need to register their interest via the Portal. Students will rehearse weekly, preparing sequences in either jazz or contemporary that will then be showcased at events such as Aspire Dance Showcase and competitions like DanceNZMade. Dance captains of this group will lead choreography of one sequence as well as support and lead within the group.
Petra Aeros
Petra Aeros is the school concert band consisting of woodwind and brass which performs a fun repertoire with a focus on developing ensemble skills. Students should be playing at Grade 2 and above or can play at least 1.5 octaves in range.
Petra Aeros will compete at the Waikato ITM Music Festival in August, as well as various performance opportunities in school and around the community. Petra Aeros rehearse Monday lunchtimes for the full school year.
Petra Musica
This large symphony orchestra is open to orchestral musicians (orchestral strings, woodwind, brass, orchestral percussion)
Grade 3 or higher. Petra Musica is a regional leader in orchestral performance and performs repertoire from various genres.
We compete in the annual Waikato ITM Music Festival in August, as well as various performance opportunities in school and around the community.
Additional opportunities are available with music exchanges with schools in the Waikato and Auckland as well as mentoring from the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra. Senior string players are also expected to take part in Viva Stringendo. Petra Musica rehearses Wednesday after school for the full school year.
Speech & Drama Lessons
Speech & Drama tuition is available for all students Years 7-13 from beginner to advanced. Pair and small group lessons are designed to improve your confidence. Students work toward qualifications through Speech New Zealand or Trinity College examinations. These private lessons, taught by qualified and experienced tutors, are conducted during the school day at an additional cost to cover tutoring. Study includes effective speeches and slideshows, storytelling and acting techniques, speaking poetry, improvisation, public speaking and communication, persuasive techniques and debating skills.
String Ensemble
Suitable for beginner string players in the early stages of learning the violin, viola, cello or double bass. Students after one term of lessons are encouraged to join the group. The group rehearses Monday lunchtimes.
Viva Stringendo
The resident school string orchestra provides opportunities for senior string players to further their technique and musicianship in a wide range of repertoire and will compete in Waikato and Auckland secondary school competitions. Students will also work within smaller chamber groups within Viva Stringendo, to strengthen their ensemble skills and be given opportunities to perform at school and community functions. Members of Viva Stringendo are also expected to take part in Petra Musica. Viva Stringendo rehearses Friday lunchtimes.
Vocal Group - Year 7-8
This is a choir for Year 7-8 students of all abilities to experience solo, harmony and group singing. The choir competes at The Kids Sing. The group meets weekly on a Friday lunchtime.
Voice Collective
Led by Mr Sam Cleaver (Head of Voice), our choir for Years 9-13 is for all comers, with options for members to audition for solo parts.
The Voice Collective performs in part harmony across a variety of genres, including Jazz, Pop, and Musical Theatre, along with more traditional Classical material. The ensemble will work toward performing at the regional Big Sing competition in Term 2, and a range of performance opportunities throughout the year. The group will begin the year with practices on Friday lunchtimes, and then add Tuesday afternoons from Term 2 onwards.
Vortex Hip Hop Crew
Vortex is led by an external hip hop tutor and supported by senior dance captains. Students from Years 9 to 13 are eligible to audition and need to register their interest via the Portal.
Students will rehearse weekly to hone foundation skills in various styles of hip hop to form a sequence. The crew will have the opportunity to perform this sequence at events such as Aspire Dance Showcase and at competitions like DanceNZMade.
Wind Band
Suitable for beginner wind and brass players; students in the early stages of learning the flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone. Students after one term of lessons are encouraged to join the group. The group rehearses Monday lunchtimes.
MUSICAL THEATRE ACADEMY
The Musical Theatre Academy is an auditioned programme for Year 10-13 students, focusing on developing them to be well-rounded performing artists in tertiary and industry training and pathways.
Students cover essential topics such as: actors tool kit, character development, song preparation, audition skills and preparation, vocal development, musical theatre dance technique and choreography. The Academy will audition towards end of Term 1 and students will commit to both Monday and Thursday sessions at 3:304:45pm in Term 2 and 3. The year’s work culminates in a showcase performance at the end of Term 3, featuring professional lighting, sound, and costumes.
PRODUCTIONS
St. Peter’s, Cambridge is renowned for its outstanding musical productions and are the pinnacle of performing arts at St. Peter’s, drawing together dance, drama, music and musical theatre on stage. Students can be part of the crew in sound, lighting, stage management, wardrobe, and hair and makeup.
St. Peter’s has two musical productions a year; Senior Year 9-Year 13 and Youth Year 7-Year 9 and these are a fantastic complement to our outstanding academic performing arts programmes. We emulate the production values of the theatre industry so our students gain genuine experience of what working in the industry is like. This experience is why our students love being involved in our productions as cast or crew. Auditions are held in Term 4 for the Senior Production and in Term 2 for the Youth Production.
Past productions have included Anatasia, Newsies Jr., The Pirate Queen, Mary Poppins and School of Rock.
ENRICHMENT GROUPS
Art: Talk the Talk
If you have a passion for art and enjoy creative experiences, we would love you to join Art: Talk the Talk. This club has a focus on creativity and service with the purpose of making artworks to enrich the lives of others.
Each year we work on The Memory Project in which we create artworks for children facing difficult circumstances in the world. We will be given a photographic portrait of each child from a specific country and most students paint portraits, but we can also create an artwork that relates to the specific child’s interests. We will help you to draw and paint and you will be part of a very special tradition at St. Peter’s. If you are an IB student, this is an excellent and very rewarding CAS project. The group meets at Wednesday lunchtimes in A1.
Board & Card Game Club
The Board & Card Game Club is a club where students get to strategise and socialise together while playing games in groups of two to ten. It is a strictly unplugged approach to gaming offering a different feel and style to the more common video games with more personal interaction. A wide range of different tabletop games are played, and students are encouraged to try new ones as well as play their favourites.
Students of all year levels are welcome. They are welcome to bring their own games too.
Chess Club
Fancy yourself as the next Magnus Carlson. A chance for students to meet and play chess with other chess lovers! The group meets at Friday lunchtimes.
Debating Club
The Debating Club is a chance for students to have their say, develop confidence and public speaking skills, while having fun all at the same time! Students will be given the opportunity to participate in inter-school competitions by becoming part of the St. Peter’s Debating team. During Term 1 there will be sessions that are specifically for students new to debating, as well as sessions for those that are experienced.
NB – Students who plan on doing both Debating Club and interschool debating, will need to sign up for both activities. In order to be a part of interschool debating, you must sign up to Debating Club. Debating Club will take place on Friday lunchtimes.
Digital Technology Club
Ready to dive into a world of digital discovery? Our Digital Technology Club invites Year 7-13 students to explore Arduino, 3D printing, VR, and more! Engage in hands-on workshops where innovation meets fun, sparking creativity at every turn.
Need tech support? Our student IT Helpdesk has your back, offering solutions and guidance. Whether you’re a rookie or a tech-savvy pro, join us to unravel the mysteries of technology. Let’s build a community where every curious mind, regardless of age, explores, learns, and grows together. Get ready to shape the future.
Enviro Club
The Enviro Club is for Year 11–13 students who want to lead projects that enhance our campus and promote sustainability.
We’ll work to demonstrate our Gold-Standard Enviro-School status through initiatives like tree planting, campus clean-ups, and raising environmental awareness to foster a greener, more eco-conscious school culture. We meet every Monday lunchtime in E2.
EPro8 Club
Join the EPro8 Club and dive into the exciting world of engineering and innovation! Designed for Year 7-10 students, this club offers hands-on experiences where you’ll build impressive structures, tackle real-world challenges, and create inventive machines using pulleys, motors, gears, and electronics.
As part of the renowned EPro8 Challenge, which engages over 25,000 students across New Zealand annually, you’ll collaborate with peers, enhance your problem-solving skills, and apply practical mathematics in fun and engaging ways.
Whether you’re passionate about science or just love building things, the EPro8 Club is the perfect place to unleash your creativity and discover the engineer within you. There is a small cost for students who enter the external EPro8 competition which will be confirmed prior to entry.
Esports
Esports is open to all students; prior experience is not necessary but useful. Competition teams will likely be made up of Year 11-13 students, but the club is open to Year 7-10s who are interested in learning about playing Esports. Competitions will depend on what games are made available through outside tournaments. There may be further opportunities to participate in one-off tournaments throughout the year.
Foodies Social Kitchen
Year 8-13 students are welcome to attend Foodies Social Kitchen on Tuesday afternoons in FT1. This club provides students with the opportunity to do more of what they enjoy! Our aim is to make food, develop skills and confidence and extend taste buds.
We will follow student interest to build skills and knowledge in an informal and flexible environment. Students will get to eat their experiments or take them home to share. Junior students may wish to build on what they already learn in class or push past those simple skills into more creative and complex techniques. Senior students may wish to work on and perfect dishes to compete in culinary competitions, or just learn how to budget, plan and prepare food in readiness for flatting survival. Sessions will be determined by the students with support from the teacher. You will be interested in this club if you enjoy cooking and eating.
This club is a good complement for students who take Business Studies, Agriculture and Horticulture, Health and Tourism subjects. Limited to 24 students per term. Student enrolment is on a term-by-term basis.
Hoot Magazine
The Hoot student magazine is a platform for student voice, run and created by students, for students. It allows students to practice journalism, writing, designing, photography, videography, and more relevant skills, while striving for open-mindedness and enthusiasm. The purpose of the Hoot magazine is to highlight student achievements and involvement, amplify student voice and opinions, provide news and updates, create a fun and safe space for students, provide new insights and foster a greater school spirit. It allows students to widen their perspectives, work collaboratively and take interest in new areas. Our teams of students work together to produce, write, design and publish organic articles that culminate into a termly edition.
Interschool Debating (Years 9-13 only)
Over the course of the year, junior and senior students are able to take part in a debating competition against other schools from around the Waikato. These are held at a set location on Thursdays – normally Waikato University for both juniors and seniors. Students do not need to have any experience to take part, but they should sign up to the Debating Club to help develop their skills. Senior and junior teams alternate their competition afternoons each week. Students will need a team of three, so sign up with a group or contact Mrs Wright who will help find a team. There is a small cost per student involved which we will confirm with you once you have signed up. NB – If students plan on doing both debating activities, they will need to sign up for both activities.
Kapa Haka
Teenaa koutou katoa. Haeremai, naumai, whakataumai ki Te Kura Tuarua O Kemureti Hato Petera, me too taatou roopu kapa haka o te tau. You are cordially invited to meet and join our kapa haka group every Friday lunchtime. During this time, it is important for you as students to know the tikanga (customs) of karanga, karakia, mihimihi, and the kawa of our tribal area. Students will also learn traditional waiata, haka, mau raakau and poi. The kapa haka group is open to all ages, cultures and anyone is welcome. In addition, there will be performances, waananga (live ins), marae visits and trips to other cultural events within and outside of St. Peter’s school and our tribal area. Ngaa mihi.
Maker Space
Come and work on projects of a crafty nature - scrap booking, painting, drawing, cross stitch, embroidery, hand sewing, knitting, crocheting, or origami. A space to learn and share skills, get creative and make some cool stuff! Bring your own projects or we can help you find some ideas to get started with. We meet every Friday lunchtime.
Media Club
A group for media enthusiasts who share an interest in film, industry and content creation. In this group we look at existing media and create content for our own interests and for the school. Facilitated by Miss Bergin and Mr Vesseur, our aim is to develop a wide range of skills so students have the tools they need to unleash your creativity, all while learning and having fun. We meet every Thursday lunchtime and on select Wednesdays after-school.
Model United Nations (MUN)
Model United Nations is an engaging exercise in civics and government from a global perspective. Students are able to learn about the world and their place within it, developing empathy and understanding of global issues through interaction with a diverse community of learners. MUN leads to exciting opportunities with gatherings and conferences like the Auckland MUN conference, where students debate and discuss issues from the perspective of a particular country. Week-to-week, the group meets to build debate and research skills with the goal of working towards interactive and successful conferences. This club runs Tuesday lunchtimes for Year 11-13 students.
Pasifika
Ni sa bula, Kia orana, Mauri, Talofa lava, Mālō e lelei, Fakaalofa lahi atu. You do not have to be of Pasifika heritage to join the group – everyone is welcome! The philosophy of this group is to build a sense of self-esteem, belonging, well-being and academic success. In addition to this, we have been really lucky to be able to celebrate some of our key national days through dance and music. The St. Peter’s annual cultural assembly allow the group to further showcase a wider variety of Pasifika cultures along with their Kapa Haka peers. In addition, there will be performances and trips to other cultural events within and outside of St. Peter’s school. The group meets at Monday lunchtimes.
Produce Club
Produce Club is for Year 9-13 students interested in making products from the produce we grow at the Agri-centre and around the school, such as lavender, honey, beeswax, vegetables and fruit. We will be making things such as dehydrated fruit, chutneys, jams, walnut brittle, beeswax wraps to name a few! We will also spend time in the garden tending to our fruit and vegetables. The group meets Wednesday lunchtimes in the Agri-centre.
RC Car Club
The St. Peter’s RC (Radio Controlled) Car Club is for anyone interested in radio-controlled cars. We run a selection of onroad and off-road cars both indoors and out, and run various races and competitions mostly for fun and bragging rights. The club has a selection of its own loan cars for students to use, however student car ownership is encouraged to give maximum participation in our lunchtime meets. The club is about having fun with these miniature motors. Club meets every Friday in the Horton Gym.
Student Librarians
Students from Year 7 - 13 who are interested in books and libraries have the opportunity to apply to be a member of the Student Librarian Team. Students help in the Library and Information Centre at either interval, lunchtime or after-school. They are part of an enthusiastic student team assisting with organising competitions, displays, the issuing of resources, return of resources and information queries.
Writers’ Club
Writers’ Club meets once a week to share pieces, write together, and enjoy the craft of language. Competitions and ways to promote our writing are also discussed. This is a small group, and we support one another as we play around with poetry and prose.
ARTS, CULTURE AND ENRICHMENT GROUPS
- Hip Hop Crew*
SPORTS
Sport is integral to the holistic development of our students. We believe that sport plays a key role in shaping students’ growth offering more than just physical activity - building teamwork, developing athletic skills, encouraging leadership and fostering a sense of participation. Traditional team sports are available like cricket, football, hockey, netball and rugby, or individual sports like athletics, swimming and tennis. In addition to traditional options, St. Peter’s offers advanced programmes of more unique high school sports such as equestrian, golf, mountain biking, and track cycling. Advanced level sport is achieved through our world class facilities; Grassroots Trust Velodrome, Lake Karapiro rowing facilities and on campus equestrian and golf centres, offering a distinctive experience for students.
At St. Peter’s, we have a proud history of helping ambitious, high-performing athletes reach their goals. We have a fantastic record of students moving on to achieve success at regional, national and international levels with many pursuing their overseas sporting dreams after leaving St. Peter’s. It’s important that every student receives the support and guidance from our passionate team of coaches and sporting leaders to give them the foundations needed to flourish in their chosen code. Ultimately, sports at
St. Peter’s brings students together, creating a strong sense of community and offering opportunities for impactful life experiences.
SPORTS CONTACTS
SPORT CONTACT
3x3
Athletics
Basketball
Badminton
Cricket
Cross
Cycling
Equestrian
Football
Futsal
Golf
Lacrosse
Netball
Performance
Rowing
Rugby
Smallbore
Squash
Strength
Swimming
Table
Tennis
Touch
Triathlon
Volleyball
Water
SPORTS AVALIABLE
Athletics
Athletics at St. Peter’s encourages physical fitness, teamwork, and personal growth through a variety of track and field events. Guided by our experienced coaches, students develop their skills and embrace sportsmanship both on and off the track. Opportunities to compete include the Waikato Bay of Plenty Zones, North Island Championships, and the New Zealand Secondary Schools Nationals, where our team consistently finishes in the Top 3.
Basketball
Basketball at St. Peter’s promotes high participation and performance, with opportunities for players of all levels, from beginners to premier athletes. In addition to our traditional teams, we also offer 3x3 basketball, providing more opportunities for students to engage in the sport. With a proud history of six national titles and consistently placing in the top 8 at AA Nationals, St. Peter’s basketball reflects the dedication of both players and coaches to excellence, both on and off the court.
Cricket
Cricket is a much-loved summer sport at St. Peter’s, played during Terms 1 and 4. We proudly field both boys’ and girls’ teams, with matches hosted on our four exceptional cricket ovals, including opportunities to play on the prestigious No.1 Cricket Oval. Players commit to at least one training session per week, along with a midweek or Saturday competition match. Higher-level teams benefit from additional training sessions, including strength and conditioning components. Regular competition is enriched by exchange matches with other independent schools, tournaments, and tours.
Cross Country
St. Peter’s Cross Country squad focuses on building fitness through running across varied terrain. The programme, running during Terms 2 and 3, caters to all abilities, from beginners to competitive runners. Athletes train for regional and national events, improving strength, stamina, and technique, with the support of experienced coaches in a motivating team environment.
Equestrian
Our Equestrian programme caters to riders of all levels, focusing on dressage, show jumping, and eventing. With experienced coaches and excellent facilities, students have opportunities to compete at regional and national events. The year-round programme promotes skill development, confidence, and a strong bond with horses in a supportive environment.
Football
Football is played during Terms 2 and 3, with teams ranging from Year 7-13. Year 7 and 8 teams compete in the WaiBOP Club Competition, while Year 9-13 teams compete in the Waikato Secondary School League. Students attend weekly training sessions and play on Saturday mornings, with senior teams benefiting from additional training sessions along with strength and conditioning to enhance performance. Our 1st XI teams participate in the premier competition of the New Zealand Secondary School Championships, reflecting the high standard and commitment to excellence across the programme.
Golf
“Golf for Sport, Golf for Business, Golf for Life” Golf at St. Peter’s offers a unique and personalised experience for every student, with flexible programmes designed for all skill levels. Coaching is delivered by our experienced and highly skilled NZPGA Qualified Coaching Team. The sport is available year-round, allowing students to develop their skills throughout the entire year, whether they are new to the game or aiming for competitive success. Our programme focuses on technique, strategy, and sportsmanship, providing students with opportunities to participate in local, regional, and national competitions.
Hockey
Hockey is a rapidly growing sport at St. Peter’s, with fifteen teams competing in their respective leagues. The school has won the Waikato Secondary School League for three consecutive years and attended the Federation Cup for two years. Players have weekly training sessions and a game on a weekday evening. Senior teams have additional training sessions, along with strength and conditioning to enhance performance.
Lacrosse
Lacrosse is a growing winter sport at St. Peter’s, with experienced coaches leading a programme for all levels, from beginners to competitive players. We foster a positive environment where players can improve and enjoy the game. Our teams compete in the Waikato Secondary School competition, with top teams attending the New Zealand Secondary School Championships. St. Peter’s has a strong track record, having won the title twice and been finalists for the past three years. We are proud of our history in producing Waikato and New Zealand representative players.
Mountain Biking
Mountain Biking runs during Terms 1, 2, and 4, offering an exciting and high-demand programme with over 50 students involved. Training sessions are held three times a week at locations such as Te Miro and Pirongia, providing students with excellent opportunities to develop their skills and enjoy the sport.
Netball
Netball is a popular sport at St. Peter’s, played during Term 2 and Term 3. The school fields up to sixteen teams in the Hamilton City Netball competition, with teams training weekly and playing matches on Saturdays at Minogue Park, Hamilton. The Premier team has additional training sessions, along with strength and conditioning to enhance performance. St. Peter’s has a proud history, having been a past winner of the New Zealand Secondary School Championships, and continues to excel with a strong commitment to both development and competition.
Road Cycling
The Road Cycling programme at St. Peter’s nurtures both competitive excellence and a lifelong passion for cycling. Open to riders of all abilities, it features structured training, expert coaching, and opportunities to compete in regional and national events.
Rowing
St. Peter’s Rowing programme boasts a proud tradition of success at the prestigious Maadi Cup, New Zealand’s premier school rowing regatta. Renowned for its commitment to excellence, the programme consistently fields highly competitive crews. With access to world-class facilities and expert coaching, St. Peter’s rowers develop exceptional skills and teamwork, upholding a legacy of outstanding performances on the water.
Rugby
Rugby has a proud tradition at St. Peter’s, with the school developing many talented players over the years. Training consists of weekly sessions, with matches played on Saturday mornings for boys and midweek for girls. Senior players receive extra training sessions, along with strength and conditioning to further improve their skills and fitness. Our Boys’ 1st XV competes in the Central North Island competition, where they have a strong history, having been past winners of the competition. The team consistently showcases its talent and dedication to the sport.
Sevens
Sevens rugby at St. Peter’s offers a fast-paced, skill-focused programme for our junior boys and girls. Running during Term 4, students develop fitness, teamwork, and sevensspecific skills. Teams compete in local competition, with a focus on sportsmanship and achieving strong performances.
Small-bore Shooting
Small-bore Shooting runs during Term 2 and Term 3, with participation limited to 10 students. Members travel to the Cambridge Rifle Club every Thursday for training sessions and to compete in the Target Shooting New Zealand Secondary School Postal Shooting Competition.
St. Peter’s Swimming Club - Competitive
Our swimming squad programmes cater to athletes of all levels, from junior swimmers to performance competitors. With a strong focus on technique, skill refinement, and long-term athlete development, the programme supports swimmers aiming to reach their full potential. Training incorporates both water-based and land-based components to build strength, endurance, and overall performance.
St. Peter’s Swimming Club - Fitness and Multisport
St. Peter’s Swimming programme also supports multisport athletes, including triathletes and surf lifesavers, with a dedicated Multisport Squad designed to help students achieve their specific goals. In addition, we offer a fitness-focused group, for school-aged athletes who wish to swim to maintain and enhance their fitness levels.
Squash
Squash at St. Peter’s is played on our two glass-backed courts. Our training sessions are inclusive and enjoyable, focusing on skill development, movement, body control, and plenty of match play. We cater to all ages and abilities, from social players looking to stay active, to beginners trying a new sport, and top players competing in the Waikato Secondary School Championships and national tournaments.
Table Tennis
Table tennis at St. Peter’s Cambridge is a growing sport that combines precision, agility, and strategy. The programme offers opportunities for students of all skill levels, from recreational players to those competing in local competitions, inter-school fixtures, and regional events.
Tennis
St. Peter’s Tennis programme is run in partnership with Kiwi Tennis, who provide expert coaching for our students. Training sessions take place on our clay and turf tennis courts, where coaches focus on developing fundamental skills in a fun and supportive environment. Key areas of development include hand-eye coordination, ball and racquet skills, balance, and basic swing techniques. These sessions aim to enhance not only tennis skills but also overall athletic abilities, fostering a lifelong love for the game.
Touch
St. Peter’s fields a variety of touch teams across different age groups, including senior and junior teams, as well as Year 7 and 8 teams during Term 1 and Term 4. Teams compete in local and regional touch competitions, showcasing their skills and teamwork.
Track Cycling
St. Peter’s Track Cycling programme stands out as one of New Zealand’s best, having been named the top Secondary School for three consecutive years. Through our partnership with the Grassroots Trust Velodrome, the team trains year-round, under the expert guidance of former Olympians. This consistent training ensures our riders continue to excel on the track.
Triathlon/Duathlon
Triathletes and duathletes at St. Peter’s compete in New Zealand Secondary School events during Terms 1 and Term 2. The training programme covers all three disciplines, along with additional strength and conditioning to enhance performance.
Volleyball
St. Peter’s Volleyball programme caters to players of all levels, from beginners to experienced athletes. Senior teams compete in Term 1, while junior teams compete in Term 4. Training sessions focus on skill development, teamwork, and match play. Players participate in local and regional competitions, building both competitive spirit and a passion for the sport.
Water Polo
Senior students participate in water polo during Term 1, with training sessions and games as part of the Waikato Water Polo Secondary School League. Year 7 and 8 students compete in both Term 1 and Term 4, playing games on Sundays. Junior Water Polo is exclusive to Term 4. All training sessions are held at the School’s Brock Pool, while games take place at Waterworld Te Rapa.
TRANSFORMATIONAL SPORT EXCURSIONS
Students have opportunities to represent St. Peter’s on overseas sports tours, gaining valuable international experience and competing at a higher level. These tours provide a unique opportunity to develop skills, build teamwork, and experience different sporting cultures. More details about specific excursions will be released once trip details are confirmed.
SPORT AVAILABILITY