(Cover) Rector Mark Wilson chats with Cooper Fleming (Year 12), Sophia Bourke (Year 11), and Dylan Liu (Year 6).
Photo credit: Clinton Lloyd
From Rector the
In real estate the mantra is ‘location, location, location’, education is about ‘relationships, relationships, relationships’.
While our beautiful grounds, facilities, and infrastructure are all critical for the safe and inspiring delivery of teaching and learning, the heart of great schools is always the quality of the people and the relationships they form. As the new Rector at St Andrew’s College, I have been so impressed observing the strength of these relationships and the wonderful outcomes they help to create.
Quality relationships are those strongly connected to our beliefs and values, which we actively live out. At St Andrew’s College this means we seek knowledge and have integrity in what we say and do (Truth), that such truth and evidence inspire our actions (Faith), we are continually seeking improvement (Excellence), are imaginative and creative (Creativity), and recognise our strength in diversity (Inclusivity).
Having high quality staff is the key to successful schools, as the fundamental purpose of education is to help students learn and achieve. This is reinforced by advances in neuroscience research, which confirms people need to feel safe and supported for them to successfully learn. The heart of education is relationships, especially between the student and teacher. Everything depends on how productive and successful that relationship is.
In addition, evidence-based practice confirms what most parents and teachers already knew – that the real success to schooling is having high standards and high expectations. The quality of our teachers’ positive relationships with their students is how we communicate and insist on these high standards and expectations. These fundamental truths are the key to making a successful school. I have been so impressed and reassured with my class observations at St Andrew’s on how engaged and focused our students are, which is underpinned by strong and positive relationships.
The success of a child’s education cannot be left to chance but must be deliberate and intentional. Our teachers and staff are not infallible superheroes, they are wonderful professionals with great passion, commitment, and dedication to help bring out the very best in our students. The importance of time and focus for regular staff professional development is part of what we are looking to set into our school structure.
Strong professional learning for our staff is a critical part of not only building skills, but also the school’s culture and values. For example, our group of Senior, Middle and team leaders from teaching and learning, and support staff across the College started this year with externally facilitated workshops on how to effectively have ‘courageous conversations’ (or ‘candid conversations’). Recognising the benefits of learning how to have such difficult conversations in order to improve open and honest communications, helps builds trust, assists with resolving conflict, and improves personal growth.
These strong relationships are also evident across our support staff, who help support our core business of teaching and learning. It is our excellent people managers who help ensure the consistency of our top-quality work in areas such as catering, cleaning,
grounds and facilities, boarding, library, accounts, and all our sports coaches and performing arts tutors and instructors. This helps everyone understand their role in ensuring our students have the highest quality schooling experience and become the very best version of themselves.
This Regulus edition, my first, contains many stories of wonderful achievements and opportunities which are the outcomes of these strong relationships.
A key highlight for me has been seeing our students participate in the wide variety and breadth of opportunities and experiences available to them at St Andrews. During my visits to classrooms, sports fields, events such as the Pipe Band Nationals, rowing regattas, the Year 10 Te Waka Calling Ceremony, and seeing students in action in their various activities including cultural performances, robotics, outdoor adventures, fun House competitions, service leadership, and special celebrational assemblies, I have met many wonderful new people who love and appreciate all that St Andrew’s has to offer.
It’s wonderful to see our students not only enjoying what they are doing, but seeing the personal growth and development that their hard work and commitment brings. Many schools may talk about holistic learning, but St Andrew’s College truly delivers this all-round development, enabling our young people to find their passions and sense of belonging, and to become the very best version of themselves they can be.
Mark Wilson Rector
Meeting the St Andrew’s community
New Rector Mark Wilson has had a warm welcome from the St Andrew’s College family in his first few months in the role. Some highlights have included the Athletic Sports Day, attending the Pipe Band Nationals, visiting camps at the Kura Tawhiti Castle Hill Outdoor Education Centre, a rowing boat naming ceremony, an official pōwhiri, meeting students in the classroom, connecting with Old Collegians at regional events, and receiving a special welcome from Pre-school children and staff.
Regulus
Meet the new St Andrew’s College Rector Mark Wilson
As Mark Wilson completes his first term as the eleventh Rector of St Andrew’s, he reflects on his introduction to the College, along with his priorities and plans for the future.
We understand you’ve had a warm welcome from the College community, Mark. What have been some of the highlights of your first few months in the role?
Yes, without a doubt the warm and friendly welcome from everyone across the St Andrew’s community has been humbling and helped my wife Judi and I feel immediately at home here. There have been so many people we have met, from students, staff, and parents, to Old Collegians. They have all been so kind and generous in their welcome, and their love for St Andrew’s College as a place and a living community has been highly evident from these meetings and interactions.
What were your first impressions of St Andrew’s?
When you arrive on the campus grounds you can’t help but be struck with its physical beauty. The well cared for grounds leave an immediate and stunning impression – especially with the peaceful stream, the main entrance flanked by the great oaks, the stunning Centennial Chapel, and classic character of Strowan House. We are so blessed to have such a vibrant and inspiring natural learning environment.
Which experiences from your previous roles as Executive Principal at Kristin School in Auckland and Principal of Cashmere High School do you think will be most valuable in leading St Andrew’s?
At Kristin, my role was very similar, as Executive Principal at a co-educational and independent school, with students enrolled from early learning through to Year 13. A key learning was in working across schools to bring teams together, create consistent experiences, and unify under a clear vision and strategy. During my ten years at Cashmere, I learnt to apply the principles of ‘moving from good to great’ in creating high standards and expectations which brought about improved outcomes. From both schools, I learnt the importance of having quality people delivering the various programmes, and as a leader, not being afraid to surround myself with exceptional people, working together to ensure the success of the school.
How would you describe your leadership style and values, and how do you think these align with the values of the College?
A key reason I applied for the Rector’s position was the strong alignments with shared values including with my own Christian faith, connection with my own Scottish ancestry, and the College’s character. In addition, the importance of St Andrew’s proudly being a co-educational school, which after wide experiences across different schools, I am a strong advocate for girls and boys working and learning together. My leadership approach has matured over time. When I was younger, it was about developing myself. Now I am older it is about growing and developing others, taking a servant leadership approach, which prioritises others and focuses on the growth and well-being of people and the communities you belong to.
What are your top priorities in your first year as Rector?
Initially I have been on a ‘treasure hunt’ to meet the good people in the College community and understand what the St Andrew’s difference is. As expected, the success stories are primarily based on the quality of the people here. Looking into this first year, the Board of Governors and I have prioritised developing new strategic priorities and a Strategic Plan for the next decade. Such a strategy needs to be focused on creating the very best learning experiences and opportunities for our young people.
How do you see the College preparing students for an ever-changing world, particularly in terms of technology, leadership, and global citizenship?
I have always sought to seek out innovative solutions to challenges, but within education you need to be aware of many ‘bright, shiny objects’ in other words distractions. We need to ensure we are informed by research in the deliberate actions we choose to take with our young people. In addressing the modern challenges facing students, I believe many answers can be found in understanding and applying the learnings from neuroscience, which inform how our young people’s brains work and how they can learn and grow to be their best. Some of these learnings include the importance of a growth mindset, fostering grit, passion, and persistence, and looking at ways we manage the use of smart digital devices, to ensure our students leave St Andrew’s as global citizens, ready to help to make a positive difference in the world.
You are passionate about history. What has impressed you most about St Andrew’s culture and traditions?
I am our family historian and have been a History teacher, so I highly value the importance of history and understanding where we come from. The Scottish traditions alive at St Andrew’s reflect the origins of our school and still help to define our College’s character, creating a sense of identity and belonging. Alongside its founding traditions and values, St Andrew’s strongly celebrates cultural diversity. We appreciate and recognise our diverse range of ethnic students and staff at St Andrew’s, and continue to strengthen our Te Ao Māori character and presence as a school in Aotearoa/New Zealand. There is an old saying about ‘walking backwards into the future’ which captures the importance of both looking back and learning from our past yet still progressing and moving forward into our future.
St Andrew’s College has strong and special ties to alumni – what are your impressions?
As Judi and I have found, coming to St Andrew’s means joining a wonderful community of both current staff, students and their families, and the large group of Old Collegians who still have a strong connection and sense of belonging to the College. Many families have been attending St Andrew’s for generations, and there is such great support for the many reunions, events, and regional gatherings organised by the Old Collegians Association, which is rare compared to other schools. Our school age years are such influential times of development in all of our lives, and the strong Old Collegians network of support and ongoing connections highlights it is people who are at the heart of what is important.
What do you hope students will say about their experience at the College under your leadership?
I want students to say they loved their time at St Andrew’s, were always supported yet challenged to achieve, felt they belonged, and through amazing opportunities and experiences learnt to be the very best version of themselves.
How have you and your wife Judi settled back into life in Christchurch?
We are delighted to be back in Christchurch, and closer to our two adult children, their partners, and our two grandsons –Noah and Albie. It is so nice to be an active part of our children’s and grandsons’ lives on a more regular basis, along with our extended family and good friends in Canterbury. We are community focused and are keen to find and settle into a local church. We enjoy walks, socialising with our friends and family, cheering on sports, good books, movies, and travel when we can.
Looking ahead, what is your vision for the College over the next five to ten years?
My vision for St Andrew's College is to ensure it is a place where our people can confidently and safely shine, be the very best they can be, and inspire others to do the same. To be like a city on a hill that cannot be hidden, a beacon of light for all to see.
What excites you most about this next chapter for St Andrew’s College?
I come to St Andrew’s with it being in such a strong position and look forward to building on this, while bringing a fresh perspective, new ideas, and experiences. I am extremely positive about the future of St Andrew’s and all that we can still become and do.
From Board the
I write this as Founders’ Day approaches and we once again look to celebrate where we have come from and preserve our traditions. These traditions bind our students with all those which have come before and those yet to come. Importantly, these traditions endure through changes at St Andrew’s and remind us of the collective efforts of those who contribute so much to our College community.
It has been a pleasure to welcome Mark Wilson to the College as the new Rector. After a couple of quieter weeks on campus in early January, Mark has quickly and fully immersed himself in the role with the return of staff and students. On top of getting to know staff, students, and what day-to-day College life entails, Mark has also attended some Old Collegian reunions around the country. Mark and his wife, Judi, also spent time in Twizel at a rowing regatta and in Invercargill at the New Zealand Pipe Band Championships.
A key task led by the Board this year is to refresh the strategic direction of the College and develop a Facilities Master Plan for the coming years. It is an opportunity for us to reflect on what has contributed to the success of the
College in the past and what is going to sustain and grow this success in the future. An important aspect of this process will be gaining insight from across our school community, who we will look to engage with over the next few months. We will publish the outcome of this work towards the end of this year.
While the future building needs of the College are being considered this year, there is no major capital project in the works. There are, however, a few smaller projects underway or recently completed:
• the Religious Education building is undergoing earthquake strengthening this year, which also includes a new roof, the addition of double-glazed windows, and classrooms repurposed for Science labs;
• the Arts Block toilets are currently being upgraded and changed from an internal communal toilet area to externally accessed individual cubicles. We will gain additional indoor storage space at the same time;
• the weir on Thomas Stream beside and under the bridge access to Castle Hill has worn significantly over the years. This was repaired over the summer to protect the bridge and ensure we continue to have safe access to our mountain lodge;
• the Preparatory School playground is also being upgraded to modernise the equipment and ensure we maintain a safe outdoor play environment.
Investment in our facilities plays a key part in offering high quality education. However, these facilities are nothing without the students and staff. The Leadership and Academic Assemblies at the beginning of this year were a great celebration of student success.
The Board is proud of the outstanding academic achievements in 2024. We achieved a pass rate in excess of 97 percent across all thre NCEA levels. These results were complemented by 62 NZQA Scholarships achieved across a wide range of subjects with eight at Outstanding level.
Our NCEA Level 1 results, showing a pass rate of just under 99 per cent, were particularly pleasing given the changes to NCEA Level 1 at a national level. We continue to see the benefits of the student performance data analysis programme and will continue to investigate how it can be used to monitor and improve outcomes.
We recognise this level of achievement takes a combined effort from students, staff, and families. We thank our talented staff for their continued dedication and families for choosing St Andrew’s College. Together we can continue to guide, encourage, and support the students.
Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini. Success is not the work of an individual, buttheworkofmany.
I wish you all the best for the rest of what will hopefully be a gratifying and rewarding year ahead.
Felicity Odlin Board Chair
On behalf of the Board of Governors
Rebecca Ball wins
Marily Scanlon Award
A passion for encouraging young writers, and her own undeniable storytelling talents, saw Head of English, Rebecca Ball, win two prestigious accolades at the end of 2024.
Rebecca’s outstanding teaching, strong leadership of the English Department, and the culture of writing she has worked so hard to establish across the College, were recognised at the end-of-year Prizegiving, when she was presented with the Marily Scanlon Award for Teaching Excellence. This award followed her evocative story, How it is in dreams, winning the prestigious Sunday Star Times Short Story Competition, which attracted over 600 writers from across New Zealand.
Rebecca became the 18th recipient of St Andrew’s annual teaching award, which was established in memory of Marily Scanlon by her husband, former Board member, Jay Scanlon, and honours an educator who has made a significant impact.
“Winning this award means so much because it acknowledges not just my work, but the culture of writing our entire English Department has worked hard to foster,” Rebecca shares. “In a world where material success is often prioritised, it’s essential to hold on to the arts, and value stories, expression, and imagination.”
When Rebecca first joined St Andrew’s in 2016, she admits to experiencing some imposter syndrome. “As a new member of the St Andrew’s community, I was surrounded by so many talented people, staff, and students alike. It was in 2018, when I took on the role of Teacher in Charge of Writing for Publication, encouraging students to write and share their work through competitions and publications, that everything changed. It was an important turning point for me.”
Since then, Rebecca has been instrumental in creating St Andrew’s strong writing culture, helping to guide over 220 students to publication, and find success at various national and international writing competitions. She says the support of Writer in Residence, Kerrin P Sharpe, has been instrumental in the success of the programme, with Kerrin also being an important personal mentor.
“Kerrin has taught me a huge amount about how to bring out students’ authentic voice, and also encouraged me to write alongside the students, which has added an important layer to my work. It is also a joy and privilege to work alongside the talented and dedicated teachers in the English Department. This award recognises all of them too.”
Nurturing students’ creativity and helping them to ‘find a place in the world’ for their ideas and thoughts is always gratifying, shares Rebecca.
“It was so special to see Chantelle Xiong (OC 2024) appear on a College billboard on Papanui Road last year after winning the National Schools’ Poetry Award. It was a success we were really proud of and a real moment for writing.”
Rebecca plans to use the Marily Scanlon Award prize money to invest in her writing journey. “I’m using it to pay for my membership to the New Zealand Society of Authors, which gives me access to professional development, networking, and opportunities for publishing and competitions, which helps myself as a writer, and our students too,” she shares.
“I’ve also put some of it towards a new writing laptop. Writing regularly keeps me connected to what my students experience, helping me to develop new writing tasks and techniques for them.”
Head of English, Rebecca Ball, receiving the Marily Scanlon Award at the 2024 Prizegiving.
Introducing our 2025 student leaders
Another wonderful group of students have been appointed to a wide range of leadership roles in 2025. Leadership is both an opportunity and responsibility that our students are well supported in. This year’s prefect team, under the leadership of Head Prefects, Jake Elvidge and Kate Simcock, have introduced a theme called ‘Grounded by the Thistle, Surrounded by Connection’ as their guiding principle for the year.
Kate Simcock
Head Prefect
Kate Simcock is excited to be a Head Prefect working with a great team of student leaders in 2025. She admires people who lead by example, and aims to exemplify this in her role, along with being inclusive, friendly, and positive. As part of the 2025 prefect’s theme, Kate would like to encourage students to explore different areas of the school and form connections with a range of people. A multi-talented and community-minded person, Kate’s activities at the College have included 1st XI hockey, productions, choir, debating, and the Sustainability and Well-being Councils. Kate has NCEA Level 1 and 2 endorsed with Excellence. Once she leaves St Andrew’s, Kate plans to go to university, possibly to study Law with a Science co-joint.
Jake Elvidge
Head Prefect
Jake Elvidge is honoured to be a Head Prefect in 2025. He has an open, inclusive leadership style, and wants all students to feel comfortable talking to him. He is looking forward to engaging with a wide variety of groups within the College, with his key aims to ensure all students have a voice, know their presence is important, and are up for tackling any challenge. He believes students don’t need a badge or title to be a leader, just a willingness to create a positive environment. A talented all-rounder, Jake has performed in several productions, and played rugby, 2nd XI cricket, and Senior A volleyball. He achieved NCEA Level 1 and 2 with Excellence and hopes to study Law and travel after leaving school.
Sophia Voice
Deputy Head Prefect
A reliable and inclusive leader, who leads by example and loves connecting with people, Sophia Voice says it is a big honour to have been chosen as a Deputy Head Prefect. Her main goals are to further strengthen the strong and welcoming St Andrew’s culture where everyone feels like they have their own place, and promote connections between year groups. Sophia would like to leave a legacy as a hardworking, considerate, and approachable leader. As well as having Excellence endorsements in NCEA Level 1 and 2, Sophia has a busy schedule of commitments including playing 1st XI and representative hockey and achieving her Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award. After leaving the College, she hopes to study Medicine either in New Zealand or overseas.
Ricky Kotepong
Deputy Head Prefect
Ricky Kotepong says it is a privilege to work with such a great student leadership team in his role as Deputy Head Prefect, and he is enthusiastic and optimistic about what they can achieve together. He values collaborating with many different people and describes himself as approachable, genuine, and someone who fosters inclusivity and respect for all. One of his goals is to ensure students feel included and supported as they build on the 2025 prefects’ theme. Ricky is an accomplished sportsman particularly in tennis, having won numerous regional and national titles. He has also been involved with table tennis, athletics, and football at St Andrew’s and is currently completing his Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award. Ricky plans to study either Business Management, Engineering, or Sport Science after leaving school.
Cata Serrano Burgos
Head of Girls’ Boarding
Cata Serrano Burgos is incredibly grateful to be the 2025 Head of Girls’ Boarding and is looking forward to guiding and supporting her fellow boarders throughout the year. Her leadership style is centred around leading by example and being someone others can rely on and chat to. Cata strives to create a positive environment, fostering a sense of inclusion and positive interactions between different year groups, while encouraging boarders to appreciate the privilege of the boarding journey. She achieved a Merit endorsement at NCEA Level 1 and Excellence at Level 2. Cata has been a member of the Girls’ Senior A touch team, Senior B netball team, and was in the Girls’ 1st XV rugby team in 2024. Once she leaves school, she plans to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce in Agribusiness or Agriscience at Lincoln University.
Lachie Sidey
Head of Boys’ Boarding
Lachie Sidey says it is a privilege and honour to be appointed Head of Boys’ Boarding for 2025. An enthusiastic and approachable person, Lachie strives to be someone who younger students and boarders can aspire to be like through his actions. His main goals for the year are to create a positive and energetic boarding environment, where everyone has the ability to be themselves and grow into who they aspire to be. Lachie hopes to leave a lasting legacy in the boarding environment at St Andrew’s and be remembered as an action-taker, who approaches tasks and challenges with a positive attitude, no matter the difficulty. Lachie achieved NCEA Level 1 and 2 with Excellence and has played 2nd XI cricket. He plans to study either Engineering at the University of Canterbury, or something agriculturerelated at Lincoln University once he leaves St Andrew’s.
Prefect Team 2025
Joshua Adams
Cameron Aldridge
Ruby Allan
James Anthony
Olivia Bloom
Toby Browne
Isabella Cody
Noah Cole
Oliver Cotter
Madeline Davidson
Jake Elvidge
Noah Fanene
Connor Frew
Ava Gardiner
Hazel Hall
Ethan Higgs
Jasmine Hooker
Ricky Kotepong
Jonty Lang
William Lindores
Rylee McBride
Lily McHarg
Mia Montgomery
Nikao Panapa
Middle School Leaders 2025
Emma Bailey
Hamish Bray
Fletcher Cairns
Hanxi (Cicy) Chen
Jai Curtis
Carter Evans
Eliana Gibbons
Samuel Hardy
Tom Heiler
Edward Keenan
Max Kinney
Oliver Kirk
Sophie Lampe
RuoLin (Lauren) Li
Clara-Jane Long
Noah Martinez
Maggie McConnochie
Isaac Seatter
Yuhan (Uny) Shao
Adele Sherborne
Maria (Masha) Pospolitak
Ivan Ren
Jonathan Rogers
Cata Serrano Burgos
Elia Short
Lachie Sidey
Kate Simcock
Milla Smith
Sophia Voice
Madison Wallace
Grace Smith
Heidi Smith
Piper Stone
Jack Topless
Genevieve Wallis
Katrina Wallis
Isabelle Williamson
Sam Wilton
Rector, Mark Wilson, with from left, Deputy Head Prefect, Ricky Kotepong; Head Prefect, Jake Elvidge; Deputy Head Prefect, Sophia Voice; Head of Boys’ Boarding, Lachie Sidey; Head of Girls’ Boarding, Cata Serrano Burgos, and Head Prefect, Kate Simcock Regulus
Learning and adventure combined
“Resilience, risk management, dealing with uncertainty, and self-discovery are some of the key life skills students gain through the Years 7–10 Outdoor Education programme,” says Kura Tawhiti Castle Hill Outdoor Education Centre Operations Manager, Jo Parsons.
“As well as taking part in exciting activities on the camps, student gain first-hand experience of some highly transferrable human skills, including resilience, appreciation of nature, and figuring out how to motivate themselves, and others, when the going gets tough.”
All St Andrew’s students are strongly encouraged to participate in the Outdoor Education programme, which starts with three-day introductory camps at Kura Tawhiti Castle Hill in Years 7 and 8.
“Both year groups do an overnight camp, with the Year 7 students staying fairly close to the Lodge, and the Year 8s venturing a bit further away,” says Jo.
Year 9 students take part in a four-day summer programme, which includes a highly anticipated rafting expedition down the Waimakariri River, when they learn the skills required to guide their rafts to a remote river-side campsite, before descending through the gorge.
A five-day winter experience is in store for Year 10 students, who develop alpine camping and skiing skills during their adventure, which goes towards achieving their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award.
Kura Tawhiti Castle Hill offers a wide range of other activities to students, from group problem-solving challenges and games, to abseiling, rock climbing, snow caving, tramping, kayaking, and assisting with environmental projects.
“The camps get bigger and more challenging as the students get older. Many Year 11–13 students completing their Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award return to Castle Hill to further their outdoor skills, getting real-time experiential leadership and decision making practice in a consequential environment with a safety net. Some even return to help out on the camps as part of their award journey.”
For students keen to pursue Outdoor Education as a career, Jo says there are some “phenomenal” tertiary courses, including at Tai Poutini Polytechnic in Greymouth where her entire tutor team at Castle Hill has studied at one point or another.
“Some graduates might only work in the industry for a couple of years, but when they move on to other career paths, they continue to utilise the key skills they learnt in the outdoor or teaching environment, including adaptability, managing people, managing risk, giving and receiving feedback, and quickly adapting to challenges.”
Jo says student feedback consistently highlights St Andrew’s Outdoor Education programme’s value.
“We love hearing the students’ reflections, especially around realising they were more capable of doing hard things than they thought.”
During the camps, students often take part in group activities where their peer groups are mixed up. While they might be a bit reticent about this in the beginning, it usually works out well, says Jo.
“By the end they are running around having a great time together and talking about how much they enjoyed hanging out with students who were not part of their regular friendship group at school. It is great to see students leave Kura Tawhiti Castle Hill with new friends and memories, along with confidence and life skills which will serve them well into the future.”
Students reflect on experiences
A group of Year 12 students were asked to reflect on their experiences and highlights of the Year 9 and 10 Outdoor Education programmes, and how these have helped them to grow and develop.
Abigail Scott-Douglas
Taking part in the Outdoor Education programme in Years 9 and 10 was an awesome experience. The rafting was a highlight, especially staying overnight by the river that we paddled down. The programme helped me get to know my classmates better and develop stronger connections as well as being able to grow in confidence. I would recommend embracing every aspect of the programme to build teamwork and enjoy the opportunities provided.
Alex Manson
One of my favourite parts of Outdoor Education was rafting in Year 9, one of my first experiences of all the great things the programme has to offer. As someone who is not exactly the fittest, I struggled a bit with the hiking. However, with us all supporting each other, the walk really wasn’t that bad. During Outdoor Education, I learnt to give new things a go, even if I didn’t like the sound of doing them, and to give 100 per cent. Every activity was a chance to learn, grow, and connect. This helped me persevere and keep a positive attitude going into the Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award. I feel this philosophy extends to life in general – the hardest step to take is almost always the first.
Sofiya Vernihor-Hay
The St Andrew’s Outdoor Education programme is a fun experience, with a highlight for me getting to know my classmates. We worked together on team building exercises and looked after one another in the highs and lows. While it may seem daunting at first, the programme is a great way to step out of your comfort zone and experience something new while being around your friends. I recommend going into it with an open mind as you never know what you might learn about yourself and others.
outdoor
I participated in the Years 9 and 10 Outdoor Education programmes, and it was a great time with classmates. I am not an outdoors person, but the Year 10 programme in particular provided challenges with the SOLO. I returned to Kura Tawhiti Castle Hill for my Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award and completed a four-day hike which pushed me out of my comfort zone and really helped me grow as a person. I would recommend students give everything a go at least, even if they aren’t confident, because you will build bonds with your friends and classmates that last.
St Andrew’s impressive NCEA achievement
St Andrew’s College students once again achieved impressive success in NCEA, with a total of 226 Excellence endorsements across all three year levels (71 at Level 1, 90 at Level 2, and 65 at Level 3). Congratulations to all students who gained overall Excellence endorsements, along with the many students who gained subject endorsements.
Dux of St Andrew’s College: Aaron Moore
Aaron Moore was awarded the David Wilton Prize for the Dux of St Andrew’s College for 2024. Aaron gained New Zealand Scholarship passes in Chemistry, Physics, and Calculus as a Year 12 student, and sat seven NZQA Scholarship examinations in 2024, achieving six scholarships including one Outstanding. In addition, Aaron was one of 55 students nationally to receive a NZQA Outstanding Scholar Award. In 2024, Aaron was also awarded an ICAS Gold medal as the top student in Year 13 Science in New Zealand, along with the Physical Science Prize and the English Literature Prize from St Andrew’s.
New Zealand Scholarship Awards success
We were delighted that a group of 30 St Andrew’s students (including four in Year 12 and two in Year 11 in 2024) gained a total of 62 NZQA Scholarships with eight of these at Outstanding level. Dux of the College, Aaron Moore, was successful in gaining an impressive six Scholarships (including one Outstanding), with Proxime Accessit, Meg Simpson and James Hart, Kobe Bayliss and Yuzhou (Chantelle) Xiong, all achieving five Scholarships and Bryan Cooper, achieving four.
The following group of student Leavers from 2024 were presented with Board of Governors' Scholarships by Deputy Chair, Nick Letham, after gaining NCEA Level 3 Excellence endorsements:
Isobel Bhatia, Ava Boock-Luhetoa, Connor Bradshaw-Waugh, Olivia Burdon, William Carrodus, Siara Clarke, Tamaroa Connelly, Olivia de Joux, Leon Dias, Reuben Dickason, Samuel Ferguson, Jack Flanagan, Isobel Forsey, Liam Hackston, Alexandra Hirschfeld, Jenna Howell, Hannah Hughes, Benjamin Kassel, Hayden Lam, Christophe Lindlbauer, Holly McCarthy, Lucy McIntyre, James McIver, Felix Parkinson, Hugo Ranken, Billie Revis, Daniel Ruge, William Ruge, Joseph Ryan, William Tavendale, Jemma Treleaven, William Voice, Saskia Wells, Aria Wilke, Addison Williams, Joshua Adams (Year 12 in 2024), James Anthony (Year 12 in 2024).
St Andrew’s College Dux, Aaron Moore (Year 13)
ICAS Gold Awards 2024
Each year, thousands of students sit examinations in various subjects in the International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS) examinations. In late 2024, three St Andrew’s College students achieved outstanding success, winning ICAS Gold Medals for the top mark in New Zealand for their respective year groups of the ICAS examinations. This was the second year in a row Cong (Zilong) Chen (then Year 8) has won an ICAS Gold Award, an incredible achievement.
The 2024 Gold Award winners were:
• Year 8 English – Cong (Zilong) Chen;
• Year 13 Science – Aaron Moore;
• Year 13 Mathematics – Bryan Cooper.
Future problem
In November 2024, following their third place at the international Future Problem Solving Conference, members of the St Andrew’s team excelled at the national finals in Auckland.
Emmett Lawler (then Year 8), competed as an individual and put
solving
The Year 8 team of Cong (Zilong) Chen, Joy Zuo, Ethan Zhao and Juno Park also demonstrated impressive capability to reach the national finals.
Preparatory School Principal, Jonathan Bierwirth, says the continued success of the St Andrew’s College Future Problem Solving programme
Bryan Cooper (then Year 13), Cong (Zilong) Chen (then Year 8) and Aaron Moore (then Year 13)
Emmett Lawler (then Year 8) Regulus
for 2025 teaching staff New
Alongside new St Andrew’s College Rector, Mark Wilson, a number of new teachers have been welcomed in 2025.
Secondary School
Jen Meagher has rejoined the English Department at St Andrew’s, after teaching at Cashmere High School.
Helen Jermy is the new Assistant Head of Mathematics. She joins St Andrew’s from Wakatipu High School.
Rhonda Schmidt has joined St Andrew’s as a Mathematics teacher from St Peter’s School, Cambridge.
Liv Jackson has joined as a teacher in the Health and Physical Education Department and is formerly of Westlake Boys’ High School.
Thomas Woodfield is a Music and Social Studies teacher who has joined the College from Beckenham Te Kura o Pūroto.
Connor O’Rourke has joined the Science Department as a teacher. He joins the College from Kaiapoi High School.
Bella Smith is a new Science teacher who has joined St Andrew’s after graduating with a Master of Teaching from Otago University.
Elrie Jordaan-Oldroyd is a Social Sciences and Travel and Tourism teacher who has joined St Andrew’s from St Bede’s College.
Christine Manson is a Fabric Technology Teacher who has joined the Technology Textiles Department after graduating with a Diploma of Teaching from Canterbury University.
Rebecca Scully has re-joined the Health and Physical Education Department as a teacher, after previously working at St Andrew's in 2021–2022.
Preparatory School
Alex Jones is a new part-time Year 5 teacher who has joined the Preparatory School from Cotswold Primary School.
Rhonda Schmidt, Bella Smith, Jen Meagher, Liv Jackson, Connor O’Rourke, Rector Mark Wilson, Rebecca Scully, Thomas Woodfield, Helen Jermy, Alex Jones, Christine Manson. Absent: Elrie Jordaan-Oldroyd
Year 13
New Te Waka course
A new Te Waka course introduced for Year 13 students in 2025, is building on the foundation of the Te Waka course they completed in Year 10, and helping to nurture their personal, social, and emotional development as they prepare for life beyond school, says Head of Senior College, John Ruge.
“The idea has been in the wings since before COVID-19, when Year 13 students at the time reflected in a well-being survey how they would have loved to revisit some of the things they learnt in Year 10 Te Waka. A key part of the Year 10 course is The Rite Journey programme, and when we learnt its creator, Andrew Lines, had developed and released a senior version of The Rite Journey last year, we started to look at how we could incorporate a Year 13 Te Waka course into our busy curriculum.”
The new course is being combined with the long running Monday Electives Programme, with Year 13 students now all completing six months of Te Waka and six months of electives.
Head of Well-being, Kerry Larby, says the course provides a space for students in mixed groups to reflect on their secondary school experiences and explore how these lessons shape their future decisions.
“The aim of the course, which relates to our Whole School Goal of Well-being, is to give Year 13 students more curriculum time to focus on their holistic development. During guided conversation-based sessions, students explore a range of topics such as values, managing stress, goal setting, and cultivating healthy relationships. It’s important for them to have the space to connect with each other and a mentor, to talk to about their emotions as they reflect on their experiences at St Andrew’s and what they’ve learnt in preparation for their next steps.”
Kerry says an ‘amazing and experienced group of teachers’ in the Physical Education and Health Department, led by Kate Taylor, the Teacher in Charge of both the Year 10 and Year 13 Te Waka programmes, are a key to its success.
Kate, and Year 13 Dean, Dayna Stirling, went to Australia in 2024 to meet with Andrew Lines and learn more about the senior version of The Rite Journey programme.
“We were impressed by what we saw and have structured our Year 13 course using the seed journaling method, which is broken into five sections,” says Kate.
These are ‘dig a hole’ (delving into the past), ‘plant the seed’ (setting yourself up for success), ‘water well’ (self-love and nurturing), wait patiently (mindfulness and meditation), and ‘sprouting’ (gratitude).
Kate says along with personal growth and character development, the Year 13 Te Waka course helps students to navigate the challenges of their final year at school and beyond, including managing conflict, building resilience, and exploring self-care and mental health strategies.
“It is also an opportunity for leadership, with the Year 13 students giving back by mentoring the Year 10 Te Waka students.”
Feedback from the students about the programme has been positive, says Kate.
“In the past, many students told us they wished they could have Te Waka in the later school years, with time to just be and have real life conversations in a safe and supportive environment. It’s great we can now offer this to them.”
Teacher in Charge of Te Waka, Kate Taylor, with Year 13 students, Madison Wallace, Oliver Cotter, Madeline Davidson and Toby Browne.
Regulus
Academic successes
Late 2024* 2025
* Please note the use of 2024 year groups.
French
In the DELF Examinations, an internationally recognised French Language Proficiency Certificate awarded by France’s national Ministry of Education, Brooke Hughes and Joseph Ryan (both Year 13) achieved a B2 certificate, which is a prestigious qualification.
Science Badges
Louis Hyland (Year 8) was awarded a Platinum Award, for completing 30 Science Badges. He also had his photo displayed on the Science Award Trust Honours Board. Only seven other students in all of New Zealand attained this award in 2024. Keer (Tessa) Meng (Year 9) and Elina Wang (Year 7) were also presented with their Bronze Star Badge for completing five Science Badges.
Creative Writing
Anthony Song (Year 10) was awarded first place in the Young Writers category of the Scottish Book Trust’s 50 Word Fiction Competition, an international competition. Anthony wrote his short prose on the given theme of ‘frost’, in the Junior Creative Writing Workshop.
Debating
St Andrew’s College students showcased their debating skills at the Canterbury Debating Senior Regionals, held at the University of Canterbury. Among the standout performances were StAC Blue – Lachlan Hackston, Hanxi (Cicy) Chen and Gracie-Starr Guest (all Year 11) winning the Most Promising Team award as the only full Year 11 team competing against senior opponents, and StAC Red – Oliver Wallace, Teresa Steiner and Arihia Lawton (all Year 12), who advanced to the semi-finals after consistent success in the preliminary rounds.
The team delivered a compelling case, but were ultimately defeated by Cashmere Gold, who went on to win the competition. Kate Simcock (Year 13) was named the Best Reply Speaker for her impactful leader’s replies and was also selected as a Canterbury representative for the New Zealand Schools’ Debating Nationals in May.
Speech
Jinyang (Yang) Zhang (Year 12) was second in the regional heat of the Race Unity Speech Awards, held at the Christchurch Baha’i Centre. Speakers had to address the issue of race relations in Aotearoa, incorporating this year’s theme: Te Moana Nui o te Kanorau, The Great Ocean of Diversity.
Young Farmers
Danica Minson (Year 10) was third in the 2025 Tasman FMG Young Farmer of the Year Regional Final. Danica and her teammate from Christchurch Girls’ High School competed against 25 teams from the upper half of the South Island, completing a range of tasks, from genetic calculations to driving machinery, fencing, to breed identification, and marketing to risk mitigation.
Louis Hyland (then Year 8)
Anthony Song (Year 10) foreground, during the Junior Creative Writing Workshop with Writer in Residence, Kerrin Davidson, and Thomas Ambury (Year 10).
Gracie-Starr Guest, Hanxi (Cicy) Chen and Lachlan Hackston (all Year 11) were named Most Promising Debating Team.
Shaping future medical professionals
Students interested in following a career in medicine are being well-prepared by the Science Department at St Andrew’s, if some impressive recent statistics are anything to go by, says Careers Counsellor, Richard Webster.
“This year we have 10 students who have been accepted into Medicine, most after doing phenomenally well in first year Health Sciences. There are traditionally only around 110 places offered at the University of Otago in Medicine each year, so this is an outstanding result for St Andrew’s. The Science Department has put together a very good programme which is providing students with a great foundation for success.”
Nine of the students are from the 2023 cohort, with seven moving into first year Medicine at the University of Otago, one at the University of Auckland, and another pursuing Dentistry. A further student has been accepted into Medicine after completing her Bachelor of Science degree at Otago.
Head of Science, Natasha Cloughley, says there are many strands of the Science programme which help to prepare students for Health Sciences and Medicine, starting with the size of the department.
“We have 18 Science teachers now, so each subject area is almost like a mini department. Our teachers have varied experiences and love to bounce around new ideas. They have extensive subject knowledge, leadership capabilities within the department, and are always looking at ways to support our learners.”
Natasha spoke with a couple of students who were recently accepted into Medical School, who said the teaching and learning in the classroom was a big factor in their success, alongside exposure to the use of cheat sheets, and tackling multi-choice questions, which they struck at university.
“When we looked at the data of the students who have been accepted into Medicine, they all had a high workload in Year 13, including a combination of their five core subjects, taking all three externals in the Senior Sciences, and at least two or three NZQA Scholarship
subjects,” shares Natasha. “Even if they didn’t achieve the Scholarships, the benefits of being part of the programme include critical and deep thinking, the ability to interpret questions, and taking on extra material which is a step closer to university level. It helps to prepare them for the huge workload of getting into Medical School, which is a mental as well as an academic game.”
Natasha says the Science Department is ‘really proud’ of the students’ successes, which she puts down to the collective efforts of all the Science teachers, who build students’ skills from their earliest years at the College.
“By the time students leave us, they have had a five-year journey of Science, starting with their Year 9 and 10 teachers. Our courses are designed to build on one another and progress the students’ learning to the next level. These great achievements by our students are testament to the efforts of every teacher in the department.”
Year 13 students, Ivan Ren, Sophia Voice, Jasmine Hooker, Amy Zhu and Spencer Menzies undertaking a Chemistry experiment. Regulus
Pre-school welcome
for new Rector
There was great excitement when a large group of Pre-schoolers made their way across the Secondary School to the Rector’s study, ready to deliver a handmade card and bunch of flowers to welcome new Rector, Mark Wilson, to St Andrew’s.
“It was such a lovely visit. Mark made the children feel really at ease and they quickly made themselves at home, introducing themselves, chatting, and singing him a couple of songs,” smiles Head of Pre-school, Mandy Jenkins, who accompanied the children on the visit, along with teachers, Jan Marshall and Jo Gregg.
Each term there is a new learning priority in the Pre-school, with the visit to the Rector tying in nicely with the Term 1 theme of ‘respectful relationships,’ says Mandy.
“We talked about what it means to be a kind friend, and how it would be nice to welcome Mr Wilson to St Andrew’s, because he is new and has an important job to do.”
Mandy says the ‘super engaged’ children enjoyed talking to Mark about their families, with some telling him about their mums and dads who work at St Andrew’s, and others talking about their older siblings at the College.
“The children enjoyed hearing about Mark’s family and grandchildren too and were fascinated by a photograph he showed them hanging in his study of the room when it was the original library in the College’s early days,”
adds Mandy. “He told them a little bit about the history in a way which was perfectly pitched for Pre-schoolers.”
The children also shared their learnings with him around being kind, while Mandy and the teachers talked about how the Māori values of manaakitanga and whanaungatanga are encouraged in the Pre-school.
“We all enjoyed the visit very much and had a great time!” she says.
Top: Stella presenting Rector, Mark Wilson, with a card and flowers. Below: Head of Pre-school, Mandy Jenkins, walking with Stella and Briana.
Left: George, Lucy, Stella and Hattie singing Twinkle Twinkle with Rector, Mark Wilson. Bottom: Noa, Milo and Luca looking at the old photograph of the Rector’s study.
Monarchmagic
Around five years ago, when Junior Syndicate teacher, Monique O’Sullivan, brought some swan plants into her classroom so the children could experience the magic of the monarch butterfly life cycle, she never imagined she was starting a highly anticipated tradition.
“The children love it, and expect I’ll bring them in at the start of every year,” smiles Monique, who in 2025, has transitioned from teaching Year 2 to Year 3 students.
With caterpillars in various stages on the swan plants — some still crawling, others forming chrysalises, and a few already emerging as butterflies, the students are captivated watching the tiny creatures transform, she says.
“Along with the excitement of the butterflies hatching, it’s a fun and easy way to bring science into the classroom, incorporating the living world aspect in a way which naturally filters through our class programme.”
When the swan plants were in Monique’s classroom during the first few weeks of Term 1, the first thing the children did each morning was check them, she says.
“If a caterpillar was in the ‘J’ shape, they knew it was about to make a cocoon. Once they formed a chrysalis, things could happen really fast. If we caught the butterfly hatching during class time, we dropped everything and watched because it was spectacular.”
The students learnt how to identify whether the butterflies were male or female, given the males have two black dots on their hind wings.
“They loved to discover new butterfly facts. The process was such a great way to introduce some scientific vocabulary to the students, and they have also written some amazing stories about their discoveries.”
Alexandra Harrison, Tana Jones and Amelia Glubb (all Year 3) examining a newly hatched monarch butterfly.
Year 3 students enjoyed seeing the butterfly life cycle first-hand with their teacher, Monique O’Sullivana.
Art Gallery visit inspires
What do a giant teddy bear, a man waiting for a chicken to lay an egg, and a woman frozen in time have in common? They were all part of Christchurch Art Gallery’s Dummies & Doppelgängers exhibition, which captivated the Year 4 students who visited in Term 1.
Described as being ‘full of humour, surprise and heart’, the exhibition revealed how borrowed or reimagined bodies can help us explore what it means to be human, and fitted ‘perfectly’ with the classroom focus on identity, says Head of Middle Syndicate, Megan Feller.
“The children were expertly guided around the exhibition by Art Gallery teacher, Bianca van Leeuwen and a volunteer, and loved seeing all the different art. They did so well, engaging in lots of great discussions about the artwork’s meanings.”
Year 4 student, Tom Brandon, said chicken/man by Ron Mueck was his favourite piece of art because it had ‘so much detail’ like hair, skin, and freckles, and the chicken looked like it could ‘jump up and run away’.
The lifelike Woman and Child by Sam Jinks was another popular piece, with Cynthia Zhang saying, “I thought the grandma could open her eyes at any time.”
Later, during a hands-on workshop, the children were inspired to create their own small sculptures, celebrating something which makes them unique.
The Art Gallery visit was made possible through the Christchurch City Council’s education programme, which offers high-quality, costeffective learning experiences for students, says Megan.
“It’s incredible what is offered in the programme, and many activities are free. It’s such an invaluable resource, which provides opportunities for creative and critical thinking in an engaging, fun environment.”
Back in the classroom, the Year 4 students explored the identity theme in other ways. They wrote bio poems, created word clouds using words special to them, and completed a
reflective piece called ‘I Love, I Need, I Wish’. These activities encouraged selfexploration, helping students to develop a stronger understanding of who they are.
“It has been a great term of discovery, with lots of fun experiences, and students learning more about themselves and each other,” says Megan.
Year 4 students, Ella-Rose McLeod, Grace van Nobelen, Qinwei (Natasha) Huang and Cynthia Zhang, with parent helper, Sarah McLeod.
Head of Middle Syndicate, Megan Feller, with Year 4 students, Angus Tiffen, Harriet Passmore, Alexander Whitehead, Camille Chambers and Alexander Petelo and their artworks.
Students were entranced by the artwork chicken/man at Christchurch Art Gallery.
A rock solid learning experience
Year 8 students enjoyed a trip back through time, when they learnt about the geological and social history of Halswell Quarry Park from Pākehā and Māori perspectives. The trip was part of a hands-on learning programme called The Rocky Road of Discovery, run by Christchurch City Council.
Describing the visit as a ‘rich learning experience’, Year 8 Team Leader, Morgan Sheppard, said it built on the knowledge the students had already gained in teacher, Christina Fitzgerald’s practical Science lessons.
“This programme integrates well with our Science and Aotearoa Histories programmes and was a greatopportunity to put our learning into action.”
Students delved into the formation of Banks Peninsula, uncovering the geological processes which have shaped the region. They also gained a valuable insight into how early Māori communities preserved the land as a Mahinga Kai area, using its wetland resources for food, shelter, and medicine.
“In the wetland area, students learnt how resources were traditionally used and explored ways we can act as kaitiaki – protecting and enjoying our green spaces,” says Morgan.
The students were fascinated to learn about the different rock types and their uses throughout Canterbury and also explored the quarry’s social history. A hands-on building challenge gave them a glimpse into what daily life was like for the quarrymen in the longest-running commercial quarry in Australasia, says Morgan.
“A crowd favourite was definitely the dry wall building task where teams had to work together to construct walls out of quarry stone which could withstand the heavy boots of Council educators as they sought to knock them down.”
day.
Morgan says the students and teachers were grateful to the team from Christchurch City Council for delivering such an engaging and informative experience, which made history and science come alive for the students.
A dry wall building task was a highlight of the
Left: Year 8 children exploring the wetland area. Right: Year 8 students, Elina Wang and Zhiyi (Merida) Xiao
Putting
place in its waste
St Andrew’s College is making significant strides in waste management with the introduction of new outdoor waste disposal units and the gradual rollout of centralised indoor rubbish stations.
People and Business Manager, Justine Scott, and Business Office Manager, Kendall Burt, have worked closely with the student Sustainability Council, Year 11 Waste Management Group, and others to implement the project.
“We knew improvements could be made in the rubbish and recycling space, and when we started to investigate, realised the outdoor and indoor requirements were two very different projects,” says Kendall Burt. “We tackled the outdoor spaces across the College first, getting rid of most of the existing rubbish bins and replacing them with five rubbish and recycling stations, including one in the Preparatory School. Two of these stations also feature a green food waste bin alongside the rubbish and recycling.”
Head Prefect and Head of the Sustainability Council, Kate Simcock, says the new system has had a positive impact, with the colour-coded bins encouraging students to
develop and maintain responsible waste disposal habits.
“The new stations are part of a broader image which ensures proper usage and awareness around this issue. The implementation of clear signage, bin monitoring, and informative talks to educate students has helped to ensure the system’s long-term effectiveness.”
With the outdoor bins in place, the next stage is to eliminate the use of plastic bin liners in the classrooms, replacing the old classroom bins where possible with centralised indoor rubbish and recycling stations, which serve up to five classrooms.
Kendall says a trial of the new stations, which have yellow (recycling) and red (general waste) bins was successfully completed in the Preparatory School last year.
“We rolled the trial out in three phases, and by the end of the year, the centralised bins were working really well right across the Preparatory School. The teachers still have their own rubbish bins in the classroom, but with no plastic liner, and they empty the bins themselves into the new rubbish stations.”
Kendall says a separate waste station will be created to meet the unique needs of the Pre-school, which is already ‘doing really well’ in the areas of rubbish management, recycling, and minimisation of plastic waste.
The next step is to introduce the centralised indoor rubbish and recycling stations into the Secondary School, she adds.
“We are planning to consult with the Executive team and teaching teams to figure out the most effective way to roll it out, with our goal to have at least one station on each level of a teaching block. Some areas, for example Food and Technology, will probably need a green bin in addition to the rubbish and recycling bins.”
So far, the introduction of the outdoor waste bins, and the successful trial of the indoor waste system in the Preparatory School, has been ‘really positive’, says Kendall.
“It is going to make an even bigger difference once the system is in place across the whole school, as we take major steps towards a more sustainable future.”
Teacher-in-Charge of Sustainability Council, Ellen Hampson, with Council members, Theodore Meek, Kate Simcock, Daniel Officer, William Sherborne (all Year 13), Hanxi (Cicy) Chen (Year 11), Guy Bentley, Anthony Kutovoy (all Year 13) and William Penno (Year 12) at one of the new rubbish and recycling stations.
Annual Giving campaign St Andrew’s future to power
The introduction of solar energy is the exciting focus of the upcoming 2025 Annual Giving campaign, which will enable the St Andrew’s community to contribute towards a more sustainable and resilient future, says Rector, Mark Wilson.
“With significant capital investment already completed on the campus, we’ve started to ask questions about how robust and resilient we are in terms of extreme weather, spiking of electricity prices, and potential shutdowns in power. Having solar is one way we can protect ourselves in a volatile environment while also reducing our carbon footprint, creating a cleaner, healthier future.”
The initiative has been met with great enthusiasm from the College’s Sustainability Council, which has been driving environmental efforts across the campus. Ellen Hampson, Teacher in Charge of the Sustainability Council, describes the move as transformational.
“This is a monumental step toward a more sustainable future and undoubtedly elevates our whole school goal of sustainability to new heights. The potential benefits of solar energy for St Andrew’s College are truly unprecedented. As a school with inherently high energy consumption, this initiative will have a profound impact,” she says.
With 2025 bringing new climate regulations, shifting market
expectations, and growing pressure on businesses to take action, it is clear climate responsibility is no longer optional, says Ellen.
“This makes Mark’s initiative both timely and critical.”
Heads of Sustainability Council, Daniel Officer and Theodore Meek (both Year 13), are equally positive, highlighting the long-term impact of the project.
“It’s so encouraging as someone who has been involved in the Sustainability Council for several years to see another move toward a more sustainable St Andrew’s environment, alongside the addition of the new rubbish and recycling stations and other initiatives,” says Daniel Officer.
“The rest of the Sustainability Council and myself look forward to benefitting from solar energy and seeing St Andrew’s keeping moving towards a more sustainable future.”
Theodore Meek says the new solar programme offers a positive outlook for the growth of the sustainability measures St Andrew’s is taking, specifically those which reduce its carbon footprint.
“This is a step forward towards a carbon neutral school. A programme like this is also a progressive movement to bolster the momentum of our own Council and associated initiatives.”
The introduction of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to contribute to electricity generation at St Andrew’s was recommended in a comprehensive energy audit carried out for St Andrew’s in 2020 to identify cost effective and practical opportunities
New Strowan Members
Jack and Helen Allan from the Development Team
Rector, Mark Wilson, Heads of Sustainability Council, Theodore Meek and Daniel Officer (both Year 13) and Teacher-in-Charge of Sustainability Council, Ellen Hampson, say the Boarding House rooftops are a potential location for solar panels.
and Founders’ Day Highland Games
St Andrew’s celebrated its 108th Founders’ Day in March with all the best Scottish traditions on display. Always a highlight on the St Andrew’s calendar, it was another great community occasion, bringing together students, staff, parents, guests, and a large group of Old Collegians who returned for their 60 Years On Reunion, together honouring the Presbyterian founders of the College and its formation in 1917.
Highlights of the Founders’ Day Assembly included a dramatic and entertaining performance of Address to a Haggis by Year 13 student, Noah Fanene, and the orchestra’s rendition of Radetzky March by Johann Strauss.
Senior choir, Staccoro, sang a beautiful rendition of the traditional favourite Skye Boat Song, to honour the 2025 Robert Burns Scholars, Tom Simpson and Lila Waghorn (both Year 12), announced at the assembly, who will represent St Andrew’s on a three-week trip to Scotland in the September holidays, visiting a number of Scottish schools.
Guest speaker at the Founders’ Day Assembly was Amiria Rule (OC 2001), an Old Collegian and the current Head of Learning Support – Secondary at St Andrew’s.
A number of awards were also presented at the assembly, including two special Old Collegian awards, which are traditionally presented each Founders’ Day. Thomas White (Year 13) won the G.A.M. Hilson Memorial Accounting/ Economics Award, and George Paterson (Year 13) won the Henry Dowling Memorial French Award.
The day wrapped up with haggis tasting, followed by the Highland Games, which was another great occasion of noise, colour, chants, games, songs, and House spirit. The whole school, including the Preparatory School, joined on the lawn outside Strowan House to enjoy the competitive fun, taking part in everything from wheat sheaf tossing, to medicine ball throwing, the two-person dead lift and carry, and Highland dancing. An inter-House haka was another highlight of the Games.
Rector, Mark Wilson said he was in no doubt how pleased the College founders would be to see their original dream grow and develop into the school St Andrew’s is today.
“Let us learn from our founders to have bold and courageous dreams, that we are not afraid to chase and turn into reality, just like the story of our very own school –St Andrew’s College.”
The afternoon wrapped up most appropriately with a wonderful display from the Pipe Band. Founders’ Day was another great community celebration, marking 108 remarkable years of St Andrew’s College.
Regulus
of 100 years House Competitions
A century on from Rector, A K Anderson starting a House competition at St Andrew’s in 1925, the cheers, chants, colourful outfits, fierce rivalry, and school spirit remain as strong as ever.
Today, the College’s fields, Quad, and even the stage, are regularly awash with yellow, blue, green, and red, as students enthusiastically represent MacGibbon, Rutherford, Thompson, and Erwin Houses in various fun competitions held in a bid to earn highly sought after House points, and finish as the overall winning House each year.
As well as competing against each other in the traditional Athletic Sports Day, Swimming Sports, Cross Country, Highland Games, and House Singing, many new initiatives have been added to the programme, most recently the House rock band, rowing, and writing competitions, and a highly successful Cans for Humanity project, says Donna Jones, who after many years helping to organise the House competitions, now has the official title of Head of House Competition and Culture.
“I’m really passionate about the House competitions, which give our students a real sense of belonging, and the opportunity to be part of St Andrew’s traditions. They love to dress up in their House colours, and although friendly rivalry is part of it, the seriousness of competition always surfaces. We had 17 different House competitions in 2024, and there were some great battles.”
Donna says the House chants are a highlight of many competitions, especially at Founders’ Day and Highland Games, where Te Ao Māori
has also been blended into the day’s Scottish traditions. A haka competition now sits alongside the Houses singing the School Song and O Flower of Scotland, and competing in traditional games like wheat sheaf and medicine ball tossing.
The first high-spirited House competitions took place in 1925 in rugby, athletics, boxing, cross country, swimming, and debating, with boarders placed in Strowan and Rutherford Houses, and day boys in Erwin and Thompson Houses. In 1982, Strowan was replaced by MacGibbon as a House. Today, there is no strict criteria for who belongs to which House, other than siblings following the House of their eldest sibling, and inter-generational family members sometimes in the same Houses.
In her new role, officially overseeing the House competitions, Donna plans to keep evolving them.
“Staff are being more involved in the programme too, with teachers who are House Leaders being recognised in their email signatures. This year, support staff are being allocated a House for the first time, so they can feel that connectedness to the College and dress up in their colours and support their Houses too.”
Donna hopes to introduce House points for Fortnightly Notes, so the ‘culture of the classroom’ is included. There are also talks underway for each House to adopt a community service project.
“We’ve also set up a Houses at StAC Instagram page this year, where students, their families, and staff can follow the exciting House competition journey.”
Donna Jones is the first official Head of House Competition and Culture.
Two national titles for Pipe Band
It was an incredible weekend of competition for St Andrew’s College at the New Zealand Pipe Band Championships, where the A Band won both the Juvenile competition, a title it has held for several years, and the Grade 2 championship, says Pipe Band Director, Richard Hawke.
“It was an outstanding achievement and a huge surprise to win Grade 2, as the A Band was competing against strong adult bands, including two from Australia. The students delivered two great performances and were rewarded with wins in both the March/ Strathspey/Reel and Medley, the competition’s two events. They were also runners-up in drumming and won Best Bass and Tenor section in Grade 2. We are very proud of this highly talented group.”
Richard plays with the A Band but says when he is out of the equation, the average age of the band is around 16 years.
“To compete and beat bands with an average age of 30-plus in Grade 2 is a fantastic result. We have a great mix of boys and girls in the A Band with our youngest member in Year 10. We also had six Year 13 Leavers from 2024 playing in the A Band at the championships, including Pipe Major, Lucas Paterson and Drum Sergeant, Hayden Lam. Of particular note, was having seven Preparatory School students who were part of the C Band.”
A total of 65 students, including the Leavers, represented St Andrew’s at the two-day championships in Invercargill, where the B Band finished fourth out of nine bands in Grade 4A, and the C Band was fifth out of 17 bands in Grade 4B. A combined B and C Band was fourth out of 11 bands in the Juvenile Grade.
On the Friday night of the competition, the traditional Leavers’ Dinner was attended by around 140 St Andrew’s Pipe Band members, tutors, parents, and supporters.
“We recognised and honoured eight Year 13 Leavers, who had their last hurrah with the St Andrew’s Pipe Band.”
Richard says it was great having new Rector, Mark Wilson and his wife Judi, supporting the bands throughout the championships, where they got to experience the Pipe Band world for the first time, and were 'suitably impressed'.
The outstanding results are a testament to the strength and depth of the Pipe Band programme at St Andrew’s. Members of the A Grade who won the Juvenile and Grade 2 competitions were recognised at the Founders’ Day Assembly.
The A Pipe Band celebrated winning an unprecedented two national titles at the New Zealand Pipe Band Championships.
Powhiri
An official pōwhiri to welcome new staff and students into the St Andrew’s College whānau at the beginning of the school year was a moving occasion for all involved, says Teacher in Charge of Te Reo Māori, Wiremu Pickering.
“It was important that a pōwhiri was used to welcome the new tumuaki/ Rector and his whānau, as well as new ākonga, kaiako, and whānau from the community. The pōwhiri is an important part of validating relationships and honouring those relationships between the tangata whenua and manuwhiri especially when working together into the future with common goals or endeavours.”
The traditional Māori welcoming ceremony is usually done on the marae, but allowances are made for it to be performed elsewhere especially if there is an important guest or a significant occasion, says Wiremu.
“The pōwhiri is more formal than the mihi whakatau, with a lot more elements to it, including the karanga (welcoming call) and Whaikōrero (formal speeches) which are done in te reo Māori. This year’s pōwhiri was given the blessing to go ahead by Mana Whenua, with representatives from Ngāi Tūāhuriri in full support and performing the karanga and Whaikōrero,” he adds. “We anticipate the pōwhiri becoming an ongoing and integral part of tikanga here at St Andrew’s with the guidance and support of Mana Whenua.”
Calling Te Waka Ceremony
It was an early start for Year 10 ākonga on Thursday 27 February, who gathered at St Andrew’s at 5.30am, before making their way to Cracroft Reserve to participate in ‘The Calling’ ceremony, a special aspect of the Year 10 Te Waka programme.
‘The Calling’ signifies the end of childhood, with teachers ‘calling’ students on their journey towards adulthood. It is also a time when students express gratitude for those who have influenced them throughout their early years.
Teacher in Charge of Te Waka, Kate Taylor, says the ceremony began with greetings and welcoming messages, emphasising the importance of moving forward, accepting greater responsibility, and marking the start of this crucial phase.
“A key part of the ceremony involved students writing down a ‘childhood’ behaviour they wished to leave behind on a piece of harakeke, which were woven together as a class. The students respectfully and reflectively cast these back to the land, symbolising the end of childhood behaviours and the beginning of new challenges and responsibilities.”
The ceremony was followed by breakfast, served on the lawn of the Sign of the Takahe.
“It was a fantastic morning, with the sunrise breaking through low clouds,” says Kate. “The students deeply appreciated the significance of the ceremony, and it will remain a cherished memory they share with others.”
Polyfest
A polished and rousing performance by the St Andrew’s Polyfest group at the Canterbury Polyfest Festival on Saturday 22 March, was the culmination of months of hard work and dedication by a group of students and staff involved. The campaign started over the summer break, with tutors, Uli Afamasaga and Pete Westrupp, and senior student leaders preparing choreography and music choices. Practices started in the first week of Term 1, with the students showing great perseverance to learn a complex and physically demanding routine.
A few days before the Festival, the group, led by Polyfest student leaders Coco Schwass, Mia Montgomery and George Wesley, (all Year 13), and Hannah Papali’i Taimalelagi Malietoa (Year 12), gave a stirring and energetic performance of their routine for over 300 parents, students, and staff who gathered for the annual Fiafia Night, celebrating Pasifika culture in the St Andrew’s community. Five Year 13 students, Ethan Higgs, Mia Montgomery, George Wesley, Coco Schwass and Tave Stuart, had a ‘full circle moment’ having started their Polyfest journey back in Year 9 with the original St Andrew’s Polyfest group. Old Collegians, Lynonah Tausa (OC 2022), Laai Tausa and Cylas Tauti (OC 2023), also returned as tutoring staff for the group, which was also supported by its Teacher in Charge, James Jenkinson, and supporting teaching staff, Connor O’Rourke and Lucy Curtis.
Creating a
cultural legacy
Weaving together St Andrew’s Presbyterian Scottish heritage with the integration of Te Ao Māori, were key considerations for Bridget Robilliard from Kamo Marsh, the lead designer of the mahi toi (artistic works) being incorporated into the built landscape as part of the College’s new landscape plan.
“This process was a great opportunity to work with the St Andrew’s leadership team and Board of Governors to understand their values and vision for the school and how we could assist with progressing that forward,” says Bridget. “The mahi toi designs express the cultural value of the school highlighted in its Cultural Narrative, and show the interrelationship between St Andrew’s Presbyterian faith, history, and traditions, along with recognition of mana whenua, the whenua on which the College is based, and the integration of Te Ao Māori.”
The mahi toi include kōwhaiwhai patterns used in Māori carving and art, and tāniko patterns, traditionally used to form the borders of cloaks. These designs will feature on paving, building walls, posts, and seats around the College, with whariki mat designs also used to decorate paving. Another special feature is the stunning ornamental latticework pattern in tukutuku style, currently on the windows of the cafeteria, and as the manifestation strips for all of the Ngā Toi external windows and doors.
Kōwhaiwhai are a traditional form of Māori toi, often seen in carvings and decorating wharenui, with these elements already incorporated into the Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre, says Bridget.
“These designs are a form of storytelling, with the kōwhaiwhai designs created specifically for St Andrew’s College taking into consideration the whakapapa of the College, its culture, and the whenua on which it is located.”
The kōwhaiwhai created for the full school features the St Andrew’s Cross, which informs it structure, and the aka (vine) to represent the whakapapa and history of the College.
The
It also features the mangopare, to represent the courage, determination, and strength of the College community.
“This design reflects the strong history of St Andrew’s, and the fact all students who come into the school, also bring their families who become part of the College community. It is about weaving together the history of the school, its students, and whānau”
A second kōwhaiwhai was designed specifically for the ‘community and spirit’ of the Junior School, which has the same St Andrew’s Cross and aka forming its structure, with mōkehu, young fern fronds, shown growing within, representing the students’ development, strength, and growth, as they venture out while having the support of the school behind them.
“A special circular kōwhaiwhai has also been created for wider use around the College, with elements representing the puna (springs) originally found on the whenua, which are often used as a reference to learning,” says Bridget. “The division of the design into three parts was to incorporate the representation of the Holy Trinity as a reference to the Presbyterian faith".
Getting the approval of mana whenua, Ngāi Tūāhuriri, for the mahi toi created for St Andrew’s College was a ‘really important’ part of creation process, shares Bridget.
“Personally, it’s been meaningful for me to see my culture more visible in spaces it may not have been before. It is something our Director, Danny Kamo (OC 1992), is particularly passionate about, given he is alumni of St Andrew’s, and his children have or are attending the College”.
Aka (vine) to represent the whakapapa and history of the school.
Mangopare to represent the courage, determination and strength of the school community. The mangopare are shown facing each other to represent the 'coming together' and unity of the community.
Danny Kamo and Bridget Robilliard of Kamo Marsh, with Rector, Mark Wilson, in front of a kōwhaiwhai pattern outside the Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre.
The St Andrew's College Kōwhaiwhai
St Andrew's Cross informs the structure of the kowhaiwhai.
Thompson House girls
leading example
There are lots of leadership opportunities for students at St Andrew’s, with many selected for formal positions as they progress through the College. However, leadership is about more than a badge or position – it is a mindset being woven into everyday interactions in Thompson House, says House Manager and Assistant Head of Middle School, Liz Gormack.
“We encourage a culture in the boarding house where leadership might mean having an official role, but it is also reflected in the girls quietly leading by example – from getting on and doing things, to listening, using the right language, noticing when someone is feeling left out, and helping others without being asked. Leadership in whatever form reminds them what they are capable of, and how the smallest things can have such a positive impact on somebody else.”
With the entire cohort of female boarders from Years 9–13 living together in Thompson House, there are great opportunities for connections across the different year levels, and for leadership to emerge organically, says Liz.
by
“We are noticing some great conversations happening between our senior boarders and Year 9 and 10 girls, particularly in the kitchen over their morning toast. Our current Head of Girls’ Boarding, Cata Serrano Burgos, is a great example of this kind of leadership in action. We noticed last year how she was always doing the small stuff, and it was natural for her, and many of the other Year 12 boarders at the time, to engage with the younger girls without looking for recognition.”
Liz says Year 12 is a pivotal year for developing leadership in Thompson House, when the girls are given structured opportunities to take on responsibility. One of the key initiatives is the Focus Group programme, where Year 12 girls lead small groups consisting of boarders from different year levels. They plan and organise activities for their groups, which might include anything from ice skating and trips to McDonalds for ice cream, to fun evenings baking cupcakes. The goal is to build camaraderie and ensure all students feel included, says Liz.
“The Year 12 girls running the Focus Groups liaise with staff, communicate with the students about what’s happening, and ensure everything runs smoothly. It’s a great way for them to gain confidence in leading others. We
are keen to give the girls even more opportunities to take the reins and lead activities, even initiating their own with our support.”
Demonstrating leadership, whether formally or informally, can help the girls move into other leadership positions, especially as they progress into Year 13, when there is a plethora of roles available both in the boarding house, and wider College.
“We believe the values instilled in the boarding house help set the girls up for future leadership success. However, we also remind them if they don’t get a leadership role they wanted, they can still be a leader in the background, and a leader of themselves. Selfmanagement, listening, helping, and encouraging others are such necessary life skills, which will serve the girls well as they move into careers and further study beyond school.”
Top: Olivia Connor (Year 12), Head of Girls’ Boarding, Cata Serrano Burgos (Year 13), Bridget Glass (Year 11) and Mia Wilkins (Year 9) baking during a Focus Group session.
Community service
and Late 2024*
10ACEE Sustainability
As part of their Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) initiative, two 10ACEE student groups delivered four cartons of fresh vegetables and a carton of muffins to St Ambrose Church in November, with the vegetables all grown on campus.
Year 9 Charity Challenge
Year 9 Dean, James Jenkinson, introduced the Charity Challenge in 2024, with each tutor group given $10.00 and tasked with turning it into as much money as possible, with the final amount to be donated to a good cause. The key was finding cheap resources that could be turned into products with a good profit margin. Ideas included turning horseshoes into various products, making lemonade concentrate, and large chocolate cookies. By the end of the year, students raised $1050, which they donated to Multiple Sclerosis New Zealand.
World Vision Advocacy Ambassador
Samuel Ferguson (Year 13) was selected as a World Vision Advocacy Ambassador for 2025. The role of an Advocacy Ambassador is to influence and inspire young adults to take action for legislative change in Aotearoa for the benefit of vulnerable children and their families. Samuel was chosen for the advocacy and leadership skills shown throughout his support of World Vision initiatives at St Andrew’s College.
*Please note the use of 2024 year groups.
Staff Community Service afternoon
In a new initiative for 2024, Secondary School teachers and Support Staff who were able, were involved in a Community Service afternoon, with several staff co-ordinating various activities for people to be involved in across the city. These included planting native trees for the College’s Eco-Action Nursery, sewing dresses for the Dress a Girl Around the World organisation, baking Christmas treats for over 600 primary school students involved in the Full Bellies programme, and helping at Waimairi School, Kairos Food Rescue, Clothed in Love, SPCA, and taking part in Avon River and beach clean ups. Mathematics teacher, Jon Fahlander, ran 45km in the heat to raise over $400 of funds for people in need.
2025
French Mardi Gras
A group of French students had the opportunity to sample a crêpe prepared by Madame Radcliffe, Madame Taylor, and the French Assistant, Bintou, for the French tradition of Mardi Gras which takes place on the Tuesday before the beginning of Lent – a time for people to consume their rich foods in preparation for fasting. The students indicated their topping preferences in French.
Red Zone planting –Sustainability Council
In early March, Secondary School students packed up their 2000 repotted seedlings to transfer to the central Eco-Action Project nursery. The Preparatory School also packed up their repotted seedlings. In mid-May the young trees and shrubs will be transported to the Red Zone for the first 2025 Community Planting. This flagship sustainable action project involves both the Sustainability Council and the Duke of Edinburgh programme.
Special
Assemblies
Prefect Investiture and Leadership Assembly
The traditional Leadership Assembly saw the investiture of 34 prefects, including Heads of College, Jake Elvidge, Kate Simcock, Sophia Voice and Ricky Kotepong. Head Prefects, Jake and Kate, introduced the prefects’ theme for the year – ‘Grounded by the Thistle, Surrounded by Connection’ which reflects students’ deep connection to St Andrew’s values and traditions, and the relationships built in the College community. Various Year 12 and 13 leadership positions were also recognised at the assembly, which included a performance by the Jazz Combo, and a handover of the Heads of College Journal from the 2023 Head Prefect, Hugo Ranken, and Deputy Head Prefect, Holly Maraki, which added to the occasion.
Academic Assembly
The Secondary School Academic Assembly was a wonderful celebration of the outstanding achievement of students in the 2024 NCEA and Scholarship examinations. Several of St Andrew’s 2023 Leavers returned to the assembly to receive a Board of Governors’ Scholarship in recognition of their achievements, including 2024 Dux, Aaron Moore, who received six NZQA Scholarships (including one Outstanding) and was one of 55 students nationally to receive a NZQA Outstanding Scholar Award. Other highlights included a Morning Report from the Academic Captains, James Anthony, Maria (Masha) Pospolitak and Sarah Waddington, who cleverly used a supermarket shopping analogy to help students prepare for their academic year; an address by Deputy Head Girl 2019, Frankie Morrow, and a beautiful performance of Morceau de Concours by Miu Kim (Year 13) accompanied by Sea-am Thompson (OC 2024).
Regulus
Turning intopassionperformance
The more than 3.8 million online views racked up by the exceptional student performances of Viva la Vida and Stairway to Heaven at the last two Prizegiving ceremonies are a testament to the world-class standard of music at St Andrew’s College. These viral performances reflect not only the incredible talent of the students but also the dedication of the teachers and itinerant music tutors who guide them to reach their full potential.
Head of Music, Duncan Ferguson, says St Andrew’s is fortunate to have a ‘wealth of talent’ among its team of instrumental and vocal tutors, who provide expert mentorship in every genre, instrument, and vocal style students are passionate about.
“Our tutors are all experienced professional musicians, with many performing in the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra and Court Theatre productions. Others have extensive backgrounds in jazz and rock, performing both in New Zealand and internationally. In February, we held a music tutor demonstration concert, which highlighted the incredible depth of talent in our itinerant team.”
Beyond their impressive performance careers, the tutors are also deeply committed educators, Duncan adds.
“They create personalised programmes which cater to each student’s individual strengths and aspirations. We are very proud of our teachers’ musicianship and professionalism in their support of our ākonga and the many co-curricular music groups they work with.”
Acclaimed performer, Deborah Wai Kapohe, now in her fourth year as a singing teacher at St Andrew’s, spends three days a week nurturing the talents of a diverse range of vocal students.
“My students range from those who are very serious about making a career out of music to others who just want to come and sing in their lesson. One thing I love about teaching at St Andrew’s is the students are enabled
to pursue their passions,” shares Deborah. “My day could include anything from working with musical theatre or classical students to helping rock students belt out their songs, to strumming my guitar alongside a student who wants to sing some Johnny Cash.”
With decades of experience as a professional opera singer, Deborah’s impressive résumé spans musical theatre, contemporary Māori music, arts festivals, proms, concerts, recitals, self-accompanied guitar and voice performances, and special events across New Zealand, Australia, the UK, the Asia-Pacific region, and South Africa. She says Head of Music, Duncan Ferguson, fosters an ‘amazing environment’ in the Music Department.
“The young people here are phenomenal too. They might come to me to prepare for an audition for the Jazz Band, and three weeks later, be auditioning for a production. It’s exciting to work like that and it keeps me on my toes.”
Music tutor, Jimmy Rainey (OC 2012), a talented jazz performer and saxophonist, tutors individuals and groups, including the Jazz Band and Jazz Combo at St Andrew’s. A versatile live musician, Jimmy plays festivals, gigs, and tours with various bands and orchestras, moving seamlessly between jazz, rock, world music, and even DJing electronic dance music gigs. He is also part of a hip-hop brass band.
“Trying all kinds of music at St Andrew’s was a big part of my high school experience and really set me up for an ongoing career in music. I love connecting with my students here. It’s really cool to see their progression and growth each year.”
Jimmy also enjoys seeing his students’ names appear on the same jazz and saxophone trophies he won during his time at the College. “It’s great to see them continuing on the traditions and successes of the Music Department, which has produced a lot of musicians in Christchurch and New Zealand who are doing some pretty great stuff.”
St Andrew’s music tutors, Jimmy Rainey and Deborah Wai Kapohe
Cultural
catch up
Late 2024*
* Please note the use of 2024 year groups.
Ballet Production –
The Nutcracker
The St Andrew’s College Ballet Academy proudly presented The Nutcracker as its production for 2024 – the first Ballet production to take place in the Gough Family Theatre in the new Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre.
Audiences over the four performances in late November were enchanted by the show’s beautiful performances, magical storytelling, and unforgettable music. Set on Christmas Eve, the story began 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 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.
Under the guidance of Ballet Academy Artistic Director, Director Dr Carolyn Cairns, the talent of dancers from all year levels shone through this timeless holiday classic. Audiences thoroughly enjoyed the beauty and excitement of this ballet, the graceful and elegant dancers, and the stunning costumes on stage.
Ballet
Tavé Stuart (Year 12) competed in the National Young Performer Awards (NYPA) making it to the semi-final, finishing in the top 16 out of 75 of the best 15–21-year-old ballerinas in the country.
Siara Clarke (Year 13), Tavé Stuart (Year 12), Femke McLean (Year 10) and Cameron Lyons (Year 9), qualified to compete at the NZAMD National Ballet Scholarship Awards. Both Tavé and Cameron progressed to the finals (out of eight selected) and Tavé was awarded first place.
Ballroom Dancing
At the Aotearoa New Zealand Ballroom Dancing Championships, Holly Hembry (Year 9) competed in 13 events, securing 12 first places and one second place.
Highland Dancing
At the Hororata Highland Games Highland Dancing Competition, dancers achieved the following results:
• Nayana Abrahamson (Year 2): Champion 6 Years and Under; Champion U8 years;
• Sofia Sneddon (Year 7): Champion U12 years;
• Sarah McCarthy (Year 9): Champion U14 years.
Georgia Gregg (Year 7) won Most Points U14 and Most Points of the Day at the Amberley Show, and U12 Most Points and U12 Irish Jig at the Greymouth Highland Dance Competition.
Ruby Bradbury (Year 2) won Most Points U8 at the Amberley A&P Show and Most Points U8 and U10 at the Pleasant Point Show.
Music
The following students were accepted into the 2025 New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Symphony Orchestra (NZSSSO):
• Jasmine Hooker (Year 12) –Principal cello;
• Miu Kim (Year 12) – Principal flute;
• Cheryl Teng (Year 10) – part of first violin;
• Ary Son (Year 10) – viola;
• Xinyi (Alicia) Chen (Year 10) – viola;
• Yuxin (Alice) Chen (Year 10) –French horn;
• Ethan Waines (Year 8) – French horn.
Ethan Waines was also one of four soloists performing a movement in Vivaldi’s Concerto for 4 Violins with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra at the February 2025 Mitre 10 Sparks event in Hagley Park.
Chenxiao Leo Yang (Year 7) showcased his talent performing in The Rising Stars concert, held in the Great Hall in the Arts Centre, a performance which captivated the audience throughout. Ethan Waines (Year 8) and his younger brother, Caleb, also presented an outstanding recital of piano works, playing both individual and duet pieces.
Chenxiao Leo Yang
Pipe Band
Arthur Rodgers Memorial Piobaireachd
On Sunday 20 October, the Pipe Band hosted the inaugural Arthur Rodgers Memorial Piobaireachd Competition in the Senior College for current St Andrew’s students in memory of Arthur Rodgers’ contribution to the Pipe Band as a parent, grandparent, and former Band Manager. The winner of the Senior event was Sam Foote (Year 11), playing the Viscount of Dundee.
Highland Piping Society of Canterbury – Silver Chanter Twenty-eight St Andrew’s College Pipe Band students competed in the Highland Piping Society of Canterbury Labour Weekend Silver Chanter Solo Piping Competition, a major event in the solo piping calendar. Those to achieve a top three placing were:
• Maggie McConnochie (Year 10): first U21 2/4 March (New Zealand Championship), third B Grade 2/4 March;
• Lucas Paterson (Year 13): third B Grade Piobaireachd, third U21 Piobaireachd;
• Sam Foote (Year 11): second U21 2/4 March;
• Anthony Song (Year 9): first C Grade 2/4 March, third Strathspey/Reel;
• Cameron Sharpe (Year 10): second C Grade Piobaireachd;
• Alice Glover (Year 8): third C Grade Piobaireachd;
• Charlie Gregg (Year 9): second C Grade 2/4 March, second Hornpipe/Jig, first 6/8 March;
• Emily Brook (Year 11): third C Grade Hornpipe/Jig;
• Finlay Trewinnard (Year 9): third C Grade 6/8 March, first D Grade Piobaireachd, 2/4 March, Strathspey/ Reel, and 6/8 March;
• Isaac Seatter (Year 10): second D Grade 2/4 March;
• George Nicholls (Year 6): third D Grade 2/4 March;
• Ryley Medland (Year 11): second D Grade Strathspey/Reel;
• William Nicholls (Year 9): third D Grade Strathspey/Reel;
• Charlotte Donovan (Year 8): first Novice March;
• Benjamin Carline (Year 6): third Novice March.
South Canterbury Solo Piping Championships
Students to achieve a first placing at the South Canterbury Solo Piping Championships were:
• Sam Foote (Year 11): first B Grade Hornpipe/Jig;
• Maggie McConnochie (Year 10): first B Grade 6/8 March;
• Hamish Bilton (Year 9): first C Grade 2/4 March, Strathspey/Reel and Hornpipe/Jig;
• Lachlan Sneddon (Year 9): first C Grade 6/8 March;
• Finlay Trewinnard (Year 9): first D Grade Strathspey/Reel and Slow Air;
• Nathaniel Jones (Year 7): first Novice.
Hororata Highland Games
Pipe Sergeant Iona Lawson (Year 13) led the massed bands at the official opening ceremony of the Hororata Highland Games with AmazingGrace. Many students competed in the solo piping and drumming competitions in the morning, prior to the pipe band events where the A Band won Grade 2 and Juvenile, the B Band won Grade 4, and the newly formed C Band was seventh out of 11 teams in Grade 4 (an adult grade). Top three placegetters in the solo events were:
SoloPiping
• Sam Foote (Year 11): third A Grade and B Grade March, Strathspey and Reel;
• Maggie McConnochie (Year 10): first B Grade March, Strathspey and Reel;
• Finlay Trewinnard (Year 9): first C Grade and second D Grade 2/4 March;
• Lachlan Sneddon (Year 9): third C Grade 2/4 March;
• William Nicholls (Year 9): first D Grade 2/4 March;
• Luke Russell (Year 6): first Novice;
• Jack Blyde (Year 6): third Novice.
SnareDrumming
• Daniel Liu (Year 11): third C Grade 2/4 March;
• D Grade: Theodore Lagias (Year 12) first, Benjamin Edward (Year 8) second, Oliver Gilbert (Year 9) third.
TenorDrumming
• Harrison Justice (Year 13): third Open March, Strathspey and Reel;
• Samantha Bilton (Year 10): first Intermediate March;
• Annie Young (Year 11): second Intermediate March;
• Rannoch Forsyth (Year 8): third Novice March.
BassDrumming
• Austin Paterson (Year 10): first Novice.
Waipu Highland Games and Evening Ceilidh/Hogmanay
St Andrew’s students performed well at this major solo piping competition, which is part of a traditional Highland Gathering with various events. Placegetters were:
• Sam Foote (Year 11): B Grade and U21
– Most Points B Grade, first March, Strathspey and Reel, Strathspey and Reel, Hornpipe and Jig, second 2/4 March, third Piobaireachd;
• Maggie McConnochie (Year 10): B Grade and U21 – first Piobaireachd, second March Strathspey and Reel, Hornpipe and Jig;
• Finlay Trewinnard (Year 9): first C Grade 2/4 March, Most Points D Grade, first 2/4 March, Piobaireachd, and third Strathspey and Reel;
• William Nicholls (Year 9): third C Grade 2/4 March, third D Grade Piobaireachd;
• Ryley Medland (Year 11): first C Grade and D Grade Strathspey and Reel.
Dance
Tavé Stuart (Year 13) went to the Australian National Showcase Dance Competition on the Gold Coast in January. In addition to her dance troupe winning Overall Supreme National Champion for Australia, as an individual, Tavé achieved Top 15 National Dancer of the Year; sixth highest scoring in the Senior Elite category; and was first in Classical, second Lyrical and Musical, and won High Gold for Jazz.
Stuart (Year 13)
Archer Wyeth (Year 4) attended the New Zealand Boys’ Dance Convention, taking workshops in Jazz, Ballet, Lyrical, Hip-hop, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, Arco, and Tap. He performed in six items in the convention’s showcase concert, representing his dance school.
Highland Dance
Eleanor Nortje (Year 5) and Agnes Buist (Year 6) received the Examination Scholarship for their respective grades (Initial and Grade 2) at the Summer Fling Highland Dance four-day event. Only one scholarship is awarded per grade from close to 40 pupils per grade.
Georgia Gregg (Year 8) won the South Canterbury Championship U12 Irish Jig, and, with partner Violet Winterbourn (Year 5) won the Double Sword U14. At the Rangiora Highland Dancing Competition, Georgia Gregg won Most Points U12, Iaera Abrahamson (Year 5) won Most Points U10 and Most Points of the Day, Nayana Abrahamson (Year 3) won Most Points U8, Most Points 6 and Under, and Most Outstanding Dancer of the Day, and Watson Winterbourn (Year 2) won Most Points Male (All Ages), Runner-Up Most Points (U8) and the Restricted Jig (U14).
Irish Dance
Billy Forsyth (Year 11) competed at the World Irish Dance Championships in Ireland in April, in the team’s section as well as performing solo. Billy qualified for the Worlds after competing in his first national competition in October 2024, placing fourth in the Solo section for Boys’ 13–15 years and first in the Mixed team section.
Orchestra
Seven students were selected to participate in the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Symphony Orchestra (NZSSSO) course, in April. They are Ethan Waines (Year 9), Xinyi (Alicia) Chen, Ary Son, Yuxin (Alice) Chen, Cheryl Teng (all Year 11), Jasmine Hooker and Miu Kim (both Year 13).
Pipe Band
Turakina Highland Games
Placegetters at this event held over the summer holidays were:
• Sam Foote (Year 12): Overall U21 Champion, first 2/4 March, Strathspey and Reel; first B Grade Piobaireachd, second 2/4 March and Hornpipe and Jig;
• Maggie McConnochie (Year 11): Overall Most Points B Grade including Most Promising Female Piper, first 2/4 March, Hornpipe and Jig, second Strathspey and Reel, second U21 2/4 March and Strathspey and Reel;
• William Nicholls (Year 10): third C Grade 2/4 March, Hornpipe and Jig.
William Nicholls (Year 10), Maggie McConnochie (Year 11) and Sam Foote (Year 12)
Cameron Sharpe (Year 11) won second place in the Bagpipe Tune Composition Contest at the Royal New Zealand Pipe Band Association Summer School in Wellington and received a wonderful McCallum Bagpipe practice chanter as his prize.
The Pipe Band A, B and C Bands competed at the Canterbury Provincial Championships in the grounds of Riccarton Bush, with some fantastic results.
Canterbury Provincial Championships
• A Band – Grade 2 winner Overall and winners of the Provincial and the South Island Championship. Juvenile first place and winners of the Provincial and the South Island Championship;
• B Band – Grade 4 runners-up and Juvenile (combined with C Band) runners-up to A Band;
• C Band – Grade 4 seventh place.
Canterbury Centre Contest
• A Band – Grade 2 runners-up Provincial and the South Island Championship. Juvenile first place;
• B Band – Grade 4 runners-up and Juvenile (with development and C Band) runners-up to A Band;
• C Band – Grade 4 seventh place.
Victorian Piper’s Association Online Solo Piping Competition
Sam Foote (Year 12) and Maggie McConnochie (Year 11) competed in the Victorian Piper’s Association Online Solo Piping Competition, with Sam finishing second overall in B Grade, and Maggie third overall in B Grade.
Theatre
Wilde Brabazon-Fleming (Year 10) played the role of Lysander in his Shakespearean debut with the Canterbury Youth Theatre. Wilde has been performing in theatre productions since the age of four with Newtown Arts Company in the US and has been training with The Court Theatre since the age of six.
Tavé
life-changing
Coco’s adventure
Making new friends, trying new things, and creating lifetime memories are some of the highlights of the 21day Outward Bound course completed by Coco Schwass (Year 13) in January.
“Outward Bound has been such a life-changing experience and I will be forever grateful to the Ben Gough Family Foundation for sponsoring me,” says Coco, who admits to feeling a little nervous before her adventure began. “When I applied it was very impulsive, so I was a bit worried, but it turned out to be the best decision of my life.”
Coco says the 6.00am wakeups, followed by a three kilometre run and quick ocean swim, helped her to develop healthy habits she has taken into her everyday life, along with an Outward Bound motto, ‘eat when you can, sleep when you can’, highlighting the importance of time management.
Learning the importance of trust during a kayaking exercise was her biggest challenge during the three-week adventure, she admits.
“I don’t normally let my guard down easily and especially not among new people. On the second day we had to practise flipping upside down in a white-water kayak and staying stuck underwater until a partner in the group flipped us back over. Overcoming the fear of flipping over was a big challenge for me, let alone relying on somebody I had met the day prior to save me!”
Coco says the ‘schemes’ were the most exciting part of the course, which included overnight trips like Tangaroa (sea scheme), Ngahere (bush scheme), service (mahi aroha), kayaking, and solo.
“Our second scheme was an overnight tramp where we learnt the importance of reading maps, finding bearings, and hiding our things from possums!”
On the two-night sailing scheme, Coco and other course participants made every decision on their boat as they sailed for 11 hours into the Marlborough Sounds, with their instructors nearby but not too close, in another boat.
“We spent two nights sleeping under the stars before sailing back to Anakiwa. This was my favourite scheme, and we were greeted by huge cruise ships, dolphins, penguins, and lots of different types of jelly fish.”
Coco was surprised at how mentally as well as physically demanding the Outward Bound course was.
“By participating in various whiteboard workshops, I was able to take the time to reflect on things like my values and beliefs, which is something I would never normally allocate time for. The physical activities like tramping and the solo were also a mental challenge.”
Mindfulness workshops helped Coco to learn about the importance of a positive mindset, which was particularly valuable during the ‘schemes’, she says.
“We learnt if you truly believe you can do something, you will achieve it. During a tramp where we had been walking for eight hours already and had three kilometres of uphill left, it was critical to remind myself I was capable.”
Coco says the new friends and connections she made during Outward Bound was the biggest highlight.
“I would definitely encourage other students to apply for these scholarships, as they really help to create lifelong memories, unlock your full potential, and most importantly, have fun.”
Below: Coco Schwass (Year 13) bottom right during Outward Bound.
Athletic Sports Day Secondary School
There was colour, excitement, and enthusiastic participation on display at St Andrew’s 107th Athletic Sports Day, which was also an opportunity to celebrate 100 years of the College’s House system and competitions. House Leaders did a great job generating fierce and noisy House spirit and competition, with the traditional chants enjoyed by all, and lots of cheering for all the athletes. Several students won three or more events, with standout performers being two female runners, Sophie Lampe (Year 11) who won five Girls’ intermediate running events, and Tayla Ford (Year 9) who won four Girls’ U14 running events. The traditional Pipe Band march was a great end to a fantastic day of competition, which was won by Rutherford House for the fourth consecutive year.
in the world fifth Flag Footballers
When a group of Preparatory School students were introduced to the new sport of flag football last year by teacher, Mason Shaw, they could never have imagined just six months later they would be representing New Zealand at the Flag Football World Championship in Orlando, Florida and finishing an incredible fifth place overall in the world.
“I’m super proud of the team. Although we only had a short time to prepare, the students listened, learnt, and worked so hard to pick up the game and understand their positions and assignments on the field,” says Mason “Making the quarter-finals at the world championships was an incredible moment, especially given there were only two school teams in the entire competition, which had mostly club teams with a few years’ experience.”
Flag football is variant of American gridiron football, where instead of tackling players, the defensive team must remove a flag belt from the ball carrier to end a down.
“There is no contact in flag football, minimal requirements in terms of gear, and it’s a mixed sport, which makes it ideal for children,” says
Mason, who has been involved with American football in the Canterbury region for a few years.
“The NFL is giving the sport a big push with youth as it is going to be included in the Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028. They introduced a pilot flag football programme into the North Island a couple of years ago, and I asked if Christchurch could be included in the 2024 competition. We ended up winning our regional championships, and going on to the nationals, which we won too, giving us the opportunity to represent New Zealand in Orlando.”
The team’s six Preparatory School students, Jack Ellwood, Austen Fraser, Liam Gravley, Frank McHarg, Patrick O’Byrne and Mila Rule (all Year 8), and four Secondary School students, Levi Currie, Edward Park, Olivia Quane and Joshua Stewart (all Year 9), represented St Andrew’s with distinction. All flights, accommodation, and costs were met by the NFL, and the students arrived in Orlando to a ‘massive box of swag’ full of NFL team merchandise they could choose from.
During the world championship competition, the New Zealand (St Andrew’s) team lost their opening fixture to Panama 6–8, followed by a 0–21 loss to reigning world champions, Japan. The team bounced back with a 7–6 win over Brazil, placing
them seventh out of the 13 teams heading into the elimination stages. A 7–6 overtime win over old foes, Australia, saw the team meet previous finalists Mexico in the quarter-finals, where their journey ended after Mexico secured a 28–0 victory.
The students had some other ‘cool experiences’ says Mason, including going to the Pro Bowl where they got up close to many of their favourite NFL players and did a haka for superstar, George Kittle, of the San Francisco 49ers.
“They even had their own media day, where Levi Currie and Olivia Quane sat in front of a few media outlets and featured in a USAToday story about kids getting involved in sport and having fun.”
Mason says he is very proud of the team’s work ethnic and the way the students portrayed themselves as both representatives of St Andrew’s and New Zealand.
“It’s been a fantastic experience for everyone and has inspired other St Andrew’s students to pursue the sport. There is definitely room for more children to get involved and we have a good lineup of students wanting to trial now.”
Year 8 students Jack Ellwood and Mila Rule in action during the competition.
St Andrew’s flag footballers representing New Zealand on the world stage.
House
Swimming Sports Secondary School
The annual Secondary School House Swimming Sports competition at Jellie Park in March was a fiercely competitive event, with 135 swimmers taking part in a back-to-back programme to win points for their Houses. Rutherford continued its dominance of both the Swimming Sports and Athletic Sports Day over recent years to take the win, followed by MacGibbon second, Erwin third, and Thompson fourth. Five new
school swimming records were set with Luca Graham (Year 13) claiming a record in the Senior Boys’ 200m individual medley and winning six individua events, and Rylee McBride (Year 13) setting an impressive four new records in Senior Girls’ 50m butterfly, 50m backstroke, 50m breaststroke, and 100m breaststroke, and winning eight individual events.
Integrity made here in Christchurch montreux.co.nz
Stunning for St Andrew’s cricketers first class success
The 2024/2025 cricket season has been one for the record books, with an incredible 11 former St Andrew’s cricketers earning first-class contracts, including Black Caps, Henry Nicholls (OC 2009), Zak Foulkes (OC 2020) and Rhys Mariu (OC 2019), who debuted for the Black Caps ODI squad in late March against Pakistan.
“It’s really rewarding to see some of these guys go on and play first-class cricket, and especially to see Henry, Zak and Rhys playing for New Zealand. Hopefully St Andrew’s has been part of the jigsaw puzzle that got them all there,” says long-serving coach, Mike (Scrump) Johnston (OC 1974), who has seen 19 former 1st XI cricketers go on to play first-class cricket during his 25 year career at the College.
“When I first started at St Andrew’s, we had 14 players who had played first-class cricket over a 50-year period. To now have 11 players on first-class contracts in a single season is pretty special.”
As well as passing on his vast cricket knowledge and experience, Mike, who has played several seasons for the New Zealand Over 60s cricket team, says his approach as a coach is all about building strong relationships with his players.
“Understanding the individual players and what makes them tick enables me to influence them a wee bit, challenge their abilities, and get them to learn from trainings and their mistakes.
Developing a strong work ethic, and an enjoyable environment where there is a fun aspect, with shared values and principles, also helps them to develop into better cricketers.”
One standout former St Andrew’s player is current Black Cap, Henry Nicholls (OC 2009), who says trying a variety of sports during his time at the College gave him a ‘well rounded perspective and good balance’ which he has carried into his professional career.
“Scrump coached my two older brothers, so I knew how much of a good man he was before he coached me. He has a lot of expertise and helped us to play cricket the right way, while also encouraging us to enjoy our teammate’s successes and playing alongside our mates.”
Zak Foulkes (OC 2020), who is in his debut season with the Black Caps, also has fond memories of his time playing cricket for St Andrew’s.
“It is awesome that so many of the guys I played with have kicked on and are now playing together for Canterbury. Scrump is a great cricket coach, but most importantly a great human being and I will always cherish the memories we made together.”
A recent highlight for Mike was watching a Canterbury versus Otago match, when seven of the 22 players on the field were former St Andrew’s students. He was particularly proud to see Scott Janett (OC 2021) and Llew Johnson (OC 2017) score their debut centuries for Canterbury and Otago respectively in that match.
Above:Canterbury players and Old Collegians, Rhys Mariu (OC 2019), Scott Janett (OC 2021), Zak Foulkes (OC 2020) and Henry Shipley (OC 2014), with College Custodian and 1st XI cricket coach, Mike (Scrump) Johnston (OC 1974). Rhys Mariu and Zak Foulkes are also in the Black Caps squad.
Three other Old Collegians have made international teams during Mike’s time – Peter Borren (OC 2001) and Logan Van Beek (OC 2008) who both played for the Netherlands, and Marty Kain (OC 2006), who played for the USA. Amiria Rule (OC 2001), Allie MaceCochrane (OC 2015) and Monique Rees (OC 2018), also made first class women’s teams.
Mike says a dedicated network of ‘good people’, including Robbie Frew; former Black Cap, Shane Bond; Head of Sport, Mark Lane; Director of Boarding and Head of Middle School, Matt Parr, and past teacher and 2nd XI cricket coach Ian (Morrie) Morrison, are among the many who have contributed to the success of the cricket programme.
“We will continue to follow our former students’ careers with interest. They have certainly set a high bar for the next generation of St Andrew’s cricketers.”
St Andrew’s 2024/2025 first class cricketers
New Zealand/Canterbury: Zac Foulkes (OC 2020), Henry Nicholls (OC 2009), Rhys Mariu (OC 2019)
Canterbury: Jesse Frew (OC 2019), Scott Janett (OC 2021), Cam Paul (OC 2022), Henry Shipley (OC 2014)
Otago: Leo Carter (OC's 2012), Andrew Hazeldine (OC 2012), Llew Johnson (OC 2017)
Wellington: Logan van Beek (OC 2008)
Sports round up
Late 2024*
New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Touch Championship
After winning the Canterbury Secondary Schools’ Touch Championship, the St Andrew’s Mixed touch team travelled to Rotorua to take part in the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Touch Championship, among 43 top teams from around the country. The team had eight games over the weekend, playing well to make it to the final for the second year in a row. They came away with a silver medal and second ranking in New Zealand after a 7–11 loss to Mahurangi College in the final but can be proud of all their performances through the tournament. The team thanked the departing Year 13 students who were part of the team for several years: Macklan Robertson, Samuel Mustchin, Tom Turner, Rafferty Powell, Ophelia Powell, Holly Maraki, Milla Downing and Addison Williams.
New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Athletics National Track and Field and Road Race Championships
A team of 14 athletes from St Andrew's competed at the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Athletics National Track and Field and Road Race Championships in Timaru in early December. Almost every member of the team achieved at least one final and personal best performance. The best
individual results were produced by Oliver Jackways (Y11) and Orla Motley (Y12) with each picking up a bronze medal in the Junior Boys’ 400m and Senior Girls’ hammer respectively. The Junior Mixed 4×400 relay team won silver within .01 of a second. The same team members had also placed second the previous year.
Results:
• Sophie Lampe (Y10), Abigail ScottDouglas, Oliver Jackways and Kupa Rule (all Y11): second Junior Mixed 4×400 relay;
• Oliver Jackways (Y11): third Junior Boys’ 400m 3rd (personal best 50:87); ninth high jump;
• Orla Motley (Y12): third Senior Girls hammer, sixth javelin;
• Kupa Rule (Y11): sixth Junior Boys 800, 14th 1500m;
• Leah King (Y9): 11th high jump (personal best in high jump and 100m and long jump;
• Elliot Graves (Y13): 6km road race –18th;
• Cohnor Walsh (Y11): one of the youngest in the Senior Boys 1500m and 3000m and performed with merit;
• Sophie Paterson (Y10): competed in 300m hurdles, long jump, triple jump;
• Amelia Cody (Y10): competed in 300m hurdles, long jump, 80m hurdles;
• Ava Gardiner (Y12): competed in 200m.
Senior Mixed touch team. Back: Assistant coach - Tom Ruwhiu, Tuari Manuel, Fynn Harris, Nikao Panapa, Milla Downing, Harrison Mealings, Findley Curtis, Metua Cranwell, Samuel Mustchin, Tom Turner, Coach - Paul Harris; Front: Manager - Alison Lomax, Otis Wheeler, Ophelia Powell, Addison Williams, Macklan Robertson, Rafferty Powell, Holly Maraki, Seymour Stowers-Smith.
Top: Orla Motley (Y12) Middle: Oliver Jackways (Y11)
Bottom: Sophie Lampe (Y10), Abigail ScottDouglas, Kupa Rule and Oliver Jackways (all Y11)
National Condor Rugby Sevens Tournament
The Senior Girls’ rugby sevens team were eighth out of 20 teams at the National Condor Rugby Sevens Tournament, following their second place in the Canterbury Regional Competition. The team was defeated in the quarter-final against Auckland Girls’ Grammar School. However, despite playing with only nine players for a significant portion of the game, scored two tries. In the final game, the girls fought valiantly with just seven players, ending in a nail-biting 28–26 loss against Feilding High School. The eighth place national ranking is an improvement from last year’s 10th place and is a testament to the team’s dedication and skill.
Athletics
Years 4–8 Athletic Sports Day
There was great competition at the Years 4–8 Athletic Sports Day, with several new records set by Alessandria Greer (Y5 Girls’ long jump), Lila Scott (Y6 Girls’ discus), Joshua Smith (Y7 Boys’ discus), Ethan Waines (Y8 Boys’ discus), Sophie Jacobs (Y6 Girls’ shot put), Thomas Franks (Y4 Boys’ shot put) and Samuel Hoshek (Y8 Boys’ shot put).
Year group champions were:
• Year 4: Jack Marsh (Boys) Francesca Greer (Girls);
• Year 5: Samuel Carline (Boys) Alessandria Greer (Girls);
• Year 6: Harrison Julius (Boys) Sophie Jacobs (Girls);
• Year 7: Joshua Smith (Boys) Isabelle Greer (Girls);
• Year 8: Ethan Waines (Boys) Tayla Ford (Girls).
CPSSA Athletics
On Wednesday 27 November, a group 21 Preparatory School students competed at the Canterbury Primary Athletics event held at Ngā Puna Wai, demonstrating great spirit. Those to achieve a top three placing were:
• Joshua Smith: third Y7 Boys 1500;
• Isabelle Greer: first Y7 Girls 1500m, second 100m; second long jump;
• Tayla Ford, Isla Marshall, Lucy Bailey, Alice Glover: first Year 8 Girls 4×100m relay.
Basketball
Ava Jones, Roma Tuimaunei (both Y11) and Maniah Taefu (Y10) represented New Zealand at the FIBA U15 Oceania Cup in Canberra, Australia. All three made it through to their respective finals, being defeated by Australia to finish in second place. Ava Jones was named in the FIBA All Star Five.
Three St Andrew’s basketball teams competed at the Basketball New Zealand 3×3 Junior Cup, where the Junior Girls’ Blue team won the title in convincing fashion. The Junior Boys’ Blue team won six games and lost three to finish fifth. Oliver Kirk (Y10) received the title for Best Scorer. The Junior Girls’ White team – consisting of Y9 akōnga – came third equal. Sophie Schouten (Y9) was the tournament’s third-leading scorer.
Vincent Gardiner (Y9) represented Canterbury at the South Island U14 representative basketball tournament.
Cheerleading
At her first international competition, Iselle Bromhead (Y3), with her Mini Level 1 cheer team, competed at the Australasian Majors in Brisbane winning first place in their division against four Australian teams.
Cricket
Following the Christchurch Junior Cricket Association (CJCA) cricket festival at Hagley Park, Joshua Stewart and Hayden Brown (both Y8) were selected to play for a CJCA representative team in the Year 8 Blenheim festival in January 2025, and Thomas Hopping (Y7) was selected to play for a CJCA representative team, at the Year 7 festival in Ashburton in 2025.
Flag Football
William Ballin, Toby Park, and Adam Beaman (all Y11) were selected to represent Canterbury at the Flag Football Youth Nationals.
Kartsport
Louis Smith (Y9) won the Kartsport Canterbury 83-lap endurance race.
Marathon
At the Queenstown Marathon 10km event, Sam Wilton (Y10) was ninth in the 15–19 age group and his brother Oliver Wilton (Y9) was tenth in the 10–14 age group.
Multisport
Luca Rose, Joshua Morrow and Toby Wilson (all Y11) were second in the Male Team event at the OxMan Multisport event, comprising of a 2km run, 46km road bike, 14.5km run, and a 10km kayak.
Polo
Wilde Brabazon-Fleming (Y9) was the scoreboard keeper at the United States versus New Zealand youth polo tournament ‘A Day at the Polo’ organised by Ronald McDonald House.
Wilde Brabazon-Fleming (Y9)
Swimming
At Cromwell’s Spring Carnival swimming meet Kelicia Rui En Purcell (Y7) 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.
Senior Girls’ rugby sevens team. Top: Daisy Thake, Cata Serrano Burgos, Caitlin Stowell, Ava Gardiner, Metua Cranwell, Holly Rossiter, Lucia Croft, Alice Miers; Bottom: Poppy Reynolds, Orla Motley, Savannah Caulfield, Gabrielle Jones
A group of nine Year 9 and 10 tennis players played in the Canterbury Secondary Schools’ Tennis Championships at Wilding Park. Billie Feaver-Banks and Mia McHarg (both Y9) were third and fourth respectively in the Year 9 Division 1 competition. In Year 9 Division 2, Molly Michael finished runner-up. In the Year 10 Girls’ competition, Marija Filipovic (Y10) won the singles title convincingly and partnered with Molly Brophy (Y10) to win the doubles title decisively. In the Boys’ competition George Kotepong (Y9) was runner-up in the Year 9 Singles final, before stepping up an age group and pairing with Jack Wheeler (Y10) in the Year 10 Boys’ Division 1 doubles, losing in the semifinal to the eventual title holders.
South Island Invitational Tennis Championships
Three St Andrew’s Preparatory School students were invited to compete at the South Island Invitational Tennis Championships with Sabine Waghorn (Y8) finishing runner-up, Kaia Hartstonge (Y8) sixth, and Elina Wang (Y7) finishing eighth overall. Sabine Waghorn and Kaia Hartstonge were semi-finalists in the Girls’ doubles.
Canterbury Year 7–8 Tennis Championships
Two teams of four (a Girls’ and a Mixed team) competed at the Canterbury Year 7–8 Tennis Championships. Both teams successfully won their pools undefeated and met in the final. The Girls’ team of Elly McHarg (Y7), Sabine Waghorn, Kaia Hartstonge and Scarlett Dunbar (all Y8) beat the Mixed team of Frank McHarg, Elina Wang (both Y7), Hudson Blyde and Rico Cantwell (both Y8), by one game to take out first place.
Touch
The Year 10 A Boys’ touch team won the inaugural Secondary Schools’ Canterbury Touch Festival, with four convincing wins.
The following players were selected for Canterbury representative teams:
• U16 Canterbury Boys Black: Oliver Kirk, Zachary Hoshek, Tuari Manuel (all Y10);
• U14 Canterbury Red: Vincent Gardiner (Y9);
• U14 Canterbury Black Junior: Marshall Coles (Y9).
Triathlon
Sophie Lampe (Y10) won the U16 Girls’ race (300m swim, 13km bike, 3km run) at the Tri New Zealand Junior Series for the second year in a row.
At the Canterbury Secondary Schools' Triathlon Championships, Sophie Lampe (Y10) was first the Youth Female U16 category, and Cohnor Walsh (Y11) was first in the Youth Male U16 category, securing second place in the Pak’n’Save Triathlon Festival.
VEX Robotics
At the VEX IQ Nationals, in a competition called Rapid Relay, St Andrew’s was represented by two Preparatory School teams, with the Year 7 team finishing 34th overall in the main competition and 33rd in the skills testing. The Year 8 team finished 21st overall and 22nd in the skills testing, placing them as the top Canterbury team and second in the South Island.
Volleyball
Mia Montgomery (Y12) was named in the New Zealand Junior Women’s Volleyball Development Squad for 2025.
Catherine Cook (Y12) and MollyBelle Morrow (Y13) competed in the New Zealand Women’s Volleyball Club Nationals with their Shirley Volleyball Club Silverbacks team winning gold against the Auckland Thunder in Division 1.
Three St Andrew’s College teams competed in the Canterbury Junior Volleyball Championships, with the Junior Girls’ A team putting in an outstanding performance to secure third place in Division 1, with Rosie Gaffaney and Charli McFarlane (both Y10) earning spots in the tournament team. The Junior Girls’ B team finished fourth in Division 2, and the Junior Boys’ A team finished eighth in Division 1, earning themselves a place in Division 1 at the South Island tournament.
At the South Island Junior Volleyball Championships, the Junior Girls’ A team carried on their good form to earn a spot in the top eight of Division 1 – finishing seventh overall. The Junior Girls’ B team finished tenth in Division 3, and the Junior Boys’ A team qualified for Division 1, gaining invaluable experience against some tough competition.
2025
Athletics
Around 30 St Andrew’s athletes competed at the Canterbury Secondary Schools’ Athletics finals, achieving many top results. Highlights included meet records being set by Orla Motley (Y13) in the U19 Girls’ Hammer, and Melenaite Havea (Y12) in the U19 Girls’ Discus – breaking her older sister Tapenisa Havea’s (OC 2021) record. Top three placegetters were:
• Abigail Scot-Douglas (Y12): 1st Girls’ Open 2000m steeplechase;
• Tayla Ford (Y9): 1st Girls’ U14 3000m, 2nd 1500m;
• Sophie Paterson (Y11): 1st Girls’ U16 triple jump; 3rd long jump, 200m hurdles;
• Oliver Jackways (Y12): 1st Boys’ U16 400m, 2nd 200m, high jump;
• Kupa Rule (Y12): 1st Boys’ U16 800m;
• Emma McKellow (Y9): 2nd Girls’ U14 high jump, long jump;
• Marshall Coles (Y10): 3rd Boys’ U14 100m, 200m;
• Sam Payton (Y9): 3rd Boys’ U14 triple jump;
• Louis Cooper (Y9): 3rd Boys’ U14 javelin;
• Leah King (Y10): 3rd Girls’ high jump;
• Amelia Cody (Y11): 3rd Girls’ 80m hurdles;
• Roma Tuimaunei (Y12): 2nd Boys’ U16 shot put;
• Relay Team Results: U14 Girls –2nd; U16 Boys – 2nd; Open Boys 4x400M – 3rd.
Basketball
The following players were selected for representative teams:
• U20 Waikato Country Boys: Bronson Curtis (Y13);
• U20 Canterbury Boys: Logan Righton (Y13);
2025 continued
• U20 North Canterbury Boys: Rylan Cliff (Y13);
• U18 Canterbury Girls: Ava Jones, Nadia De Thierry, Eva Jeffries, Alanna Brook (all Y12), Rosie Gaffaney, Hannah Radford and Lucy Cliff (Y11),
• U18 North Canterbury Girls: Sophia Bourke (Y11);
• U18 Canterbury Boys: Roma Tuimaunei (Y12), Oliver Kirk, Sol Calvert and Jai Curtis (all Y11);
• U18 Mainland Boys: Cooper Wilkins, Thomas McIntosh (both Y12);
• U16 Canterbury Girls: Maniah Taefu, Zara Kleindyk (both Y11), Hayley Stowell, Sophie Schouten and Holly Radford (all Y10), Maiyah Martin (Y9);
• U16 Canterbury Boys: Connor McIntosh, Kai Sloane, Jack Wilkins (all Y10);
• U16 North Canterbury Boys: Lucas Bourke (Y10);
• U16 Mainland Boys: Jack Cook, Hunter Morrow, Samuel Hoshek (all Y10).
Rosie Gaffaney, Maniah Taefu, Ava Jones (all Y11), Nadia De Thierry and Eva Jeffries (both Y12) were selected to attend Basketball New Zealand camps in April.
Canoe Polo
Liam Randall (Y13) and Luca Rose (Y12) were selected to represent New Zealand in the U18 Men’s B team competing at the Oceania Championships in Australia in April.
Coast to Coast
Three teams of St Andrew’s College students participated in the Kathmandu Coast to Coast, all first-time entrants. Adam MacFarlane (Y13) and Cohnor Walsh (Y12) were third in the Open Men’s two-day two-person team; Toby Wilson, Luca Rose and Joshua Morrow (all Y12) were the fourth placed schoolboys; and Head Prefect, Kate Simcock, and her father, Jeremy, were 22nd in the Family Mixed team category.
Cricket
Spencer Hair and Otis Wheeler (both Y12) were selected for the Canterbury U17 Men’s cricket team.
Daisy Thake (Y12) was selected for the Canterbury U17 Women’s cricket team.
The beautiful Willows Cricket Club was the venue for the annual social game between the Boys’ 1st XI and the Willows club team, which included some Old Collegians, and staff members, Mike (Scrump) Johnston (OC 1974, College Custodian and 1st XI coach), and Matt Parr (Director of Boarding, Head of Middle School, and cricket coach). The 1st XI set 207 for 9 which the Willows team reached with one wicket to spare.
CPSSA Triathlon
At the Canterbury Primary Schools' (CPSSA) Triathlon, Joshua Smith (Y8) was first in the Year 8 Open Category, finishing 1.51 minutes ahead of second place.
Equestrian
Georgia Lewis (Y12) represented the second-placed Canterbury team in the Mounted Games at the NZPCA Championship (U25) in January and was third the South Island in the Individual title.
Football
Noah Cole (Y13) was selected to play for New Zealand in the U19 New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Football Tour in Australia over the April term break.
Futsal
Noah Cole (Y13) was part of the Canterbury Dragons team which won the U17 national league title. He was also selected for the Men’s Senior Canterbury Dragons futsal squad; was captain of the South team in matches against the U19 North team and the New Zealand Māori team; from which he was one of only two South Island players to be selected for the New Zealand U19 Secondary School team.
The Junior Girls’ futsal team won the Mainland Football Futsal 2025 Regional Championship after a clean sweep in pool play, and 4–1 victory over Lincoln High School in the final. Both the Junior A and Senior Boys’ A teams claimed third place in their respective categories at the tournament.
Gymnastics
Andre Hall (Y9) was selected into the National Development gymnastics squad.
ISSA Swimming
Eleven Preparatory School students achieved top three placings, and four students, Elliotte-Rose Kesseler, Kelicia Rui En Purcell), Zi Yuan (Leo) Shi and Jacob Wang (all Y8) achieved a first place at the ISSA Swimming Championships.
Jetsport
The following students made the top four at the Smooth-Air Products New Zealand Jetsport Nationals:
• Diesel Mackie (Y8): first Junior Ski Lites 10–12 Years;
• William Parsonage (Y9): first Junior Ski Lites 13–15 Years;
• Thomas Parsonage (Y12): second Amateur Ski Lites Open;
• Jake Wilson (Y12): first Ski Lites, Ski GP,New Zealand#1 Plate, Ski Overall.
Karting
Louis Smith (Y10) was second in the KartSport Canterbury Club Championships.
Polo
Wilde Brabazon-Fleming (Y10) playing alongside his teammates from Christ’s College, represented the A Grade South Island in a polo match against the Central Districts Hawke’s Bay travelling team, with a 4–4 draw.
Sofia Sneddon (Y8) scored seven of nine goals for her combined Christchurch team which won B Grade Division at the final South Island SUPA Polo Tournament.
Preparatory School Swimming Sports
Year 5–8 students participated in the annual Preparatory School Swimming Championships at Jellie Park. Zi Yuan (Leo) Shi (Y8) and Liam Botha (Y4) set new Boys’ backstroke records in their respective age groups. The House competition saw MacGibbon taking first place, followed by Erwin, then Rutherford and Thompson. Age group champions were:
• Year 5: Georgia Blyde (Girls) and Youzhen (Max) Chen (Boys);
• Year 6 Arizona Wallace (Girls) and Ming MacCarthy (Boys);
• Year 7: ChloeAnn Botha (Girls) and Bozan Wang (Boys);
• Year 8: Kelicia Rui En Purcell (Girls) and Zi Yuan (Leo) Shi (Boys).
Speed Skating
Anthony Kutovoy (Y13) competed in a short-track speed skating Junior World
Noah Cole (Y13)
Junior Girls’ futsal team. Back: Willa Rahman, Taylor Grant, Rosalie Lunam, Yanka Stander (guest player), Rosa Redfern, Britney-Lee Nicholson (coach); Front: Amelia Brockhurst, Harriet Lee, Millie Brown, Indi Haydon-Uren
Liam Randall (Y13)
Cup 3 event in Quebec, where he placed in the top 20 internationally and has been long-listed for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Sprint Kayaking
Oliver Macdonald (Y11) was selected to compete in the 2025 Asia Pacific Sprint Cup for the New Zealand U16 team in Japan in May.
Surf Lifesaving
Oliver Macdonald (Y11) was a multiple medallist at both the 2025 Canterbury and South Island Surf Lifesaving competitions. At the Surf Lifesaving Nationals he won a national silver medal in the surf ski team relay event.
Swimming
Kelicia Rui En Purcell (Y8) raced in nine events at the 2025 South Island Long Course Swimming Championships, winning gold in the Girls’ 12–14 years 200m butterfly and mystery medley race, silver in the 400m individual medley, and bronze in the 100m butterfly. She also set three South Island Long Course records for 12 Years Girls. At the 2025 Makos Junior Swimming Festival, Kelicia was second in the 100m butterfly and 200m breaststroke, and third in the 50m butterfly.
Representing the Canterbury Los Angeles Olympics 2028 Target Squad, Rylee McBride (Y13) won gold in the 16/17 Years Women category in the 50m backstroke (new Canterbury record) and 100m backstroke, and silver in 50m butterfly, at the Swimming Auckland Long Course Age Group and Open Championships.
At the 2025 Apollo Projects Division II Swimming Championships, Millicent MacIntyre (Y10) won a first, second and two thirds, and Kiera-Leigh Watt (Y9) won four thirds.
Tennis
Canterbury Secondary Schools’ Intermediate and Senior Tennis Championships
St Andrew’s tennis players performed well at the Canterbury Secondary Schools’ Intermediate and Senior Championships, with Marija Filipovic (Y11) winning the Year 11 Girls’ singles title; Lila Waghorn (Y12) and Marija Filipovic winning the Senior Girls’ doubles; Ricky Kotepong (Y13) runner-up in the Senior Boys’ singles; Ruby McPhail (Y13) runner-up in the Senior Girls’ singles; Lila Waghorn (Y12) third in the Senior Girls’ singles; Oliver Jackways (Y12) runner-up in Boys’ Division 2; and Ricky Kotepong and Jack Wheeler (Y11) winning their semifinal, but their final was cancelled due to bad weather.
South Island Secondary Schools’ Tennis Championships
After two convincing wins, the Girls’ team of Lily McHarg, Ruby McPhail (both Y13), Lila Waghorn (Y12), Billie Feaver-Banks (Y10) and Zoe Kelso (Y9), were South Island runners-up after losing a close final against St Margaret’s College, in a countback 7–6. The Boys’ team of Ricky Kotepong (Y13), Jack Wheeler (Y11), George Kotepong (Y10), Tom Dawson and Haolin (Harley) Xiong (both Y9) lost their semi-final to eventual winners, Ashburton College, finishing third in the Boys’ championship.
At the Canterbury Secondary Schools’ Sport Premier Tennis competition both the Senior Boys’ and Girls’ tennis teams secured Canterbury titles. The girls achieved a 3–1 victory against St Margaret's College A, while the boys won 2–1, with the final match not included in the score, as it extended beyond the two-hour time limit. The A2 Girls' team was third overall.
Touch
The following students were selected for Canterbury touch teams which competed at national tournaments – Fynn Harris (Y13) was in the Canterbury U18 Men’s team which finished third; Otis Wheeler (Y12) was in the Canterbury Men’s U16 team which placed second; Ava Gardiner (Y13) was in the Canterbury U18 Women’s touch team which placed sixth; Rosie Gaffaney (Y11) was in the Canterbury Women’s U16 team.
Triathlon
Sophie Lampe (Y11) has been selected to race for New Zealand at the Triathlon World Championships in Australia this October, competing in the 16–19 Sprint Triathlon. Sophie also won the U16 Girls’ competition at the Challenge Wānaka triathlon.
At the Canterbury Secondary Schools’ Triathlon, Sophie Lampe (Y11) won the U16 Girls’ title and Cohnor Walsh (Y12) was third in the U18 Boys’ category. At the South Island Secondary Schools’ Triathlon and Duathlon Championships Sophie won the U16 Girls’ race and Cohnor was third in the U19 Boys’ race.
Umpiring
Alexander Black (Y13) was appointed to umpire at the U19 and U17 national softball tournaments at which he passed his New Zealand Umpires Badge and was appointed to the final as Plate Umpire. He also umpired at the South Island U15 Open Club Championships and was appointed to the Men’s Open Championships in March, the pinnacle men’s event on the softball calendar.
VEX Robotics
Three of the 11 teams to take part in the VEX Robotics Kiwibots Nationals were from St Andrew’s, with around 300 students competing over two years. Two of the St Andrew’s teams, ‘Fish’ – comprising Aki Hansen, Edison Pang and Oliver Cooper (all Y13), and ‘404 Competition Not Found’ –comprising Hannah Withers, George Bissland, Alex Manson and Luke Manson (all Y12), made it to the top 32 teams for the playoffs. ‘Fish’ went through to the quarter-finals, where they were beaten 26–24.
Volleyball
Two boys’ and two girls’ teams from St Andrew’s competed in the South Island Secondary Schools’ Mainland Volleyball Championships. The Senior A Girls, competing in Division 1, had a strong tournament finishing in fifth place overall, with their only losses to the eventual first and second placed teams. The Senior A Boys finished 11th in their Division 1 competition; the Senior B Girls were seventh in Division 3 and the Senior B Boys’ team gained valuable experience in Division 4.
At the Canterbury Senior Volleyball Championships, the Senior A Girls’ team were crowned Canterbury Champions, coming back from two sets down in both the semi-final against Christchurch Girls’ High School, and final against St Margaret’s College to win both in five sets. Catherine Cook (Y13) and Hannah Papali'i Taimalelagi Malietoa (Y12) were named to the tournament team, and captain Mia Montgomery (Y13) was named Tournament MVP. The Senior A Boys’ team finished fourth overall, after being defeated by eventual winners, Riccarton High School, in the semi-final. Jett Timbrell (Y12) and Jairo Senio (Y11) were named in the tournament team.
Water Skiing
Genevieve Wallis (Y11) was a member of the New Zealand U17 team at the Aussie/Kiwi Challenge-Oceania Junior Water Ski Championships. While Australia took a clean sweep of the teams’ events, Genevieve individually won bronze medals in the U17 Girls’ overall and Girls’ jump, was fourth in Girls’ tricks, and fifth in Girls’ slalom.
Edison Pang, Oliver Cooper, Aki Hansen (all Year 13)
Regulus
Summer Tournament Week
It was another outstanding Summer Tournament Week for St Andrew’s, with 15 teams and two squads representing the College with pride in 11 different national, South Island, and regional competitions from Hamilton down to Wānaka.
Girls’ teams and individuals were to the fore, with Sophie Lampe (Y11) delivering another outstanding performance to win the New Zealand U16 Girls’ triathlon; the Senior Girls’ volleyball team finishing third in New Zealand; the Senior Girls’ tennis team placing fourth in New Zealand, and the Senior Girls’ 3×3 basketball team winning their South Island competition to qualify for the nationals. An impressive unbeaten run saw the Year 10 Boys’ cricket team also claim a South Island title.
Abigail Scott-Douglas (Y12) and Cooper Pringle (Y11) won three medals in cross country at the South Island Secondary Schools’ Mountain Bike Championships, including the pair teaming up to win gold in the Senior cross country relay.
National Competitions
Triathlon
Sophie Lampe (Y11) continued her incredible form as one of New Zealand’s most impressive young triathletes, defending her New Zealand U16 Girls’ title, and winning gold, at the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Triathlon Championships in Wānaka. Her time of 0:46.01 was more than 50 seconds ahead of the second placed athlete. Robbie Lampe (Y9) was ninth in the Boys’ U14 race, and Cohnor Walsh (Y12) was 20th in the Boys’ U19 race.
Volleyball
Both the Girls’ and Boys’ Senior A teams had highly successful New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Volleyball Championships in Palmerston North. In Division 1, the girls won five out of six pool play games, before beating Nayland College 3–0 to advance to the semi-final, where a 0–3 loss to Rangitoto College saw the team face Christchurch Girls’ High School in the bronze medal match. St Andrew’s fought hard and played well to win 3–1, finishing the tournament third in New Zealand. Playing in Division 2, the Senior Boys’ A team had mixed results in pool play, a tight quarter-final win 3–2 over Nayland College, a semi-final loss against Wellington College, and a 0–3 loss in the playoff for third and fourth against Mount Maunganui College, which saw St Andrew’s finish fourth in Division 2 and 20th overall in New Zealand.
Tennis
For the first time in the College’s history, a Senior Girls’ tennis team competed at the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Tennis Championships. The team defeated St Margaret’s College 5–1 in their first match, then played valiantly against number one seeds, Saint Kentigern College, losing the tie 0–6. In the semi-finals against Wellington Girls’ College, St Andrew’s was one game up after all four singles matches but lost both doubles, so the tie score was 4–2. The finals day saw the team playing against Queen Margaret College, who won 4–2, placing St Andrew’s fourth in New Zealand.
Girls’ Senior A volleyball team (back) Trent Harris (Manager), Amelia Blockley, Ella Buchanan, Maniah Taefu, Catherine Cook, Coco Schwass, Hannah Papali’i Taimalelagi Malietoa, Petra Manderson (Coach); (front) Ana Sloane, Rosie Gaffaney, Lucy Cliff, Saige Maraki, Mia Montgomery
Senior Girls’ tennis team, from left, Marija Filipovic, Lila Waghorn, Ruby McPhail, Lily McHarg, Zoe Kelso
Sophie Lampe (Y11)
Canoe Polo
For the first time since the 1990s, the St Andrew’s canoe polo team competed at the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Canoe Polo Nationals, as the only South Island team to qualify for the competition. After a first-day defeat, the highlight of the championship was the game against tournament favourites, Karamū High School, who were unbeaten at the top of the table. With two goals from Luca Rose (Y12), and another from Thomas White (Y13), St Andrew’s won the exciting match 3–2. St Andrew’s finished the competition seventh in New Zealand, with team captain, Sophie Burnett (Y13), being selected into the Ladies Tournament Team (top eight in New Zealand). St Andrew’s also won a $200 prize from event sponsors, Bayleys, for being the team demonstrating the best spirit and teamwork.
St Andrew’s canoe polo team (from left), Ethan Lau-Berger, Luke Cleugh (both Y11), Liam Randall, Sophie Burnett (both Y13), Henry White, Luca Rose (both Y12), Thomas White (Y13).
Futsal
It was a week of hard-fought games for the Senior A Boys’ and Junior A Boys’ futsal teams at the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Futsal Championships. Both teams enjoyed the tournament, and gained some valuable experience, with the Senior Boys placing 21st in New Zealand and the Junior A Boys, 26th.
South Island Competitions
Basketball
The Girls’ Senior A 3×3 basketball team were impressive during their Zone 4 competition in Dunedin, losing just one match out of seven to finish as South Island champions and qualify for the national finals in late April. The Boys’ Senior A team had a five-win, four-loss record at the tournament, placing fourth overall, and just missing qualifying for the nationals by one place.
Cricket
The consistency and determination of the Year 10 Colts cricket team was rewarded during the South Island Secondary Schools' Boys’ Junior Cricket Championships, with their unbeaten run in four 20/20 matches and a 40-over game against Shirley Boys’ High School, Christchurch Boys’ High School, Lincoln High School, and Timaru Boys' High School, seeing them finish the tournament as South Island champions. The young Girls’ 1st XI team finished fifth in Canterbury in the Girls’ 1st XI Cricket Cup Qualifier with two wins against Cashmere High School the highlight of their tournament.
Mountain Biking
At the South Island Secondary Schools’ Mountain Bike Championships, Abigail Scott-Douglas (Y12) won silver in the Girls’ U17 cross country, Cooper Pringle (Y11) claimed bronze in the Boys’ U17 cross country, and Abigail and Cooper teamed up to win gold in the Senior cross country relay. James Richardson (Y12) also represented St Andrew’s, finishing 22nd in the Boys’ U17 downhill event.
Touch
The Senior Girls’ and Senior Boys’ touch teams had some challenging matchups at the South Island Secondary Schools’ Touch Tournament, with the girls winning three of their seven matches to finish sixth in the South Island, and the boys finishing 12th overall.
Water Polo
At the South Island Secondary Schools’ Water Polo Championships, the Senior Boys’ team had a two-win and five-loss record to finish the competition in eighth place, with the Senior Girls’ team three-win, onedraw, and three-loss record saw them finish in ninth place.
Canterbury Competitions
Golf
The St Andrew’s A golf team won the Canterbury Secondary Schools’ Golf Championships, qualifying for the nationals in Wellington later in the year. The players achieved impressive results with Yuhan (Uny) Shao (Y11) scoring 66 (four under), Ethan Lam (Y12) shooting 68 (two under), and James Walker (Y13) scoring 78 (eight over). There were 120 golfers in the competition, including 13 from St Andrew’s. Sam Smith (Y13) was another to impress, shooting a score of 77.
The Girls’ Senior A 3×3 basketball team were South Island champions. From left, Ava Jones, Nadia de Thierry (both Y12), Orla Motley (Y13), Eva Jeffries (Y12), and Hannah Radford (Y11)
Abigail Scott-Douglas (Y12 – left) and Cooper Pringle (Y11 – middle) won gold in the Senior cross country relay at the South Island Secondary Schools’ Mountain Bike Championships.
Mackenzie Lane (Y10)
Ethan Lam (Y12), Yuhan (Uny) Shao (Y11) and James Walker (Y13)
Image to come
Rowing
Maadi Cup and Wrap up
It was another highly successful Maadi Cup campaign for the St Andrew’s rowing squad, which returned to Christchurch with two silver and two bronze medals following the prestigious secondary schools’ rowing event at Lake Karapiro in late March.
Liam Parker, who took over as Rowing Manager in October last year, says he is “very proud” of the results.
“We had an awesome regatta, with some great performances on the water, and a great culture off it. The whole squad rallied around and supported each other.”
St Andrew’s qualified for an impressive eight A finals and 11 B finals, with the Girls’ U18 coxed eight, comprising Mollie Thomas, Sophia Drury (both Year 13), Sayler Hedgcock (Year 12), Jasmin Christie (Year 13), Chloe Lowe (Year 12), Isabella Cody (Year 13), Lucia Apse, Katie Taggart (both Year 12) and cox, George Ranken (Year 11), making the A final at Maadi Cup for the first time in the College’s history.
“The girls rowed an incredible race to finish fourth in the Levin Jubilee Cup, the premier race for Girls’ U18 coxed eight crews. With all but one of the girls also in the bronze medal winning
U17 coxed eight crew, this performance will give them a lot of confidence going into the race next year.”
In the Girls’ U17 coxed eight event, the girls started their race strongly and were in second place at one stage, before holding onto third at the finish.
There were other impressive medalwinning performances by younger squad members, including standout performers in the Boys’ U15 events. Hugo Millar-Bell and Oliver O’Brien (both Year 11), who backed up their South Island gold medal with silver in the Boys’ U15 double at Maadi Cup. They also teamed up with Noah Hunter, Izaak Keen (both Year 11) and cox, Emily de Joux (Year 12),to claim a silver medal in the Boys’ U15 coxed four, the same result this crew achieved at the South Island championships.
The Boys’ U17 coxed four, Bradley Hughes, William Currie (both Year 13), Oliver Barker, Harry Pitts and cox, Emily de Joux (all Year 12), backed up after their impressive gold medal at the South Island Secondary Schools’ Rowing Championships to take bronze at Maadi Cup, with a final surge by Hamilton Boys’ College right on the line, denying St Andrew’s a national silver medal by just 0.08 of a second.
Other crews to make A finals were the Boys’ U18 Novice double (fourth), the Girls’ U17 four (seventh), and the Girls’ U16 double, comprising Emily Woodgate and Alanna Brook (both Year 12), who were the only South Island crew to make the final, finishing sixth in a field of around 60 entries.
“To be fifth or sixth in this event at the South Island Secondary Schools’ Rowing Championships, then to be the only South Island crew to make the A final, shows how far Emily and Alanna progressed during the season,” says Liam.
The squad of around 50 rowers were well supported by Head Boys’ Coach, Mitch White, Head Girls’ Coach, Marion Hardwick, and Boatman, Julian Martel, throughout the season, who without a Director of Rowing this year, ”put in a huge amount of effort”, says Liam, along with the volunteers and parent helpers who provided support behind the scenes.
“It’s been so cool to see our rowers’ progress on the water this season, and we’re already excited about the future and how much further they can go next year,” says Liam.
The bronze medal winning Girls’ U17 coxed eight, from left, Sophia Drury, Mollie Thomas, Chloe Lowe, Robbie Miller (in front), Lucia Apse, Charlotte Galvan, Katie Taggart, Isabella Cody.
Maadi Cup A Final results:
Boys U15 double: Hugo Millar-Bell, Oliver O’Brien – second;
Boys U15 coxed four: Noah Hunter, Oliver O’Brien, Izaak Keen, Hugo Millar-Bell and Emily de Joux(cox) – second;
South Island Secondary Schools’ Rowing Championships
St Andrew’s rowers had three great days of racing at the South Island Secondary Schools’ Championships, making an outstanding 27 A finals and seven B finals, with seven crews gaining podium finishes including three gold, two silver, and two bronze medals.
It was the boys’ crews who dominated the gold medal results, winning the Boys’ U15 double, Boys’ U15 coxed eight, and the Boys’ U17 coxed four.
Another highlight was St Andrew’s entering a top Girls’ U18 coxed eight
for the first time, with the crew claiming bronze in this prestigious event, another first for St Andrew’s rowing.
Silver medals were also won by the Girls’ U17 coxed eight, and the Boys’ U15 coxed four, with the Boys’ U17 pair claiming the second bronze medal for St Andrew’s.
Other regattas
St Andrew’s had 82 rowers competing in perfect weather and rowing conditions at the South Island Rowing Championships in Twizel. Crews made 31 A finals and 11 B finals, winning six South Island titles and three bronze
medals. Gold medals were won by the Boys’ U15 double, Girls’ U16 double, Girls’ U17 four, Boys’ U17 four, Girls’ U17 eight, and Girls’ U19 eight. The Girls’ U17 four, Boys’ U17 eight, and Boys’ Intermediate double won bronze.
At the Canterbury Rowing Championships regatta at Lake Ruataniwha, St Andrew’s crews made 22 A finals and seven B finals. Eight crews gained a top three placing in A finals, with the Girls’ U19 eight and Boys’ U17 eight winning their respective events.
Two U15 crews took silver, the Boys’ U15 coxed four, from left, Izaak Keen, Noah Hunter, Emily de Joux (cox), Oliver O’Brien, and Hugo Millar-Bell (left), with Hugo Millar-Bell and Oliver O’Brien (right) also winning silver in the Boys’ U15 double.
The Boys’ U17 coxed four also won bronze, from left, William Currie, Bradley Hughes, Emily de Joux (cox), Harry Pitts, and Oliver Barker.
President Message
Over the past few months, the Old Collegians Association (in conjunction with the College) held regional gatherings in Waipara, Blenheim, Ashburton, and Wānaka. The gatherings hosted Old Collegians and prospective boarding families. These events were well attended, and it was great seeing a strong alumni network in our regional communities. My thanks go to Alumni and Community Relations Co-ordinator, Lisa Clark; Registrar, Lynn Smith and Director of Boarding and Head of Middle School, Matt Parr for their superb organisation of the events. We look forward to holding similar gatherings in the coming years, including the upcoming Auckland Regional Event on Wednesday 18 June 2025.
I had the pleasure of attending the 60 Years’ On Reunion. His Honour Judge Spear presided as expert emcee, albeit perhaps under Bryan Aitken’s orders! Catering Manager, Russell Gray, and Emma Gray provided a fabulous dining experience, with Russell’s beef cheeks receiving high praise. It was great to host Rector, Mark Wilson and his wife, Judi, at the reunion, which was their first formal Old Collegians’ event. The Old Collegians Association looks forward to working alongside Mark and I am confident he will guide the College to continued success.
There are many reunions scheduled for the remainder of the year, including the much anticipated OCA Annual Dinner on Friday 8 August. We encourage all Old Collegians, and particularly younger Old Collegians, to participate in our events – they are great opportunities to engage with the College, reconnect with old friends, and expand your network.
Sam Crosbie (2009)
President Old Collegians Association
On Friday 8 November 2024, the College welcomed back 51 Old Collegians and their partners for a memorable 10 Years On Reunion. The evening began with a campus tour of the new buildings and facilities, followed by a gathering at the Centennial Chapel, where former Rector, Christine Leighton, and 2014 Head Girl, Zoe Merrick, welcomed everyone. The reunion continued in Strowan House with lively conversations and shared stories. Several staff members attended and enjoyed hearing about the diverse careers of our alumni.
10 Years On Golf Tournament Strowan Rose Bowl
On Monday 25 November 2024, Rod McKenzie (1965), Chris Timbs (1990), Jonathan Wells (1987) and Damon Smith (1992) proudly represented St Andrew’s College Old Collegians in the 58th Annual Strowan Rose Bowl Tournament at Christchurch Golf Club. They secured an impressive second place, just behind Christ’s College. Damon Smith won both the closest to the pin and longest drive. Seven alumni teams competed, including Christchurch Boys’ High School, Timaru Boys’ High School, Otago Boys’ High School, St Bede’s College, and Darfield High School.
Regional Gatherings
Four regional gatherings were held in Blenheim, Waipara Springs Winery, Lake Hood, and Wānaka to connect Old Collegians from the Marlborough, North Canterbury, Mid Canterbury, and Central Otago regions. Members of classes from 1957 to 2001 attended the Marlborough event, along with OCA President, Sam Crosbie (OC 2009), as well as Rector, Mark Wilson, who enjoyed his first regional event. Perfect weather and a stunning vineyard setting greeted over 70 North Canterbury based Old Collegians from the classes of 1951 to 2024, and their partners at their event hosted by Waipara Springs Winery owners, Bruce Moore (OC 1962) and Andrew Moore (OC 1991). Rector, Mark Wilson, was in attendance and the Head of Boys’ and Girls’ Boarding, Lachie Sidey and Cata Serrano Burgos, enjoyed hearing memories from past boarders. OCA President, Sam Crosbie, welcomed a group of Old Collegians from the Mid Canterbury region to the Lake House at Lake Hood, where alumni from
60 Years on
Reunion
A group of around 50 Old Collegians from the Class of 1965–1969 and their partners gathered on Friday 14 March for a memorable Founders’ Day and 60 Years On reunion weekend. David Livesey, a former member of the 1969 1st XI, presented the 2025 1st XI cricket caps at the Founders’ Day Assembly. The Old Collegians thoroughly enjoyed watching the spirited Highland Games competition which followed. The afternoon concluded with a spectacular performance by the Pipe Band. Around 60 guests enjoyed the Cocktail Party that evening, which was followed by the formal dinner on the Saturday evening to round off the weekend. Judge Lee Spear entertained as the witty
St Andrew’s was saddened to learn of the passing of two prominent community members in March, former staff member, Duncan Doig, after a long illness; and former All Blacks coach and Canterbury rugby legend, Alex ‘Grizz’ Wyllie (1963) after a battle with cancer. Duncan was on the Preparatory School staff from 1995–2014, and was known as a compassionate, fun teacher and superb rugby coach, taking charge of the 1st XV, with the assistance of Mike 'Scrump' Johnston (1974) and John Anderson. Duncan is remembered fondly as a gentle giant, keen to impart homegrown wisdom and witticisms to his charges, whether on the field or in the classroom.
Alex ‘Grizz’ Wyllie MBE, a revered figure in New Zealand rugby, played eight games for the All Blacks in the early 1970s and went on to coach the national team from 1988 to 1991 after coaching the Canterbury team through its Ranfurly Shield heyday in the 1980s. His contributions to the sport have left an indelible mark on the rugby community. Alex enjoyed coming back to the College for his 1st XV reunions to catch up with his teammates. Our thoughts are with both families at this sad time.
Events for 2025
10 Years On: Class of 2011–2015, Friday 7 November
30 Years On: Class of 1995–1999, Friday 13 June
40 Years On: Class of 1985–1989, Friday 25 July – Saturday 26 July
50 Years On: Class of 1975– 1979, Friday 23 May – Saturday 24 May
1st XV Rugby Reunion: Teams of 1955, 1965, 1975, 1985, 1995, 2005, 2015 – Saturday 17 May
Auckland Regional Gathering: Wednesday 18 June
OCA Annual Dinner: Friday 8 August
Gentlemen’s Lunch: Friday 10 October
OCA Cocktail Party: Saturday 8 November
Duncan Doig (left) and Alex ‘Grizz’ Wyllie (right)
forgotten but Gone not
John Doak (1945)
Peter Wait (1947)
John Bruce (1948)
Graham Reynolds (1949)
Bruce Scott (1951)
Bruce McLachlan (1950)
Ian Anderson (1954)
David Heap (1955)
Thomas (Allan) Patterson (1955)
Bruce Allan (1956)
Alec Matheson (1956)
David Newbury (1956)
Van Colebourne (1957)
Prof Ronald (Ron) Jones (1957)
Brian Strong (1957)
John Brown (1958)
Nelson Moffatt (1958)
John Fox (1959)
Harry Little (1959)
Ian Macauley (1959)
Malcolm Baxter (1960)
David Coe (1960)
Rod McElrea (1960)
Robin Nicholls (1960)
Ian Burtt (1962)
Wayne Monk (1962)
Arthur (Jock) Patterson (1962)
Brian O’Brien (1963)
Rodney Strachan (1963)
Alex Wyllie (1963)
Bill Hall (1965)
Lindsay McDonald (1965)
Hon Nicholas (Nick) Davidson KC (1966)
David Halstead (1966)
William (Bill) Hartley (1967)
Rodger Hight (1967)
Gavin Robinson (1967)
Geoffrey Clifford (1970)
Mark Whitehead (1973)
Kim Hamilton (1975)
Graeme Curtis (1980)
David Herber (1981)
Rhys Kempen (1992)
Mike Camm
Mike ‘Scrump’ Johnston (1974, Custodian of the College) has been selected for the New Zealand Over 65s cricket team following his outstanding performance as a member of the Canterbury Over 60s cricket team. The team will play in Christchurch in November.
Jonathan Price (2009) starred in the Court Theatre’s production of A Doll’s House. Jonathan has an impressive background, having completed his BA (Hons) in Theatre and English Literature from Victoria University. He further honed his craft at the John Bolton Theatre School and Ecole Philippe Gaulier in Étampes, France.
Sam Martin (2015) was part of the New Zealand polo team, along with reserve member Tom Turner (2022), who defeated England 11–8.
Shilo Klein (2017) was selected for the USA Men’s Eagles rugby squad. The team played a nine-test series in Europe, facing off against Portugal, Tonga, and Spain.
International and United States College sensation football goalkeeper, Blair Currie (2018), has signed with Melbourne’s Calder United Soccer Club for the 2025 season.
Kate Sproule (2018) won the People’s Choice category for the B&T 30 Under 30 Media Awards in Melbourne. These prestigious awards recognise the most promising young talents across various fields, including creative, strategy, and PR.
Sam Martin (second right)
Three Old Collegians were celebrated at the 34th Trillian Trust Māori Sports Awards. Olivia Brett (2019, Ngāpuhi) was nominated for Senior Māori Sportswoman of the Year after winning the Gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics in canoeing. Taiko Torepe-Ormsby (2021, Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Maniapoto) was recognised for his participation in the 50m freestyle swimming event at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Riki Ellison (1976, Ngāi Tahu) was inducted into the Māori Sports Hall of Fame. Riki made history as the first New Zealander to play in the NFL and win a Super Bowl.
Olivia Brett (2019) and her Women’s K4 Canoe Sprint team won Team of the Year at the 62nd Halberg Awards for their Gold medal performance at the Paris Olympics last year.
Mac Stodart (2019) was signed by the Otago Nuggets for the 2025 Sal’s NZNBL basketball season. After graduating from St Andrew’s, Mac earned a scholarship at Concordia University Irvine, before transferring to the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs (UCCS). He has represented Otago and played for U16 and U18 New Zealand teams and made a significant impact with the Canterbury Rams.
Harness racing driver, Carter Dalgety (2020), won the Fonterra Young New Zealand Rural Sportsperson of the Year Award. Carter had a breakout year in 2024, making history as the fastest junior driver ever to reach 100 career wins and clinching his first Junior Drivers’ Premiership with 67 wins. His success came despite spending three months overseas after winning the $15,000 Valachi Downs Young Scholarship, which allowed him to train and race in the United States.
Xavier Dickason (2020) won the University of Canterbury’s Ensom Prize, an essay competition focused on a specified topic relating to constructive policy to promote and preserve international peace and goodwill. Xavier’s essay looked at the role of small nation-states in advocating for regulations and restrictions on Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems.
Zak Foulkes (2020) made his ODI debut for the Black Caps in Pallekele, Sri Lanka in November. Zak was presented with his cap by Canterbury Cricket teammate Henry Nicholls (2009). Zak also joined the Durham County Cricket team for England’s T20 Vitality Blast campaign.
Scott Janett (2021) and Cam Paul (2022) had their first-class debut cricket game for Canterbury in the Plunket Shield in late November. Cam became the 34th Canterbury player to achieve a five-wicket haul on debut. They were joined by new captain, Rhys Mariu (2019) and wicket keeper, Jesse Frew (2019) who made his debut a week earlier. Rhys also scored a double century.
Eight Old Collegians are currently playing College Basketball in the USA – Jackson Rhodes (2021), Karereatua Williams, Maddie Morrow (both 2022), Torin Ward, Lauren Whittaker (all 2023), Niamh Chamberlain, Ophelia Powell, Rafferty Powell (all 2024).
Jakarta Klebert and Hugh Nixon (both 2022) were part of the New Zealand Men’s U21 hockey squad which competed in the Oceania Cup, a Junior World Cup Qualifier event in Auckland. The team was runner-up to Australia.
Charlotte Roche (Deputy Head Girl, 2022) won the 2024 Women’s New Zealand National League Golden Boot, presented to the football player who scores the most goals during the season.
Four Old Collegians were named to play in the 2025 Super Rugby U20 competition in Taupō. Sam Mustchin (2024) and Couper Killick (2022) made the Highlanders U20 team, while Cylas Tauti and Radford Powell (both 2023) were selected for the U20 Crusaders team.
Tom Rae (2022) had an extraordinary 2024 in astrophotography. He entered and won five prestigious competitions: Milky Way Photographer of the Year, Winterstellar 2024 Competition, Royal Museums Greenwich Astronomy Photographer of the Year, Australian Astrophotographer of the Year, and the New Zealand Astrophotography Competition. Adding to his
achievements, Tom is now sponsored by Nikon and will be hosting his own astrophotography workshops this year.
Penelope Taulafo (2023) was one of three proud recipients of the Sealord Scholarship. She is breaking new ground as the first in her family to attend university, pursuing a law degree at Victoria University. This scholarship, which grants $5000 annually for up to four years, will support her study fees.
Old Collegian athletes, Nikkita McIntyre (2023), Craig Varcoe (2009), Oska Baynes (2009) and Hugh Montgomery (2020), represented the Old Collegians in the Athletic Day Sports Relay to try and make it a three-peat against the staff, Girls’ prefects, and Boys’ prefects. They were also up against Phil Adams (1991) and Dan O’Reilly (2005), who were running for the staff team. The Boys’ prefects were victorious, but the Old Collegians will be back next year to take back the title.
2024 Leavers were guests of honour at the annual Academic Assembly where students’ excellent NCEA results were celebrated. Aaron Moore (2024) was one of only 55 students nationwide to receive an NZQA Outstanding Scholar Award.
Sea-am Thompson (2024) has been awarded an organ scholarship to Magdalen College, University of Oxford. He will begin his studies in September 2025, pursuing a three-year BA in Music. Out of only 60 students worldwide, Sea-am secured one of the top two scholarships on offer this year. We believe Sea-am is our first Old Collegian to attend University of Oxford as an undergraduate. Magdalen College, known for its rigorous admission process, brings in just two organ scholars every three years. As part of his scholarship, Sea-am will perform seven times a week at the Magdalen Chapel. The organ he will be playing was built in 2023 and is the first of its kind to be constructed in the UK in almost 100 years.
Sam Lee (2013) has recently graduated from the University of Melbourne with a PhD in computational biology. He is now working as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute in a lab researching metastatic cancer.
Jonte Butterfield (2024) was third in the Ski GP race at the Smooth-Air Products New Zealand Jetsport Nationals .
Olivia Brett (right)
Carter Dalgety (left)
Regulus
Old Collegians
Justmarried
Jazmin Lotz (2012) married Tim Murdoch (2012) in Wanaka in March 2024.
Patrick Moran (2018) married Laura Carson in Monroe, Connecticut, USA on 10 February 2024 alongside Brady Swann (2017) as Best Man and Ben Oxley, Harrison Jones-Park and Alex Wilson (all 2018) as groomsmen.
Eliza Grigg (2014) married Edoardo Galli on June 8 2024 at Villa di Loro in Tuscany, Italy.
Blair Currie (2018) married Benjamin Johnson on 21 February 2025 at Cossars Wine Shed, Tai Tapu.
Akerita Alatimu (2016) married Caleb Morgan (2016, Head Boy) on 15 February 2025 in the Centennial Chapel. They were pictured with many of their St Andrew’s College classmates.
Back: Oliver Bragg (2014), Liam Bailey (2015), Ash McNicholl (2016), Jack Taylor (2016), Henry Trott (2016), John Trott (1991), George Bennett (2016); Front: Saxon Morgan (2018), James Friel (2018), James Bragg (2012), Tayla Richardson (2016), Eilish Platts (2016), Emma Williams (2016), Akerita Morgan née Alatimu (2016), Caleb Morgan (2016) Cameron McHugh (2016), Josh Starkey (2016), Padraig McNicholl (2016) and Tito Alatimu (2015)
