Regulus Issue 2 | 2026

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REGULUS AUGUST 2026

Contents August 2026

Editor/Writer: Jo Bailey Photography: Sue Oxley Anna Turner Jayde Drumm Craig Morgan Lisa Clark Bri Lawrence Dave Jackways Alex Kelley Sally Anne Tull Emma Maw Helen Johnson

Printing: Caxton

Leadership and Governance

Values and Culture

2 4 5

From the Rector

22 Anything Goes was ‘de-lovely' 26 A legacy stitched into every

6

Meet the new Head of Hauora; Dayna Stirling new Head of Middle School

From the Board St Andrew’s responds to New Zealand education changes

7

John Ruge Australia bound; New Head of Senior School

8

Predicted results good – delivered results outstanding

9

Meet the 2026 Student Captains

Teaching and Learning

10 Growing skills for a

technology-driven world

11 At the cutting edge of technology 12 Education outside the classroom 14 Academic successes 15 Festival of the Spoken Word; Ellie Zhou wins National Flash Fiction Day Competition

Published: August 2026 General correspondence should be addressed to: Head of Communications St Andrew’s College 347 Papanui Road Strowan Christchurch 8052 New Zealand Telephone: +64 3 940 2000 Email: comms@stac.school.nz Website: stac.school.nz Find us online: Facebook YouTube Instagram

(Cover) Year 8 Camp at Kura Tawhiti Castle Hill.

Photo credit: Mark Wilson

16 Reaching for the stars 17 Blooming brilliant fun at the Years 2–3 Disco

18 Wordless book inspires learning and creativity

19 A powerful journey into the past Resources and Environment

20 Annual Giving 2026 – opening doors

through Scholarships; Thanks to our Donors; Business Networking event brings community together

21 Property Master Plan update;

StACTalks – supporting families in a digital world

production; A new chapter for choral music

27 Ballet Winter Showcase 28 Looped a triumph of student creativity

30 So They Can fundraising campaign; From Prizegiving favourite to stadium showstopper

31 Boarding parents building connections

32 Celebrating 20 years of StAC Attack 34 Eco Action Trust involvement starts winding down; Pink Shirt Day and Pride Week

35 Year 11 Semi-formal 36 Taking the lead 37 Black and Bling Ball 38 Community and service 39 Careers Expo;

Rebooting technology for the community

40 Well-being Week;

International Assembly

41 Special assemblies 42 Cultural catch up 46 Sports round up 50 Holiday happenings Old Collegians

52 Message from the President; Events

53 Events 54 Class notes 55 Upcoming Events 56 Gone but not forgotten; Just married

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From the

Rector Looking after your well-being is increasingly important in today’s fast-paced and complex modern world.

However, young people in particular are at risk of receiving the wrong messages about how to develop strong and sustainable well-being, given the pressures and mixed messages which can come through social media, alongside a growing self-care industry which sometimes focuses more on products than lasting habits.

At St Andrew’s College, our approach to well-being is based on PERMA-V. Grounded in positive psychology, it provides a practical framework to support young people’s well-being.

It focuses on six key areas: Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Accomplishment, and Vitality, helping students understand what contributes to a flourishing life. More than theory, PERMA-V provides clear, everyday strategies. Students learn not only what each pillar means, but how to apply it, whether that’s building friendships, managing stress, finding flow in learning, or taking care of their physical health.

Our new Strategic Plan includes a key strategic priority: Well-being: growing and caring for our people.

To support the development of strong and sustainable well-being habits, we have introduced Assistant Deans across Years 9–13, established new Sports Dean roles, and created a new Head of Hauora position. Together, these initiatives support the College’s strategic vision of having a strong, integrated, and coherent pastoral and well-being system.

Our approach is further strengthened by our shared College values and servant leadership model, which encourages students to focus on serving others and contributing positively to their communities.

This is reflected in the wide range of community service opportunities available to students, including fundraising for charities, collecting goods for those in need, planting trees, helping to feed the homeless, and supporting community organisations.

Service is one of the many ways students put kindness into action.

Kindness is powerful. Research shows that it is highly transferable, with people often inspired to imitate positive actions and the spirit behind them. In other words, kindness begets kindness. Its impact extends beyond those directly affected, creating a ripple effect that benefits families, communities, and society more broadly.

Well-being is not about pursuing constant happiness or avoiding challenge. Rather, it involves developing the capacity to navigate difficulty, act with purpose, and engage meaningfully with life. Through PERMA-V, we aim to equip our young people not only the language of well-being, but also with the skills, habits, and sense of purpose to live it every day.

Purpose provides direction and meaning. It gives people a reason to persevere through challenges, grow through adversity, and contribute to something greater than themselves.

A purposeful life may not always feel comfortable or easy, but it is deeply fulfilling. This sentiment is reflected in the words attributed to St Benedict: “The purpose of life is a life of purpose.”

Mark Wilson Rector

Message from the Rector about the departure of

Board Chair, Felicity Odlin I would also like to acknowledge the departure of Felicity Odlin after five years as Chair and more than 10 years of service on the Board.

Felicity provided me with invaluable support and advice from my appointment at the beginning of 2025 and throughout my first 18 months as Rector. I know our College community will be deeply grateful of her professional, thoughtful, and generous voluntary service to the Board and the wider College over many years. Her contribution has extended beyond governance, reflecting her commitment to St Andrew’s both as a Board member and as the parent of two sons who attended the College. On behalf of the St Andrew’s College community, I extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to Felicity for her outstanding service, governance, and stewardship of the College. Her contribution has been significant and will leave a lasting legacy.

Clockwise from top left: My wife, Judi (front), and myself with guests at the Black and Bling Ball; with former OCA Presidents, John Rainey and Ross Bisset, at the Old Collegians Association Presidents’ Dinner; supporting the 1st XV in their exchange with Timaru Boys’ High School; and with Festival of the Spoken Word winner, RuoLin (Lauren) Li (Year 12) and the other Year 12 finalists, Lachlan Hay and Eden Taylor.

Leadership and Governance

Other highlights have included the Festival of the Spoken Word competition, won by talented Year 12 student Ruolin (Lauren) Li, and Rugby Club Day, where the St Andrew’s spirit was evident from our youngest players through to our 1st XV and the many supporters lining the sidelines. There have also been some special Old Collegians’ events and gatherings, including the Presidents’ Dinner, where 20 former and current Presidents were recognised for their contribution to St Andrew’s College.

3 Regulus

It has been another wonderful period of celebration, connection, and community at St Andrew’s College, with memorable events including the spectacular Black and Bling Ball, which raised valuable funds for our rowing and hockey programmes, and the twentieth annual StAC Attack concert, where our Pipe Bands and Highland dancers delivered outstanding performances. The Ceilidh, the following evening, capped off a successful weekend celebrating our Scottish heritage.

From the

Board But time has a way of sorting what really matters. It comes back to people.

It is the students who remind us every day why schools exist. It is the staff who quietly change lives without seeking recognition. It is the parents who entrust us with what matters most to them. It is our wider community who weave their story into the fabric. And it is the governors who generously give their time because they believe deeply in this College and its future.

Ten years is an interesting measure of time.

Long enough for Year 3 students to become College leavers. Long enough for new buildings to become familiar landmarks. Long enough for countless concerts, productions, sports games, Prizegivings, Board meetings, and conversations to become part of the fabric of College life.

At the College’s 109th Annual General Meeting in June, I announced I would be stepping down from the Board in September, after 10 years of service, including the past five as Board Chair.

As this is my final contribution to Regulus, I found myself wondering what to write. It would be easy to list the milestones of the past decade. There have been many, and I am immensely proud of what our community has achieved together.

Perhaps that has been my greatest lesson over the past 10 years. While facilities and resources matter, the true strength of the College lies in something less tangible: a shared commitment to helping young people become capable, confident, curious, and compassionate young adults.

That belief has shaped the Board’s thinking, including the Property Master Plan which is now underway. While it will ultimately guide the future development of our campus, it is not simply about buildings. It begins with educational beliefs, special character and identity, how students experience the College, how they develop a sense of belonging, and how our learning environments can best support their well-being and growth. In many ways, it is governance at its best: making decisions not for next term or next year, but for students we have not yet met.

Every year brings a new group of students experiencing College life for the first time. Each new cohort inherits a College shaped by people they have never known. People do come and go, yet the College endures as we each add our own small piece to strengthen what has come before.

My own journey with the College began when our eldest son started in Year 7.

Both of our boys flourished during their time at St Andrew’s, leaving with a strong sense of belonging and personal growth. As a family, we have much to be grateful for, and serving on the Board has been one way of giving something back to a community which has given us so much.

As one chapter closes, another begins. I am delighted that Nick Letham will take over as Board Chair in September, with Peter Nelson becoming Deputy Chair. Nick is an Old Collegian (OC 2001) and has served the College community in a number of capacities, including as the staffnominated member of the Board for the past seven years. Professionally, Nick is a corporate law partner at Chapman Tripp. Peter, also an Old Collegian (OC 1974), has served on the Board for the past five years. Peter is an elder at Cashmere Presbyterian Church, has been a businessman with years of experience in the corporate sector, and Chairs the Canterbury Rugby Referees Board.

Both are thoughtful, experienced leaders who care deeply about the College, and I know it will be in very capable hands.

It has been a genuine privilege to serve this community over the past decade.

Thank you for the trust which has been placed in me, and for the friendships, conversations, and experiences I will always value. I wish the Board, our staff, our students, and every member of our College community every success in the years ahead.

Felicity Odlin Board Chair On behalf of the Board of Governors

St Andrew's responds to

New Zealand education changes

In anticipation of these changes, St Andrew’s set up an internal staff Taskforce Group, which has identified the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), offered through Cambridge International Examinations (CIE), would be a valuable additional offering for our Year 11 students. This internationally respected qualification, undertaken by students across more than 150 countries, is known for its clarity, depth, and academic challenge, says Mark.

Running alongside these curriculum changes is a major redevelopment of secondary school qualifications.

The current NCEA system is being reshaped, with a new and more academically rigorous qualification framework emerging for Years 12–13 later this decade.

“The decision to offer IGCSE as an option for our Year 11 students is based on the benefits of the qualification to provide stronger academic preparation for the new Year 12–13 qualification, deliver an international benchmark on how our students are performing, and provide enhanced motivation for our students to achieve their very best through an internationally recognised qualification,” explains Mark.

The first visible change for many families will occur at Year 11 in 2028, with NCEA Level 1 being removed and replaced by a new Foundational Award which will focus specifically on English and Mathematics, recognising the importance of literacy and numeracy as essential building blocks for all further learning.

From the beginning of 2028, Year 11 students will have the opportunity to undertake IGCSE courses across a range of subjects offering several important advantages, shares Mark.

As the national reforms continue to unfold over the coming years, St Andrew’s goal remains clear: to ensure every student is both challenged and supported, and that their education equips them for success in an increasingly complex and competitive world.

“For parents, this period of change may feel unfamiliar at times. Yet it also presents a valuable opportunity, a chance to strengthen the foundations of learning, raise expectations, and better prepare young people for the future that lies ahead,” adds Mark.

Classical Studies and History teacher, Beka Roest, with Year 10 students (from left), Abigail Croft, Charles Burke, Nate Randall and Freya Manuel.

Leadership and Governance

“At the heart of the reform is a move towards what is often described as a knowledge-rich curriculum. This marks a return to more explicit teaching approaches, including structured instruction with both literacy and mathematics,” explains Mark. “At St Andrew’s, much of this teaching has been in place for some time, with a focus on more structured sequences of learning, where ideas are introduced, practised, and revisited in a logical progression.”

“Perhaps most importantly, it will help foster a culture of aspiration, not simply through the qualification itself, but through the way it challenges students to engage with their learning.

Working towards a recognised and respected international qualification can also be a powerful motivator, encouraging students to take pride in their work and to aim for excellence.”

5 Regulus

New Zealand education is undergoing some of its most significant transformations in decades, with the government’s planned reforms to both the national curriculum and the secondary school qualification system, signalling a clear shift in direction with greater emphasis on knowledge, academic rigour, and clearer standards of achievement, says Rector, Mark Wilson.

Meet the

New Head of Hauora After years balancing the demanding dual roles of Director of Boarding and Head of Middle School at St Andrew’s College, Matt Parr is preparing for a new challenge, as the College’s inaugural Head of Hauora.

The name of the newly created executive-level position, hauora, is a Māori concept widely used within New Zealand education, encompassing the physical, mental, spiritual, and social dimensions of well-being. It has been introduced as part of the College’s strategic focus to strengthen its student Pastoral Care and Well-being programmes and integrate them across the Preparatory and Secondary Schools in a more cohesive College-wide approach.

“I’m excited to be working on high level alignment between pastoral care, well-being, and student management across the College,” shares Matt.

“It will be great to connect with the Preparatory School which is a fairly new space for me.”

Rector, Mark Wilson, says Matt’s appointment follows an external independent review completed at the end of 2025, which praised the College’s strong pastoral care systems while also identifying opportunities to create a more integrated and cohesive framework across Years 1–13.

“One of the key recommendations was the creation of an executive leadership role dedicated specifically to student pastoral care and well-being across the entire College,” Mark says. “In this new executive position, Matt will work

closely with our Head of Well-being, Kerry Larby, counsellors, Deans, Heads of School, and senior leaders in the Preparatory School, to ensure there is consistency and coherence across our Pastoral Care and Well-being programmes, and also the way information is recorded and processed in our new student management system, Toddle.”

Matt brings significant professional pastoral care experience to the role, having held several key leadership positions at St Andrew’s. He will take up the position as Head of Hauora in Term 3, while continuing as Director of Boarding. Matt says the new position marks an exciting change from the operational demands of leading the Middle School.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to work more strategically and focus on longer term initiatives, including the continued rollout of the College’s PERMA-V framework, and the development of a new whole-school pastoral care student management system which will ensure more consistent practices.”

Matt will continue to support the Middle School leadership team throughout the changeover and is enthusiastic about his new direction.

“There’s a little bit of the unknown because it’s a brand-new role,” Matt says. “But that’s exciting too. We’ll be looking closely at what’s already working well and identifying where we can continue to grow and improve.”

Dayna Stirling new Head of Middle School St Andrew’s has made a highly regarded internal appointment, with Dayna Stirling succeeding Matt Parr as the Head of Middle School. Dayna brings extensive experience in pastoral care and student leadership, having served as a Dean for five years and, most recently, as the 2026 Senior Dean, supporting the Year 12 and 13 Deans. Rector, Mark Wilson, says she brings “strong energy, proven leadership, and a deep understanding of the academic, pastoral and co-curricular needs of students in Years 9–11. Dayna commenced the role at the start of Term 3.

Head of Middle School, Dayna Stirling

John Ruge Australia Bound

“I’ve loved my time at St Andrew’s, particularly working with the passionate, hard-working staff who have joined me over the years in the Senior College. We’ve always been a tight, dedicated team, and I’m really proud of the culture we have developed with our senior students.”

John’s new role brings more leadership responsibility, with oversight of the secondary campus at Scots All Saints.

Rector, Mark Wilson, says John has been instrumental in shaping the Senior College, developing a strong staff culture, and a student environment grounded in respect, inclusion, and high expectations.

Former Head of Senior College, John Ruge

“John has played a pivotal role in shaping a high-performing Senior College culture. He helped strengthen pastoral care systems, improve tracking of student progress, was a founding member of the well‑being group which initiated our new framework,

and developed new initiatives like Year 12 Life Skills and Year 13 Te Waka,” Mark says. “We thank John for his dedication and service and wish him every success in this exciting next chapter.”

New Head of Senior School Following John Ruge’s departure, St Andrew’s has welcomed experienced educator, Julia Shannon, as its new Head of Senior School.

Julia has been Deputy Principal at Southland Boys’ High School for the last five years, and brings significant experience in curriculum leadership, pastoral systems, and whole-school improvement, says Rector, Mark Wilson.

Head of Senior School, Julia Shannon

“Julia also has a strong focus on academic progress, student well-being and building highperforming teams. We are excited to welcome her to the College, and believe she will make a significant impact for our Year 12–13 students.”

Another recent change has been renaming the Senior College to the Senior School, Mark shares.

“The name change brings the Senior School in line with the Middle School and Preparatory School, creating a more cohesive identity for the three schools within St Andrew’s College.”

Julia grew up in Christchurch and is happy to be returning to the city with her husband, Lachie, and their three children. She starts at St Andrew’s College on Monday 17 August 2026.

Leadership and Governance

John says the move is an exciting opportunity for him and his wife, Kathryn, to take up a new challenge without being too far away from their three young adult children who have now left home.

“It’s also the chance to experience life in regional New South Wales at a highperforming school which has an important role educating students from more remote areas, and where boarders are able to bring their horses to school during term time,” shares John.

77 Regulus

After dedicating more than 11 years to St Andrew’s College, Head of Senior College, John Ruge, left at the end of July to take the next step in his educational leadership journey, joining Scots All Saints College in Bathurst, New South Wales, as its new Assistant Head of College and Head of Senior School.

Year 12 students who achieved ‘value-added’ scores placing them in the top percentile in New Zealand, with Rector, Mark Wilson and Principal of Secondary School, Evert van Florenstein.

Predicted results good – delivered results

outstanding

The release of external, independent value-added assessment data has revealed a large group of Year 11 students are significantly outperforming their predicted academic growth rates, which are among the very highest in New Zealand.

A group of 40 students have achieved ‘value-added’ scores which place them in the top eight per cent nationally, while another 50 students are ranked in the top 15 per cent across the country.

Principal of Secondary School, Evert van Florenstein, says the College is ‘totally delighted’ with these results.

“It’s a great news story for St Andrew’s to share and celebrate. These students have far exceeded expectations, with their results highlighting the level of support and care provided at St Andrew’s to help every student achieve at their very best,” he says.

The results reflect success across a broad range of learners, including students requiring additional learning support, says Evert.

“About 25 per cent of our students receive some form of learning support. These results reassure parents they can feel confident their children will be known, supported, and encouraged to succeed at St Andrew’s.”

In Year 9, students sit nationally standardised testing alongside thousands of other New Zealand students, which is overseen by the Centre for Assessment and

Macully Greer (Year 12) receiving his Value Added Distinction Award from Rector, Mark Wilson.

Monitoring (CAM) at the University of Canterbury. The results from this assessment predicts their likely academic levels by Year 11, which is where St Andrew’s students are far exceeding expectations.

“This means students who were expected to gain an Achieved baseline pass are achieving significantly higher than expected, especially when compared against their peers in other schools around New Zealand with similar entrance testing.”

Evert says one of the keys to the success is the way in which St Andrew’s identifies learning needs early and uses data carefully to guide teaching and mentoring.

“We assess students very early and are able to track progress closely, identifying where they may need support or extension, and intervening quickly before small issues become bigger challenges.”

The results also highlight the strength of learning within the College’s co-educational environment, with girls and boys both achieving excellent outcomes and embracing academic success, he adds.

“The benefits of learning in our co-educational environment are clear, with our overall percentages of students passing NCEA outperforming single sex schools at all three levels last year. An impressive 94.7 per cent of boys and 91.3 per cent of girls gained University Entrance in 2025, which was considerably higher than the average of 70.1 per cent in boys’ schools, and 81.4 per cent in girls’ schools.”

Meet the

2026

Student Captains

Academic Captains

Cultural Captains

Oliver Jackways

Katie Chan

Alice Howard

Ollie Jackways says it means a lot to represent students at St Andrew’s as a Sports Captain. He aims to lead by example, be approachable, and help to create a positive and inclusive school environment, encouraging school spirit and student involvement in sports, and supporting student-led events bringing people together.

A talented sportsman, Ollie has played 1st XV rugby, 1st XI hockey, athletics, and Senior A tennis during his time at St Andrew’s, experiences which have helped to improve his teamwork, communication, and leadership skills.

Team sports have also taught him responsibility and the importance of helping others. Ollie is also focused on doing his best academically, and after leaving St Andrew’s, plans to go to university to study, and continue playing as much high-level sport as he can.

Kate Chan feels honoured to have been selected as an Academic Captain.

Her goals include the continuation of the Peer Tutoring Programme, building an informative website, starting up a miniature Science Fair, and planning a more subject-inclusive Cantamath-style tournament. Katie has achieved NCEA Levels 1, 2, and 3 with Excellence Endorsements, and has received two NZQA Scholarships.

She is sitting five Scholarship subjects this year, and plans to study Health Sciences at the University of Otago after leaving St Andrew’s.

As a proud Cultural Captain, Alice Howard plans to improve the strength and size of the cultural community at St Andrew’s College, and increase opportunities for students to show off their talents and hard work. The multi-talented performer has been involved in many music and dance groups during her time at the College, including the chamber and symphony orchestra, the Big Band, Soul Band, and the Production Band for this year’s Senior Production, Anything Goes. She is also an enthusiastic member of StAC Dance, performing hip hop, jazz, and contemporary dance. Alice has been regularly involved in productions at St Andrew’s as part of the cast, crew, and band. After leaving St Andrew’s, she hopes to study Veterinary Science at Massey University.

Ava Jones Ava Jones, one of the St Andrew’s top young basketballers, says she feels blessed to have the opportunity to take on the role of Sports Captain alongside Ollie Jackways this year. One of her goals is to add more House sports events to the programme to improve participation and create an environment where students are enjoying sports. Ava is a longstanding member of the Senior A Girls’ basketball team and has been recognised at the highest levels, as captain of both the U15 and U16 New Zealand Women’s basketball teams. She returned recently from the Czech Republic, where she captained the U17 New Zealand team at the FIBA U17 Women’s Basketball World Cup. Ava has secured a scholarship at Santa Clara University in America where she will play NCAA Division 1 College Basketball after leaving St Andrew’s.

Katie Foot Katie Foot is grateful to have been chosen as an Academic Captain and is encouraging her peers to have greater participation in academic studies. During her studies at St Andrew’s, Katie has achieved Excellence Endorsements at NCEA Levels 1 and 2, along with higher level endorsements, including Year 13 Biology with Excellence, and Year 13 Chemistry with Merit in Year 12. She has also been awarded various prizes, including the Spanish Prize twice, and once she leaves St Andrew’s plans to go to either Melbourne or Queensland and do a double degree in Biomedicine and Science.

Ken Minh-Ky Pham Ken Minh-Ky Pham is excited about potentially hosting a School Science Fair, and a mini Cantamath-style tournament with a broad range of topics. Ken is also an active participant in the 2026 Peer Tutoring programme as a tutor. He completed NCEA Level 3 as a Year 12 student and achieved NZQA Scholarships in Chemistry and Biology. Ken is sitting seven Scholarship subjects this year and plans to study First Year Health Science at the University of Otago in 2027, with the hopes of getting into its Medicine Programme.

Scarlett Ryan Scarlett Ryan is honoured to be part of the student leadership team as a Cultural Captain, with a goal to make a difference, set a positive example, and ensure the cultural community remains positive and supportive.

She is enjoying continuing the well-established cultural traditions at St Andrew’s such as the Cultural Assembly and Cultural Showcase, and is an active participant in cultural life at the College. Since Year 10, Scarlett has had lead roles in St Andrew’s productions, has been part of the choir, and was part of Theatresports until this year. She ran the D-cubed Drama Club in 2025 and continues to help out. Scarlett is planning a gap year after leaving St Andrew’s, working in a boarding house in Scotland before returning to New Zealand, or close by, to study Drama and Musical Theatre.

9 Regulus

Sport Captains

Leadership and Governance

Cultural Captains, Scarlett Ryan and Alice Howard; Sports Captains Oliver Jackways and Ava Jones; and Academic Captains, Katie Foot, Ken Minh-Ky Pham and Katie Chan.

Growing skills for a technology-driven world In a world where technology is evolving at an unprecedented pace, helping young people develop the skills to thrive in the digital landscape has never been more important. The Digital Technology programme at St Andrew’s has earned a reputation for doing just that, producing innovative thinkers, successful NZQA Scholarship candidates, and students whose work is already making an impact beyond the classroom.

Head of Digital Technology, Phil Adams, says one of the most enjoyable aspects of teaching the subject is seeing the incredible variety of projects the students create, especially in Year 13, where the ‘completely bespoke course’ gives them the flexibility to work on a passion project in any field, from website design and building, to mobile application design, game development, and digital solutions to real-world problems.

“This course caters for all students’ interests. They can work to their strengths and even team up and work on projects together which can significantly increase their scale and scope,” Phil explains. “I love going from to table to table and talking with the students about their projects, which often surprise me for their innovative solutions and ideas.”

St Andrew’s also runs a highly successful NZQA Scholarship programme in Digital Technology, with Cohnor Walsh (now Year 13) becoming the latest Digital Technology student to win a Top Scholar Award in Technology in the 2025 NZQA Scholarship examinations as a Year 12 student.

He was also named as a finalist in the Prime Minister’s Future Scientist Prize for his innovative app design which helps boat owners at the Waikawa Boating Club to identify and locate available moorings in real time, saving potentially dangerous situations.

Mackey Johnstone (OC 2019) and Tom Edwards (OC 2022) are other Digital Technology students to achieve Top Scholar Award honours.

Phil says Cohnor’s story is a great example of how the subject’s Scholarship students are partnering with genuine stakeholders to provide practical solutions with a community benefit.

“These projects give students an experience which closely mirrors the professional environment, when they work alongside clients to design and project manage solutions for them.”

By the time students get to Year 13, many have been taking the subject since Year 9 and 10, when they learn basic skills in the option subject. Others start Digital Technology in Year 11, when the introductory programme focuses on learning to code, web design, making interfaces more usable and friendly, and database work, says Phil.

“We build on these skills in Year 12 and by the time they reach Year 13, students are working on more advanced programming techniques and growing their capability to a more complex outcome.”

Phil says many Digital Technology students from St Andrew’s go on to the University of Canterbury or the University of Auckland to study Computer Science or Software Engineering, with a rapidly evolving list of career options available once they graduate, he says.

“The technology our students will use in their future careers may not even exist yet, but what they learn in Digital Technology will always have relevance,” he says. “Our students learn how to tackle challenges, think creatively, and innovate skills which will stay with them for life."

At the cutting edge of technology

The following former Di gital Technology students at St Andrew ’s have put their studies to good use in exciting further study and careers beyo nd school.

Tom says working with stakeholders to develop a solution which applies technology in a beneficial way is something he learnt in Digital Technology which remains highly relevant in his job as an AI engineer at a tech start-up called Everyday Artificial Intelligence which is based in Auckland and New York. His job involves developing digital employees which automate repetitive tasks and processes for companies, and enables them to leverage AI to achieve things that weren’t possible before. Tom says it is both an exciting and scary time in the tech sector and he plans to stay at the cutting edge of AI innovation with aspirations to found his own tech start-up one day, which applies AI in a way that benefits society and brings social good.

19) Daniel Bishop (OC 20

k Digital Technology Although he only too tion classes, Daniel in his Year 9 and 10 op y inspired by Head sit rio cu the Bishop says il Adams, has Ph of Digital Technology, ng with the wide alo , him h wit always stuck dif ferent subjects for range of opportunities able to pursue at and interests he was him up well for St Andrew’s which set eer. car d an dy stu his fur ther at Canva in l sof tware engineer ployed as a mid-leve works He s. tem sys d ute Daniel is currently em in back-end distrib ion sat ali file G eci JP sp d a h an G, wit Sydney, all PDF, PN ich is responsible for Canva’s d uil reb to t jec pro in the export team, wh large rrently working on a icantly increase downloads, and is cu st. This should signif Ru in up d un gro the encounter, he ers us t tha PDF engine from ors the number of err ing uc red ile e at Canva, wh d rol ee ior export sp ve into a sen m, Daniel hopes to mo decisions nt ica nif sig ing says. In the short ter ap hin the team, and sh wit ts jec s to go pro pe r ho ge he lar leading to long term, ection. In the medium AI. of ge ed g ttin cu around its future dir the or Europe to work at fur ther afield to the US

Grace Kempthorne

(OC 2024)

Grace Kempthorne say s working on her Digital Technolo gy NZQA Scholarship project cal led Cluster Chick, when she helped to create and code a system wh ich improved the well-being of baby chicks by alerting farmers wh en they clustered together and were cold, was a highlight of taking the subject at St Andrew’s. This cha llenging Scholarship project has proved highly beneficial in pre paring Grace to study Engineer ing, and has suppor ted her app lications for internships, she adds.

Grace continues to uti lise the coding skills she develo ped in Digital Technology in her ter tiar y studies. After passing her Computer Science course examin ations at the beginning of 2025, she was able to pick up another course , and is now in her second year of a conjoint degree in Chemical and Process Engineering and a Bache lor of Science in Medicinal Ch emistr y.

With Chemical Engineer ing being a diverse degree, Grace is keen to explore dif ferent are as of the subject through interns hips, and is currently interested in medical drug development.

11 Regulus

Tom Edwards says the mentorship and teaching of Head of Digital Technology, Phil Adams, who created a supportive yet challenging environment, was a major benefit as he pursued his Digital Technology Scholarship project, for which he won a New Zealand Top Scholar Award. Under Phil’s guidance, Tom was also part of a St Andrew’s team among three global winners in the International Mathematics Modeling Competition.

Teaching and Learning

Tom Edwards (OC 2022)

Education outside the

classroom Learning doesn’t just happen within the classroom walls. Each term, students of all ages and from a variety of subject areas venture outside the College gates to participate in the Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) programme, designed to enhance their curriculum learning.

Secondary School Learning beyond their desks provides students in the Secondary School with a deeper understanding of concepts and can grow their interest and enthusiasm for their subject, says Head of Values and Culture, Hamish Bell, who oversees the EOTC programme.

“Our students enjoy these authentic learning experiences in a different environment, which adds relevance to their classroom work and helps to bring their topics to life in a real-world way,” he says.

The long-established EOTC programme at St Andrew’s includes everything from half- and full-day trips, to overnight and weekend excursions, and longer adventures.

The most highly anticipated field trips include Geography visits to Mt Cook Aoraki National Park and the West Coast, and the Year 13 Travel and Tourism trip to Queenstown.

“Some of the field trips, in subjects like Biology and Geography, are deliberately set up as part of an assessment, with students collecting data which they’ll write up properly when they’re back at school,” says

Hamish. “Others, like the Travel and Tourism trips and the Business Studies trip to Kaikōura where they study the Whale Watch operation, provide full immersion into the concepts they are learning in the classroom. Our Year 12–13 Te Reo Māori students have been engaged in a four‑month programme at the Whakaraupō Carving Centre, learning about whakairo (Māori carving).”

Students in the Agriculture subjects (Agristudies, Agriscience, and Agribusiness) attend the biggest range of field trips of any subject, visiting many different types of farming and horticultural operations where they learn first-hand about value chains, production processes, and environmental impacts.

Other subjects regularly taking students outside the classroom include Art, with its Year 11 students taking part in an annual full-day learning experience at Ōtamahua/Quail Island, and Years 12–13 Art students travelling to Wellington with Design and Visual Communication students for a day of learning in tertiary settings. Languages is another subject offering regular experiences, with French students enjoying an annual excursion to Akaroa.

“Alongside our established EOTC programme, we have the flexibility to add one-off trips,” shares Hamish.

Off-site, curriculum-based learning has many other benefits, developing student’s confidence, honing their research and reporting skills, and giving them the opportunity to work alongside others in a range of situations and environments, he adds.

“The field trips are hugely enjoyable and for some provide lasting memories which last well beyond Secondary School.”

Top: Year 11 Art students on their trip to Quail Island. Left: Te Reo students taking part in a carving workshop. Right: A jetboat ride was a highlight of the Year 13 Travel and Tourism trip to Queenstown.

Preparatory School Students across the three learning teams in the Preparatory School also enjoy a range of exciting realworld experiences, which not only enrich their learning but also provide valuable chances to practise the all-important StAC-UP values, says Deputy Principal of Preparatory School (Well-being) and Head of Education, Vicki Pettit.

“I really like the way the EOTC programme reminds our students to apply the StAC-UP values of ‘Be Ready, Be safe, and Be Respectful’ when they are out and about in the community, alongside having an exciting day outside the classroom.”

“This was an enriching cultural experience for our students and a wonderful extension of our community partnerships.”

Back at school, the learning continued through an engaging programme delivered by Imagination Station which encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and urban design thinking. Students planned their own cities and brought them to life with LEGO®, proudly sharing their creations.

For Year 5 students, classroom learning came to life during a visit to Orana Park in June. As part of their inquiry into animal enrichment, students observed wildlife up close and gained a deeper understanding of animal welfare and conservation.

Meanwhile, Year 8 students took part in one of the programme’s long-standing annual highlights, the Rocky Road of Discovery at Halswell Quarry. Through this hands-on scientific learning experience, they explored the geological processes which shaped the rocks of Banks Peninsula and learnt about the historical significance of the quarry itself.

Although not directly related to the curriculum, the National Young Leaders’ Day is another anticipated annual trip for Year 8 students; and learn-to-golf sessions were also popular with Preparatory School students, which helped them to develop new skills and reinforced the importance of physical activity, says Vicki.

“We are proud of our well-rounded EOTC programme which provides lots of exciting new opportunities for our students, enhances their classroom inquiries, and links back to PERMA-V, with positive emotions and engagement coming to life through the children’s learning.”

From top: Year 5 students visiting Orana Park; Junior students during their Beach Education Day; Year 8 students during their hands-on scientific learning experience at Halswell Quarry; Year 8 Castle Hill Outdoor Skills Camp.

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Year 4 students enjoyed a busy day of creativity, cultural connection, and exploration during their Term 1 visit to the Christchurch Art Gallery, where they explored the Whāia te Taniwha exhibition, deepening their understanding of Māori art and storytelling before creating artworks of their own, says Vicki.

Teaching and Learning

The programme begins each year with the highly anticipated Beach Education Days for both the Junior and Middle learning teams when the students learn about being sun-smart and safe in New Zealand’s coastal environment.

Academic

successes

Brain Bee Samuel Hu (Year 11) was third equal in the South Island in Round 1 of the New Zealand Brain Bee, an international neuroscience competition.

Samuel along with Angela Yang and Louis O’Neill (both Year 11) qualified for Round 2 of the competition.

South Island Ethics Olympiad

South Island champions Angela Yang, Samuel Hu, Daniel Kenyon (all Year 11), Fraser Walls and Hanxi (Cicy) Chen (both Year 12)

Samuel Hu (Year 11)

Chess The St Andrew’s A Chess team, Alex Manson (captain), Luke Manson (both Year 13), Aleksey Koulanov (Year 12) and Anthony Song (Year 11), were second in the top division at the Canterbury Regionals Interschools Competition and qualified for the National Chess Championships.

Creative Writing Jessica Whitehead (Year 8) received the Young Poet Award for the Maya Lyubenova International Haiku Competition 2026 (Bulgaria) and was published in the Fifth Sakura Haiku Challenge Digital Anthology for the Sakura Cherry Blossom Haiku Challenge. Jessica, along with Xinrui (Sophia) Xu and Isabelle Gibbs (both Year 3), had their poems published in the NZ Poetry Box Bird Challenge.

Claire Zhao (Year 8) received the prestigious Osaka Governor’s Award in The 7th Star Haiku Contest 2026.

The Senior Ethics Olympiad team delivered an outstanding performance to place first in the South Island Ethics Olympiad competition. The team demonstrated a strong understanding of ethical theory, critical thinking, and structured reasoning across the competition, and progressed to the World Ethics Olympiad on 23 July, where they represented both the College and the South Island against schools from around the globe.

Mathematics Anthony Song, Hongran (Mickey) Zhao, Dexuan (Derek) Kon and Brian Han (all Year 11) were third equal out of 20 teams in the Year 11 CMA Casio Calculator Competition.

NZQA Top Scholar Cohnor Walsh (Year 13) travelled to Wellington where he was recognised for his Top Scholar in Technology Scholarship in 2025, supported by Principal of Secondary School, Evert van Florenstein, and Teacher in Charge of Technology, Phil Adams.

Cohnor received his award from Kevin Jenkins, Chairman of NZQA, and had the opportunity to meet and speak with Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, and Minister of Education, Erica Stanford.

World Scholar’s Cup Eliska Menclova (Year 11) won six medals at the World Scholar’s Cup across debating, collaborative writing, Scholar’s Bowl, and overall team performance, with her team qualifying for the Global Round, to be held in Christchurch later this year.

da Vinci Decathlon Three St Andrew’s College teams from Years 9–11 competed in the da Vinci Decathlon hosted by Christ’s College, an academically rigorous competition which challenges teams of eight across ten disciplines. The Year 11 team placed second overall, with the Year 9 team placing third. The Year 10 team recorded first placings in three of the disciplines.

Kids’ Lit Quiz Two Preparatory School teams competed at the Canterbury Kids’ Lit Quiz Regional Heat, which featured 44 teams and 100 literature-based questions. Team One, comprising Alfred Lash (Year 8), Henry Streeter (Year 7), Georgia Blyde and Freya Gibbs (both Year 6), placed joint sixth, achieving top scores in two rounds.

Eliska Menclova (Year 11)

Festival of the Spoken Word The skill, creativity, and confidence of some of St Andrew’s best young speakers was showcased at the Senior Festival of the Spoken Word on Tuesday 9 June, as they took to the stage to deliver highly entertaining and well-crafted performances.

Thomas Ambury (Year 11), and last year’s overall winner, Hannah Papali΄i Taimalelagi Malietoa (Year 13), won the other Prepared Speech categories, with Hanxi (Cicy) Chen (Year 12) winning the Senior Impromptu category.

Hosted by the English Department, and compered by Cultural Captains, Scarlett Ryan and Alice Howard (both Year 13), the Senior Final also included Charlotte Currie (Year 10) winner of the Junior Festival of the Spoken Word, held a few days earlier.

Teaching and Learning

RuoLin (Lauren) Li (Year 12) impressed the judges, author Rachael Craw and Isobel Forsey (OC 2024),

with her outstanding speech, winning both the Year 12 Prepared Speech category, and the Overall Best Speaker Award.

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Left: RuoLin (Lauren) Li (Year 12) with judges Rachael Craw and Isobel Forsey (OC 2024). Centre: Junior winner, Charlotte Currie (Year 10).

Right: Year 11 winner Thomas Ambury (Year 11).

Ellie Zhou wins National Flash Fiction Day Competition St Andrew’s students received outstanding success at the 2026 National Flash Fiction Day Competition with Ellie Zhou (Year 13), Head of Writing, named overall national winner with her wonderful story, i am seven years old, just as i have always been.

Ellarose Wang (Year 10) placed third for her story, Most trees live beautiful and lonely lives, and Thomas Ambury (Year 11) received a Highly Commended award for his story, Eggs and this equation is wrong. Hanxi (Cicy) Chen (Year 12) made the competition’s shortlist and longlist with two different stories, and Emma Zang (Year 9) was also longlisted.

Rector, Mark Wilson, with Ellarose Wang (Year 10, left) and Ellie Zhou (Year 13)

Reaching for

s s r t a the One child’s interest in the Artemis rocket launch has sparked the imagination of the entire Pre-school community, with the classroom transformed into a vibrant universe of rockets, planets, and astronauts, and the children, teachers, and even Pre-school families enthusiastically embracing the theme.

“We’ve had lots of positive feedback from families, saying their children are going home so excited, and talking about the things they’ve learnt,”

shares Head of Pre-school, Mandy Jenkins. “Some of the children are even coming back to Pre-school with space-themed books they’ve borrowed off their big brothers or sisters.”

As soon as the Pre-school teachers recognised the children’s excitement and enthusiasm for space they built a rich learning experience around the theme, taking responsibility for different curriculum areas, adds Mandy.

“Our teachers have engaged the children in a range of learning experiences, from creating colourful planets, rockets, and stars, to watching videos of rocket launches and astronauts, and engaging in science experiments. The space topic has sparked lots of fun conversations and imaginative role play.”

The addition of new astronaut-themed dress-ups have been hugely popular, and the children have enjoyed learning new songs, and practising their literacy and numeracy skills, especially when it comes to counting down a rocket launch.

Above: Pre-school teacher, Ashleigh Gargiulo, reading spaced themed books with, from left, Finn, Max, Arlo, and Sienna.

Below: River, Florence, Eloise and Archie ready for take off.

River admiring a planet.

School Science Department giving us some additional resources,” shares Mandy. “These strong connections with the wider school is really important to the Pre-school, as it helps the children to understand they are part of the whole St Andrew’s community.”

Mandy says the space inquiry also seamlessly integrated into the Pre-school’s Matariki work and celebrations.

“It has been a wonderful reminder of the power of following the children’s interests and seeing where curiosity can lead,” she adds.

A highlight was launching bottle rockets with Year 8 students and Preparatory School Science teacher, Christina Fitzgerald, using small water-filled bottles and foot pumps.

“Some of the Year 8 Science leaders also visited the Pre-school to set up experiments for the children, with both Christina Fitzgerald, and the Secondary

Katie, Milan, George, Bodie and Shane watching the rocket launch with Year 8 students, Adelyn Abrahamson and Ai Jia Song.

Blooming brilliant fun at Years 2–3 Disco

From buzzy bees to fluttering butterflies, the Learning Hall in the Junior Department was transformed into a dance floor alive with colour and energy at the garden-themed Years 2–3 Disco on Friday 12 June

Teaching and Learning

“It was so much fun,” enthuses prefect, Iona Garrett (Year 13), who led the organisation of the disco with the support of a small group of prefects.

“The children really embraced the theme, with lots of colourful fairies, bugs, and caterpillars turning up. They loved having their photo taken in front of the decorated backdrop and dancing to all their favourite songs.”

The prefect-organised event is an annual highlight on the Junior Department calendar, with around 15 prefects helping on the night to ensure it all ran smoothly, says Iona.

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“We decorated the Learning Hall after school, and during the disco ran games like Musical Statues and Simon Says, and gave out prizes,” she remembers.

“We also had a dance competition, which turned into a dance battle between the two best dancers, who both ended up winning in the end.”

Iona, who is in charge of the prefects’ Social Media and Communications Committee, says she immediately volunteered to help organise the event when the opportunity came up, knowing it would be a ‘fun’ thing to do.

“I also learnt a lot about the heath and safety and planning aspects of running an event.

There’s a lot more things to think about than you expect.”

Top: Isabelle Gibbs, Annabelle Simmons and Caitlin McKendry (all Year 3). Middle left: Main organiser, Iona Garrett (centre) with fellow prefect Oliver Wallace (both Year 13) and Junior children. Bottom left: Charlotte Brown (Year 3) and Matisse Tompkins (Year 2). Bottom centre: George Guthrie, Felix Johnston and Samuel Donkers (all Year 3).

Florence Ryan (Year 2)

The Years 2–3 Disco was also a successful fundraiser, shares Iona. “We raised over $700 for the Child Cancer Foundation, which was fantastic.”

Wordless book inspires

learning and creativity

A beautifully illustrated, wordless picture book, called Mirror by Jeannie Baker which compares the lives of two boys, one living in urban Australia and one in rural Morocco, has sparked rich discussion, deep thinking, and an unexpected Minecraft challenge for Year 6 students, says teacher, Bid Constanti.

“I love working with wordless texts, as they encourage the students to look closely and observe visual clues to understand what is happening beyond what is shown,” she explains.

“The students really connected with the Australian side of the story in Mirror, and were fascinated by the comparison with family life in Morocco, and the shared values, routines, and experiences which connect people around the world.”

Bid says students have taken part in a range of activities as part of the inquiry, reflecting on their own experiences while building understanding through discussion and creative responses.

“I’ve enjoyed seeing how the students have interpreted different parts of the

story, both during their first viewing, and as we have gone deeper into our research and understanding of another part of the world.”

Year 6 student, Nova Mauger, says it was ‘cool΄ to explore the two-sided book, “which shows the two sides of the people and two lives but with similarities and differences.”

Quinn Taylor adds that working with a wordless book was a different experience. “We got to explain the story in our heads, then learn more about it.”

The reading unit culminated in a Minecraft challenge, with students recreating and connecting the contrasting worlds of Mirror.

“I hadn’t planned on integrating Minecraft Education into the unit, then realised it was the perfect tool to connect the students’ learning and understanding and see how much they had taken in of the different settings,” explains Bid. “They worked with great teamwork and collaboration, and referred back to the text frequently to create their two different settings within one world.”

Top: Oliver Warren, Nova Mauger and Anya Liong (all Year 6). Bottom: Quinn Taylor and Zaza Masters (both Year 6).

Samuel Rijpma is one of several Year 8 students who uncovered fascinating family history, after Class 8S was tasked with writing an article or family story relating to the Anzac campaign, or the First or Second World Wars.

“My great-grandfather’s farm in the Netherlands was raided by the Nazis in 1941. They took away all of their sheep and forced them to help feed the German soldiers,” Samuel explains.

“My family also harboured people from the city of Friesland who were selected to work for the Germans, but didn’t want to support their war effort. If they had been caught they would have been threatened with execution.”

Ruby Richards was also intrigued to learn about her great-uncle, Ernest Dense, who was a prisoner-of-war

in the infamous Changi Prison in Singapore during the Second World War. “He was one of the men in the camp providing a lot of well-being support for everyone else, which was something my family didn’t know about for a long time,” shares Ruby.

“There’s even a playground at Lake Brunner named after him because of his role.”

These are just two of the many compelling stories sparked by the broad scope of the writing inquiry, says Senior Learning Team Leader, Morgan Sheppard.

“I’m thrilled with the variety of stories, and the in-depth conversations many of the students have had with their parents and grandparents,” Morgan says. “It’s also been a good challenge for them to take their research and use the structured paragraph and

Year 8 student, Samuel Rijpma (right), shares some of his family’s wartime history with classmates (from left), Henry Graham, Carter Robinson, Indi Haydon-Uren, Kip Waghorn and Ruby Richards (all Year 8).

Other Year 8 students who found connections to the Second World War included Carter Robinson and Indi Haydon-Uren, who’s greatgrandfathers both fought in Italy.

Kip Waghorn wrote about his great-grandfather who served at Gallipoli during the First World War, and was surprised to learn from his grandmother he had survived two ‘massive’ battles, he shares. “It’s really important to go back in history and find out what they did.”

Henry Graham expanded the brief across centuries, tracing one of his ancestors back to the Battle of Falkirk in 1298. A friend of Scottish knight and military leader, William Wallace, he even appears as a character in the movie Braveheart, as Wallace’s right-hand man.

Morgan is proud of the way the students in 8S have embraced the inquiry’s scope for creativity.

“I’ve really enjoyed seeing the journeys they’ve gone on, and how they’ve told their stories in many different ways, while also making connections to the sacrifice of so many New Zealanders in these conflicts.”

Teaching and Learning

journey into the past

storytelling techniques they’ve been developing in class as scaffolding for their stories."

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A powerful

From the Head of

Development and Community Relations

Thanks to our Donors New Strowan Club Me mbers Silas Xu (OC 2001) and JJ Chen Maginness Family New Highland Members Selena Zhang and Fami ly Rev. Paul and Jo Morro w

Business Networking event brings community together

Annual Giving 2026 – opening doors through Scholarships

There was great support for the 2026 Annual Giving Appeal from the St Andrew’s community, which focused on strengthening the College’s existing scholarship programmes, helping to ensure that access to a St Andrew’s education is shaped by character and potential, rather than financial circumstance.

We are incredibly grateful for the response and support from the wider St Andrew’s community which together, raised more than $270,000. The opportunities at St Andrew’s are second-to-none, and being able to help students to fully participate and feel part of our community is something truly special.

An investment in scholarships is an investment in people, and the funds raised during the Annual Giving Appeal will make a significant difference to the lives of many young people.

This collective effort and generosity helps us to continue to remove barriers, and support capable and motivated young people to benefit from the high-quality academic, sporting, creative, and service opportunities at St Andrew’s, and for them to contribute to the life, culture, and diversity of our community through their talents, aspirations, and values.

Tomo Yee Head of Development and Community Relations

Community Business

Directory

A large crowd enjoyed the inaugural StAC Business Networking event on Tuesday 21 July, which included an enlightening talk from keynote speaker, Tony Alexander, one of New Zealand’s most well-known commentators on economic trends with decades of experience from his time as the Chief Economist at BNZ. Tony’s insights and practical perspective added real value to the evening and were greatly appreciated by those in attendance.

The Business Networking initiative has grown from the strong engagement in St Andrew’s Community Business Directory, where current St Andrew’s families can register their businesses to share with current parents.

There is an incredible depth of experience within our network and a desire for connection and bringing like-minded individuals together. The StAC Business Network, and our new networking events gives our community the opportunity to meet and build connections, as well as hearing from great speakers.

I am delighted by the positive response to the first Business Networking event.

We have had great support and feedback from the wider St Andrew’s community for this initiative. It’s something we’re really proud of, and I look forward to these events becoming a valuable and lasting addition to the St Andrew’s community calendar.

The St Andrew’s Community Business Directory now includes almost 200 registered businesses and continues to grow as a way for our St Andrew’s parent community to connect and support one another.

If you would like to register your business, please contact Tomo Yee, Head of Development and Community Relations at TYE@stac.school.nz

Property Master Plan update “We had a series of meetings with McIldowie Partners in May and June to discuss the latest draft proposals, and they are now working on a finalised plan, which will include approved designs, anticipated costs, and timeframes,” Mark says.

Consultation with the wider St Andrew’s community has been a key aspect of the process, and it has been interesting how many consistent themes about the future development of St Andrew’s have emerged from speaking with groups of students, staff, parents, and Old Collegians, Mark adds.

“We are excited to be getting close to sharing this exciting and ambitious plan, which I believe will greatly enhance the learning experience for our students at St Andrew’s and the campus as a whole for our staff and wider community.”

StACTalks –

supporting families

in a digital world Head of Hauora, Matt Parr, speaking at the Term 2 StACTalks event.

There was strong engagement from the St Andrew’s College parent community for Term 2’s StACTalks event, Digital Well-being, Connection, and Identity, which brought together staff expertise and parent experience to explore one of the most pressing challenges facing families today: supporting young people to navigate an increasingly complex digital environment.

Building off last year’s popular StACTalks: Smartphones, Social

Media, and Well-being, the evening focused on practical, researchinformed strategies to support healthy device use, positive online behaviours, and a strong sense of identity. The programme included a parent presentation from Roger Dennis, whose candid reflections and practical advice resonated strongly with those in attendance.

Head of Well-being, Kerry Larby, says the level of engagement reflects how important this issue is to parents.

“Our focus is helping young people build healthy habits with technology, and supporting parents with practical ways to guide that at home.”

The evening reinforced the value of combining expert guidance with shared community experience, and provided parents with practical tools and confidence to support their children to thrive, both online and offline.

A recording of this event is available on the StACTalks page within the Events section of StACNet for current parents who wish to revisit the session or were unable to attend.

Resources and Environment

“Later in Term 3, we expect to share the final plan, which will include the initial buildings and developments planned for the campus over the next 10 to 20 years, and a priority list of future developments,” he shares.

Although Mark can’t release specific details just yet, he says working with external company, McIldowie Partners, to bring the plan to life has been a ‘really professional and enjoyable’ process.

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The St Andrew’s College Board of Governors and Executive Team is another step closer to releasing details of the new Property Master Plan, which will shape the College’s development over the next 30–50 years, says Rector, Mark Wilson.

’ y l e v o l was ‘de

“Outstanding,” is how Rector, Mark Wilson, described the Senior College production of Anything Goes which opened to a standing ovation, and delighted audiences throughout its week-long, toe tapping run.

“What really stood out among the brilliant performances was the willingness of students to take on new challenges as part of their learning and growth, whether mastering tap dancing, stepping into lead singing roles for the first time, or performing with confidence before a live audience,” enthuses Mark. “The production reflected courage, commitment, and collaboration across the entire cast and crew.”

Larger than life

shipboard romp

“The latest 2022 revision of Anything Goes brings fresh wit to the original 1934 script by P G Wodehouse and Guy Bolton. It honours the show’s timeless charm, and its wonderful song and dance numbers which were demanding on our students’ young voices.”

Ginnie says the rehearsal process for the show was a delight, with the cast working with energy and focus from the outset to rise to every challenge.

One of the highlights was watching the students learn the tap dance for the full-cast tap sequence in the title song, Anything Goes, she shares.

The behind-the-scenes details in the show, from the music and choreography to the direction and design elements, all contributed to a magical production.

Musical Director, Duncan Ferguson, led the eight exceptional student musicians in the live production band, who effortlessly brought the lively and playful jazz era inspired rhythms and sophisticated melodies to life.

The stunning set evoking the 1930s ship with its Art Deco styling, multi-level spaces and promenade deck, and dazzling costumes, from elegant evening gowns, to sparkling performance costumes, crisp naval uniforms and tailored suits, both brought the style and glamour of the era to life.

The backstage crew and a large parent team of helpers also contributed to the success of the show.

“Theatre is a collaborative effort, and this show is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together,” says Ginnie.

Values and Culture

Director, Ginnie Thorner, says selecting this Golden Age classic gave students a wonderful opportunity to experience a different era of musical theatre and to stretch their skills.

“Only seven of our students had tapped before, and only four were taking lessons. The cast brought great commitment and enthusiasm to mastering this skill, and their achievement was remarkable. We are so grateful to our choreographer, Hana Pearce (OC 2019), for her patience and dedication in working with the students on what became a standout moment in the show.

I’m incredibly proud of them all.”

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With its witty, farcical script, and dazzling dance numbers set to a sparkling Cole Porter score, Anything Goes took audiences on a fast-paced, fun romp aboard the SS American, where the glamour of 1930s high society was brought to life, and romance, mistaken identities, and high-seas hilarity collided.

Hilarious tale of

love and deception As the song says, Anything Goes is ‘delightful, delicious, and truly delovely’ with its hilarious, chaotic plot filled with love triangles, mistaken identities, bad disguises, gangsters, and plenty of wit. The story follows lovelorn Billy Crocker as he teams up with the charismatic but jaded nightclub singer, Reno Sweeney, along with an incognito gangster, Moonface Martin, to win the heart of debutante Hope Harcourt, who is heading to London from New York on the SS America to marry her mismatched English fiancée.

Annie Young (Year 13), as Reno Sweeney, was outstanding in her role bringing both the confidence and vulnerability of her character to life. The talented actor, singer,and dancer delivered a beautiful performance of the show’s famous opening number, I Get a Kick Out of You, which set the scene for a wonderful night’s entertainment.

Her Act One duet of You’re the Top, with Charlie Bisphan (Year 13), who played Billy Crocker, was another highlight, which showcased the actors’ chemistry and had great choreography.

Charlie is another very strong actor and singer, who was perfect as the lovestruck young New York would-be businessman with his eye on a single prize, socialite, Hope Harcourt. On his quest to win her heart, Billy becomes entangled with small-time gangster, Moonface Martin, one of the most entertaining comic characters in the show.

Harrison Mugford (Year 11) was a standout performer as Moonface, doing a brilliant job of capturing the character’s exaggerated bravado and kind heart with great comic timing. His duet, Friendship with Annie Young got some of the biggest cheers of the show, and his dancing was flawless.

As Hope Harcourt, Zuzu Connelly (Year 12) looked like she stepped out of the pages of a 1930s fashion magazine, perfectly evoking the era, and doing a lovely job of portraying the object of Billy’s affections. She and Charlie Bisphan did a great performance of another of the musicals showstoppers, It’s De-Lovely.

Rounding out the love triangle was the hilarious Cooper Fleming (Year 13) as Hope’s hapless British fiancée, Lord Evelyn Oakleigh.

Cooper had great fun with the over-the-top role, with his physical comedy particularly impressive.

A triumph from

beginning to end

Among the young actors and singers to shine in supporting roles was Zoe Robinson (Year 12), who stole the scene every time she appeared as Erma Latour, the confident, sassy side-kick of Moonface Martin. Zoe perfectly characterised Erma’s flirtatious behaviour and her strong New York accent was impressive.

Austin Paterson (Year 12) enhanced his reputation for playing comedic characters with his fun portrayal of Elisha Whitley, a wealthy, slightly pompous Wall Street businessman, and Billy’s boss. His physical comedy was a delight.

Hope Harcourt’s overbearing and socially ambitious mother, the widow Evangeline Harcourt, was played brilliantly by Scarlett Ryan (Year 13) with her character trying to convince her daughter to marry well to save the family fortune, but managing to solve her financial issues herself by marrying Elisha Whitley in the end.

The members of the ensemble also played their various parts with relish, and given the complexity of the show and all they had to learn, did a wonderful job.

Love of course won the day in the end, with Billy and Hope marrying, along with Reno and Lord Evelyn.

A reprise of some of the show’s classic songs at the end of the show celebrated the characters’ happy ending and was the perfect way to finish another highly memorable piece of theatre at St Andrew’s College.

Values and Culture

Another of the show’s iconic hits, Blow Gabriel Blow, was beautifully sung by Annie Young, and gave the ensemble the opportunity to show off their impressive dance skills once again.

Isabella Cutforth and Holly Coggan (both Year 12) also had great fun as small-time crooks, Spit and Dippy, while Frederick Paterson (Year 11) as the ship’s Captain, and Edward Keenan and Lachlan Hackston (both Year 12) as his Purser and First Officer were wonderful in their roles too. Frederick Paterson’s effortless dancing was a standout.

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The audience was wowed by the cast’s incredible performance of Anything Goes at the end of Act One, with most of the students, including the lead, Annie Young, learning to tap dance especially for the iconic showstopper.

It was an incredible achievement for the students to master this tricky skill, with their exceptional performance bringing some Broadway magic to the stage.

A legacy stitched

into every production

From dazzling flapper dresses to colourful under-the-sea costumes, and carefully researched period garments, Costume Designer, Sylvia Campbell’s creations have helped to transport St Andrew's audiences to different worlds in an incredible 37 College productions.

“After lots of seven-day weeks and late nights making the costumes it's such a buzz to see it all finally come together on the stage, and think, ‘It’s worked!’.”

Now Sylvia is about to shut-down her sewing machine for the last time, as she retires from her role as one of the College’s most influential behind-thescenes creatives. Her expertise and meticulous attention to detail is not entirely lost to St Andrew’s, however, as she will continue as the shows’ lead costume designer, mentor those who are taking over the responsibility for making and altering the production costumes, and continue to make costumes for the choir.

Sylvia's love of sewing began in childhood and led her to complete a Diploma in Textile Design in the late 1970s. After moving to Sydney with her husband, she worked in a bridal boutique where she developed skills in draping, pattern making, and design. Later, while raising her family in Christchurch, she continued sewing bridal and evening wear before discovering a new creative outlet through the World of Wearable Art Awards. Her imaginative designs saw 15 entries accepted into the prestigious show, including one which received a WOW Factor Award.

“I have loved every minute of working on the productions,” shares Sylvia, who has been in the role since 2006.

While Sylvia says every production has its own highlights, she particularly enjoyed the creative challenges of

Costume Designer, Sylvia Campbell, in her workroom.

Urinetown's industrial aesthetic, Chicago's circus-inspired styling, and the detailed research required for the 1910s era production, Parade.

Most rewarding of all, she says, has been watching the growth of the students involved in the productions.

“It can be quite emotional watching these young people develop from being shy and unsure to shining on stage and performing with confidence. That’s the magic.”

A new chapter for

choral music

Choral singers in the Secondary School are performing under an exciting new choir structure introduced this year, with three ensembles instead of two, all featuring new names which better reflect the purpose of each group and the College’s place in Aotearoa New Zealand, says Music teacher, Thomas Woodfield.

“The programme has moved from separate Junior (Years 9–10) and Senior (Years 11–13) choirs to a three tier model comprising an all-comers choir, an auditioned choir, and a combined ensemble,” Thomas explains.

“This structure supports broad participation while allowing for focused musical development.”

He says the previous choir names, Staccoro and Stacchorus, were often confused due to their similarity, so new names, developed with support from teachers, Connor O’Rourke and Wiremu Pickering, have been selected to provide clearer and more meaningful identities.

All-comers choir Ngā Oro o te Ngahere performing at the annual choral concert at St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral.

The auditioned choir is now Ngā Manu Tīoriori (‘the melodious birds’), the all-comers choir is Ngā Oro o te Ngahere (‘the sounds of the forest’), and the combined ensemble performs as Te Kōkī o Hato Ānaru (‘the dawn chorus of St Andrew’s’).

“The new names reflect the natural world, musical purpose, and St Andrew’s commitment to language, culture, and connection,” Thomas adds.

Ballet

Winter Showcase The Ballet Senior Showcase and Junior Performance Awards on Wednesday 24 June was a wonderful celebration of the talent, dedication, and growth of our Ballet Academy dancers, with performances across ballet, jazz, and contemporary styles, alongside Junior and Senior Performance Awards and NCEA dance performances.

The Ballet Academy dancers are now preparing for their Annual Ballet Examinations in the middle of Term 3, before commencing rehearsals for their end of year production, The Wizard of Oz.

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Produced by Ballet Academy Artistic Director, Dr Carolyn Cairns, the showcase reflected the dedication of our Ballet Academy tutors, whose expertise, encouragement, and passion for dance continue to nurture and inspire our students.

Values and Culture

A special highlight was the premiere of a collaborative new work created with Alina Kulikova (Royal New Zealand Ballet dancer and Dance Educator), inspired by the artwork of Edgar Degas.

Bringing together all Secondary School dancers, the piece was a beautiful example of creativity, collaboration, and artistic expression.

A triumph of student creativity The Preparatory School production of Looped was a triumph for the Year 7–8 cohort with all 220 students taking the stage across three nights of vibrant performances of the original, fast-paced show in mid-June.

What made the show even more impressive was the fact the story, script, and most of the song lyrics were devised by a group of Preparatory School students themselves, with Looped’s original score composed by Secondary School songwriters.

“Looped was a celebration of creativity, teamwork, problem-solving, and student voice,” says Director and Dance and Drama teacher, Ginnie Thorner. “It has been wonderful to see our Preparatory School students take creative ownership of the scriptwriting and lyric development, and have input into the choreography and rehearsals during the process, with Secondary School students also supporting the cast members in refining their performance skills.”

A core cast in lead and support roles were chosen to appear in every

performance of the show, with the Year 7–8 classes taking turns as three different ensemble casts. Several Preparatory School students also learnt valuable behind the scenes skills after taking on technical and backstage roles.

“It’s a massive undertaking to co-ordinate over 200 students to appear on stage as part of the production, but it’s wonderful they have all had the experience,” shares Ginnie who was responsible for the overall creative leadership, directing, play-writing workshops, and set design. “Some students were in their element, others stepped right outside their comfort zones, while some have discovered a new passion for the performing arts.”

Supporting Ginnie in the creative team were Head of Music, Duncan Ferguson, who made an extensive musical contribution in sound design and operating, and choreographer Hana Pearce (OC 2019,) who had a huge job corralling such a large group of students across the fun dance numbers. Old Collegians, senior

students, and parent volunteers also helped behind the scenes, along with classroom teachers and some staff.

A well-deserved standing ovation at the final performance was a fitting celebration of the talent and hard work of everyone involved in bringing Looped to life.

Granny Coda

cracks the code

In the lead role of Granny Coda, Jessica Whitehead (Year 8), was the show’s standout performer, perfectly capturing the mannerisms of her much older character and singing beautifully in several numbers. It was a big role and Jessica did a brilliant job.

In his first major role, Cole GordonGlassford (Year 7) as Dequavian, Granny Coda’s grandson who accompanied her on her mission to discover the truth, was also a revelation, completely at ease on the stage, and singing strongly, particularly in the duet, Golden Olden Days with Jessica Whitehead.

As the Mayor who would rather ignore the failures of his plan than face them, Jack Callaway (Year 7) was also impressive, demonstrating strong acting skills.

Other students to impress in lead roles were Eileen Li (Year 7) as Mouse, who helped Granny and Dequavian on their mission; Skye Ghisel (Year 7)

The Glitches, Ruby Richards, Charlotte Harrison and Vitek Mencl (all Year 8), had fun in their roles and did a great job with their song, Come On and Glitch.

Another standout was Mac Simpson (Year 8), as head of the Firewalls who gave a great performance of the song We Are the Firewall, with support from Alfred Lash and Carter Robinson (both Year 8).

The student ensemble relished their roles as Looptowners, Forgotten Zoners, Glitches, and members of

the Firewall, and took part in some toe-tapping song and dance numbers.

Granny Coda uncovered the truth in the end – the Looptowners were all part of a game being controlled by the Gamer, but once she convinced him to unplug, normality was finally restored. Given the risks facing young people around technology ßuse, it was a powerful message for the Preparatory School students to share.

With such strong acting talent, vibrant musical numbers, and a great storyline it is hard to believe Looped’s imaginative adventure was devised by a group of 11 to 13-year-old students.

They can be incredibly proud of the three nights of impressive, collaborative theatre they created.

Values and Culture

But Granny Coda senses something is not quite right and decides to investigate when Looptowners start disappearing, and there are strange glitches in the system.

as Dot, Dequavian’s sister; Madeline McDonnel (Year 8) as the siblings’ Mum; Henry Graham (Year 8) as the Gamer; the Mayor’s sidekicks, Techy (Henry Streeter – Year 7) and Comms (Finn Buckley – Year 8); and the Reporter, Liam Stronach (Year 8).

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Looped is set in Looptown, a vibrant, colourful world where everything runs on points, progress, and the promise of more. The Mayor has a grand vision to build an empire where success is measured, tracked, and endlessly chased, and the Looptowners are hooked.

So They Can

fundraising campaign The St Andrew’s College community has once again enthusiastically supported the annual ‘One Human Race’ fundraising campaign, with $12,116 raised for So They Can, a charity supporting young women in Kenya and Tanzania to access education and avoid practices which limit their choices and future opportunities.

The campaign was kickstarted on the Secondary School’s Athletic Sports Day, when the Community Service team worked tirelessly on the barbecue, selling around 500 hot sausages in bread, to raise $950.

Tutor groups in the Secondary School got behind the fundraiser with various

initiatives including bake sales and sausage sizzles, with some coming up with unique ideas.

Tutor group, 11BRE, incorporated their Dean, James Jenkinson, into their activity, with students purchasing pieces of duct tape to attach him to a wall in the Quad. Teachers, Liz Gormack, Kevin Barron and Liam Smith, took part in a cream‑pie throwing activity, which was another fun and engaging way to raise funds.

Students in 9HFL and their families raised $700 on a 100km walk, with different groups walking for an hour around an 850m course to make up the 100km.

From Prizegiving favourite to stadium showstopper After building a reputation for its viral, high-level Prizegiving finale performances, the St Andrew’s Music Department was delighted to be asked to repeat its stunning Aotearoa Medley from last year’s event during the opening weekend of Christchurch’s impressive new One New Zealand Stadium Te Kaha.

The medley, including Kiwi hits by Crowded House, Stan Walker, Shapeshifter, and Six60, was selected by organisers as the entertainment for half-time at the Hurricanes’ Super Rugby match against the ACT Brumbies, and to celebrate Anzac Day, which fell on the same day.

Head of Music, Duncan Ferguson, says it was an ‘exciting opportunity’ which also threw up a few challenges, with the original piece having to be reduced from 6.40 to 4.30 minutes due to television constraints, and all new lead singers.

“We had to rearrange everything and put the music in new keys,” explains Duncan. “Unfortunately, we couldn’t have a live orchestra due to stadium requirements, so pre-recorded them playing the new arrangement, with a live band accompanying the singers.”

St Andrew’s music students and singers performing at One New Zealand Stadium Te Kaha.

Year 11 student, Frederick Paterson and Year 11 Dean, James Jenkinson, during 11BRE’s unique fundraising initiative for So They Can.

“I am proud of all the efforts of our students and staff during the One Human Race campaign,” shares College Chaplain, Rev. Paul Morrow.

“The generous amount raised by our community will make a significant difference to the lives of many young African girls.”

The young group of St Andrew’s singers and musicians, supported by a dedicated team of expert staff, spent hours before and after school and at weekends preparing for the performance, which they delivered to a packed One New Zealand Stadium, with tens of thousands more people watching live on television.

“I’m really pleased our Aotearoa Medley was recognised as a celebration of our various cultures in Aotearoa New Zealand and a way of bringing people together to celebrate,” says Duncan. “To be part of the opening of our amazing new stadium and perform on Anzac Day is a once in a lifetime experience and will be something many of these students will remember the rest of their lives. I am very proud of the staff in the Music Department who made it happen for them”.

Boarding parents building connections It was a night of banter, hilarity, and friendly competition when boarding parents gathered at a quiz night at the Elmwood Tavern on Thursday 25 June.

“We try to arrange outings at the end-of-term to coincide with parents picking up their children from the boarding houses,” he explains.

“The connections are often practical too, as they connect parents whose children are friends in the boarding house, and who they might end up hosting or sending their children to the friend’s home for a weekend or time in the holidays.”

In addition to the popular quiz night in June, the group ran a parent evening at the Pegasus Arms Hotel earlier this year. Future events include a mystery bus trip and potentially a night at the races, says Richard.

The Boarding Parents Reference Group during their meeting at the end of Term 2.

“We get great support for the functions, with around 100 boarding parents turning up each time.”

Richard has been Chair of the long-standing group for around eight years, and says its focus has shifted from a forum solely for parents to provide feedback and share perspectives on boarding life with boarding management, to adding the more social element of connecting parents.

“Director of Boarding, Matt Parr, and Assistant Director of Boarding, Struan George, still come to our meetings and give us a report on the state of play in the boarding houses,

and talk about anything they’d like the parents to help out with, such as supporting the no phones policy,” says Richard. “We give them any feedback too, then discuss how we’re going to bring our boarding parents together.”

Richard says around six regular committee members attend the meetings, however they are open to all boarding parents.

“We call a meeting and anyone is welcome to join us. It’s a great way to meet other boarding parents, and do our bit to foster St Andrew’s fantastic boarding culture.”

Boarding parents enjoy a quiz night at the Elmwood Tavern. Right: Richard Sidey, chair of the Boarding Parents Reference Group.

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Richard says many St Andrew’s boarding parents catch up with each other on the sports sidelines, but those from further afield, in places like Marlborough and Otago, have fewer opportunities to connect.

Values and Culture

“We had another great night of boarding community connection,” says Richard Sidey, chair of the Boarding Parents Reference Group which organises events for boarding parents each term to strengthen their connections and ensure they feel part of the wider boarding community.

Celebrating 20 years of StAC Attack When former Pipe Band members and brothers Ben (OC 2005) and Jeremy McLaughlin (OC 2003) wrote a tune for the Pipe Band called StAC Attack while they were students at St Andrew’s College in the early 2000s, they never dreamed their catchy title would become the name of the annual Pipe Band showcase and a cherished College tradition.

Pipe Band Director, Richard Hawke says as the Pipe Band started to prepare for this year’s special 20th anniversary celebrations of the concert on Friday 17 July, the StAC Attack name and tune, were the chosen themes for the show.

“The finale performance of StAC Attack with the Highland dancers and backing instruments, was an absolute highlight, especially with co-writer Ben McLaughlin, our Pipe Major in 2005, joining the band onstage. It was a fantastic way to celebrate Jeremy and Ben’s tune and our show title which we have used for two decades.”

Richard says he is “immensely proud” of the large group of Year 4–13 pipers and drummers who performed at StAC Attack in front of a packed audience at the James Hay Theatre. He is especially happy with the standard of the A Band, the current New Zealand Juvenile Champions, who have just headed off to compete at the World Championships in Glasgow, Scotland.

“The quality of the A Band’s playing at StAC Attack was exceptional and has set us up well as we make our seventh appearance in Scotland. We’d love to replicate our 2013 result, when St Andrew’s won the Juvenile World Championship title.”

Members of the B and C Pipe Bands, and the youngest learners on the chanter or drum pad were also a special part of the night, alongside the Highland dancers, who “always add so much colour and flair to the event,” says Richard.

“It’s wonderful to see our youngest pipers, drummers and dancers experience the buzz and excitement of StAC Attack.

Being part of it definitely inspires and motivates us all.”

Special awards were presented at the event to Ben McLaughlin, who received a framed copy of his tune StAC Attack, and Hayden Lam (OC 2024) who was honoured for creating and producing many of the evening’s backing tracks.

“As we celebrate 20 years of StAC Attack, we also acknowledge the many students, tutors, staff, Old Collegians, families and supporters who have contributed to the remarkable 107-year history of the St Andrew’s College Pipe Band,” Richard reflects.

The Scottish celebrations didn’t stop there. The following evening on Saturday 18 July, over 160 supporters gathered in Gym 1 for the popular Pipe Band Ceilidh (pronounced ‘kay-lee’). During an evening of haggis, music, spot prizes, a silent auction, drams, dancing, and of course tartan.

Valuable funds were raised to help the A Band on its way to Scotland.

“It was another fun, social night with our supporters, who enjoyed an old-fashioned Scottish knees-up as they took part in some traditional dances and generously supported the fundraiser. We are especially grateful to Renee Brook and Lisa Young from the Pipe Band Parent Supporters Group and staff member Bid Constanti who were the driving force behind this wonderful event.”

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Values and Culture

Eco Action Trust involvement

starts winding down

St Andrew’s students have contributed significant time to the Eco Action Trust’ project for a number of years.

This year marks the final phase of St Andrew’s College involvement with the Eco Action Trust, an environmental charity which has transformed large areas of cleared Red Zoned residential land along the Ōtākaro/Avon River Corridor and other earthquake affected areas, into a native habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife.

St Andrew’s has supported the initiative since 2019, developing a satellite nursery at the College where students across the Secondary and Preparatory Schools, supported by the student nursery management team and members of the Sustainability Council, have grown thousands of seedlings, and volunteered at numerous planting days.

At the end of March, Year 9 students collected 500 native seedlings from the EcoAction Trust Nursery Hub at Christ’s College for ongoing care at the St Andrew’s College Nursery, managed

by Anthony Song (Year 11). During the latter part of Term 2, Year 10 students repotted the seedlings as part of their Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Hillary Award service component.

“By Autumn 2027, the seedlings are expected to be ready for planting in riparian zones, or on selected sites,” says Ellen Hampson, Teacher in Charge of Academic Extension and Enrichment, and the Sustainability Council, who adds groups of St Andrew’s students and staff continue to participate in Eco Action planting days.

“Looking ahead, the conclusion of the Eco Action Trust partnership provides an opportunity to develop a bespoke College nursery model, providing opportunities for sustainable revenue generation, and expanded planting projects within the College and wider community,” Ellen says. “We wish to pay tribute to the founder of Eco Action, David Newton, Head of Physics at Christ’s College, for his exceptional support and leadership over the past decade.”

Pink Shirt Day and Pride Week During Term 2, St Andrew’s students marked two national events which reflected the College’s value of Inclusivity – the anti-bullying Pink Shirt Day on Friday 15 May, and Schools’ Pride Week Aotearoa in mid-June, which supports a culture of inclusion for rainbow youth.

activities, focused on affirming identity, strengthening belonging, supporting a culture of inclusion, and reducing the experiences of bullying for rainbow youth.

The rainbow flag flew proudly on the main flagpole, The Green Library and

Innovation Centre featured an Out on the Shelves book display, and students and staff wore colourful accessories.

Prefects also led a lunchtime ‘dance it out’ session in the Quad, contributing to a visible and shared celebration of diversity.

The entire campus was vibrant with colour during Pink Shirt Day, with students and staff showing their support for its anti-bullying message by dressing in pink. An assembly address by Lila Waghorn and Jake Farrelly (both Year 13) reinforced the message of speaking up and supporting others in the Secondary School, with Preparatory School students decorating their classrooms and also exploring the upstander theme. In the Pre-school, tamariki wore pink and took part in creative activities reflecting the message of kindness.

During Schools’ Pride Week Aotearoa, the Rainbow Group led a range of

Year 5 students Finlayson Holley-Hill, Sullivan Street and Ava Blyde on Pink Shirt Day.

Year 11

Semi-formal

Wearing elegant dresses, sharp suits, glowing tans, and beautifully matched corsages, Year 11 students gathered excitedly at a beautifully decked out function room at Riccarton Racecourse for a night of glitz and glamour at the highlyanticipated Year 11 Semi-formal. There was a great atmosphere from the outset as friends gathered, photos were snapped, and the dance floor filled, with the DJ playing lots of popular tunes.

The Year 13 prefects did a great job helping staff to chaperone the students and supervise the night, ensuring it all ran seamlessly.

Values and Culture

There was lots of fun competition throughout the night, with a range of prizes up for grabs including the ever-popular Best Dressed, Best Shoes, Most Enthusiastic, and Cutest Couple awards.

After working up an appetite on the dance floor, the students enjoyed a delicious supper.

The Middle School Leaders did lots of hard work behind the scenes to organise the event and decorate the venue, creating a wonderful backdrop for a night of high energy fun. A special mention to Assistant Head of Middle School, Liz Gormack, Year 11 Dean, James Jenkinson and Year 11 Assistant Dean, Ellie Simatos, for their help with the organisation of the event, and other St Andrew’s staff for providing support on the night.

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Structural Integrity made here in Christchurch

montreux.co.nz

Students enjoy a fun session in Gym 2 during a Middle School Monday lunchtime event organised by the Middle School Leaders.

Taking the lead Developing confident, capable leaders is at the heart of the Middle School Leadership programme, with this year’s group of young leaders doing an excellent job of engaging the Year 9–11 students and connecting the Middle School with the wider College, says former Head of Middle School, Matt Parr.

“It’s been great to see our Middle School Leaders take ownership of their ideas, work together as a team, and have a positive impact on others,” he shares.

Around 100 Year 10 students in 2025 applied for the 28 leadership positions, with many inspired after the cohort’s session with Burn Bright, a youth leadership development organisation with a unique, fun delivery style, which engaged students in a conversation about identity and how they could positively influence others through leadership.

Matt says the subsequent application and interview process, which included group interviews, was an important part of the process.

“It gave every student the opportunity to develop their confidence and

communication skills, regardless of whether or not they were selected.”

The chosen students took part in an overnight leadership camp at Castle Hill at the end of 2025, where they broke into three groups of eight and did ‘heaps of team building and planning work’ in preparation for taking on their roles this year, says Matt.

“The groups have all been running planned events and initiatives under three key themes, ‘ME’ for service tasks, ‘WE’ for Middle School events, and ‘US’ for wider College collections,” he shares. “These have included everything from chapel readings, and organising assemblies, to tutor activities, and Peer Support activities.”

“The leaders have been setting up games and activities in the Quad, and getting the music pumping. It’s a great way for the group to experience service leadership and get a feel for what it’s like to run an event,’ explains Matt, who adds he is proud of the way the student leaders have embraced their roles.

“All are positively influencing and enhancing Middle School life through their hard work.”

Some of the larger events organised by the groups include the Year 11 Semi-formal, an annual highlight on the Middle School calendar, and the Year 8 Connect programme which involves introducing Year 8 students to the Middle School so they are familiar with the environment before moving into the Secondary School next year.

Middle School Mondays is a popular lunchtime initiative organised by one of the groups, which gives students a structured opportunity to connect across all year levels.

Middle School Leaders during their leadership camp at Castle Hill.

Black and Bling Ball The success of the Black and Bling Ball was a testament to the strength and generosity of our College community. Thank you to the major sponsor, The Crater Rim, and to everyone who contributed so generously, along with the organising committee, led by Becs Fraher, whose hard work and dedication delivered an outstanding and memorable evening.

Values and Culture

The evening featured both live and silent auctions expertly co-ordinated

by Mark Morrison (Harcourts Gold), along with enthusiastic support from students throughout the event. Guests enjoyed generous bidding, great company, and plenty of opportunities

to connect with fellow members of the College community. Following the formal programme, the dance floor quickly came to life and remained busy throughout the evening.

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A vibrant atmosphere, packed dance floor, and evening of celebration were enjoyed by more than 320 parents, staff, and supporters who attended the Black and Bling Ball on Saturday 23 May. With Gym 1 transformed into a spectacular venue, the special biennial event proved once again to be a highlight of the College calendar, raising an impressive $119,728 for the hockey and rowing programmes.

Community and

service

Business Studies Night Market

Kairos Rescue Food Kitchen Blue Bag Appeal

students consistently stepped outside their comfort zones. The experience provided a valuable opportunity to develop independence, leadership, and a strong sense of responsibility.

Well-being Leaders Well-being leaders, Ary Son and Carter Evans (both Year 12), are contributing to a cross-school committee organising student-led hui for young people across Canterbury each term. Supported by charity, Seed the Change, they are working to bring compassion into action across Ōtautahi. The Term 2 hui featured speakers, panel discussions, and opportunities for students from over 20 schools to take action through random acts of kindness across central Christchurch.

Year 10 Activities Week Irina Westerink (Year 12) serving customers at her stall at the Business Studies Night Market.

The Business Studies Night Market on Monday 15 June featured more than 30 student-led stalls showcasing innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Students from St Andrew’s College, St Margaret’s College, Rangi Ruru Girls’ School, and Cashmere High School presented a range of products and services, from handcrafted products and baked goods to well-being solutions and practical services, applying learning in entrepreneurship and business.

The event attracted strong community attendance and provided an opportunity for students to engage with customers, test ideas, and present their ventures in a real‑world context.

Girl Guide Award Isla Kempthorne and Hollie Miller (both Year 13) achieved the Queen’s Guide Award, the highest international award in Girl Guiding. The award reflects a sustained commitment across service, leadership, and outdoor experiences over a five‑year period.

International Languages Week Students participated in an International Languages Quiz and a range of food‑based experiences during International Languages Week in mid-June which celebrated cultural diversity across the College. Highlights included pain au chocolat for sale, and a giant one-metre-wide chicken and chorizo paella prepared by Spanish teacher, Alexis Evlampieff. The week connected to broader global themes, including the international focus of major events such as the FIFA World Cup.

Prefect Amelia Blockley with some of the 120 bags filled during the appeal.

For the second year, St Andrew’s College supported the Kairos Rescue Food Kitchen Blue Bag appeal. Each tutor group contributed to filling bags with items such as toiletries and everyday necessities, with students bringing one or two items to support the initiative. A total of 120 bags were collected and delivered, containing essential items for individuals and families in need.

Samoan Language Week Samoan Language Week was marked across the College in May through a range of activities led by the Pasifika Group including shared Pasifika food, a mindfulness session featuring colouring in traditional designs, and visits to the Junior Department where students led mele (songs), movement, and cultural activities. The Pasifika Group also contributed to Senior College and Middle School Chapel Services through song and prayer by Jairo Senio (Year 12) and Iosefo Tito (Year 11).

Well-being leaders, Carter Evans and Ary Son (both Year 12)

Year 10 students undertook a range of learning and service experiences during Activities Week. All classes completed a Red Cross First Aid course, covering emergency response, CPR, AED use, and basic first aid; visited the International Antarctic Centre, and planted more than 1200 native plants in the Red Zone with the Eco Action Trust.

Spirit of Adventure Ten Year 10 students took part in a five-day Discovery Voyage onboard the Spirit of Adventure, sailing from Auckland Harbour around the Coromandel and Hauraki Gulf with students from several North Island schools. From early morning swims to hoisting sails, climbing the mast, navigating coastal waters in rafts, and adapting to life at sea, the

Scarlett Dunbar and Matias Jenkins-Huguet (both Year 10) practising their first aid skills.

Careers Expo

Twenty‑six exhibitors attended, including five New Zealand universities, Ara Institute of Canterbury, Otago Polytechnic, and a range of industry training organisations such as the New Zealand Defence Force and New Zealand Police, alongside several private training providers, says Careers Counsellor, Richard Webster, who organised the event and provides professional careers guidance to students at St Andrew’s.

The St Andrew’s College Careers website, stac.careerwise.school, continues to be a key resource alongside the annual Expo, offering students guidance on pathway planning, subject choices, studying overseas, and upcoming tertiary events.

“Careers support at St Andrew’s is a year round, wraparound process, combining one-to-one guidance, events like the Careers Expo, multiple Careers Information Evenings, and access to the school careers website, which help students make confident, informed decisions about their futures,” says Richard. “With an increasingly complex and fast changing world of work, it is more important than ever that young people have access to quality advice and meaningful conversations, so they can explore their options and find pathways that genuinely suit their strengths and aspirations.”

Top: Philippa Wheatcroft of the New Zealand College of Chiropractic, explains the importance of good posture for overall health and well-being.

Bottom: Policeman, Richard Brunton, talks with senior students about jobs within the Police.

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“The Expo provides a valuable opportunity for students and families to speak directly with providers about course options, accommodation, scholarship pathways, and potential employment opportunities. It also

supports informed conversations about post‑school pathways and subject selection,” Richard shares.

Values and Culture

There was great feedback and positive engagement from the large group of students and parents who met with tertiary providers and explored different career pathways, at the annual St Andrew’s College Careers Expo on Wednesday 6 May.

Rebooting technology for the community On Friday 1 May, 19 students from across the Secondary School attended a training day, which set them up to join the Recycle a Device (RAD) programme, a nationwide charity which combines technology, sustainability, and teaching rangatahi valuable skills, and helps to put previously unwanted laptops in the hands of those who need them most.

responsibly dismantle. Once they are returned to RAD, the charity distributes them within the local community to individuals who may not otherwise have access to a computer.

“The students showed strong engagement throughout the day and were excited to continue this work at school,” shares Digital Technology teacher, Justine Lee.

There has been great enthusiasm from the students involved, says Justine. “I’ve had excited students turning up every Tuesday after school since Week 2 of Term 2, wanting to get the donated computers out and work on them.

We had 10 ready to send back to RAD before the end of the term”.

After training the students how to dismantle computers, diagnose faults, and carry out basic repairs, RAD has supplied them with donated laptops to either refurbish, or

Justine says the programme is a win-win for all involved, with the students learning new skills which make a positive difference in the community.

“It’s not just about the technical skills, there are so many soft skills being learnt as well. It’s awesome to see students take the lead in getting the work done, thinking how to organise the equipment and mentoring other students to share their knowledge.”

Students, Katherine Nichols and Zac Gielink (both Year 11), are helping to run the Recycle a Device Club.

Well-being Week Students embraced a week of fun, connection, and community during Well-being Week, from 8–12 June, enjoying everything from free hot chocolates, to tug-of-war challenges, and a chocolate hunt.

The Prefects and Middle School Leaders worked collaboratively to develop a range of student-led activities which fostered positive emotion, encouraged engagement, and reflected the pillars of PERMA-V, the College’s well-being framework.

These included the popular morning hot chocolates, a non‑uniform day, a bake sale raising funds for Youth Hub Christchurch, and a lunchtime Kahoot

quiz in The Green Library and Innovation Centre. Prefects focused on the Relationships pillar, hosting visiting prefects from other schools for connection activities, and an inter‑school netball game, while Middle School Leaders ran a tug‑of‑war and a much-loved activity where students spent their lunch break tracking down Middle School Leaders for a chocolate reward.

The week ended on a high note during Friday in the Quad, with food trucks and music bringing students together. It was a wonderful week which embodied the principles of PERMA-V and provided a welcome boost as the College headed into the winter months.

International Assembly

The annual International Assembly on Friday 29 May recognised the College’s international students and celebrated the diversity of our student body and staff.

Led by International Student Leader, Louis Hu (Year 13) and RuoLin (Lauren) Li (Year 12), a highlight of the programme was a creative video from the International Department, Where in the World is Mr Tauti, followed by introductions from students and staff representing 15 different countries, each speaking in their native language. Louis Hu also shared a personal reflection on his experience as a second‑generation Kiwi of Taiwanese heritage, offering insight into identity and belonging.

International Students’ Leader, Louis Hu (Year 13)

Special

assemblies

Well-being Assembly

Prefects’ Assembly

Another successful Well-being Week ended with the traditional Well‑being Assembly on Friday 12 June, which brought the PERMA‑V framework to life through student voice. Speakers reflected on how each pillar contributed to their own well‑being, helping to reinforce a shared understanding across the College.

The Prefects’ Assembly on Friday 26 June was a fantastic way to wrap up Term 2. The prefects put considerable time, effort, and imagination into creating and organising the assembly, which had the theme, Hunt for the Relics.

Values and Culture

The assembly concluded with the annual Deans’ Challenge, with the Deans engaging in a ‘Just Dance’ activity led by Middle School Leaders.

Another highlight was the Morning Comment from Prefect Amelia Blockley, who shared a thoughtful reflection on resilience. Her message encouraged ākonga to stay connected, take small steps forward, and never give up when faced with challenges.

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A highlight of the assembly was the presentation of the prestigious Mahia te Aroha Character Awards, recognising students who embody St Andrew’s core value of Inclusivity, demonstrating kindness, and the ability to support and uplift others. These were received

by Lilly May and Georgia Minson (both Year 9), Hayden Brown and Elisa Taulava (both Year 10), Louis O’Neill and Madeline‑Rose Topless (both Year 11), Maniah Taefu and Louis Tappin (both Year 12) and Cameron Steel and Isla Kempthorne (both Year 13).

From lively performances to fun challenges, solving the mystery of the missing items, and the highly anticipated dance number which included a spectacular ‘ballet’ with the male prefects resplendent in tutus, it was an entertaining morning for the College community.

Cultural catch up

Ballet – RNZB Residency

Big Sing Choral ensemble Ngā Manu Tīoriori delivered an outstanding recital at the Big Sing Canterbury and West Coast Regional Competition, receiving the University of Canterbury School of Music Award for Best Performance of a New Zealand Work, for their performance of Andrew Baldwin’s Martha Goose Suite and the Jubilate Singers Award for Outstanding Mixed Voice Choir, the third consecutive year Ngā Manu has claimed this title.

The choir has been selected for the 2026 Big Sing Finals in August, the first time since 2004 a St Andrew’s choir has qualified.

Chamber Music

RNZB Dance Specialist, Alina Kulikova, with members of the Ballet Academy.

During the RNZB@StAC Residency in May, Year 4–8 Ballet dancers were treated to a masterclass with visiting Dance Specialist, Alina Kulikova, formerly from Russia where she was ballerina with the Imperial Ballet Company. The Secondary School dancers also enjoyed a number of choreography classes during the week, working towards a new Degas-inspired Ballet performance piece.

Ballroom Dancing Holly Hembry (Year 11) competed in Junior Solo events and Junior Pro-Am ballroom dancing events in the Kiwi Classic Dance Championships in Auckland, where she successfully defended her six Junior Pro-Am titles and received two firsts, a second, and a third place in her Solo events. At the New Zealand One Dance Ballroom Championships, Holly achieved 15 national titles and reached the finals across the programme in Adult Open Ballroom and New Vogue events.

Four groups featuring St Andrew’s College students performed at the Schools’ Chamber Music Contest District Final, where the all-St Andrew’s College group, Super Mature, was awarded Best Performance of a New Zealand work, with a piece commissioned

by St Andrew’s College from Isaac Shatford (OC 2014) and first performed by our Quartetto Maduro in 2019, where they reached the National Final.

Results were: • Best Performance of a New Zealand Work – Super Mature: Ary Son (Year 12), Selena Zhang (Year 13), Ethan Zhao (Year 10), Ryan Teng (Year 9); • Highly Commended – Trio Lumiere: Cheryl Teng (Year 12), Caleb Waines (Year 7), Ethan Waines (Year 10); • Woolston Brass Trophy (Best Brass Ensemble) and Highly Commended – Isotopes: Yuxin (Alice) Chen (Year 12), Yutian (Tianna) Chen (Year 11); • Christchurch District Final Winner – Sparks Trio: Ethan Waines (Year 10).

All four groups performed at the Chamber Music Southern Regional Final on Saturday 27 June with Ethan

Waines and his group Sparks Trio placing second and being selected for the National Final, held on 1 August at The Piano.

Classical Concert

Ary Son (Year 12), Mila Yin and Rebecca Fraser (both Year 9) performing at the Classical Concert.

The annual Classical Concert was held in the Centennial Chapel on Wednesday 27 May, featuring performances from the Preparatory School Orchestra, Symphonic Winds Ensemble, String Orchestra, and the Chamber Orchestra, and nine chamber ensembles, ranging from the standard piano trio combination to a trumpet quintet, which ended the evening with exceptional energy.

Choir Concert On Wednesday 20 May, the College held its annual choral concert at St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral as part of their ‘Wednesday at One’ series. The concert featured performances from the auditioned choir Ngā Manu Tīoriori, all-comers choir Ngā Oro o te Ngahere, chamber ensembles Brass and Breath, and Double ATM, and concluded with two pieces performed by the combined choirs, Te Kōkī o Hato Ānaru.

Dance Maggie and Ceci Pugh (both Year 8) competed at the Australian Dance Crew Championships, placing first in their division with their crew UNO, from Ace Dance Studio, which qualified for the World Championships in Sydney later in 2026. Ceci was also named Rising Star and received an invitation to attend the Monsterz of Afro workshop in Sydney, an opportunity awarded to only one dancer each year by ADCC.

Highland Dance St Andrew’s dancers had outstanding success at the New Zealand Highland Dancing Championships from 9–12 July:

Ngā Manu Tīoriori performing at Big Sing.

• Sarah McCarthy (Year 11): New Zealand Champion U16 and winner of seven New Zealand championship titles – Highland Fling, Sword Dance, Sean Truibhas, Highland Reel, Reel O’Tulloch, Irish Reel, and Single Time Irish Jig;

• Sofia Sneddon (Year 9): fourth national ranking U14; • Georgia Gregg (Year 9) winner of New Zealand Championship Sailors Hornpipe U14; • Iaera Abrahamson (Year 6): fourth national ranking U12; • Nayana Abrahamson (Year 4): fifth national ranking U10.

Jazz The Big Band and Jazz Combo performed at the Ōtautahi Jazz Jam at Christchurch Boys’ High School, which provided an early performance opportunity ahead of the Ara JazzQuest.

The Jazz/Funk combo went on to place second at Ara JazzQuest, with two Year 10 students winning Best Instrumentalist awards – Edward Park on drums, and Mason Gauld for guitar. This is the best result in many years for St Andrew’s jazz combos and is especially impressive given the students are all in the Middle School.

Junior Department Cultural Week

Highland dancing teacher, Julie Hawke with Evelyn Lowe (Year 10), Samantha Bilton (Year 12), Sarah McCarthy (Year 11) and Siara Clarke (OC 2024).

A number of students achieved strong results at the New Zealand Academy of Highland and National Dancing examinations achieving Merit and Honours. Results from the top two grades were:

During the Junior Department’s Cultural Week, students engaged in a range of learning experiences focused on cultural understanding and diversity, including sessions led by the Secondary School Pasifika Group, Te Reo Māori classes, and the Pipe Band. The week concluded with a Cultural Dress Day and discovery activities that reflected the learning undertaken.

Ryan Teng (Year 9) has been selected to perform as part of the 2026 New Zealand Symphony Orchestra Emerging Artists Concert in Wellington on Wednesday 23 September.

The following students were selected for the Christchurch Schools’ Music Festival representative Junior and Senior Choirs and Symphony Orchestra: • Year 5–6 Junior Representative Choir: Melody Ma, Marcel de Wit (both Year 5), Violet Winterbourn, Chloe Shi, Theo Nelson and Iaera Abrahamson (all Year 6); • Year 7–8 Senior Representative Choir: Eileen Li, Jessica Chan (both Year 7), Jessica Whitehead, Ruby Richards and Anqi (Angie) Qin (all Year 8); • Year 5–8 Symphony Orchestra: Caleb Waines (Year 8) (trumpet), Fei En (Naomi) Ren (Year 5) (violin), Youzhen (Max) Chen (Year 6) (cello), Dylan Liu (double bass), Raymen Dai (cello) and Claire Chua (all Year 7) (flute).

Pasifika Performance The Pasifika Group performed at the Super Rugby Round Anzac Day Fan Zone near the Bridge of Remembrance, contributing to the day’s commemorations of the opening of the new One Zealand Te Kaha Stadium through music and cultural expression.

Elementary: Practical and Theory • Honours: Sarah McCarthy (Year 11); • Honours Theory, Merit Plus Practical: Alice Glover (Year 10); • Honours Theory: Abbey Marr (Year 11).

Advanced: Practical and Theory

Performing Arts Festival

• Honours: Charlotte Kyle (Year 13); • Honours Theory: Emily Brook (Year 13); • Honours Practical: Samantha Bilton (Year 12).

Noa Johnstone (Year 1) and Romina Johnstone (Year 3) during Cultural Week

Sarah McCarthy (Year 11) secured two South Island titles at the Highland Dancing Otago Championships in Seann Triubhas U16 and Irish Reel U18; two Otago Championship titles in Sailors Hornpipe and Reel O Tulloch; as well as Most Points U16, and the trophy for Most Outstanding Performance U18.

Music

Georgia Gregg (Year 9) won Most Points U14 at both the Ashburton Highland National Dance Championships and the Oxford Competition.

the orchestra’s history, and following her selection was awarded a Fame Trust scholarship within the National Youth Orchestra programme. The other students selected were Cheryl Teng (Year 12) on Violin II, Ary Son (Year 12) for the Viola section and Xinyi (Alicia) Chen (Year 12) named as a reserve for the Viola section.

Chenxiao (Leo) Yang (Year 9) was selected for the semi-final of the Lewis Eady National Junior Piano Competition. He also achieved Distinction in Trinity Trumpet Grade 7.

Orchestra Four St Andrew’s students were selected for the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra’s National Youth Orchestra. Mila Yin (Year 9) on double bass is the third‑youngest selection in

Students from the St Andrew’s Speech and Drama programme enjoyed outstanding success at the Oamaru Competitions Society Festival. A highlight was sisters, Adelyn (Year 8), Iaera (Year 6) and Nayana Abrahamson (Year 4), being jointly awarded the trophy for Most Successful and Versatile Competitor in All of the Arts. Violet Winterbourn (Year 6) was overall Champion in Speech in both 10 Years and Under, and 12 Years and Under, and was champion of her age group in Voice (singing). Watson Winterbourn (Year 3) was the overall champion in his age group for both Speech and Highland Dancing.

Values and Culture

• Samantha Bilton (Year 12): seventh national ranking U18;

Eleanor Nortje (Year 4) received the trophy for Most Promising Dancer at the Oxford A&P Show and won the trophy for Most Points U10 at the North Canterbury Highland Dancing Competition. She also performed at a Tactix netball match with the Caledonian Highland Dancing group.

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• Evelyn Lowe (Year 10) eigth national ranking U16 years and winner of New Zealand Championship Irish Hornpipe U16;

Hastings and Fairlie Solo Piping Competitions

Pipe Band tutors and students who performed with Six60 at One New Zealand Stadium Te Kaha were (back): Scott Birrell (tutor), Andrew Bryce (Year 8), Jamie McEwan (tutor), Michael Jenkins (tutor), Daniel Liu (Year 13), Edward Park (Year 10), (front): Harry Summers (Year 12), Lee Patterson (Year 13)

Pipe Band Performance with Six60 at Te Kaha St Andrew’s College A Band snare drummers, alongside tutors and Old Collegians, were given a once in a lifetime opportunity to perform live on stage with Six60 during their hit song, Fade Away, performed in front of 37,000 during the first concert held at One New Zealand Stadium Te Kaha. The students representing St Andrew’s College were Andrew Bryce (Year 8), Eddie Park (Year 10), Harry Summers (Year 12), Daniel Liu and Lee Patterson (both Year 13), supported by Drumming Tutor and drum corps organiser, Jamie McEwan, Head of Drumming Scott Birrell, Drumming Tutor Michael Jenkins (OC 2013), and Rebekah Weir (OC 2017).

The group featured during Six60’s hit song Fade Away, contributing to an electric atmosphere and enhancing a key moment in the performance.

Pipe Band Maggie McConnochie (Year 12) competed at the R U Brown Memorial Piobaireachd Gold Medal event in Adelaide, placing second overall. This prestigious piobaireachd event is open to any competitor of any age, excluding previous winners. She also placed third in the A Grade March, Strathspey and Reel, and finished first overall in B Grade events.

In June, Pipe Major, Sam Foote (Year 13) and Pipe Sergeant, Maggie McConnochie (Year 12), competed as part of the Emmanuel College Highlanders from the University of Queensland Pipe Band in the Grade 2 events at the Queensland State Pipe Band Championships in Brisbane, Australia. The band placed first in both the March, Strathspey and Reel, and Medley events. Sam and Maggie were pleased to play alongside Old Collegian, Jim Allan (OC 1996), who is the Pipe Sergeant of the Emmanuel College Highlanders Pipe Band.

RSPBA and RNZPBA Oceania Solo Drumming Championships The RSPBA and RNZPBA Oceania Solo Drumming Championships were hosted at St Andrew’s College on Saturday 2 May. College drummers recorded results across multiple prize categories. Those to achieve a top three placing were: • Juvenile Section 5: Harry Summers (Year 12): second; • Juvenile Section 4: Radha Gamble (Year 12): first; • Juvenile Section 3: Andrew Bryce (Year 8): second, Edward Park (Year 10): third; • Juvenile Section 2: Benjamin Edwards (Year 10): first, Aaron Robinson (Year 11): second; • Juvenile Section 1: Samuel Carline (Year 7): second.

King’s Birthday Solo Piping Competitions Students achieved some outstanding results at the King’s Birthday Solo Piping Competition in Dunedin, an event on the national solo piping calendar.

Sam Foote (Year 13) and Maggie McConnochie (Year 12) were the top performers, competing in the Open, B Grade, and Under 21 categories.

Top individual results were: • Open Dunedin Gold Medal Piobaireachd: Sam Foote third, Maggie McConnochie fourth; • Open Hornpipe and Jig (South Island Championship): Maggie McConnochie third; • Open Otago Centre Premier Qualifier Event: Sam Foote third; • U21: Maggie McConnochie winner of 2/4 March (Otago Championship), Strathspey and Reel (New Zealand Championship) and Most Points U21; • Most Points B Grade: Maggie McConnochie; • Most Points C Grade: Charlie Gregg (Year 11).

During the Term 1 break, several College pipers competed at solo piping competitions in Hastings and Fairlie. Both events form part of the New Zealand solo piping calendar and included competitors from across the country. At the Hastings Highland Games, Maggie McConnochie (Year 12), put in a top performance to win the Piobaireachd and Strathspey and Reel events in the U21 New Zealand Championship. Sam Foote (Year 13) won the Silver Medal Piobaireachd in the same section. At the Fairlie A&P show the top performer was Charlie Gregg (Year 11) who was overall C Grade champion, winning four of his events, and finishing second in his fifth.

Highland Piping Society of Canterbury Solo Piping Competition Maggie McConnochie (Year 12) was the top performer at the Highland Piping Society of Canterbury Solo Piping Competition, winning all three of her B Grade events. Several other Band students achieved top three placings.

Canterbury Drummers Club Autumn Solo Drumming Competition Standout performers at the Canterbury Drummers Club Autumn Solo Drumming Competition included Andrew Bryce (Year 8) who was second in Snare Drumming A Grade Aggregate and first in B Grade Aggregate; Ewen Li (Year 11) who won the Intermediate Tenor Drumming Aggregate; and Matthew Bluck (Year 13) who won the Intermediate Bass Drumming Aggregate.

Canterbury Drummers Club Winter Solo Drumming Competition At the Canterbury Drummers Club Winter Solo Competition, Andrew Bryce (Year 8) won both the A Grade and B Grade Aggregate in Snare Drumming In Tenor Drumming, Ewen Li (Year 11) won the Open Tenor Aggregate, and RuoLin (Lauren) Li (Year 12) the Intermediate Tenor Aggregate.

Matthew Bluck (Year 13) was the overall Intermediate Bass Drumming Aggregate winner.

Anzac Day Services On Anzac Day, St Andrew’s College Pipe Band members served at a range of parades and services across the South Island, with Anthony Song (Year 11), Alice Glover (Year 10) and Maggie McConnochie (Year 12) playing at the St Andrew’s College Anzac service in the Centennial Chapel.

Preparatory School Music Concert The Preparatory School Music Concert on Tuesday 23 June featured ensemble and solo performances, two new rock bands, Junior Choir (Year 4–5 students), Cantare Choir (Year 6–8 students), Preparatory School Orchestra, a chamber group trio, and solo items

by Music scholars, Claire Chua (Year 7) and Caleb Waines (Year 8).

Smokefree Rockquest At the Smokefree Rockquest regional final, Pretty When it Burns, featuring Annie Young, Ethan Lam, Oliver Hill (all Year 13), and Hamish Bilton (Year 11) performed

an amazing set and earned the right for a ‘second chance pathway’ to the national final, writing a third song and putting together a video for consideration.

They will each receive $850 worth of recording studio and production time to have their songs professionally produced.

Speech and Drama In the Speech New Zealand examinations, Teresa Steiner and Sylvia James (both Year 13) gained Pass with Distinction at Associate Diploma level, while RuoLin (Lauren) Li and Logan Scott (both Year 12) achieved Honours Plus in Grade 8 modules.

Pretty When it Burns – Ethan Lam, Annie Young, Hamish Bilton (drums) and Oliver Hill

Songwriting Violet McInnes (Year 11) and Evelyn Lowe (Year 10) were named as finalists in the Year 9–11 Play It Strange Junior Songwriting Competition for the respective songs, Favourite Movie, and All the Time.

StAC Rock Night In preparation for the annual Rockquest competition, the College’s rock bands and musicians shared the new songs they’d been working hard on over the previous couple of months with an appreciative audience in the Gough Family Theatre on Wednesday 20 May.

PTA Fundraiser

s a m t s i r Ch es i d o o

Order at stac.nz/ CommunityFundraisers

CHRISTMAS CAKE | STEAMED PUDDING | CATHEDRAL CAKE | TRUFFLES | SHORTBREAD TREES

Values and Culture

Ben McKendry (Year 9) was first in The Great Talk Poetry Recitation Competition.

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Poetry

Sports round up

Archery

Ava Jones (Y13) has committed to Santa Clara University in the USA, after accumulating accolades on the regional, national, and international stage. She captained her New Zealand age-group team to both the FIBA Oceania and Asia Cup finals, with the FIBA U17 World Cup taking place mid-year. Ava will be joining the team as a redshirt freshman in January 2027.

Benjamin Marsh (Y12) made his NZNBL debut for the Canterbury Rams, recording three points, two rebounds, one assist, and one steal in Rapid League play.

Adventure Racing Students and their families competed in the South Island Secondary Schools’ Adventure Racing Championships in Kaikōura across three, six, and 12‑hour race formats. Those to reach the podium were: • Three-hour Preparatory School team: Archie Gordon, Cole GordonGlassford (both Y7), Jackson Cutts, Benji McBride (both Y8) – first Boys Championships; • 12-hour Mixed school team: Amelia Blockley (Y13) – first Girls Youth; • Six-hour Year 10 team: Isla Marshall, Jackson Morrow, Ashton Cody, Alice Glover – third Mixed Championship.

Jacob Schouten (Y11)

Jacob Schouten (Y11) competed at the Australian Archery Youth Nationals in Tasmania, alongside approximately 150 competitors. He won all the events in the U16 division, receiving four gold medals and winning a further non‑medal category.

Following selection to represent New Zealand, Jacob travelled to Auckland to compete at the World Archery Oceania Championships, where he contested the U18 division and recorded two silver medal finishes.

Artistic Swimming Joshua Morrow, Abigail Scott-Douglas, Cohnor Walsh (all Y13), Luke Cleugh (Y12), Toby Wilson, Amelia Blockley, Iona Garrett (all Y13), Marija Filipovic (Y12)

The Senior Adventure Racing team, comprising Abigail Scott‑Douglas, Iona Garrett, Amelia Blockley, Joshua Morrow, Toby Wilson, Cohnor Walsh (all Y13), Marija Filipovic, Luke Cleugh (both Y12), competed in the Hillary Challenge six‑hour race, completing a running and cycling rogaine across Hansen Park, Rapaki Valley, and Bottle Lake Forest. The team cleared both courses, recording maximum points in the running stage and the third‑fastest time in the cycling stage to qualify for the Hillary Challenge Final in Tongariro National Park in October.

American Football Harrison White (Y11) and Adam Beaman (Y13) were both selected to represent New Zealand as quarterbacks in Ironblacks age-group American football teams at the Festival of Football in a series against Australia in mid-July. Harrison made the 16U side and Adam the 18U side.

Basketball

Arielle Swartz (Y8) and Ottelia Mattson (Y9) competed for Canterbury at the South Island Artistic Swimming Championships with their team winning gold in Dolphin Combo, and qualifying for the nationals in September. Arielle was second in Figures for 12 and Under.

Badminton

Benjamin Marsh (Y12)

Two St Andrew’s teams competed strongly at the Basketball New Zealand Secondary Schools 3×3 Nationals in Wellington. The Boys’ team progressed to the final and finished as national runners‑up with a 7–1 tournament record. The Girls’ team finished sixth overall with a 5–3 record. Benjamin Marsh (Y12) was named in the Basketball New Zealand All‑Star Four at the conclusion of the tournament.

Ava Jones, Nadia de Thierry, Eva Jeffries (all Y13) and Emilia Ainley (Y12) were members of the Canterbury U20 Women’s team which won a national title at the Basketball New Zealand U20 National Championships.

Canoe Polo At the South Island Canoe Polo Championships, Luke Cleugh (Y12), playing for Wolf Pack, claimed silver in A Grade; Isabella Davies (Y11) and Mila Lovelock (Y10) represented the only female team at the tournament securing bronze in B Grade; Nate Randall and Maxim Taylor (both Y10) were part of the Enforcers team, which won gold in C Grade.

South Island badminton silver medallists Yuxin (Alice) Chen (Y12), Fanxi (Elsa) Meng (Y11), Kristina Burton (Y12) and Yutian (Tianna) Chen (Y11)

At the South Island Secondary Schools’ Badminton Championship, the Premier Girls’ team placed second and the Boys’ team was fifth.

Cross Country Five students represented St Andrew’s at the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Cross Country Championships, against fields of up to 200 runners.

• Diesel Mackie (Y9): 40th (Year 9 Boys); • Dylan Cooper (Y10): 58th (Junior Boys), 6th (Team Relay); • Cohnor Walsh (Y13): 66th (Senior Boys), 9th (Team Relay); • Samuel Hall (Y13): 98th (Senior Boys), 11th (Team Relay).

Fourteen students represented the College at the Canterbury Cross Country Championships, with outstanding performances by Tayla Ford (Y10) who was second in the Junior Girls’ race, and Diesel Mackie (Y9) who was third in the Year 9 Boys’ event. Additional top 10 finishes were recorded by Olivia Copland ninth and Isabelle Tull ( both Y9) tenth in the Year 9 Girls’ race; Ashton Harris fifth and Dylan Cooper (both Y10) sixth in the Junior Boys; and Tabitha Ferreira (Y10) eighth and Alyssa Blackman (Y11) tenth in the Junior Girls.

At the Canterbury Primary Schools’ Cross Country Championships, Franklin Rahman (Y7) was first in his race, with additional top‑10 finishes from Theo Nelson (Y6), sixth; Clara Jones (Y7), seventh; and ChloeAnn Botha (Y8), tenth.

Ice Hockey

Flag Football

Preparatory School basketball teams performed extremely well at the ISSA Basketball Tournament playing a fast-paced short-format game.

The Year 7–8 Girls’ A team were outstanding, finishing the tournament undefeated in first place, with the Year 5–6 Boys and Year 7–8 Boys both finishing second, and the Year 5–6 Girls third.

Five students were selected to represent New Zealand at the USA Football Summer Series in Los Angeles in June, competing against international opposition in their respective age groups. Preparatory School teacher and Flag Football Co-ordinator, Mason Shaw, was appointed Head Coach for the New Zealand U15 Girls’ team.

Students selected were: • U17 Boys: Dustin Shaw (Y12), Toby Park (Y13); • U15 Boys: Austen Fraser (Y9), Levi Currie (Y10); • U15 Girls: Olivia Quane (Y10).

Back: Austen Fraser (Y9), Rico Cantwell, Samuel Hoshek, Edward Park, Levi Currie (all Y10). Front: Olivia Quane, Archer Foster, Isabelle Taylor (all Y10) Carter Busch (Y9), Maxwell Ardagh (Y10).

Ten Year 9–10 students represented St Andrew’s at the Canterbury NFL U15 Flag Football Championships, winning their competition and qualifying for the national tournament where they finished as national runners-up, in a match decided in overtime in the dying seconds. Levi Currie (Y10) was named Offensive Player of the Tournament.

Golf Grace Roy (Y11)

Tristan Bi (Y7) won the 2025/2026 Canterbury Golf U13 Order of Merit.

St Andrew’s College placed ninth out of 19 schools at the Canterbury Secondary Schools’ Showjumping competition. The highest placed individual rider was Amelia Brockhurst (Y10) who was third in the 85cm Showhunter.

At the 2026 New Zealand Dressage Awards, Everley Gilmore (Y10) won the Pony Medium and Above Section of the AMS Pony Rider League and was

Inline hockey Ming Macarthy (Y7) was selected for the U13 Kiwi Blacks inline hockey team.

ISSA Basketball

ISSA Cross Country After competing at the ISSA Zone Cross Country the following students qualified for the Canterbury Primary Schools Cross Country Championships: Zoe Johnstone, Liam Botha, Flynn Cutts, Toby Wilson (all Y5), Theo Nelson (Y6), Clara Jones, Arizona Wallace, Franklin Rahman (all Y7) and ChloeAnn Botha, Indi Haydon‑Uren, Matteo Gibbons (all Y8).

Franklin Rahman (Y7) placed first in his age group.

Judo

Equestrian Grace Roy (Y11) represented New Zealand at the KRA Cup – CSIJ‑B Seoul, an international event supported

by Equestrian Sport New Zealand. She finished seventh overall in her opening round following a formal international opening ceremony.

Lucas Johnston (Y9) was selected for the New Zealand U16 Men’s ice hockey team.

Rowan Weaver (Y7) won gold in the U40kg division at the Canterbury Open Judo Championships.

Karate Ethan King (Y7) won gold in both Kata and Kumite in the Year 7–8 division at the South Island Schools’ Karate Championships and gold in both Kata and Kumite in the 12–13 Years category at the Canterbury Cup. Ismay Bi (Y4) also enjoyed a successful competition, winning a gold, silver, and two bronze medals across both events.

Kartsports Louis Smith (Y11) was 34th overall out of 60 competitors at the Australian Karting Championships, featuring some of the top drivers in Australia, qualifying in the top 40 to make the final. Louis was invited to race in Townsville over the July school holidays. Louis also won the Sunbelts Championship, a South Island competition.

Maxwell Bird (Y4) was first among 15 competitors in the Kartsport Canterbury Enduro race competing in the Cadet Rok category for 6 to 10-year-olds in their 50 lap race.

Tristan Bi (Y7)

Values and Culture

• Tayla Ford (Y10): 19th (Junior Girls), 2nd (Team Relay);

named National Pony Rider for the series across all levels. Everley was also named Canterbury and national champion in the Pony Elementary to Advanced Medium Section of the Pony Rising Stars League; was champion Level 4 Pony at the Canterbury Championships; and was the highest scoring pony rider at the South Island Championships.

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Results were:

Georgia Lewis (Y13)

Rugby Club Day

Motorsport

Rugby Club Day on Saturday 13 June was a fantastic occasion, bringing together teams from across the College, with Preparatory School and Junior teams playing in the morning and Secondary School teams in the afternoon. A full programme of fixtures was played on site, providing a centralised day for the wider community. Highlights included a nail-biter 2nd XV win over Christ’s College and a 1st XV victory over St Thomas of Canterbury College.

Georgia Lewis (Y13) was third out of 25 competitors in the season points championship in her first season in the three-quarter midget class at Ruapuna Speedway. She was also awarded the prestigious 2025–2026 Rookie Driver of the Year at the Christchurch Speedway Association’s prizegiving.

Netball The Senior A Girls’ netball team made history by achieving promotion to the Premier 1 Senior Netball competition for the second half of the season, securing the Premier 2 title with a 43–34 win over St Nicholas B. This places St Andrew’s as the only school team competing in the adult Premier 1 league.

Race Walking Alysa Brown (Y12) represented New Zealand at the World Race Walking Team Championships in Brasilia, Brazil, competing in the U20 grade against experienced athletes from 22 countries. She recorded a season-best time and finished 38th overall.

Road Race St Andrew’s students recorded multiple top ten finishes at the Canterbury Secondary Schools’ Road Race held in Hagley Park. Students to make the top five were: • Junior Girls team: first overall in Teams event.

• Junior Girls: Tayla Ford (Y10) – second; • Junior Boys: Ashton Harris (Y10) – fourth; • Senior Boys: Cohnor Walsh (Y13) – fourth; • Senior Girls: Sophie Lampe (Y12) – fifth.

• Year 9: Diesel Mackie, Issabelle Tull; • Year 10: Ashton Harris, Tayla Ford; • Year 11: Felix O’Byrne, Hayley Stowell; • Year 12: Hugo Lewis, Sophie Lampe; • Year 13: Cohnor Walsh, Abigail Scott Douglas.

Rugby In April, a group of 24 Year 11–13 students represented St Andrew’s in the annual Presbyterian Schools’ Rugby Quadrangular Tournament hosted by Scots College, competing against teams from Lindisfarne College, Saint Kentigern College, and Scots College. The team defended strongly and recorded a comfortable 54–7 win against Lindisfarne College.

The final match against Saint Kentigern College was closely contested, with St Andrew’s leading 17–5 at half‑time.

Momentum shifted in the second half, and Saint Kentigern secured a 29–22 result.

Secondary School and Preparatory School Cross Country

Secondary School Sports Exchange

The annual Secondary School Cross Country and Preparatory School Cross Country events were held in perfect conditions on the College campus on Thursday 14 May, with competitive racing across all year levels. The Boys’ and Girls’ Year Group Champions were:

St Andrew’s hosted John McGlashan College and Columba College for the annual sports exchange, with fixtures in rugby, football, hockey, basketball, and netball. St Andrew’s had a three win, two loss, and two draw result with John McGlashan College, with three wins, two losses, and a draw against Columba College.

• Year 4: Cooper Haydon-Uren, Alexandra Harrison;

Squash

• Year 5: Liam Botha, Zoe Johnstone; • Year 6: Theo Nelson, Georgia Blyde; • Year 7: Franklin Rahman, Clara Jones; • Year 8: Montgomery Fox, ChloeAnn Botha;

George Reynolds (Y11) was selected for the Canterbury squash team which retained its South Island title after winning a Quadrangular Tournament against Midland, Otago, and Southland.

George won all three of his matches in straight games and was named the Leading Male Junior for the tournament.

Kelicia Purcell (Y9) competed in both speed swimming and artistic swimming at national and international events. At the New Zealand Age Group Swimming Championships, she recorded six top‑ten finishes, including a third placing in the 200m breaststroke after improving her personal best by 7.52 seconds. Within 24 hours, she travelled to Sydney to compete at the Australian National Artistic Swimming Championships, recording her highest scores to date across Figures and Routine events, including a routine completed without penalties.

Twenty Secondary School students represented St Andrew’s at the Canterbury Secondary Schools’ Swimming Championships achieving nine top‑three individual placings and two relay podium finishes.

• First placings: Keira-Leigh Watt (Y10): Girls’ 14 year 50m backstroke; Hunter Donnithorne (Y9) Boys’ 13 year 50m backstroke; Edward Garbutt (Y10) Boys’ 14 year 100m freestyle; • Second placings: Millicent MacIntyre (Y11), Ada Searle (Y10), Catherine Shao (Y11), Keira-Leigh Watt: Girls’ 14 year 4×50m freestyle relay; Millicent MacIntyre, Kelicia Purcell (Y9) Catherine Shao, KeiraLeigh Watt Girls’ Open 4×50m freestyle relay; • Third placings: Jackson Wallace (Y10): Boys’ 14 year 50m backstroke; Joshua Exon (Y12): Boys’ 16–18 year 50m breaststroke; Kelicia Purcell Girls’ 13 year 50m butterfly and Girls’ Open 100m butterfly; ElliotteRose Kesseler (Y9): Girls’ 13 year 50m freestyle; Millicent MacIntyre Girls’ 14 year 50m freestyle; Millicent MacIntyre, Ada Searle, Catherine Shao, Keira-Leigh Watt Girls’ 14 year 4×50m freestyle relay; Millicent MacIntyre, Kelicia Purcell, Catherine Shao, Keira-Leigh Watt Girls’ Open 4×50m freestyle relay.

Preparatory School students competed at the Primary Schools’ Canterbury Swimming Championships, with all swimmers

Arielle Swartz (Y7) and Leona Smart (Y8) were selected to represent Canterbury at the New Zealand Artistic Swimming South Island Competition.

At the Wharenui Winter Olympics, Liam Botha (Y5) broke the meet record for Boys’ 10 and Under in the 100m butterfly, previously set in 2006, and the Canterbury record for Boys’ 9 and Under in the same event, which was previously set in 1982. Liam also broke the Canterbury U9 200m backstroke record this season.

Tae Kwon Do Alexander Mazey (Y7) won gold in the Male Cadet U37kg division at the Kukkiwon Cup in Tae Kwon Do.

Tennis

Juan Lee (Y9)

Juan Lee (Y9) represented the New Zealand U14 team in the ITF World Junior Team Competition Asia/ Oceania Final Qualifier in Malaysia. The team recorded ties against Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam. Juan won two of his four singles matches, with a narrow tie‑break loss in his match against Hong Kong.

Marija Filipovic (Y12) was awarded the Canterbury Tennis Grand Prix for Senior Premier Tennis, recognising consistency across the season. This is a significant achievement for a schoolaged student playing against adults.

A small group of students represented Canterbury in a Tier 2 tennis tournament in Wellington over Easter Weekend, achieving the following results: • Juan Lee (Y9): winner Boys U14 singles and finalist, Boys U14 doubles; • Zoe Kelso (10): winner Girls U16 singles;

• Elina Wang (Y9): winner Girls U14 Sportsmanship Award; • Juan Lee, Elina Wang, and Yicheng (Raymond) Yan (all Y10): runners-up, U14 team event.

Zoe Kelso (Y10) won the Women’s singles and doubles titles at the Edgeware Club Championships and was named Most Improved Female player.

Timaru Sports Exchange St Andrew’s hosted Timaru Boys’ High School for the 97th annual winter sports exchange on Tuesday 2 June. Across the 17 fixtures, including rugby, hockey, football, basketball, and badminton, St Andrew’s recorded five wins, two draws, and nine losses, with a range of closely contested fixtures.

Touch Rosie Gaffaney (Y12) was a member of the Canterbury U21 Mixed touch team which won the national title. She was also named the team’s Most Valuable Player at the Touch Canterbury Opens and Masters prizegiving.

Triathlon Sophie Lampe (Y12) has had another great season, finishing third overall and first in the U19 category at the Marra Sprint Triathlon at Mount Maunganui, racing against elite competitors over the sprint distance. Earlier in the season, Sophie won the Triathlon New Zealand Junior Series U20 title, securing qualification for the Triathlon World Championships later this year in Spain. She is also currently ranked the top female athlete for Youth Olympic selection, subject to New Zealand securing a qualifying place.

VEX Robotics More than 100 students from 30 teams competed in the Canterbury Challenge Finals, where the Preparatory School team, The Kitten Klan, comprising Jack Blyde, Zongze (Aaron) Li, Vitek Mencl and Wyatt Petre (all Y8) were second in the VEX IQ Division, and the Senior team, Syntax Error, of George Bissland, Alex Manson, Luke Manson and Hannah Withers, (all Y13) paired up with a Burnside High School team, placing second after a 32–33 final.

Volleyball Three students were selected to represent Canterbury at the New Zealand Inter‑Provincial Volleyball Championships, with Hamish Bilton (Y11) competing in the Boys’ U17 team, Ana Sloane (Y13) in the Girls’ U19 team, and Riley Blackler (Y13) in the Boys’ U19 team.

Values and Culture

Swimming

• Tom Dawson (Y10): winner, Boys U16 doubles; finalist Boys U16 singles;

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Kelicia Purcell (Y9)

finishing in the top ten in their events.

Liam Botha (Y5) secured gold in the Years 5–6 Boys’ 50m butterfly and silver in his 50m freestyle and 50m breaststroke events. Marcel de Wit (Y5) was third in the Boys’ 50m backstroke.

In team events, the Years 7–8 Mixed Medley Relay team of Bozan Wang, ChloeAnn Botha, Jack Blyde, and Leona Smart (all Y8) won their event.

Bozan Wang added silver the Boys’ 50m breaststroke.

Holiday happenings St Andrew’s junior netball, orienteering, cycling and trap shooting teams had success at their holiday tournaments with the highlight being the Year 9A netball team’s outstanding performance to win the South Island Secondary Schools’ Junior Netball Tournament. During the term break, the 1st XV and a group of 32 Preparatory School netballers, basketballers and rugby players escaped the winter chill during successful tours to Queensland.

Cycling

The South Island championship winning Year 9A netball team, (Back) Anna Kench-O'Donnell (Manager), Lose Faingaanuku (Coach), Olivia Earl, Brodie Radford, Summer Johnson, Mercedes Williams, Annabel Magrath, Summer Roy (all Year 9), Vika Koloto (coach); (Front) Isabelle Tull, Mae Stringer, Sophie Cumming, Chloe O'Donnell (all Year 9)

South Island Junior Netball Championships The Year 9 A netball team are South Island champions following an exceptional unbeaten campaign against quality opposition at the South Island Secondary Schools’ Junior Netball Tournament in Christchurch from Monday 6 – Thursday 9 July.

The team made their intentions clear from the outset of the tournament, opening with a dominant 49–7 win over Darfield High School. They remained unbeaten throughout the week, with a hard-fought 25–21 win over Central Southland in their first crossover match proving one of their toughest challenges. On day three, they continued their strong form with convincing wins over Dunstan High School and Southland Girls’ High School.

A commanding 38–22 semi-final win over Christchurch Girls' High School booked their place in the final against Rangi Ruru Girls' School. St Andrew’s started strongly and built an early

seven-goal lead. Rangi Ruru Girls’ School fought back to close the gap to just two goals, however St Andrew’s team remained composed and finished strongly to secure a well-deserved 39–31 victory and be crowned South Island Champions. It is the third time St Andrew’s has won this prestigious tournament.

Netball and team manager, Anna Kench O-Donnell says every player contributed to the success of the campaign, supporting one another on and off the court and putting team success ahead of individual recognition.

“It was a wonderful example of how teams that truly play for one another can achieve great things.

Annabel Magrath (Year 9) was named Team Player of the Tournament for her outstanding shooting performances The Year 10A team also competed strongly at the tournament, recording impressive wins over Queen's High School, Craighead Diocesan School, and St Margaret's College before finishing ninth overall.

Nine students from the Preparatory and Secondary Schools competed in an individual Time Trial, Team Time Trial, and Road Race at the South Island Schools’ Road Cycling Championships at Ruapuna Motorsport Park. The top individual results were Katalina Williams (Year 10) third in the U16 Girls’ Individual Time Trial and Cooper Pringle (Year 12) second in the U20 Boys.

Katalina Williams (Y10)

Katalina Williams also competed at the North Island Track Cycling Championships in Cambridge where she placed fourth in the Omnium (total points form the four different races) which was an exceptional result.

Trap Shooting St Andrew’s trap shooters took part in two North Island events over the holiday break. The top performer was Samuel Jones (Year 12) who was Single Barrel Champion and fourth highest overall with a score of 85/90 at the North Island Secondary Schools Trap Shooting Championships on Saturday 4 July. Charlotte Oliver (Year 13) was second overall in the Ladies grade at the Hamilton Boys’ High School Interschool shoot on the previous day.

The New Zealand Schools Orienteering Championships took place in Christchurch during the term break with 10 students from Years 7–11 competing in races held in Kaiapoi, Waikuku, Lincoln and the Port Hills.

Felix O’Byrne, Harry Stocker and Toby Maw (all Year 11) competed in all four disciplines – relay, long, sprint, and rogaine – which make up the event and managed to complete all courses successfully. Special mention to Toby Johnson (Year 9) who was sixth in the Junior Boys’ Sprint in a highly competitive field.

The 2026 Australia Tour was a memorable and successful experience for the group of 32 Year 7–8 students from the Preparatory School who travelled to Queensland to participate in basketball, netball and rugby fixtures against Matthew Flinders Anglican College, St Andrew’s Anglican College, and John Paul College during the term break.

Olivia Copland and Toby Johnson (both Year 9)

1st XV Rugby Tour to Australia The 1st XV had a successful tour to Brisbane from Friday 3 – Saturday 11 July, where they were hosted

by Anglican Church Grammar School (Churchie). The team played two matches, the first against St Andrew’s College from South Africa, a school with the same name and similar Scottish roots. Moses Armstrong-Ravula (OC 2022), the 1st XV captain of 2022 who is now based in Brisbane and involved with the Fijian Drua Super Rugby team,

Oliver Kirk (Year 12) and Iosefo Tito (Year 11) during the match against St Andrew’s College of South Africa.

presented the jerseys to the players before the game. After a stirring haka, our 1st XV proved too strong, playing with fierce physicality and execution of skills to win comfortably with a score of 69–14.

The team trained with the Churchie 1st XV before taking on their second opponent, Napier Boys’ High School, a strong side which has won the majority of their fixtures in their Super 8 competition. St Andrew’s took an early 14–7 lead, with Napier Boys’ fighting back to lead 26–14 at the break. The teams traded tries in the Brisbane heat in the second half, with Napier Boys’ eventually winning the match 47–33.

The tour was a positive experience for the players, who enjoyed the opportunity to play overseas, experience a different environment, and participate in rugby specific training. Other highlights of the tour included watching an NRL game at Suncorp Stadium, touring the Brisbane Broncos’ training facility, and spending a day at Wet n Wild.

The pre-match haka set the scene for a strong victory over the 1st XV’s South African opponents.

The tour party about to start their travels.

Deputy Principal of Preparatory School (Operations), Alex Kelley, says students displayed outstanding determination, resilience, and sportsmanship, with highlights including the rugby team’s victory against St Andrew’s Anglican College, the girls’ basketball team remaining unbeaten throughout the tour, and the netball team securing a hard-earned win in their final match.

“The tour combined sport, adventure, personal growth, and team building, with students embracing a packed itinerary which included visits to the Sunshine Coast Aquarium, Australia Zoo, Sea World, Wet’n’Wild, Mount Tamborine, and Movie World,” shares Alex.

Beyond the results, the tour showcased the character of the group, he adds.

“Daily Random Acts of Kindness Awards recognised students who consistently helped others and represented the St Andrew’s College values with distinction. Praise from members of the public, opposition schools, and venue staff reflected the students’ excellent manners, teamwork, and ambassadorial spirit throughout the tour.”

The St Andrew’s netball team with their opponents from Matthew Flinders Anglican College.

Values and Culture

Preparatory School Sports Tour to Australia

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New Zealand Schools’ Orienteering Championships

Old Collegians

Message

Janet Storry Tennis Tournament

from the

President

It has been another busy and enjoyable period for the St Andrew’s Old Collegians Association, with several events providing opportunities for alumni to reconnect and celebrate the St Andrew’s community.

Our annual Golf Day was once again a fantastic event, bringing together Old Collegians for a day of friendly competition, laughter, and connection.

The Auckland Gathering also provided a great opportunity to catch up with alumni living further afield and to strengthen our connections beyond Canterbury.

We were also delighted to celebrate both the 50 Years On and 30 Years On Reunions. These milestone events are always a highlight, giving classmates the opportunity to reconnect, share memories, and revisit the College.

It was fantastic to see such strong attendance and enthusiasm at both gatherings.

Thank you to everyone who has attended and supported our events throughout the year. The continued engagement of our Old Collegians is what makes this community so special, and I look forward to seeing many of you at future gatherings.

Zoe Merrick (2014) President Old Collegians Association

St Andrew’s College Old Collegians won the Janet Storry Tennis Tournament on Tuesday 31 March for the 30th time since the tournament began in 1930, competing against Christ’s College, St Margaret’s College, and Rangi Ruru Girls’ School.

The team managed by Lisa Clark, included Johnny McHarg (1992), Tim McHarg (1995), Tuscany Hamel (2010), Tom Batt (2012), Lawrence Darling (2015), Grayson Cullen (2018), Blake Cullen (2022) and Sophie McDermott (2022).

OCA Golf Tournament The 91st OCA Golf Tournament was held on Friday 17 April, with more than 90 Old Collegians and friends of the College taking part. John Holmes (1977) claimed the Old Boys’ Golf Cup and will represent the College at the Strowan Rose Bowl later in the year. Funds raised from the tournament went to supporting cricket at St Andrew’s College.

Auckland Gathering On Wednesday 27 May, an Old Collegians gathering was held in Auckland at The Northern Club. The event brought together attendees from a wide range of year groups, spanning those who began at the College in 1947 through to more recent leavers, reflecting the strong ongoing engagement within the Old Collegian network.

50 Years On On Friday 15 May, the Class of 1976–1980 was welcomed back for their 50 Years On reunion.

More than 40 Old Collegians and partners returned for an evening of reconnecting and reminiscing, with former staff members Rex Livingstone, Wayne Milligan and Mike Woodlock also joining pre-dinner drinks. Richard Hawke kept the evening moving smoothly as MC. Mark Stewart’s Grace, written for the evening, beautifully reflected on the group’s 50 years of friendship. Bryan Pearson and Matthew Cockram gave moving toasts to Absent Friends and the College.

Old Collegians

Presidents’ Dinner

The Presidents’ Dinner, held every two years, brings together both past and present leaders of the Old Collegians Association to celebrate their dedication and ongoing support. On Friday 5 June, the event welcomed 20 past presidents whose connections to the College spanned from 1939 to 2014, with service to the OCA from 1968 through to 2026. We also paid tribute to past President, Wal Scott (1959), who sadly passed away the week before the event. Wal’s ongoing connection and commitment to the College was unwavering, and he will be missed by many in our community.

30 Years On Reunion On Friday 19 June, more than 60 Old Collegians and their partners from the Class of 1996–2000 gathered in the OCA Foyer of the Gough Family Theatre for a fantastic evening of reconnection and shared memories at their 30 Years On reunion. Some travelled from as far as Abu Dhabi and

Western Australia to be part of the occasion. The group enjoyed reminiscing together, with a tour of the College another highlight.

Thank you to Ed Scragg for welcoming the group, and to the many former and current staff and teachers who also joined the evening.

On Saturday 20 June, St Andrew’s welcomed back members of our 1st XV teams from 1956, 1966, 1976, 1986, 1996, and 2006. While the 2016 team were unable to join us, with many still actively involved in the game, it was fantastic to have more than 60 Old Collegians in attendance. A particular highlight was the presence of five members of the 1956 team, marking 70 years since they wore the Thistle. It was an incredible milestone and a special moment for all involved.

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Reunion

Old Collegians

1st XV Rugby Reunion

Class notes Richard Ashford (1969) was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) in the King’s Birthday Honours. Richard has contributed to New Zealand’s textile industry for more than 55 years. As Managing Director and designer at Ashford Handicrafts since 1970, he has overseen its development from a family business into an international company exporting to over 40 countries. His work has supported the production of more than 900,000 spinning wheels and looms, alongside advocacy for traditional textile crafts and sustainability.

evening exercise and sleep. This award honours exceptional early-career researchers, with only three recipients selected worldwide this year.

Dr Josh Leota

Structural and Geotechnical Engineer, Michael Simcock (2011), visited the Year 13 Physics Enrichment class to speak about pathways into Civil Engineering. The visit formed part of a wider programme that brings external expertise into the classroom, linking subject learning to real‑world applications and future study pathways.

Elliot Darling (2013) was named Men’s Grand Prix Winner for the second time at the Tennis Canterbury Awards.

Torian Barnes (2021) was selected for the 2026 Māori All Blacks squad which travelled to Japan in June to take on a Japan XV.

Torian Barnes

Penelope Taulafo (2021) was named in the New Zealand U21 hockey squad.

Lachie McBride (2021) is now in his second season playing Australian Football with the Mitcham Football Club in Melbourne.

Tom Rae (2022) has had his photograph Night at the Remarkables selected as one of the top images in the 2026 Milky Way Photographer of the Year, the third consecutive year Tom’s work has been recognised in this international selection.

Thomas Kamo (2022) competed at the Philip C Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition in Washington, DC, as part of the University of Canterbury team, which advanced to the international rounds. Thomas was ranked as the highest New Zealand oralist.

Richard Ashford

Phil Adams (1991, current staff), Justin Conway (1991) and Leyton Hunt (1992) were once again crowned New Zealand Touch National Champions. The trio were part of the Canterbury Over 50s Men’s Touch team, who competed at the 2026 Bunnings Masters National Touch Championships, defeating Bay of Plenty 4–3 in a thrilling final. The match went into extra time during the drop off period, where Phil scored the match winning touchdown to seal the title.

Chris Eaden (2008) became the first New Zealand Ice Hockey League player to surpass 500 career points, reaching 502 points from 259 games, cementing his legacy as one of New Zealand ice hockey’s all-time greats.

Dr Josh Leota (PhD, 2008) received the 2026 Sleep Research Society Outstanding Early Investigator Award.

Josh, a researcher with Monash Psychological Sciences, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, was recognised for his research on the relationship between

Elliot Darling

Ron Park (2013) was named the 2026 Meat Industry Association Dragon’s Den winner for his Kiwi Tender concept.

Sam Lane (2015) signed on for the next two seasons with hockey club Klein Zwitserland, a top tier club based in The Hague, Netherlands.

Jack Sexton (2019) debuted for the Crusaders in the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific tournament.

Seb Calder (2019) wrote himself into Crusaders history, scoring the final try ever at Apollo Projects Stadium.

Crossing the line in the 82nd minute against the Fijian Drua. It was not only the Crusaders’ last points at the ground, but also the first try of Seb’s Super Rugby career. The moment marked a special full-circle moment for Seb, who once sat in the stands watching with his dad Stu Calder (1989).

Siara Clarke (2024) was runner up New Zealand Champion 18 years and Over and won four individual New Zealand Championship titles in Highland Fling, Sword Dance, Highland Reel and Reel O’Tulloch at the New Zealand Highland Dancing Championships.

Sea-Am Thompson (2024) has been awarded the Maxwell Fernie Dame Malvina Major Foundation Award, supporting further study as an Organ Scholar at Magdalen College, at the University of Oxford, where he is studying towards a BA in Music.

Francis Gillies (2025) and William Ruge (2024) graduated from their RNZAF Recruit Course at Base Woodbourne.

Jack Stokes (2019) won his first New Zealand Rally Car title at the Otago Rally, following in the footsteps of his father Brian Stokes (1975).

Francis Gillies, John Ruge and William Ruge

Karereatua Williams (2022), Valentino Swainson (2023), Ophelia Powell, Rafferty Powell, Niamh Chamberlain (all 2024) and Bronson Curtis (2025), were members of the Canterbury U20 Women’s and Men’s teams which won national titles at the Basketball New Zealand U20 National Championships.

Ophelia Powell (2024) signed with the Wyoming Cowgirls Basketball Team at the University of Wyoming.

Cricket Henry Nicholls (2009) and Zak Foulkes (2020) played in the Black Caps test squad for its tour of Ireland and England.

Several Old Collegians contributed to Canterbury becoming Plunket Shield champions for 2026, in New Zealand’s premier domestic first‑class red-ball competition. Those involved in the squad included Freddy Anderson (2012, coaching staff), Jesse Frew (2019), Henry Nicholls (2009, captain), Leo Carter (2012), Scott Janett (2021) and Rhys Mariu (2019).

Robbie Miller (2025) was named coxswain of the New Zealand Universities Women’s Eight for the Trans‑Tasman Series in Sydney.

Pipe Band Piers Dover (2013), current Piping Tutor, won the Comunn na Piobaireachd Gold Medal at the Hawke’s Bay Easter Highland Gathering.

Marcella Bragg (2019) was third at the Royal New Zealand Pipe Band Association (RNZPBA) Solo Tenor Drumming Championships.

Georgia Eagle (2023) was fifth in the Adult March, Strathspey and Reel in the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association (RSPBA) Oceania Solo Drumming Competition and New Zealand Championship.

Robbie Miller

Rowing Ben Taylor (2017) won gold in the first two regattas of the 2026 World Rowing Cup series in Seville, Spain, and Plovdiv, Bulgaria. In the race in Bulgaria, they stopped the clock at an incredible 6:09.04, finishing just 0.54 seconds outside the world best time set at the London 2012 Olympic Games by legendary Kiwi duo, Hamish Bond and Eric Murray.

Isabella Galvan (OC 2021) has been accepted into the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Women’s rowing team, after just one year in the sport.

Events

for 2026

OCA AGM Wednesday 12 August 2026 20 Years On: Class of 2006–2010 Saturday 22 August 2026 London Gathering Monday 24 August 2026 Brisbane Gathering Monday 31 August 2026 OCA Annual Dinner Friday 18 September 2026

Back Row: Freddy Anderson (OC 2012, Coaching Staff), Jesse Frew (OC 2019), Henry Nicholls (OC 2009, Captain), Leo Carter (OC 2012). Front Row: Scott Janett (OC 2021), Rhys Mariu (OC 2019)

Amiria Rule (2001, Head of Learning Support – Secondary) represented Canterbury at the inaugural New Zealand Women’s Masters Cricket Tournament where she was named Player of the Tournament.

Canterbury were runners-up in the competition.

Isabella Galvan

Connor Fraher (2015) was named Coach of the Year at the Canterbury Rowing Association Awards, after playing a key role in establishing Hillmorton High School’s rowing programme as their new rowing coach.

Gentlemen's Lunch, incorporating 65 Years On (1961–1965), 70 Years On (Class of 1956–1960), 75 Years On (1951–1955), and 80 Years On (1946–1950) Friday 9 October 2026 10 Years On: Class of 2012–2016 Friday 6 November 2026

Old Collegians

Basketball

Aarkin Kesar (2025) made his debut for the Singapore National Cricket team in the ACC Men’s Challenger Cup.

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Scarlett Gray and Amber de Wit (both 2025) were named in the New Zealand U20 Women’s Football Squad for their games against Australia. The matches are in preparation for September’s 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Poland. Scarlett is currently playing for the Central Coast Mariners in Australia, while Amber is based at North Dakota State University in the USA.

Obituary Owen Foster, Past Staff, 1995–2016 We were sad to hear of the recent passing of long serving staff member, Owen Foster. Owen will be fondly remembered by many of our younger Old Collegians as a kind and generous man who gave a great deal of his time to the College. Over his 21 years on staff, Owen served as a groundsman, traffic

warden, and Custodian of the College.

A master stonemason, Owen was also responsible for building the Memorial Cairn, erected outside the College’s Memorial Chapel to mark the College’s 90th Anniversary. The Cairn still stands proudly today as a lasting reminder of his craftsmanship and contribution.

Gone not

but

forgotten

Graham Falla (1949) Graham Lane (1952) Graeme Boyce (1955) William (John) Freeman (1957) Dale Cole (1957) Keith Duggan (1957) David (Wal) Scott (1959) David Innes (1961) Lewis Evans (1961) Douglas Hendrie (1962) Callum MacLeod (1968) Alastair MacGibbon (1969) Gregory Stevens (1979)

Owen Foster (second right) at the 2008 unveiling of the Memorial Cairn, with Rev. Hamish Galloway, Rector, Christine Leighton, and Val Wells.

Just

married

Meg Black (2010) married Nic Jordan on 6 March 2026 at her family farm in Pyramid Valley, Waikari.

Selene Tan (2015) married Charles Kim at the Centennial Chapel on 28 February 2026.

hlan (2013) Abigail McLac Greaney on married Dean the West on 26 7 March 20 e pictured with Coast. They ar .

-old son, Jack ar ye the threeYe Yang and Leo Carter (both 2012) were married on 2 May 2026 at Pemberton Garden. There were several Old Collegians from their peer year in the wedding party including Nathan Hight, Monica Lee, Lin Yang, Penny Crean and Mryan Moore.

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