St Margaret's College Evergreen Autumn 2023

autumn 2023

Opening Remarks

Shrek can teach us many valuable life lessons, with a good dose of laughter thrown in for free, but his explanation to Donkey about the many layers that make up an ogre has always resonated with me.

People, like ogres, are complex creatures and our journey through life adds the rich layers that make up the characters we become. As adults, I am sure we can recall times, places and people that have affected our lives, some for the better, but others that have tested our resolve and encouraged our development of resilience for tough times that may be around the corner. Not all of life is smooth sailing, but handling a taste of rough weather makes sure we are prepared for any rough seas that may be ahead.

Our theme for 2023 is ‘Shine Bright’, with the accompanying values of Bravery, Resilience, Integrity, Growth, Humility and Teamwork. This Autumn edition of Evergreen offers evidence of how this theme is coming to life around the College.

There have been many successes and extraordinary achievements, yet there have been challenges too. What always impresses me is the encouragement that the girls continue to offer each other and the positive manner in which our staff support the girls. Surely these experiences are adding valuable layers to our girls.

The House activities, connection days and camps hosted in the first term of the school year provide our

girls with opportunities to challenge themselves in a safe, supportive environment and promote strong bonds of friendship that will carry them through their school years. While many of these valuable lessons may not present themselves straight away, I am confident that the girls will reflect on these occasions as a turning point for them in growing up.

Education is not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ exercise, and it is not just about “reading, writing and ‘rithmetic”, it is about adding layer upon layer of experiences, building a balanced foundation from which our girls can go forth and conquer the world. Adding these layers is not always easy, or obvious, and it may be some time later before the girls appreciate that a layer has been added, but the benefits will be obvious when they leave SMC with the confidence and resilience to take on all that life has to offer.

If you would like a reminder of Shrek’s words of wisdom, follow this link: youtube.com/watch?v=-FtCTW2rVFM

Diana Patchett, Executive Principal

St Margaret’s College Old Girls’ Association

Welcome to our Autumn edition of Evergreen. Summer now seems like a distant memory as the fresh Autumn mornings and days return. However, our thoughts still remain with our Old Girls, friends, and families who have battled a tumultuous summer in the North and hope the coming months don’t cause further devastation.

We are pleased to introduce five new faces to our Old Girls’ Committee this year, Lily Cain, Julia Christie, Sophie Fitzsimons, Polly Forbes and Jan McCormick. It is great to have an array of members spanning the decades. With that being said, I would like to thank our members that have recently departed the committee, Victoria Gibbons, Penny Gordon, Mandy Steel and Sue Wilkinson.

Our 2023 calendar is packed full of events again, with the addition of the inaugural Tauranga Community event. A full list is available on the St Margaret’s website and we hope to see you all at some point throughout the year.

To stay up to date with events and achievements of our Old Girls be sure to follow us on Facebook as well as Instagram. It is our aim to connect with members across the generations and use these channels to assist us.

As Winter looms, keep safe and well.

Bella Forbes, SMCOGA President

St Margaret’s College Old Girls’ Association

Annual General Meeting

Tuesday 16 May 2023, 5:45pm

St Margaret’s College Staffroom

12 Winchester Street, Merivale, Christchurch

Reunion Weekend 2022

Leadership

5 minutes with our 2023 SMC leaders

Emma Mason

What do you hope to achieve this year as Head Girl?

The main thing I would like to achieve this year as Head Girl is to be a positive role model for younger students. I would love to inspire them to find the confidence to step into leadership roles. Additionally, I hope to organise events and day-to-day activities that enhance our school environment.

What do you think is the best thing about SMC?

The best thing about SMC is the opportunities that we have. We are incredibly lucky to have such amazing facilities and staff that are willing to give up their time to allow us to try new things.

How do you relax when you’re not at school?

I love doing sports, especially volleyball, so to have a break from schoolwork I love being able to spend time with friends playing sports. I also enjoy listening to music and watching Netflix with my family.

Quickfire:

Polar bear or panda bear – panda bear

Beach or mountains – beach

Sweet or savoury – savoury

Bike ride or run – run

Tik Tok or Snapchat – Tik Tok

Hannah Wylie

What are you studying this year and what are your plans for next year?

I’m an IB student, and currently studying English, Maths, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, and French. At the moment I have no idea what I want to do next year!

I really like the idea of taking a gap year, or maybe studying overseas if I can.

What co-curricular activities do you do?

I do rowing and play netball, and participate in debating and Ethics Olympiad.

What’s the best advice you would give to someone who has just started at SMC?

Without a doubt, it would be to get involved in all the opportunities the school has to offer. There are so many options in sports, arts, and academics, but also chances to give back to the community, such as helping our younger sisters in the Junior School, or planting trees with the Enviro club.

Quickfire:

Polar bear or panda bear – panda bear!

Beach or mountains – beach

Sweet or savoury – sweet

Bike ride or run – bike ride

Tik Tok or Snapchat – Snapchat

Sunday 10 September

Ilex Cafe

Botanical Gardens

Limited number of tickets available

To register your interest please email:

Girl Boss: Lucy Butterfield

Year 10 student Lucy Butterfield stepped outside of her comfort zone and entered herself for a Girl Boss Award, an annual award that recognises trailblazing young women aged 11 - 18 from across Aotearoa. Lucy describes being part of the Girl Boss movement as special, and winning the Outstanding Applicant Award and associated scholarship a real achievement in her beliefs, “I decided to give it a go and actually had a lot of fun! I learnt new things about myself but it was also very cool to actually see all of the work I had done and I was proud of myself and my story.”

Lucy and her dad Matt run 35 traps in the outer Akaroa Harbour to protect the two remaining colonies of Little Blue penguins on the Peninsula from predators. Lucy is now setting up a charitable trust to take this to the next level. Passionate about the environment from age five, Lucy describes her excitement as her vision caught on, “I have been researching amazing conservationists and even researched trapping. I then I realised how easy it was for me to follow my passion. I’ve done things

I never thought I could do, been in three newspapers, had an interview with Seven Sharp and have been asked to speak at events all around Christchurch and Akaroa.”

And she’s having fun along the way, “My family and I love the water, one of our favourite things to do is dive and snorkel. When we were doing a penguin survey with the team at Pohatu Penguins it turned out to be one of our favourite dive spots. This bay has now become our regular trapping area and after we check this trapline my Dad and I jump into the water for a dive.”

For anyone asking how they can help but can’t imagine doing anything on such a large scale, Lucy also maintains a day to day sustainable stance, “I do little things such as using Beeswax wraps instead of plastic and always cleaning up rubbish off the ground. There are many ways to be sustainable and I am going to start walking to and from school more often, all of these little things can make a difference.”

New Staff

Paul Leitch

I own a small share in four (hopefully fast) racehorses (Fly On Bye, First Immortal, Blazen Boots and Skyhawk).

Nick Ryan

I taught maths at an (English speaking) International School in Saudi Arabia from 2017-2021.

My wife Betsy teaches in the Junior school at SMC.

Jo Stockton

I have done two sponsored bungee jumps for charity. (When I was a lot younger mind you... I think I would be too terrified now!)

Brandon Wilson

My great grandfather was part of the 1905 All Black team (Vice captain). Billy Stead was his name.

Richard Freeman

I have coached the Captain of the Japanese National Rugby Team (the Brave Blossoms), Michael Leitch who will play in his fourth Rugby World Cup this year.

Anel van den Berg

My native language is Afrikaans.

Margaret Jack

I spent over a year and a half living with four people in a Landrover. It was pretty squishy at times, but with Europe and Africa as our playground it was definitely worth it!

Jacq Gilbert

This is my second go round at St Margaret’s College. I previously taught here (in the English faculty) in 2015/16.

Pre-School

Just Playing

When I’m building in the block room, I’m learning as I play. About balance and shapes, Who knows, I may be an architect one day.

When I’m getting all dressed up, Setting the table, caring for the babies I’m learning as I play.

I may be a mother or father one day.

When you see me up to my elbows in paint, Or standing at an easel, or modelling and shaping clay. I’m learning as I play. I’m expressing myself and being creative. I may be an artist or inventor one day.

When you see me combing the bushes or packing my pockets with choice things, I’m learning as I play.

For I may be a scientist someday.

When you see me engrossed in a puzzle or plaything, I’m learning as I play.

I’m learning to solve problems and concentrate. I may be in business one day.

When you see me skipping, hopping, running and moving my body. I’m learning as I play.

I’m learning how my body works, I may be a nurse or doctor or athlete one day.

When you ask me what I did today And I reply I just played. Please don’t misunderstand me. You see, I’m learning as I play.

Anita Wadely, 1979.

Junior School

Friendology

Friendships can have a major impact on our health and well-being. Why then, do we not formally teach the skills of making and maintaining friends; why is the development of such important lifelong skills left to chance?

A number of years ago now, as part of SMC’s commitment to the health and wellbeing of our girls, the Junior School teachers introduced Friendology, a world-renowned programme which empowers children with friendship skills, in turn creating communities of kindness.

Friendology gives us all a common language and actions to take when dealing with the inevitable ups

and downs of friendship. Our girls easily distinguish between what Friendology refers to as “Friendship Fires” and “Mean-on-Purpose” and more importantly, they have action plans to help them deal with these. One of my favourite tools is the Friend-o-meter which gives children a great way to reflect on their relationships.

The SMC Junior School is a great fan of Friendology and we see its positive impact in our classrooms and playgrounds every day.

Bridget Compton-Moen, Head of Junior School

Middle School

The Rite Journey

The Rite Journey is a programme we are incredibly proud of. It is designed to support the development of self aware, responsible, respectful, resilient and resourceful adults. The SMC version has been designed by Lisa Williams, Amanda Hardy and their team and is tailor made to be relevant and engaging for our Year 10 students.

The Rite Journey Programme is based on the concept of a “rite of passage,” which has been a part of human cultures for centuries. A rite of passage is a significant event or experience that marks a transition from one stage of life to another. In the case of the Rite Journey Programme, the programme is designed to guide young people through the transition from childhood to adulthood.

It is a year-long journey of self-discovery and personal growth. The program consists of a series of workshops, activities, challenges and discussions that aim to help our young people develop a sense of identity, purpose, and responsibility.

One of the important elements of the Rite Journey Programme is the use of experiential learning. The programme includes a variety of activities, such as camping trips, community service projects, and personal creative tasks, that help students develop practical skills and explore their interests and passions. A highlight in Term 1 is the students work on their Korero Mai challenge which involves talking to different generations of people in their families to hear their stories. It is so interesting and empowering for students to hear about their families, values, challenges and experiences.

We have been running the Rite Journey for 12 years and we would describe this programme as the Jewel in the Crown of our Middle School experience.

Kathryn Gray, Head of Middle School

How to help teens navigate the challenges of social media

The ages from 11-15 years are known as second only to infancy in the number of changes a young person goes through. But, as parents, we still seem grossly unprepared for this turbulent time.

It’s a time where our young person gains independence and seeks influence from outside the home – and at a time when we, as parents, start to relish having some of our life back. But is this really the time to let them go or tighten the reins, albeit extremely challenging to do so?

Their strong influences are coming from social media and their modelling is based on the people who they follow. Social media has some huge benefits, of course, in helping with the likes of fundraising for charities, and making us aware of what’s happening around us.

The trouble is that it can be hard for our young people to navigate which of those influencers share their values and the values of their whānau.

One of the things I deal with a lot is the way young people overthink things they have seen on social media. Often without other social cues such as facial expression or tone, it is very easy to read messages

incorrectly – leading to miscommunications and misunderstanding.

A second struggle I see our young people having is the ability to disconnect. They are constantly linked. When we were younger, we would leave the school grounds, go home and we were disconnected from our friends – unless we were at sports or arts activities. What’s happening now is completely limitless. There’s no end to TikTok, and the like. We go to a movie and the movie finishes, we read a book and get to the end of the chapter. But social media does not finish. So we, as parents, really have to put those boundaries in place because time can just disappear.

Here are a few pointers which might help you support your daughter or son to navigate social media.

› Have a central charging station in the living area at home.

› Allow them to disconnect, set timers

› Engage them in device free activities

› Don’t be afraid to have conversations about social media and the impact it has made on us all.

Kathryn Gray, Head of Middle School

Senior School

Top IB Scholars

St Margaret's College was the venue for this year's International Baccalaureate Top Scholars awards, an event run by the New Zealand IB Heads' Association acknowledging students from NZ IB schools who achieved a Diploma score of 40 points or more. SMC had four students amongst this group of extremely talented academic performers: Sienna McEwan, Amanda Jiang, Lauren Healey, and Tehya Laws, placing them among the very top from across the world.

The scholars, the Head of School, and the IB Coordinator from each school enjoyed hearing from the

speaker – an SMC Old Girl and current teacher! – Julie Seymour NZNM (Services to Netball) and from our alumni speaker Hattie Compton-Moen (IB graduate 2020). This was the first time the awards have been held in the South Island with scholars and staff attending from Auckland International College, Diocesan School for Girls, John McGlashan College, Kristin School, Queen Margaret College, Rangitoto College, St Cuthbert’s College, Scots College, St Peters Cambridge, Takapuna Grammar and St Kentigern.

Beth Rouse, IB Coordinator

The best foundation for Year 12 – 13

Girls are already reaping the benefits of the Foundation Diploma, now into its second year.

The Diploma was introduced for Year 11 students in 2022, replacing NCEA Level 1. Its inception was prompted by the desire for a more SMC-specific Year 11 programme that could better cater for our dual pathways of International Baccalaureate or NCEA in Years 12 and 13.

Sian Evans, Head of Senior School, couldn’t be happier with how the Foundation Diploma has been received.

“Our reviews at the end of 2022 were fantastic – from teachers, from students, from parents. Teachers unilaterally report that they found last year less rushed than a year of NCEA Level 1.

“Although we still conducted thorough and rigorous assessments/testing/exams, there was less red tape involved in these and they took up far less time. This gave the teachers and students more time to focus on the learning rather than the assessment.

“Teachers feel confident that Year 12 students who completed the Diploma in 2022 are better prepared for both NCEA Level 2 and IB this year than they have been in previous years.

“I was prepared for some criticism when I asked for feedback and overviews at various points last year. Each time I was blown away by the positive reactions from teachers.”

Ms Evans’ comments are echoed by inaugural Foundation Diploma graduates Anna Babington, and Iliana Sarri, both now in Year 12 and studying IB and NCEA Level 2 respectively.

Anna says the Diploma made the transition into IB less daunting.

“With Foundation Diploma, it felt like the emphasis was on the learning rather than the end result and, although there were tests throughout the year, these assessments never overshadowed the learning.

“The programme focuses on more holistic learning and encourages students to also engage in extracurriculars, develop their leadership skills and to become open-minded global citizens, which pushed us to achieve and grow in all aspects of our lives.”

Iliana agrees.

“We were exposed to a lot of different topics that we’re starting to look at again in NCEA. It means I’m familiar with the concepts so I can grasp things more quickly.”

Their mutual endorsement reflects the Diploma’s purpose of providing the best possible foundation for either IB or NCEA.

Ms Evans: “Ultimately, the main goal is unashamedly academic. I wanted our girls to be as well prepared for Year 12 and 13 as they possibly could be, and to ensure that they had a very solid academic foundation in Year 11 to achieve this.”

She’s confident this has been achieved through:

› reduced time away from learning for assessments, reassessments, and lengthy study leave

› increased focus on teaching and learning

› maintaining specialist subjects that will be lost as Year 11 offerings in many other schools across the country

› the ability to decide what core content and skills

Year 12 and 13 teachers want to prioritise in Year 11 students.

“Alongside this, though, the Diploma has also offered us a lovely opportunity to be able to formalise some of the wider values and aspects of holistic education that are so important to us at St Margaret’s,” Ms Evans says.

Ms Evans has been invited to present on SMC’s Foundation Diploma at the International Alliance of Girls’ Schools’ Asia-Pacific summit in Australia later this year.

Boarding

This year has started with wonderful energy and delightful sounds that our new and returnee boarders brought into the boarding houses. The first phase of the Kilburn upgrade was completed with beautiful new refitted rooms for our Year 11s and a staffing restructure that has brought with it additional positions that will truly enhance the girls’ boarding experience. An example of this is an overnight supervisor who is engaged to work through the night and if not tending to the girls, is baking up a storm for their afternoon tea, and keeping a careful watch on the security of our boarding houses. We are always looking ahead at ways we can improve the student and community boarding experience.

Underpinning all that we do is what we hope is warm and open communication with our girls, families, and staff.

The future of boarding at St Margaret’s College feels bright; we will be adding more wellbeing aspects to the daily life of boarding such as regular yoga classes, wellness check-ins and agile reporting to parents. While we are always reviewing our offering, systems, and practices, above all, we wish for the girls to feel that their boarding home is a safe and happy place, with dedicated staff who truly care.

Deanne Gath, Director of Boarding and International

For over 30 years we’ve combined our passion for food with the finest local ingredients to turn events held in homes, businesses, and local venues into deliciously memorable occasions. Whether using our professional staff or catering delivered to your home we will work with you to surpass every expectation.

SMC Foundation

It seems hard to believe we are a third of the way through 2023! It has been a joy to meet so many of our St Margaret’s College community through engagement events and community occasions this year already.

We have recently had the pleasure of officially opening the new school playground and we are extremely thankful to all of the donors who contributed to this project through our successful 2022 Annual Appeal. Recently The Foundation developed a new strategic blueprint that will enable us to work towards our primary goal of offering long-term financial sustainability to the College through a wide range of support and partnerships within our community.

The role of The Foundation is to support St Margaret’s College through the management and investment of

gifts and donations. We are committed to generating and stewarding funds to enable the College to continue its history of success and its legacy of impact.

They say that the true meaning of life is to plant trees under whose shade you do not expect to sit, and we are forever grateful to our amazing donors who join us in continuing to create a legacy for the future.

Together, through the generosity of time, expertise and funds, we can impact generations of remarkable young women who will continue to make their mark in a changing world.

Erin Reeve, Foundation Manager

The Arts

Mā mua ka kite a muri, mā muri ka ora a mua.

Those who lead give sight to those who follow, those who follow give life to those who lead.

As our Kapa Haka performance group took to the stage at the Women in Public Service Summit (held at Te Pae), these inspiring words were brought to life with a display of leadership from our seniors in the front, and support from our juniors in the back, as they sung their hearts out for a large audience of professionals.

It was such a wonderful real world example for the strong ‘Big Sister–Little Sister’ culture of our school, which is robustly on display within our incredible co-curricular programme. Students across age groups come together to learn, develop and grow their creative abilities, forming strong partnerships and encouraging team work.

The popularity of these co-curricular groups keeps expanding, currently over 40 arts groups, with a record

number of students and subjects! Our Rock Band culture continues to build on its strong foundation; dance and musical theatre are continuing to grow in strength; and our Shakespeare Festival teams are just as hardworking and determined as ever!

We celebrate all the mahi that our groups put in, and look forward to seeing what bursts forth from these groups – much of which will be on display in upcoming performances throughout the year. Mihi nui everyone! We can’t wait to see you all #shinebright this year!

Laura Hewetson, Arts Facilitator

Sport

In the Water, On the Water, Splash or a Dash – you choose

Term 1 holds great tradition for our water sports, whether the rowers are sculling or sweeping on the water, if the swimmers are jumping in the deep end, or the eggbeater is at its best as our water polo teams produce a counter attack, you can be assured that our SMC girls will be giving their best.

In addition to our school based water codes, we also had girls competing in sailing and surf lifesaving events.

Water is the driving force of nature and our teams have soaked up the environment producing results we can be extremely proud of.

Helen Belcher, Director of Sport

Water Polo is a sport where what goes on underwater, stays under water. Not for the faint hearted, SMC is not afraid of the challenge and can match their own in the pool.

Great lead up games during the weekly competition as the A team prepared for both South Island and National events in our home town of Ōtautahi, it was a chance for parents and families to see first-hand the skills and development over the term.

Swimming – In red hot weather conditions we held our annual swimming sports in the school pool. An amazing display of House colour and House spirit were highlights of the day. Staff and students appreciated the opportunity to be involved in this event, considering the disruptions of recent years.

Special mention goes to Millie Bell, who produced some stunning displays in the pool. Millie broke four records of her own accord and was a member of the Year 10 relay team who broke the record in that event. Millie’s records included the U15 Individual medley, 50m freestyle and 50m butterfly as well as the Open 100m freestyle.

Millie

Rowing – Our rowers worked hard again this season in the build-up to the New Zealand Secondary Schools event, which this year was held at Lake Karapiro.

With Kaiapoi as our home base, the girls were relentless in their pursuit of excellence putting in many long hours on the water in their boats throughout the season.

Another extended stay in Twizel this year following South Island Secondary Schools enabled our team to

combine school classes between rows, and to take advantage of the extra time spent as a team and the extra hours on the water. With some stunning morning sessions you could be forgiven for thinking it was holiday time – no such thing for these girls who were led and encouraged by our Y13 role models. As always attending Maadi Cup is a huge honour for our students and this year was no exception with our team producing some great rowing and results.

Sailing – A huge congratulations to Oak Galbraith who had the honour of involvement at the recent SailGP in Lyttleton harbour. Oak was selected for the INSPIRE RS Feva Racing Championship (Youth Inspire team). Oak trained and raced in the warmup events leading into the main SailGP races.

We can also recognise Mila Blundell, Year 8 who recently competed in and won the Canterbury Optimist Sailing Championship. Six races over two days in terrible rain in Charteris Bay. She claimed the cup

and is only the fifth girl to win it since the competition started in 1979. She is heading to the Optimist Nationals in Auckland over Easter. Amazing work Mila!

Surf Life Saving – a number of SMC students competed over 3 days at the 2023 TSB National Surf Life Saving senior championships in challenging local water conditions.

Indy Gibson

› 2nd – U17 Beach Sprints

› 7th – Open flags

› 16th – U17 Beach flags

Freya Atkins

› 3rd – U15 2km Beach Run

Mila Oak

Meg Thyne

› 5th – U17 board relay

› Semi-final in board

› Final in ski relay

Indy

Freya Meg

Centre for Innovation

T3A

2023

Technology For The 3rd Age is a wonderful community initiative. It provides older adults with the tools and knowledge to better use technology that can significantly improve their quality of life, as it enables them to stay connected with loved ones, access important information, and engage in various activities online.

The course is tailored to the group’s needs, covering topics such as device maintenance, security, and scams, which are crucial for older adults who may be more vulnerable to online fraud and exploitation. Additionally, the course covers a range of practical skills, such as using apps, managing emails, photos, and audio, which can be daunting for those who are less familiar with technology.

This course is also a support network for older adults, as it provides a safe space for them to ask questions, share experiences, and build confidence in their abilities. Audrey Campbell and I are focused on bringing connection and camaraderie to the group which can make a significant difference in the participants’ overall well-being.

Overall, the Technology for the 3rd Age course is a fantastic initiative that provides older adults with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to use technology confidently and safely. If you know of someone who could benefit from our classes send an email to: audrey.campbell@stmargarets.school.nz.

Linda Chong, Head of Centre for Innovation

Meet your new SMCOGA Committee Members

Julia Christie

I joined SMCOGC late last year because when I attended my 20 years on reunion in October I felt an immense connection to the boarding house. I have so many fond memories of my time living on the school grounds away from home at such a young age and it shaped me in to who I am today. I left SMC in 2006 and am now a Director at Deloitte; a vCFO and Chartered Accountant. I am a mum of three small children, who keep me extremely busy and active. I truly believe in the purpose of the SMCOGA to allow the Old Girls network to feel engaged and connected within our community. I hope to add value to the committee with my professional expertise.

Jan McCormick

After leaving SMC I completed a BSc in human physiology and a BCom in marketing. I worked briefly in NZ before living in London and travelling through Asia, Europe, Africa and the US. Whilst overseas, and back in NZ, I worked for the J and J corporation in variety of roles, culminating in being assigned product manager for Jansen Cilag. I took a break from full time work to have my children – Briar, Kari and Jonti. I now work full time at Bayley’s. I chose to join the SMCOGA as when my girls went to SMC I really enjoyed the functions held by the Old Girls’ association and I wanted to help with similar events.

Polly Forbes

Since leaving St Margaret's I have been on a continuous task to learn more about the world. In 2019 I took a gap year and worked at a summer camp in Maine, USA. Following this I then spent the next few months touring 15 countries in Europe, exposing me to the diverse cultures and histories of this globe, things I had only ever seen before in a classroom. I am currently in my last year of my Bachelors of Arts, majoring in History and Political Science and am set to do my Masters in Secondary Education next year.

Lily Cain

I left St Margaret’s at the end of 2012, and went on to study a Bachelor of Laws at the University of Canterbury.

After gaining experience at a national firm following the completion of my degree, I am now practising at a Christchurch based law firm specialising in family law and relationship property.

Sophie Fitzsimons

I left St Margaret’s in 2004, moving on to study in Dunedin at the University of Otago, completing a Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing and Tourism. Post University I moved to Perth, Australia, where I worked in the events industry for just over 8 years. Since my return to Christchurch in 2017 I have created my own events company (Blank Space Events) offering a premium range of hire items and assistance with styling, planning and coordination of all styles of events across the South Island.

Upcoming Events

May

June

July

August

September

October

70 Years of Friendship

Erica, Janet, Anglea, and Frances meet for the first time at Julius House when they started 3rd Form (Y9) in 1953.

Here is a picture of them at a recent catch-up. From left: Erica Stokes-Jones, Janet Jensen (Sidey), Angela Watson (Judd), Frances Smith (Powell)

Our Sad Farewells

Alumni Profile: Jill Keir – Answering the call to lead at Avonside

When Jill Keir became vicar of Avonside’s Holy Trinity Parish in 2015, she probably got more than she bargained for.

Having been priest in charge for two years before her appointment, she knew the Parish had lost almost everything after the earthquakes, including its beautiful 160 year old church. All that remained was a small hall about the size of a prefab classroom.

The steep learning curve in leading the church’s rebuild was one thing, but then came Covid. It was a lot to deal with but Jill is credited with helping bind the parish together during those challenging years.

Jill was called to the ministry much later in life and ordained in 2004.

“I didn’t ever imagine I would be a vicar. So to be given a parish to lead was a great thrill. I firmly believe I was called to Avonside and so I gave up my full time teaching position of 24 years to go there.

“My main goal was to rebuild community so we gradually put many activities in place. New people came and we became a vibrant community once again. As one person said ‘we were a little parish with lots going on’.”

Jill is grateful for the way the parish pulled together to ensure the project happened while still being part of an active community.

“We held the parish together during the rebuild by continuing all our regular activities in the little hall. Everything happened there, quiz nights, movie nights, dinners, exercise classes, as well as worship. At no stage did the building become our focus.

“I went to Avonside expecting to do pastoral care, take services and do all the things that vicars do. As well as all these, though, I have learnt an enormous amount about building processes. Because we were a small parish, lots of what normally might have gone to a warden or a building manager, came to me as the vicar!”

The new church was formally consecrated last February, exactly 165 years after the original consecration. Covid was another hurdle but the parish was well-used to overcoming obstacles.

“We held services on zoom and we sent a newsletter to every parishioner each week with the full script of the zoom service in it. We had a prayer chain and we kept in touch by telephone. In some ways there was better communication during Covid than in normal times,” Jill says.

While only in full time ministry for 10 years (although that was preceded by a decade’s voluntary work), Jill says being able to pray with folk and to walk with them on their journeys was such a privilege.

“To watch people grow in their faith and to gain in confidence was a joy. To share in the celebrations of life with people in my care was a privilege. It was exciting to baptise three young adults and to have them return to be confirmed.”

Jill numbers the first service in the new church among her many highlights.

After such an arduous tenure, she decided at the end of last year that it was time for another vicar to lead her beloved Avonside church.

“I retired because I thought that after 10 years, it was time for the parish to be led by someone new. I was well past my use by date and it was time to step down for my sake also.”

Currently on study leave, Jill is researching different types of retreats. “I have no real plans for the future but hope I might be asked to do some relieving when others are on leave. I’m looking forward to having time to garden, to read, to embroider and to generally take life a bit more slowly.”

She and her late husband have three children, all of whom are married, have two children each, and live in Christchurch.

Coast to Coast

Julia Chamberlain

Julia Chamberlain SMC 2010-2014, took first place in the Longest Day Open Women’s Category and seventh place overall for the Longest Day.

“The Coast to Coast exceeded my expectations of what I thought the day would be. I found myself smiling for most of the day and genuinely having so much fun. At times when it hurt, I reminded myself of the hours put into training and that the event is so much bigger than me. It’s not every day that you get the opportunity to

travel West to East in a day and it was incredibly special to have my dear friends I attended St Margaret’s with supporting me in the final stages of the race – a day I will remember forever.”

Julia was one of many SMC alumni to compete including Molly Williams, Fliss Cox, Lucy Baltrop, Savannah Adams, Mya Reid and Anna Leise Calder, as well as current SMC staff Sophie Beaumont and Nicole Lloyd, also an Old Girl. Congratulations to our SMC Wahine Toa.

Sophie Beaumont

Julia Chamberlain

Nicole Lloyd Sophie Nicole

Alumni Profile: Kimberley Wood

A love of music and a love story from the very beginning has led to SMC Old Girl Kimberley Wood’s return to SMC as Music Team Leader for the upcoming Year 9-13 production – Legally Blonde.

Kimberley was at SMC for all her 13 years of schooling, leaving in 2014 to pursue university study in Law and Commerce but quickly switched back to her first love –music. Now in the final throes of her PhD, she has combined business and music having completed a Bachelor of Music and a Bachelor of Commerce with a Masters of International Business. Music and family combine in special ways for Kimberley. She talks of many happy memories growing up, “My mum and dad met because they were in a band together, she was doing backup vocals and he was the band leader.” Child number six and the only girl Kimberley followed her brothers into music insisting on signing up for piano lessons from age five and then adding singing lessons. “We would have family band night and we’d all switch around singing and playing songs from the likes of The Beatles.”

Staying in touch with SMC, Kimberley is an itinerant piano and singing teacher, and over a coffee catchup with Head of Performing Arts Amanda Woods the idea

to bring Legally Blonde to our girls was formed. “I love the way the creative team wants to highlight the female empowerment angle. A young girl came up to me at a recent rehearsal and said she hadn’t done singing before but was loving the process and asked for some extra help on how to sing one of the higher notes. I thought even it was just that one girl that somehow discovered this love for music and singing and it makes her feel good then that’s my job done.”

Kimberley also credits her early SMC teachers for nurturing her love of music . While she was in Year 6 then Head of Performing Arts Michael Sharpe wrote the musical Tangaroa’s Gift in which she was lead igniting her passion for musical theatre. While in Year 8 she was Joseph in Joseph and the Technicolour Dream Coat. “I am so thankful for music I have so many happy memories. It also helped me academically. I love learning and I think music taught me self-discipline and perseverance. Music is one of the greatest gifts I have been given.”

Legally Blonde

26-29 June

Charles Luney Auditorium

Tickets available on Eventfinda

Rosemary Ralston Alumni Profile:

Rosemary Ralston née Roberts attended SMC from 1957 until 1961 and recently shared some of her memories of school with current Executive Principal Diana Patchett. Rosemary recalled ‘Our 1957 Form 3A class were responsible for a major change in the school. When we started it was school policy that all girls sat School Certificate in four years except for 6-7 who were promoted from Form 3 straight into Form Lower 5A, then into Upper 5A where they sat School Certificate in three years and went onto university. However my form were so badly behaved in the Lower Fifth that at the end of September 1959 Miss Crosher arrived in our classroom and read out 12 names. Those girls were told they would be sitting School Certificate in six weeks’ time, with no extra help to catch up on the 12 months’ work we hadn’t been taught – and we all passed! From that point on the school allowed students to sit School Certificate in three years not four. For myself and most of the 12 students who passed, this represented a major life change because it opened up the possibility of university study, something we had not been encouraged to do because we weren’t considered bright enough.

The teachers at SMC left a lasting impression on Rosemary and we were thrilled to receive her photos. Rosemary recalls,

‘Mrs Sadie Penney was a legend who taught History and Miss Kitty Parry Edwards was both an English Teacher and Deputy Principal 1957-61.’

Rosemary also fondly remembers Miss Cooper,

‘She came from Kent in the UK and had trained at a prestigious Gym training College. She came out to New Zealand and taught at St Margaret’s until mid 1960 when she resigned to travel to the Rome Olympics in August 1960. Either at the Games or shortly after she became ill with what turned out to be terminal cancer and she died a year later in 1961.’

On a lighter note Rosemary shared an unexpected photo of Miss Crosher at a Christmas Party in Kilburn House.

‘The photo was taken by Green and Hahn the photographer. I remember at the time ordering it, thinking one day this photo will be significant because none of us could believe our eyes when Miss Crosher sat on Santa’s knee!’

Mrs Sadie Penney Miss Crosher

Miss Kitty Parry Edwards

Miss Molly Cooper

Alumni Profile: Charlotte Lee

Setting goals and a genuine love for hockey kept SMC Old Girl Charlotte Lee focused through injury, travel restrictions and Covid disruptions to now, as she embarks on her next adventure with UK club Wimbledon Hockey.

Charlotte sets off in July to start the UK hockey season in August. She has been selected as one of four in a gap programme at Wimbledon Hockey Club. The club has 1500 members, of which 1000 are juniors. The programme will encompass all areas of the club from playing in England’s Vitality Premiere league to management, coaching and finance. The club is affiliated to England’s Wimbledon Tennis Club so she hopes to visit, or even better, get tickets! Charlotte describes the move as timely “I knew it was time for a change, time to try something new. I like coaching but I want to go down the club management side of things. Looking at how the clubs run, more of the sports management.”

Charlotte followed her older sister Annabelle into hockey at age five and hasn’t looked back, “In Year 5 I was playing in Annabelle’s Year 8 team and when I was in Year 8 I told my mum I was going to St Margaret’s because you got a laptop, I wanted to earn my red blazer and the hockey programme was epic.” She had her red blazer by the end of Year 11.

Since leaving school in 2018 Charlotte was selected

twice for the U21 NZ programme but unfortunately, due to travel restrictions and cancellations, missed out on playing at the Junior World Cup. She has played two years in the top women’s hockey league for the Canterbury Cats with the team winning the national tournament in 2022 for the first time in six years. She has also been on camp with local Blacksticks to keep her foot in the door with the NZ coaches.

While travel and gaining experience is on the agenda now, Charlotte’s goal is to one day play for New Zealand. In the meantime, Irish citizenship gives her another opportunity. In October, Charlotte has been invited to Dublin to join in some training sessions with the national team.

For inspiration Charlotte looks to former Blackstick Brooke Neal, “I like the way she played and how she was so composed, the way she came back from injury showed true resilience.” And her advice for young players is along the same lines, “Keep working hard, you make the most gains in your hockey when no one’s watching, going to the turf and practising by yourself, doing the hard yards behind the scenes.”

Practice and hard yards have paid off for Charlotte, “It was tough with covid restrictions. It created uncertainty in terms of player pathway, but I love the game. I will continue to let my stick do the talking and be the best I can be.”

Alumni Profile:

Annabelle March

Currently studying at Victoria University, and with ambitions to become a primary school teacher, St Margaret’s College Old Girl Annabelle March is championing calls for urgent educational reform that will ensure neurodiverse students thrive in the New Zealand education system.

Annabelle is one of 14 rangatahi working with Neurodiversity in Education Coalition, engaging with political parties to require a deeper understanding of neurodiversity, the implementation of school neurodiversity action plans, and the scaling up of programmes proven to benefit neurodiverse students.

Annabelle says, “I was so lucky to attend SMC and receive support from my teachers well before my ADHD diagnosis. Joining this campaign has highlighted to me that my positive experiences of education were far from the norm. Support for neurodivergent students is inequitable and scarce, and change is needed to ensure

the education system accommodates all students, not just those who fit a particular mold of learning.”

“It’s crucial students have support from primary school. As Junior School Prefect, and working with my mentor, Head of Junior School Mrs Compton-Moen, I saw how important it is for students to be in an environment of belonging from the get-go, inspiring my goal to become a primary school teacher myself.”

Annabelle has met with a number of senior politicians through the campaign, with further meetings scheduled. She has also received messages of support from fellow SMC Old Girls and teaching staff.

She says, “We are spreading the message, and I’m so grateful for the encouragement I’ve had from the SMC community. Hearing our stories firsthand sends a powerful message to policymakers, and we are looking forward to engaging with political parties in this election year and beyond.”

Out & About

Southern Lakes and Sumner community events

Welcome Family BBQ

Father/Daughter Breakfast

SMC Open Day

In Closing

Recently one class of my Year 8 RE classes acted out the passage from John 4:1-42 (the iconic story of the women at the well). During a rehearsal I was struck anew by the powerful message this story conveys as it is an excellent example of how Christ interacted with women and valued them equally, despite the societal norms of the day.

Disregarding societal labels, he treats the woman with respect and dignity. He sees her for who she truly is, a beloved child of God, warts and all, accepting and including which empowers her to rise above her circumstances and become the person she was always meant to be in the eyes of God.

Respect, dignity, love, acceptance, inclusivity, these Christ-centred values are reflected here at SMC where

we strive to empower girls to learn, live, and lead with confidence, authenticity, and empathy.

Around our community I see these values shine through every day in numerous ways from the Junior School to our Old Girls and it makes me feel very blessed to be a part of this special place.

Blessings and aroha

Rev. Steph Clay, Chaplain