St Margaret's College Evergreen Spring 2023

spring 2023

collective of experts.

Dream Big

“You must always have faith in people. And, most importantly, you must always have faith in yourself.”

Elle Woods

It is hard to believe that it has been twenty years since we were first introduced to Elle Woods and her Delta Nu sisters. ‘Legally Blonde’ has certainly had a lasting impact on all women in education and the workplace. The show was brought to technicolour life at SMC as our major production this year, delighting audiences who showed their appreciation with a closing night standing ovation.

Through lessons of empowerment, independence and integrity, ‘Legally Blonde’ seeks to recognise everyone’s potential, despite first appearances. The show reminds us that intelligence comes in all shapes and sizes, that there is no one type of woman, or a right type of woman and that we should never judge a book by its cover, or a girl by her pink outfit! My thanks and congratulations to all who supported this fabulous opportunity for our girls.

The pink theme has clearly pervaded recent times. You will have had to be hiding in a pink cave to have missed the news that the Barbie movie hit the big screens with records broken as the biggest opening by a female director.

“Since the beginning of time, since the first little girl ever existed, there have been dolls. But the dolls were always and forever baby dolls, until…”

In recent years, we have witnessed a remarkable surge in media that encourages our young women to dream big, embrace their unique qualities, and shatter any limits society may impose upon them. The latest instalment in the Barbie movie series stands tall as a shining example of such media, presenting our students with valuable lessons and uplifting messages that resonate with our school’s vision.

At SMC, we firmly believe in nurturing not only academic excellence but also in cultivating the personal and emotional development of our students. The Barbie movie beautifully reinforces these values, as it follows the journey of a strong, resilient, and determined young woman who embarks on a transformative adventure. Through her experiences, she learns the significance of self-belief, embracing diversity, and the power of supporting others. These are qualities we hold dear at SMC, as they lay the foundation for our students to become confident, compassionate, and empowered leaders of tomorrow.

As educators and parents, we understand the significance of positive role models and the impact they can have on our children’s aspirations and self-esteem. The portrayal of confident, intelligent, and ambitious female characters in the Barbie movie serves as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging our girls to dream fearlessly and pursue their passions.

“It is the best day today. So was yesterday, and so is tomorrow, and every day from now until forever.” (Barbie)

I am a strong proponent of single gender education as it removes any barriers for young people to conform to typical gender stereotypes. For girls especially, it enables them to step into spaces of leadership that might be dominated by boys in a co-educational environment. It is widely accepted that the world benefits from new combinations of leadership, where women play an important role. Free from the pressure of traditional gender stereotypes, research confirms that a single gender environment brings out the very best in our girls and offers them opportunities to test themselves with new experiences. They are encouraged to follow the path that plays to their individual strengths, unbound from a social narrative that presumes certain elements necessary for their happiness and success.

The single gender school environment also allows our students to know and develop themselves first, creating a confident social narrative for the capabilities of women, which one could argue enables greater equity in their relationships with others.

As we continue our journey to empowering girls to learn, live and lead, let us champion their dreams, applaud their achievements, and stand beside them as they carve their path towards a brighter and more inclusive future.

Diana Patchett, Executive Principal

St Margaret’s College Old Girls’ Association

After a few years of cancellations and postponements, it has been great to be able to host many of our annual events without any hiccups. Winter has been filled with events up and down the country which has given us the opportunity to catch up with Old Girls near and far.

As we enter spring we look forward to the ‘business end’ of our events calendar. The Combined School’s Golf Tournament kicked us off on the 11th September, and is followed by community events in both Melbourne and Sydney, before our all important reunion weekend at the end of October.

We look forward to the 2013 leavers returning to school at the end of November for their much awaited time capsule opening, our Christchurch Margaritas event

and finally, welcoming our newest Old Girls’ members at the Leavers’ Ball in December.

We know there are so many Old Girls out there doing amazing things in the world and we would love to hear about it. Please do not hesitate in sharing your achievements with the Old Girls’ Association so we can celebrate you.

Remember, to stay up to date with all things SMCOGA related follow us on Facebook and Instagram. If you haven’t heard from us in a while we may not have your accurate information. Please email SMCOGA@ stmargarets.school.nz to update your details.

Bella Forbes, SMCOGA President

Blake Inspire for Teachers

Provides Year 5 teacher Sophie Huston with food for thought

A community fruit and vegetable garden at school is just one of a crop of ideas springing to the mind of Year 5 teacher and former SMC Old Girl Sophie Huston.

The inspiration was seeded at the Blake Inspire for Teachers programme, which Sophie attended earlier this year. The programme focuses on environmental leadership, especially with the country’s youth.

Other practical learning ideas Sophie’s taking back to the classroom include topics such as how to recognise a healthy stream, analysing rocky shore life, how schools can reduce their carbon footprint, the importance of monitoring and supporting native wildlife, and environmental-based games to play with children. She would also love to see the expansion of cooking and food education classes for younger children where wholefoods are promoted.

Not long after starting at SMC, Sophie realised that Executive Principal Diana Patchett had an uncanny knack for retaining information.

“During a new staff introduction meeting, I mentioned my passion for sustainability. A couple of months later, Diana forwarded me a link to the Blake Inspire for Teachers and encouraged me to apply,’’ Sophie recalls.

“I remember Sir Peter Blake as an inspirational figure when he was alive. It was an absolute privilege to attend this programme and be part of his dream for environmental education. It was a true life experience and wonderful to meet like-minded people and learn new things.”

Sophie says it challenged her to continue learning and advocating a sustainable way of life. “I want to be well equipped with as much knowledge and resources as

possible so that I can effectively inspire others, be it students, whānau, staff or our wider community. Being a teacher working with the next generation is such a wonderful opportunity where I am able to not only empower and encourage others but to keep learning myself.

“I’m very keen to help SMC in our drive towards being a more sustainable organisation, in the way we educate youth, and how we can contribute towards wider society to create a positive future for all,” Sophie says.

“I’ve also learnt how valuable the ideas and perspectives of our young people are. They have such incredible minds, and their creativity is limitless. That is what excites me so much about our future. They care about our world, and they want to make a difference. We’re in good hands.”

“In this ‘fast-food’ age, I believe the earlier we can form a positive relationship with our food’s journey from garden to table, the better it will be for everyone.”

Asked what messages Sophie has for readers, she offers some thoughts:

“Love nature. And teach children to love nature so they become nature-literate and appreciate the importance of biodiversity. This will give them many reasons to want to do the best for our environment.

Believe that you can make a difference at an individual level. Many people feel that climate change is out of their control. As consumers, we have the greatest power of anyone to make a change.

Keep learning! Seek inspiration and follow people who have the same beliefs and values as you.”

Future Problem Solving Adventures

In June, the SMC Future Problem Solving (FPS) International squad travelled to the Future Problem Solving International Competition held at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, USA. They had an amazing time exploring the beautiful, historic city of Boston with its prestigious universities before heading to Amherst where the competition took place over five remarkable days focused on the topic of currency. It was a wonderful experience with some fantastic results. The team achieved second place in the Presentation of Action Plan, while Tilly O’Donnell’s problem solving team made up of four students from all over the world came first in the Multi-Affiliate Global Issues Competition. It was an inspiring and rewarding experience.

It was really interesting staying at UMass, and I really enjoyed learning about currency. I learnt a lot about different currencies, the history of money, and the potential of currency such as bitcoin.

– Zara Clark

I had a really great experience at Harvard and MIT, it was so exciting to see the campuses of such incredible universities, and l am so grateful to have been given this opportunity.

– Sneha Datla

I had such an amazing time meeting new people at FPS and participating in the competition. I learned so much about the topic of currency that I will continue to use long after internationals finishes.

– Millie Edwards

It was such an amazing experience to work in a team with other people from across the world. It was great to meet new people and learn from them.

– Phoebe James

I really loved being part of something that people from all across the globe participate in, and seeing how people from different cultures interact. I am so grateful to have been able to meet so many new people from all around the world.

– Trelise McEwan

I’m so grateful to have been able to go on this trip and experience the competition. It was an amazing experience staying at UMass and meeting new people from other countries.

– Tilly O’Donnell

It was such an incredible experience being able to visit UMass and meet people from all around the world through the competition. I so appreciated the opportunity to travel to America and explore the country and culture.

– Holly Sawyer

PreSchool

The World’s To Do List

Years 4, 5 and 6 have been highly engaged in their inquiry, The World’s To Do List. This was an exploration of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The U.N. describes these goals as “The blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all.” There are 17 goals including Zero Hunger, Quality Education, Climate Action and a firm favourite of many of the girls, Gender Equality.

The Big Idea behind this unit was “Through awareness comes the opportunity for action” with the goal being that our girls feel empowered to know that even small actions will make a big difference. Girls were engaged in activities designed to expose and immerse them in an age-appropriate manner in some of the challenges the world is facing and delve into the goals that were of personal interest to them. Through these big ideas,

the learners were making connections to other areas of the curriculum such as science and the humanities, giving real meaning and relevance to their learning. During speech writing, many of the girls chose connections to a Global Goal that resonated with them. In digitech, girls made projects using Scratch, a coding tool, animated videos and documentaries to educate others about the goal that inspired them the most.

In exploring Goal #6: Clean Water and Sanitation, girls discovered the science behind healthy and accessible water and in maths, learners developed their data gathering and handling skills to represent their findings.

One of the most exciting things about this inquiry is seeing the girls viewing themselves as change makers and capable of making a positive difference in their world.

Bridget Compton-Moen, Head of Junior School

“The blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all.”

Smart Students, Not Smart Phones

‘Islands of time’ away from phones

As we enter the final term of this year, we celebrate four years since St Margaret’s College led the way in New Zealand education by bidding farewell to phones during school hours. To mark this milestone, we take a look at how this pioneering move has unfolded and what lessons we’ve learned along the way.

Head of Middle School Kathryn Gray recalls that by 2018, the school had identified a number of issues with unmoderated phone use, including students using social media platforms inappropriate to their age, and reduced social engagement. Research from the London School of Economics had found that the effect of banning phones adds up to the equivalent of an extra week’s schooling over a pupil’s academic year.

“We spoke with parents, teachers and senior students, and following a trial in term four of 2019, phones were no longer allowed during school hours from the beginning of 2020,” she says.

Initially, students found a few ways to get around the phone ban, including the use of i-Message on laptops.

“We quickly introduced a school-wide filter to put an end to that, and provided more break-time activities to fill the gap.

“My favourite memory of the time was a couple of days after phones were removed. My colleagues and I were in a meeting and we suddenly heard an incredible amount of noise. It took us a few moments to realise – it was the students, talking to each other!”

Four years have passed, and the absence of phones has become the norm. The girls either leave them at home, or securely store them in bags or lockers for the school day.

“We talk about it as an ‘Island of Time’ away from your phone. It removes the consciousness of it, and the

distraction of those hundreds of pickups that otherwise happen during the day. We actively teach this through our Cyber Skills Aotearoa programme, which teaches about intent and interpretation, and the girls learn to be more savvy users of the technology.”

Year 8 student Grace Millar couldn’t agree more. Having joined St Margaret’s in Year 7 from a school that allowed phone use, she feels passionately about the topic.

“Having phones outside of school is our choice but at school it is just distracting. It can be a real barrier when people are on their phones all the time – you don’t get the same context of a conversation and your friendship doesn’t grow as much.

“If everyone agreed to ban them, the world would be full of smart students, not smart phones,” she says.

All Australian states have now banned phones in school, and more and more New Zealand schools are following suit. Kathryn Gray believes the case stacks up.

“Initially students and parents had questions about how it would work. We explained that our aim is to cultivate an optimal learning atmosphere for our students, where they feel secure and motivated.

“Restricting phone use during school hours enables us to reduce the adverse effects of this technology and minimises unnecessary disruptions in classrooms. It also enables students to become resourceful and resilient within the school environment. Our teachers and students enjoy focused learning time and it encourages students to use their breaks for meaningful screen-free experiences and to hone their interpersonal communication skills,” she emphasises.

Kathryn Gray, Head of Middle School

Four New Courses Offered to students as part of the International Baccalaureate

St Margaret’s College is set to launch four new courses for its Year 12 girls in 2024, all of which will be available as part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma and are being offered at SMC for the first time. As the only girls’ school in the South Island to offer the dual pathway of IB and NCEA, we are privileged to have professional teaching staff committed to developing a balanced curriculum that meets the specific needs of our girls at each stage of their education.

The courses are as follows:

Language and Culture: This new course is being piloted by the IB, and SMC is among a handful of schools globally chosen to run it over the next two years. Drawing on linguistics and anthropology, the course places a strong emphasis on indigenous languages. Students will critically examine the complex relationship between language, culture, society and identity as they develop into global citizens.

Psychology: In this course, girls will gain an understanding of the biological, sociological, and cognitive factors that influence mental processes and behaviors. They will also become aware of

how psychological research can address real-world problems and promote positive change.

Sports, Exercise, and Health Sciences: This course will introduce students to areas such as anatomy, exercise physiology, energy systems, and movement analysis, both in the laboratory and on the field. It will support the considerable number of SMC girls who proceed to study Health Sciences at university.

Film Studies: In this course, girls will explore various contexts of film and make connections between films, filmmakers, and filmmaking techniques. They will learn to interpret films thoughtfully and become adept creators of film.

SMC continually strives to offer our girls the widest possible choice of subjects and we are thrilled to have been selected by the IB as the only school in New Zealand to pilot the Language and Culture course, and to be able to offer four new subjects that are already sparking great enthusiasm amongst our girls and our teachers.

Beth Rouse, IB Coordinator

International Lifelong Friendships

Kyoritsu Exchange

During the first half of Term 3 we were delighted to welcome 20 Japanese exchange students from Kyoritsu High school to St Margaret’s College. The students stayed with an SMC host family for the fortnight where they experienced a classic kiwi lifestyle. At the beginning of the two weeks the Kyoritsu students were given an SMC buddy who also became a friendly face throughout their experience. During school hours, the students attended ESOL classes, immersed themselves in regular SMC classes and experienced a Y11 PE sports class. Throughout their stay they also had the opportunity to make some classic kiwi foods, visit wildlife at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, take a trip to Hanmer Springs and learn about Te Ao Māori. The Kyoritsu students had a wonderful time here in New Zealand and we here at SMC also loved hosting them. New lifelong friendships have been created and we hope it won’t be long before they can return to New Zealand to do it all again.

New International Student Manager

We would like to warmly welcome Jo Fogarty our new International Student Manager. Jo has a background in travel, sports management and international student recruitment. She is passionate about working with students and is looking forward to exploring some exciting new international markets for SMC girls. A mum of two adult daughters Jo brings a wealth of experience in pastoral care and will be working closely with teachers and Deans to support our international girls.

Boarding

Then and Now

Recalling old school days can bring to mind some fond memories and perhaps some remembered challenges. Add into the mix living away from home and these memories take on a sharp focus of learning to live with others while gaining a fledgling independence. We wanted to know what are the differences between our boarders now and those of yesteryear? We asked Mandy Shand (1992–1996) and her daughter Amalia (current Y12) about their experiences at SMC boarding.

Mandy: I think the biggest thing for me was the lifelong friends that I made and the fun things we used to get up to. There are so many memories with different friends every time I drive in the gate, but so much has changed! There is definitely a lot more freedom these days. When I was at boarding school we were not allowed out every weekend, when I first started it was only a few weekends a term that we could go home. I got used to it pretty quickly, however, I did talk to Mum and Dad every night on the one pay phone that we had in the hostel – no cell phones back then.

Amalia: I was lucky enough to get a boarding scholarship, Mum had always wanted me to come to SMC so it was amazing to hear I would get the opportunity. I was really excited but also nervous as it was a big step coming from a country school to the city. I also didn’t know many people going to SMC so it was a little strange at first. One of the main things Mum told me was about the great friendships that she made at SMC and still has today. I would agree with that. She also told me some funny stories of what they would get up to that I probably shouldn’t repeat! So much has changed, from our rooms – to schooling, even School Balls sound like they were quite different when Mum was at SMC.

Mandy: At SMC I learnt how to be independent and look out for myself. How to live with, and get on with others and how to get to know new people and help others with their journey. If you get the opportunity I say don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Be friends with everybody, be kind to everyone. Embrace every opportunity and just be yourself.

Amalia: I agree. Don’t be nervous, just excited as there are so many great people to meet and opportunities to have a go at. Enjoy it from the beginning as it goes so quickly.

Legally Blonde Shining Bright

In a delightful display of talent and exuberance, our Year 9 to 13 students brought the vivacious world of “Legally Blonde: The Musical” to life on the Charles Luney Auditorium stage. With a captivating blend of humour, heart, and toe-tapping musical numbers, the production showcased the students’ dedication to the performing arts.

From the opening notes to the final curtain call, the cast seamlessly embodied the iconic characters, led by a double billing for lead character Elle Woods, whose journey from pink-loving sorority girl to empowered law student was portrayed with both finesse and authenticity. The energy and chemistry among the cast members, which included guest performers from Christ’s College and Burnside High School, was palpable, creating a vibrant atmosphere that drew the audience into the story.

The production was a testament to the hard work of not only the cast but also the crew, who orchestrated an eye-catching visual display.

Thank you also goes to our generous sponsors, Taylor Shaw Barristers and Solictors, Caxton Design and Print, Mainland Capital, Mediterranean Food Warehouse, Pak N Save Hornby and the SMC Parents and Friends Association.

“Legally Blonde: The Musical” wasn’t just a showcase of talent; it was a celebration of determination, friendship, and the power of self-belief. The students’ dedication and passion shone brightly on stage, leaving the audience entertained, inspired, and with a newfound appreciation for the magic of live theatre. We are so proud of the mahi put in by all the team!

Laura Hewetson, Arts Facilitator

More Girls, More Active, More Often

According to the World Sports Encyclopedia there are 8000 different sports and games played worldwide. Of these 8000, only 200 have international recognition through a governing body of some sort. At SMC over 30 sports are on offer with more being introduced according to interest and support, however recognition is offered to those wishing to partake in non-traditional sports outside of school. We talk to Anna, Bella, Jess and Tracey about their sports and what inspired them to take part in them.

Helen Belcher, Director of Sport

Anna – Archery

After taking part in a class offering a taste of archery in Y9 Anna Robb was captivated. Anna joined the Christchurch Archery Club and, although a little daunted at first, she overcame her concerns with the warm welcome she received from the club. With so many different types of archery on offer including barebow, recurve, compound and traditional, Anna says you can find a style to suit you and the coaches at the club have been friendly and knowledgeable. Although not a mainstream sport at SMC, she is the owner of a sports badge for archery after enquiring about the criteria to be recognised at school. Anna has shown promise and earned many accolades at her club. “I didn’t know it at the time but I was recently awarded six New Zealand records in six different categories so I am now a record holder of six New Zealand national archery records.”

Bella – Motorsport

Bella Haggarty’s first time in a race car was at the Ashley Forest Rallysprint in 2019. She was only 12 years old but she had the bug. Fast forward to 2021 and the official start to her motorsport journey was co-driving for dad Sean in the Canterbury rally and then going on to compete in the remainder of the NZRC and Mainland series 2021. In 2022 she completed her second full season of NZRC and Mainland series as Sean’s co-driver. The primary role of the co-driver is to read the route instructions to the driver from a road book which contains information on intersections and any hidden hazards on the course.

Described within the industry as cool and calm with a mature approach to co-driving, Bella has an amazing future ahead of her in motorsport and this year has taken up the role of a woman in motorsport youth ambassador. In April this year, Bella competed in her first event as a driver, switching roles with her father, driving her Ford Ka in the Zig Zag Gravel Sprint in Canterbury. Looking ahead Bella is excited about what the future holds. ‘Co-driving in a WRC rally car is a massive goal in life for me. My biggest dream is to become a WRC co-driving champion.’

Jess – Kayaking

Jessica Macdonald began kayaking at the Arawa Canoe club at Kerrs Reach during the winter of 2022 as a way of building up skills and strength for her preseason surf ski training and quickly became hooked. After attending a South Island event and achieving great results she was soon training six days a week and hasn’t looked back. Although not a mainstream sport, Jess has found SMC to be really supportive and encouraging of her commitments. ‘When l tell people I kayak often their first response is “Is that in the big yellow boats” I have now worked out the best response to this is “it’s what Lisa Carrington does” and suddenly they are back on my wave.’

Jess’s recent wave of success at the Kayak NZ National at Lake Karapiro saw her winning six national medals over a range of races – two golds, three silvers and a bronze while also claiming two New Zealand National titles. The training required to get to this level is not for the fainthearted. Jess paddles at Kerrs Reach six days a week, goes to the gym 2–3 mornings and swims two nights every week. Because she spends most of her time training for events that are over in just a short few minutes, she believes it’s all about being internally driven, working hard and striving to achieve the personal challenges and goals that she sets herself. ‘I don’t kayak for the prestige of the sport but rather for the love of the outdoors, the water and for the sport itself.’

Tracey – Table Tennis

Tracey Hsia started playing table tennis during the COVID-19 lockdown period and instantly fell in love with the sport. She now has one-on-one training twice a week and trains with the Canterbury squad where she takes part in a multi-ball lesson while also simulating real matches to practice consistency with forehand and backhand. Tracey has had some significant results in her short time playing table tennis, winning the U13 girls’ single medals for the South Island individual championship, Canterbury open, Otago open, and Wellington open. “One of the most memorable experiences was when I participated in the New Zealand National Hopes Week training in April for under 13s, training for three days with top players from all over New Zealand and although it was tiring, I learned a lot from it.”

Tracey will compete in this year’s Nationals tournament to be held in Invercargill with a goal to represent New Zealand at the Oceania Championships in 2024.

SMC Foundation

Spring is my favourite season. Not only does it bring the vibrant blooming of flowers and warmer weather, but it also reminds us of the joy of new beginnings. Spring is known as “the season of hope” because it symbolises the resurgence of life after the inevitable challenges of winter.

This rising energy generally helps us feel more optimistic and driven to make the most out of our days. It is a good reflection for us in the Foundation office as we continue to create, grow and nurture relationships within the College community to enhance the school’s sustainable financial future. What we do together today can have significant impact for many seasons to come.

Our community remains a very special place – a former student once told me that the best thing about leaving St Margaret’s was becoming an Old Girl. It is always lovely to hear that once people leave this College as either a student, parent or grandparent, the bonds forged during their time in the school are lifelong. The experiences shared create a special foundation for generations.

We have recently held our inaugural Foundation Spring Lunch at the Ilex Cafe and it was wonderful to see so many of our current parents and Old Girls celebrating spring in such a gorgeous setting. We are looking forward to the Foundation Golf Tournament sponsored by BMS Risk Group and Upright Scaffolding on October 20th. Connecting with our community is at the centre of our mission at the St Margaret’s College Foundation. These events have been planned to encourage interactions across the spectrum of our community as we build and encourage a culture and tradition of generosity.

In spring, a single seed has the potential to yield a bountiful harvest. Similarly, the Foundation hopes that these new initiatives will bear fruit in the months and years to come, enhancing the incredible offering that is St Margaret’s College both now and into the future.

Erin Reeve, Foundation Manager

Untouched World Foundation

Peri Drysdale

If travel expands the mind St Margaret’s College Old Girl and Untouched World founder Peri Drysdale has extensive global insight - at one point in her career spending over five months of the year overseas. It was on her travels she realised the planet was in trouble. Reading the local newspapers of the day Peri was concerned about what she predicted was a growing problem. Whole tracts of ocean were so polluted that they no longer supported life of any kind; indigenous people were being made homeless by climatic effects of the relentless harvesting of forests and entire wildlife habitats were disappearing. “I realised there were no conversations about the drive for increased GDP, growing businesses quickly and what it was really costing us.”

Like all things once alerted to the potential situation the evidence started building. On a trip to Canada to meet a customer to discover a formally beautiful lake now out of bounds due to pollution and another time driving down the Autobahn in Germany under a halo of dark grey smog unable to see what was on either side of the autobahn planted the seed for what was to become the Untouched World Foundation. “It would be so easy for me to say the problem is too big and leave the challenge to my children and their children to deal with. I knew however that every one person, every one organisation can make a difference.”

Twenty years later UWF is delivering outstanding outcomes for young adults through student-led programmes. “I wanted to give young people the opportunity to find the leader within.”

Programmes to inspire young adults to lead the way in achieving a sustainable future include preservation of native wildlife, such as Kākāriki Karaka on Blumine Island in the Marlborough Sounds. Predator free since 2009 thanks to UWF, it is now a sanctuary island for endangered species. UWF also runs Waterwise, exploring the impact on water use, quality and distribution in Cromwell, Central Otago and also at Lake Ellesmere on Banks Peninsula. And for those rangatahi wanting to expand on their UWF experience, they offer the Advanced Leaders Programme, an opportunity to develop further their behaviour change and the impact on their own growth and that of our communities.

With the support of big hitters like Barack Obama, Bill Clinton and King Charles, UWF has had a request for expansion from UNESCO. Peri can take heart that her vision will continue striving to directly or indirectly make the most positive overall impact on the future of our planet and its people through programmes that effect real change.

“I wanted to give young people the opportunity to find the leader within.”

Malta Commemorate Regatta

A special U18 ANZAC Rowing Regatta, organised by the Malta University Rowing Club was held in Malta on ANZAC Day 2023. Coco Flood and Olivia Hawkes, alongside five students from Christchurch Boys’ High School, were thrilled to represent New Zealand at this inaugural ANZAC Coastal Rowing Regatta, a unique experience which proved to be a remarkable insight into the ANZAC spirit, coastal rowing and Malta’s culture and history.

The NZ contingent enjoyed mornings rowing in picturesque Mediterranean waters training for the races at the end of the week. The rest of the day was spent exploring the country with lots of fun activities including walking through the streets of Valletta, visiting the blue lagoon, seeing an underground bunker at the war museum and much more.

While training in the stunning Marsaxlokk Bay and traveling to various cultural, tourist and heritage sites, the team experienced a range of weather conditions which enabled them to build upon their skills and control of an unpredictable coastal rowing boat in the lead up to race day.

The beach sprint format featured head-to-head racing in singles, doubles, and quads. Each race involved a

member of the crew running down the beach, jumping in their boat, sprint rowing out 250 metres slalom through three buoys before turning around the top mark and heading for the shore, as the boat hit the beach the rower launched out and sprinted for the flag 30 metres up the beach. The New Zealand team was happy to finish the day with an impressive result –six golds and two silvers.

One highlight for both Coco and Olivia was joining with a crew from Malta University to race in a girls’ four, winning the race for a Gold medal – a first for the Maltese girls. Coco says, “I enjoyed trying new things, I raced nine races and enjoyed every one. This trip to Malta was an amazing experience.’

Olivia also took the opportunity to learn, “It was really interesting to find out what rowing is like in Malta and really cool to be able to try out the coastal rowing boats as they are very different from the ones we row in at SMC.’

The week culminated in a special ANZAC Day dawn service with the NZ and Australian High Commissioners for Malta attending, along with other representatives from the three governments and members of the RSA.

Parents and Friends Association

The St Margaret’s College Parents and Friends Association is proud to announce its new mission statement: “To promote and nurture positive connections for parents and whānau in an active, inclusive community, supporting SMC’s visions and values.”

This updated mission statement reflects the PFA’s commitment to strengthening connections between parents and caregivers, and the school, recognising the vital role they play in a student’s journey. We believe that by actively engaging parents and whānau in our community we can create an environment where everyone feels valued and welcome.

Current parents who engage with the PFA will enjoy increased opportunities for involvement in school life; from helping at events to attending meetings where they can hear from school staff about initiatives and news in support of their child’s school life.

Ultimately, the new mission statement will enable parents to stay engaged and contribute towards their daughter’s school life inside and outside of the classroom in a supportive and inclusive community.

The PFA meets twice a term on a Tuesday evening in the school staffroom and holds a number of social events throughout the year. Dates are published on the school calendar and everyone is welcome.

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Out & About

Father/daughter breakfast

Grandparents’ day

SMCOGA Upcoming Events

September Thursday 28th Melbourne Community Event

September Friday 29th Sydney Community Event

October Wednesday 4th Tokyo Community Event

October Saturday 7th Bangkok Community Event

October Friday 27th – Sunday 29th Reunion Weekend

November Friday 24th Time Capsule Opening

November Wednesday 29th Christchurch Margaritas Combined with CCOBA

December Thursday 7th Year 13 Leavers’ Ball

Our Sad Farewells

A Different Path to Medicine

Alumni Profile: Savannah Adams

Year 12 students face a number of challenges, whether studying International Baccalaureate or NCEA, so when Cindy Mei and Nina Hayes sat down to chat with class of 2013 SMC graduate Savannah Adams they were pleasantly surprised to find a sympathetic ear. Savannah, now a practising doctor and part of the 2012–2013 IB cohort has faced a fair number of setbacks on her road to success but along the way she has displayed incredible perseverance and determination. Savannah started her journey, like so many others, studying first year Health Sciences at Otago University, but the fierce competition for places saw her miss out on a much-wanted Medical School position. While watching friends receive their places Savannah was determined to try a different way. Gaining a Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences over the next two years she then applied again for Med School and was over the moon to be accepted.

Five years on, two of them in Dunedin and another three in Wellington with placings also in Gisborne and Wairoa, Savannah is back in Christchurch. With future goals of specialising in either Orthopedic Surgery or Intensive Care, she is enjoying the ability to bring a human side to her learning. “I loved the chance to explore all three sciences. Doing IB however, I also really enjoyed English and I think that medicine provides a fantastic chance to embrace the crossover between both science and humanities.”

Savannah gets her inspiration from her friends, many of whom are now women in positions of leadership. “Ultimately, I studied for a longer period of time and I now have friends with established careers. I see how they lead and the adversity they continue to overcome.”

With the changing face of professionalism, Savannah was also inspired by an approximately 60% female representation in her Medical class and with historically male-stereotyped roles being presented with a different dynamic by women, she is keen to hand that inspiration to others, “I get immense satisfaction when I can help other people in any way, using my knowledge to improve their experiences and lives.”

Challenges also fill Savannah’s free time, she loves the outdoors and is a recent convert to multisport, competing in this year’s Coast to Coast in the two day event, “I am an active relaxer. I would love to do the one day event and am currently on the waiting list.”

From the young woman remembering the anxious feeling when approaching Dunedin for the first time to start university, Savannah has forged her own path and she offers some very wise advice to Cindy and Nina, “Trust your own mind, don’t get influenced or affected by others choosing something different. What’s right for you at the time isn’t going to be the same for anyone else.”

Faith in Action

Alumni Profile: Ella Hawthorne

SMC Old Girl Ella Hawthorne (2007–2011) knows a thing or two about faith. As Chapel Prefect in 2011 she supported and brought the school together to hold faith as the ground moved and the landscape shifted. During this season of change, she supported others with creative ideas for service and giving by helping to organise the 40 Hour Famine, and raising a record donation from SMC.

Heading to Dunedin to complete First Year Health Sciences after leaving school, Ella felt sure her path was clear to a career in medicine. Unfortunately, like others before her, she was forced to rethink her dreams when the full reality was revealed. While disappointing at the time, Ella is the first to admit it was the best thing that could have happened. “If you don’t get into medicine it’s not the end of the world. There are so many opportunities to serve and give back. Failure for me was not the final stop, it was a step on a journey.”

Weighing up her options and on the lookout for a different approach, asking questions while at an optometrist appointment led her to the University of Auckland and a Bachelor of Optometry with Honours. During six years working as an optometrist in New Plymouth, Ella became an integral part of the community; President of Taranki Young Professionals, volunteering for Civil Defence during Covid, performing in a variety of musicals, and having significant involvement in her church. But from as early as the age of ten, the concept of international aid work has always been Ella’s dream. Further investigation

led her to VOSO (Volunteer Ophthalmic Services Overseas) helping people in the Pacific, but a more global calling was still there in the form of Mercy Ships.

In Ella’s words, “Mercy Ships is an organisation that follows the 2000–year–old model of Jesus, bringing hope and healing to the world’s forgotten poor. It is a ministry delivering medical care on board hospital ships to African countries that don’t have those facilities. Everyone on board is volunteer-based, we have all left our jobs and homes to provide time and expertise.”

It truly is faith in action.

Vision is 80% of a human’s sensory input, so life without complete sight is hugely debilitating. Through the Mercy Ships Eye Care programme, Ella is giving people without access to even basic eye care in Sub-Saharan Africa, a second chance at a productive life. Mercy Ships also trains local healthcare providers to help improve local systems to build more long term care.

Following her first six month stint this year, Ella has signed on for a further two years, she will join the ship again at the start of September as the Ophthalmic Team Manager, overseeing the ophthalmic team from preoperative care through to surgery and post-op. So many in the world’s poorest places will benefit from Ella’s faith.

If you would like to support Ella on her journey or learn more about Mercy Ships, please go to mercyships.org.nz/volunteer/ ella-hawthorne/.

All donations are eligible for tax credits.

Photo: Mercy Ships

Photo: Mercy Ships

Navigating Sustainability in Farming

Alumni Profile: Katie Vickers

Sitting down to chat with Old Girl and Rabobank’s Sustainability Manager Katie Vickers was as much enlightening as it was guilt free. Newly married and about to set off on her honeymoon, Katie (Y9 2006) is a breath of fresh air leading the way in a tricky agricultural space. Rabobank, the only New Zealand bank doing business solely in the agricultural sector, has made a commitment to partner with the farming sector in support of sustainability. As Katie explains, “Often farmers would like to make environmental changes however they have debt or cash flow restrictions. There’s lots going on in the sustainability space at the moment with a lot of pressure on farmers, therefore a lot of my role is supporting them through change.”

Growing up on a farm in Kekerengu and enrolled at Lincoln University, when leaving school Katie had no intention of joining the farming sector. “I went to Lincoln to do Sport and Recreation but realised after a couple of days it wasn’t for me so moved into commerce which was an interesting choice as I didn’t have any accounting or economics experience. However I got my BCom and found it a really good start in the business sector.”

Starting her career in marketing at Farmlands Cooperative and later Head of Sustainability she found her passion in supporting farmers to navigate the challenges facing them. Katie has been in her role as Rabobank Sustainability Manager for the last 14 months and is learning the importance of combining her business experience within her new role. “In business you have to have strong cases in order to perform but research shows if you put purpose or sustainability at the forefront of your business this creates opportunities and helps profitability.”

While not having a technical sustainability background, Katie’s people and communication skills are the key to her success. “My skill set is change management – bringing people along and communicating to them in a way that works. We are still in the early stages. Some changes are based on legislation and some are ‘nice to haves’ but it’s how I can demonstrate value as a business to our customers.”

As well as talking the talk, Rabobank as an organisation is committing to change too, making the commitment to a 50% reduction in operational emissions by 2030. As a relationship business, the majority of these emissions are based around fleet and flights but while a 50% reduction by 2030 is a big commitment, Katie quite plainly points out that it’s nothing to be alarmed by – “yes we need to make these reductions but also take into account that technology is moving forward rapidly to assist us in this goal. We don’t have to solve this problem alone.”

She also points out the same can be said for us as a society and the guilt associated with everyday convenience choices. “I feel some guilt personally but I focus on small things. My generation is much more conscious of sustainability and the products available to help, but any little changes do add up.”

Looking ahead to future goals Katie is interested in applying her skills to leadership and the ability to create change. Her advice to current SMC students is that “there is no need to panic and shoe horn yourself into a specific space, learn to think critically and spend time getting to know what your skill sets are and how they can make a difference.”

A Lifelong Gift

The lives and careers of our Old Girls are extensively many and varied but every now and then there is call for one to become a temporary sleuth or investigator. One such case came across the Old Girls’ desk in recent times when Scott Blair, the nephew of Cynthia Blair, got in touch. While sorting through his aunt’s belongings following her passing in 2021, Scott came across a book that had been gifted to Cynthia by a former SMC student.

The only identification on the book was the name Glenis, initials GMW, the fact she had been in Miss Blair’s geography class for three years and an inscription dated 1973.

Finding no ‘Glenis’ in our records was a setback so the search began through class lists of 1973 to find anyone who could have had the initials GMW. The surname Walker was the closest to be found attached to the contact ‘Ainsley Dawrent’ now living in London.

To our delight she replied: It is me. I was GMW, Glenis, heavens – 49 years ago. I received the email at 5:08am

this morning when I was about to start my morning meditation and drive to the local leisure centre for my daily 1–2km swim. I got goosebumps – lovely ones. Such an honour that Miss Blair kept my book – though I have no idea what that book was, it is so long ago. Then, in an instant I remembered Miss Blair’s Geography classroom and so much of that last year, 1973, before uni. She was a demanding and able teacher and a direct, honest person for whom I had huge respect. I am so touched that Miss Blair’s nephew took the time to email about the book –I am seriously stunned – and so grateful. Teaching and learning has changed so much. I doubt that today’s SMC pupils would relish the memorisation of country map outlines and their contents, which we had to learn in Geography in 1972–73!

Bravo to your detection skills in matching me to the book! Your kindness is much appreciated.

Ainsley / Glenis

Remembering Marie Mihajlovic (nee Scott)

Marie died in Christchurch in February 2023 after a short illness. Winner of the St Margaret’s Entrance Scholarship in 1949, her distinguished progress through her years at the school is clear from the letter from Jean Croshier, who was headmistress at the time Marie left in 1954. Jean wrote that Marie “has without difficulty maintained her place at the top of her form, doing equally well in languages, mathematics and the sciences.”

She was a very good pianist, sang in the choir and played the organ at school assemblies. She played hockey, tennis, swam and did gymnastics. She was Head Prefect in 1954. Jean’s letter concluded “when Marie leaves at the end of the year the school will lose one of its finest and most talented pupils, but one who, we feel assured, will enjoy a most talented career. “

Marie was a gifted linguist who went on to study at Canterbury University and was awarded a Goethe scholarship to study in Germany. On her return to New Zealand she pursued a career in journalism before marrying Michael Mihajlovic. She leaves behind her daughter Helen, her brother Dr Graham Scott and granddaughters Sienna-Lily and Sabine Mihajlovic.

In Closing

One of the themes that we have been reflecting on recently has been ‘are you a good ancestor?’ From a Christian perspective this theme can be deeply rooted in the teachings and principles of faith. Christianity places importance on stewardship, love and the responsibility to care for God’s creation and the wellbeing of future generations.

Being a good ancestor takes into account all of these things, recognising the interconnectedness of time and acknowledging that the choices we make today have far-reaching consequences that can impact on the lives of those who come after us.

This hit home recently as I was privileged take a tour of the Christchurch Cathedral. Standing amidst the historic architecture in a hard hat, steel toe cap boots, hi vis jacket and safety glasses, there was a palpable sense of continuity that transcends individual lifetimes.

This perspective can offer hope by reminding us that despite the challenges and uncertainties of the present, humanity has faced adversity throughout history and has found ways to persevere, adapt and build anew.

In a world that may seem hopeless for many young people this is the hope we need to foster; these are the stories they need to hear. Embracing the concept of being a good ancestor encourages us to take meaningful actions in our own lives, no matter how small, that contribute positively to the world.

Rev. Steph Clay, Chaplain

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