Campus update

Construction of the new Ben Gough Family Theatre is progressing well, despite challenging times in the construction industry, says Project Director, David Evans.

“The lead contractor, Armitage Williams, has done really well. They have also faced some impact from COVID-19 but have kept the project on track according to the construction programme. Now that the time consuming works to establish the site, complete the ground works, install underground services, and complete the foundations is complete, it is exciting to see structural steel and concrete panels start to arrive on the site. The new theatre will start to come out of the ground and take shape very soon.”

The Ben Gough Family Theatre is due for completion at the end of June 2023.

Head of Music, Duncan Ferguson, Performing Arts Co-ordinator, Ginnie Thorner, and Head of Drama and Dance, Laurence Wiseman placing coins in the foundation of the new Ben Gough Family Theatre, which is a tradition for luck and prosperity. Inset: Foundation work is now complete.

New staff in People and Business office

In late April, two new staff joined the office of People and Business Manager, Justine Scott, to provide expertise and assistance in a range of areas in the College.

Kendall Burt is the new Business Office Manager, whose role is focused on facility hire and leasing, general administration, allocation of keys, line management of the cleaning, sewing, laundry, and reception teams, and many other things. “St Andrew’s has been such a lovely and welcoming environment to join. I’m enjoying getting to know the people, places, and wonderful facilities here.” Kendall has broad experience in administration, customer experience and finance in the construction, tertiary education, NGO, banking, and timber industries. She has a Bachelor of Commerce in Economics and Finance from the University of Canterbury and returned to Christchurch in 2019 after working in the United Kingdom for two years.

Carlee Hattrill is the new HR and Health and Safety Advisor at St Andrew’s. She has over 15 years’ experience working in the recruitment sector in Christchurch and Australia, and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education and English. Carlee is excited about extending her skills at St Andrew’s where she will focus on HR and recruitment, along with health and safety.

Business Office Manager Kendall Burt, HR and Health and Safety Advisor Carlee Hattrill, and People and Business Manager Justine Scott

“It’s a great environment here, and everyone is super helpful and friendly. I’m excited to be working together with staff, and enjoying the challenge of understanding this new role,” she says.