Regulus Issue 1, 2020

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REGULUS MAY 2020

Contents Leadership and Governance

Resources and Environment

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From the Rector

Robert Burns Scottish Scholars From the Board

MAY 2020

Editor/Writer: Jo Bailey Photography: Anna Turner Sue Oxley Dennis Rademacher BWMedia Photography Rosa Horncastle Craig Morgan David Baird Photography Printing: Caxton

ISNZ promotes strong network

Secondary students adapt well; Home Learning in the Preparatory School and Pre-school

8 9 10

Special Assemblies Teacher excellence rewarded New Director of Sport and Co-curricular Activities; Resilience presentation inspires New leadership roles in Preparatory School; New Head of Pre-school

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

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Introducing our 2020 student leaders

Teaching and Learning

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Passion for Performing Arts Where are they now?

Another outstanding year of academic achievement Top Technology student in New Zealand

Find us online: Facebook YouTube Flickr Instagram

From the Director of Development Cafeteria palm oil free; Shrove Tuesday

Taking learning online

11 Published: May 2020

Landscape leaves lasting impression

Academic successes New teaching staff for 2020 An oasis of calm Festive fun and giving back

Values and Culture

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Historic win in Gillette Cup

More honours for Scrump

Honouring the Founder Founders’ Day Rector's address A welcome for new students Youth workers having positive impact New opportunities to lead and learn The dedicated boarding team; Boarders bond during events

StAC Unplugged

Athletics Sports Day Te Waka Calling Ceremony A home away from home Cultural catch up Community and Service

Scholarships fund adventures of a lifetime Swimming Sports Another successful rowing season Sports round up

A smooth transition

Where these icons appear throughout the magazine, they indicate where further photographic or video content is available via our online channels.

Support through change

Old Collegians

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Message from the President Events Class notes;

(Cover) The First XI celebrates a wicket on their way to winning the Gillette Cup. Photo credit: BWMedia Photography

Gone but not forgotten; Upcoming events

Welcome to the world

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21

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From the

Rector This edition of Regulus celebrates life at St Andrew’s College as it was, at the start of 2020, with all the opportunities, co-curricular challenges, and the physical community we took for granted. It also captures the ‘new normal’ (for now) and pinpoints a moment in time where our perspective and understanding of our world changed. None of us can predict the future, though many will try, but what we can do is place our trust in the values that are at the heart of our community – Truth, Excellence, Faith, Inclusivity and Creativity.

The start of 2020 began with great promise. As always, the beginning of the new year brought anticipation of new goals to strive for, projects to complete and strategic objectives to action. Our students returned to school full of energy, and the tone around the College was positive and committed to our collective purpose ‘Building better people for life’. Head Prefects Emily Tyrrell, Hugh Montgomery, Aleisha Davis, and Omri Kepes launched their theme, 2020 Vision, and we thought we knew what lay ahead. But as it became rapidly apparent, we didn’t know and couldn’t possibly have anticipated where we would find ourselves by the end of Term 1.

However, amongst the uncertainty, is the ever-present belief and hope that we will get through this and although some things in our life may change forever, we will place our faith in the things that are consistent and will remain most important in our lives.

As the COVID-19 crisis took hold, we were about to celebrate our 103rd Founders’ Day. Sadly the ability to host our special assembly was removed due to the restrictions on large gatherings, as were the many traditions we associate with Founders’ Day – the Highland Games and the presentation of the Robert Burns Scottish Scholars.

I had chosen at the assembly to celebrate the character and values of our founder, Rev. Alexander Thompson (1876–1956), who himself lived through a number of global crises, including the First and Second World Wars, the Spanish flu pandemic, and the polio epidemic. Like many others living in those times, he understood hardship, sacrifice, and decisions made for the greater good. Thompson was personally deeply committed to the founding values of our College – Truth, Excellence and Faith, and never has faith been more important than in facing the uncertainty of the here and now. Faith in our leaders (fortunately our Prime Minister seems to be deserving of this); faith in our family, friends, and communities; faith in our future; and a spiritual faith that will help to sustain us in challenging times.

The other value which strikes me as particularly relevant at this time is Creativity. As I have observed our teachers, students, and support staff rise to the challenge of educational learning in a new and online environment, I am in awe of the creative solutions and opportunities that have arisen. Difficult circumstances demand creative solutions, and this is exactly what I have seen emerge in recent weeks. I honour everyone who has been a part of this. As we move forward, I salute our young people and the resilience, courage and hope they find to face this latest challenge, perhaps the greatest collective global challenge since World War II. Our future world will rely on these young people who have learnt from those who have gone before them and who will influence greatly those who come after. May they hold our St Andrew’s College values of Truth, Excellence, Faith, Creativity and Inclusivity before them as they step into this new world.

Christine Leighton Rector

Leadership and Governance From left: Rebecca Parnham from Giving Seeds and Love, with Rector Christine Leighton and Regulus editor, Jo Bailey.

Following the terror attack last March, Jo and Rebecca were founding members of Uniting Canterbury Women, which held an event in the Centennial Chapel that brought together around 600 women of all cultures from across the Canterbury community. Uniting Canterbury Women gifted the pot and Seeds of Love to Christine, and St Andrew’s College, to thank them for their support. The wildflowers have been well tended by College gardener, Rochelle Dunster, and provide a beautiful welcome on the front steps of Strowan House.

Robert Burns

Scottish Scholars

Isabella Galvan and Oscar Bloom (both Year 12) will represent St Andrew’s College as the Robert Burns Scottish Scholars for 2020, and will tour Scottish schools in September and October. Isabella and Oscar are both talented, involved young people, with a commitment to serving their community. Their scholarship was to have been awarded at the Founders’ Day Assembly, but with this being cancelled, they will be honoured at an assembly later in the year instead.

3 Regulus

Top: The group of 2019 leavers who returned to receive their Board of Governors’ Scholarships at the Academic Assembly.

Bottom left: With Thomas Yee (OC 2008) guest speaker at the Academic Assembly. Middle: With Aminiasi (Mini) Toga, Ruthie Konusi and Tehinnah Ratulomai at the Prefects’ Investiture. Right: New prefect Tom Wells is congratulated by Head of Secondary School, Evert van Florenstein.

From the

Board While the scars of past adversity are still raw, they are immensely valuable in supporting us to step up to and deal with this latest challenge. We know how to come together as a community to get through tough times. We know how to adapt and make the best of things. We know that much good will come from it, and we know we will get through it together.

Physical distancing must not become a barrier to connection, kindness, care, and compassion. And let us have faith that we will prevail in what is looking like the defining global event of our lives.

Kia mau ki te tĹŤmanako, Te whakapono me te aroha Hold fast to hope, faith and love.

We know because we have done it before, we have all that growth and learning to draw upon to do it again.

The city of Christchurch and our St Andrew’s College community have become all too familiar with high impact events and their associated psychological, economic and social impacts.

In recent times, we have together encountered natural disasters and a terror attack. Now we face perhaps our biggest challenge of all, the invisible enemy that is the COVID-19 pandemic.

There can be no denying the gravity of the situation. The response from the government is testament to this and the priority placed on public health and well-being is immensely comforting.

As always, College decision making and planning is centred around the health, safety and well-being of students and staff and, in the case of COVID-19, is guided exclusively by government and the Ministry of Health as the single source of truth.

In saying that, we will all be challenged at times by the enormity and uncertainty of it all, the economic and social consequences, the disruption to livelihoods and our way of life. This is where more than anything we must rely upon one another for support.

Earlier this year, Rev. Paul Morrow mentioned that he and a group of friends hiked up Mt Vernon every Sunday at 7.00am and perhaps I would like to join them. I went with them several times.

In late March, having spent the previous week immersed in COVID-19 deliberations in the various aspects of my professional and personal life, I was starting to feel overwhelmed and anxious. The walk up Mt Vernon with not three, but four, wise men to talk, to share and to contemplate with, was a wonderfully uplifting antidote to my malaise. And when we sat together in the early morning sun at the summit and reflected on our good fortune living here in the South Island of New Zealand, it put things into perspective. It was a reminder of the power of connection, comradery and nature. Simple things that cost nothing but time. We will all need more of this over the coming months as we navigate these uncharted waters together.

Bryan Pearson Board Chair On behalf of the Board of Governors

ISNZ promotes

strong network

Rector, Christine Leighton, says there are huge benefits in networking with and supporting other ISNZ member schools. “We also appreciate the ability to form natural alignments with co-educational schools of a similar size, such as Kristin School and Saint Kentigern College from Auckland, and St Paul’s Collegiate School from Hamilton.”

The primary role of ISNZ is to serve its member schools and to promote independent education and educational choice in the widest sense.

ISNZ Executive Director, Deborah James, says this includes representing the independent school view on national education forums, advocating choice in education to Members of Parliament and government officials, and providing services for independent schools which are independent of the state and not bound by National Education and Administration Guidelines. “We also liaise with other education groups nationally and internationally, and in general, provide a forum for joint action by independent schools. Without ISNZ, the independent schools’ sector would not have a collective voice to promote and protect choice in education and the right of parents to choose the school that best meets the learning needs of their children.”

A substantial professional development programme for a wide range of staff in member schools is also provided by ISNZ, along with advice and support on specific governance, management and operational issues, and promotion of member schools, nationally and internationally.

Deborah says funding is a huge challenge for all independent schools in New Zealand and advocating for a more equitable funding formula is a significant focus of ISNZ. “While funding for the state school network is growing, funding for independent schools is capped with other strands of funding having been removed under the current coalition government. The widening gap between independent school funding and state school funding means that some independent schools are becoming less viable.

The closure of independent schools results in increased pressure on the state system – if fewer families are able to send their children to independent schools, the state system, which is already under pressure from national roll increases, will need to absorb these additional students at great cost.”

Since 2015, Rector Christine Leighton has been on the board of ISNZ, which was restructured last year, following extensive consultation with member schools. “We’ve developed a streamlined structure reflecting a more contemporary, corporate environment with a single, skillsbased directorate, moving away from a representative model of governance.

With a focus on specialist expertise on the ISNZ Board, I envisage there will be a stronger voice in advocacy and government relations. We are

5 ISNZ Executive Director, Deborah James

privileged to have the Rector of St Andrew’s College on the ISNZ board,” says Deborah.

Deborah was first appointed to the role of ISNZ Executive Director from 2008 until 2015, then took up the position again in early 2017. She has more than 30 years’ experience in the private schools’ sector, holding various governance roles, including 14 years as both a board member and chairperson of an independent school in Christchurch. Her four children were educated in independent schools. “I have a strong commitment to preserving the right of parents to choose the school that best meets the needs of their children. Independent schools are accessed by a wide cross-section of the community, and allow for learning in different cultural, religious, and pedagogical settings.

Children in independent schools today come from all walks of life, and the schools are diverse and inclusive.”

Regulus

St Andrew’s College is one of the largest of 47 member schools of Independent Schools of New Zealand (ISNZ) which, collectively, educate more than 80 per cent of the more than 30,000 students in the private schools’ sector.

Leadership and Governance

ISNZ board (from left) Board Chairperson Heather McRae; Richard Francis, Christine Leighton, Deputy Chairperson Ingrid Taylor; Barrie Keenan. Absent: Dr Bruce Goodfellow

Taking learning

online

One week, St Andrew’s College was operating as usual, with the campus and classrooms abuzz with students and staff. The next, it had transitioned to a fully operational online learning environment due to the nationwide lockdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The transition appeared seamless; however the implementation of this sophisticated online learning programme and fully integrated timetable was the result of a huge collaborative effort, which Rector Christine Leighton describes as ‘one of the highlights of my career’.

“What we’ve been able to achieve collectively, from having the vision, to everybody using their strengths to contribute to achieving that vision so effectively in such a short timeframe has been remarkable. Our ICT Department and teachers worked overtime for many weeks, delivering in their usual physical environment, and preparing for this ‘new normal’.”

Critical to the delivery of the online learning programme was the ICT team, led by Director of ICT, Dave Hart, and Head of Information and Innovation, Wilj Dekkers, who Christine has high praise for. “As well as getting all the technology in place, they did an incredible job of encouraging, supporting, and enabling

the teaching staff to engage effectively with this new online environment. For some of our teaching staff it was quite a leap, but they have been well supported, and have all shown huge commitment. Behind the teaching programmes for all classes are 25 different teams of people who are also working online and ‘meeting’ regularly to support St Andrew’s College business continuity. The students’ buy-in to continue their learning has also been critical. Everybody has played a part in this.”

Director of ICT, Dave Hart, says the rollout has been the ultimate team effort. “Working closely with Wilj Dekkers, we, along with the rest of the ICT team, have strived to establish a means of remote learning using tools already in our portfolio. Our aim was to provide a standardised platform for all, while still providing opportunities for teaching staff to personalise content delivery for students, just as they would in the classroom. There is no doubt the learning curve has been steep for many, and of course we still have room for improvement. However, the results of such positive engagement from both teaching and support staff in this process has been immensely gratifying to see. We are now in a fantastic position to benefit from all this hard work and positivity.”

A week and a half of online lessons took place before the Term 1 holidays, which gave teachers and students time to adjust to the new way of working. “Over the holiday period we have taken time to reflect, learn and improve, leveraging feedback from our community, so that if we were to need to carry on in Term 2, we'll be in an even stronger position than we are now.”

Christine says from the start, she, other senior managers and staff were heartened by the many positive comments, emails and messages through the St Andrew’s College Facebook page from parents about how impressed they were with the online learning their children were receiving. “I’m delighted our students have been using online capacity for a real purpose, and not just entertainment and socialising. To think technology is being harnessed in such a productive way is really satisfying.”

Christine says the ‘truly collaborative culture’ which was already in place at St Andrew’s before the pandemic was a key factor in the delivery of the programme. “Our staff felt engaged and valued beforehand, and already understood their strengths. With this kind of culture and a shared vision, it is incredible what can be achieved.”

Addison Williams (Year 9) setting up for remote online learning.

Home Learning in the

Preparatory School and Pre-school

Secondary students

adapt well

Secondary School students have adapted well to the new remote learning environment, says Head of Secondary School, Evert van Florenstein. “I’ve been delighted with how well students have coped, adapted, and got on with it.

Huge credit must also go to our teaching staff for so quickly changing the way in which they deliver their lessons, and for having an incredibly positive and willing attitude. They have rolled up their sleeves and are delivering a quality learning experience to our students.”

During each week, all students have two compulsory contact lessons with their subject teachers via Microsoft Teams, a platform on which they have been guided to use positively and productively. These sessions provide an opportunity for the students to connect with their teachers, ask questions about tasks set, and clarify any expectations. In the other two lessons each week per subject, students are expected to engage with the tasks they have been set.

Students in the Middle Syndicate have been utilising a variety of platforms for their learning, including email, interactive online links, Seesaw, workbooks, OneDrive links, and Microsoft Team video chats. Daily routines and expectations, specialist lessons, and fun challenges are sent by morning emails or announcements from classroom teachers.

In the Junior Syndicate, Seesaw is being used extensively by teachers to share activities and provide feedback, with email another form of communication.

Families are sending in photos and their children’s completed work.

Families of Pre-school children have also responded well to the communications from the Pre-school staff, who are utilising Educa to share experiences and ideas. Lots of ‘parent stories’ have been shared to the Pre-school, highlighting the children’s many at home learning activities.

Every Thursday at 10.00am students are expected to join their tutor for a 30-minute online contact session, which provides the opportunity to ask questions, and also catch up with fellow students in the tutor group.

Year 9–10 students are studying their core subjects only during this period, while the Year 11–13 students continue with their NCEA studies on the online platform.

Student engagement and attendance has continued to be monitored for all classes in the remote learning environment, with teachers taking rolls, and recording engagement data.

With so many students missing their regular co-curricular activities, a number of online resources have been shared as part of the Enrichment Programme, with a focus on sporting or cultural activities they could engage with at home.

“While the delivery of remote learning has provided us with an enormous challenge, and many people have been put under pressure, there has also been an opportunity for us to undertake professional development we wouldn’t normally have done. This situation is showing us what we are capable of, and also that we are a strong community, which has really pulled together when it counts,” says Evert.

Left: Following an online Art lesson with Preparatory School Art teacher, Pip Dinsenbacher, Leona Smart (Year 2) created an artwork at home she named The Rainbow of the Hydrangeas.

Right: Jack Callaway (Year 1) working on his story writing and phonics.

7 Regulus

Reeve Williams (Year 11) adapts to a new way of learning.

Jonathan says the Home Learning programme has been working well across the Year 8 team, with a high level of attendance and work completion. There has been also almost full attendance every day in each Year 7 class, which started with a class Microsoft Teams video call at 8.45am, followed by a 9.00am Mathematics class call.

“At both Years 7 and 8, the learning has been engaging and varied. The programme for the day is posted each morning and there are many opportunities for the children to share and connect with their classmates and teachers,” says Jonathan.

Leadership and Governance

Preparatory School Principal, Jonathan Bierwirth, says a range of different online approaches have been implemented in the Preparatory School and Pre-school to meet the needs of the children of various ages. “All of the teachers are working extremely hard. They are diligent and creative, and delivering their programmes with supportive and encouraging communication.”

Special

Assemblies

Prefects’ Investiture and Leadership Assembly Over 140 students were recognised in a leadership role at the Prefects’ Investiture and Leadership Assembly. Head Girl and Boy, Emily Tyrrell and Hugh Montgomery, supported

by Deputy Heads, Aleisha Davis and Omri Kepes, gave their first official address, where students were encouraged to deliver their 2020 Vision. Nick Letham (OC 2001), who recently joined the Board of Governors, was a special guest at the assembly, to recognise the College’s new Prefects and Middle School Leaders. The 800 people packed into the Centennial Chapel also witnessed Year 12 student, Samuel Jeon’s breath-taking performance of La Campanella by Franz Liszt. After the assembly, families enjoyed morning tea in Strowan House, followed by photographs to capture this special occasion.

Academic Assembly Another year of strong academic achievement in NCEA was celebrated at the Academic Assembly, where students who received an Excellence endorsement from their 2019 Level 3 NCEA assessments and Scholarship examinations, received their Scholarship from the Board of Governors.

The assembly also included an inspirational message from guest speaker Thomas Yee, Head Boy in 2008, whose engaging and humorous talk included some great advice for students about ‘chipping away’ to reach their goals. Academic Captains, Duncan Harvie and Xavier Dickason, also delivered some wise words on how to avoid procrastination. Jazz combo, Club 347, performed an entertaining rendition of Fly Me to the Moon, featuring Lucca Ballara (Year 12) on vocals.

St Andrew’s College has lots of dedicated, hard-working and inspirational teaching staff, and each year at Prizegiving, thanks to a gift from former St Andrew’s College parent and Board member, Jay Scanlon, one of them wins an award in memory of Jay’s late wife, Marily.

The Marily Scanlon Award for Teacher Excellence was conceived following a St Andrew’s College Prizegiving.

“Prizegiving is a wonderful celebration and part of the culture of the College, but I noticed that while teacher excellence was talked about, there were no awards for the faculty. I had the idea to endow a prize,” says Jay. In 2009, Jay, along with son, Francis (OC 2002) and daughter, Maris (OC 2012) established the award in Marily’s name.

The first winner was Drama teacher, Julie Drummond, and the latest was former Head of Media, Simon Williams, who retired at the end of 2019 after a 24-year career at St Andrew’s.

Jay said he has no involvement in the selection of the winner, who is awarded the prize from a pool of nominated teachers. “Francis, Maris and I are always invited to Prizegiving and I’m introduced to the recipient. The purpose of the award is to thank an excellent teacher for a job well done.”

Some teachers have used the prize money to travel, including recent winners Simon Williams (USA), Hamish Faulls (Greece and Italy), Allyson Duncan (Italy) and Brent Cummack (Hawaii).

rewarded

Another initiative at St Andrew’s supported by Jay is the Endeavour Scholarship, which provides financial support for students with exceptional abilities, who would not have otherwise been able to attend the College due to financial need. “I’m hopeful that the Endeavour Scholarship will attract other like-minded donors to fund more scholarships, particularly for bright sparks with academic merit, to help them reach their full potential.”

Rector Christine Leighton said the 2019 recipient of the Marily Scanlon Award for Teacher Excellence, Head of Media, Simon Williams, dedicated “countless hours over and above what was expected, running afterschool, weekend, and holiday media programmes, and providing a place for students to learn and develop a passion for television, film and media, which for many, became a career beyond school.”

Jay is originally from the United States and says the way we celebrate success in each country is quite different. “Prizegiving seems unique to New Zealand and Commonwealth cultures, as students in the United States simply get a report card.”

Under Simon’s guidance, students learnt the trade of being in front of or behind the camera in Years 9–10 Performing Arts, Media Studies, and the after-school TV Academy. His care and concern for students, along with his genuine joy in guiding their creative and collaborative projects, was legendary.

He says the culture of philanthropy is much stronger in the United States, which is something he would like to see practiced more readily in New Zealand.

“The tradition of giving back to your school is not as deeply embedded here as it is in the States, where you definitely feel you owe more to your alma mater than the tuition fees you pay.”

Simon came to St Andrew’s from the television industry in 1995, when he started part-time work. In 1997, he was made a full-time member of staff. He said he was ‘delighted and humbled’ to win the Marily Scanlon Award and that a driving force of his teaching career was always to give students “the time of their lives”.

Marily Scanlon Award for Teacher Excellence winners 2009 Julie Drummond, Drama 2010 Dr Jeni Curtis, English 2011 Kate LeFever, Science 2012 Dean McKenzie, Mathematics 2013 Phil Adams, Technology 2014 Brett Clark, Art History, and Duncan Ferguson, Music 2015 Hamish Faulls, History and Classics

2016 Kerry Larby, Geography, Social Studies, Well-being and Positive Psychology 2017 Brent Cummack, Head of Science, Physics 2018 Allyson Duncan, Technology 2019 Simon Williams, Media Studies

9 Regulus

Teacher excellence

Leadership and Governance

Joanne Hooker, Jay Scanlon, retired Head of Media, Simon Williams, and Rector Christine Leighton

Resilience presentation inspires Director of Sport and Co-curricular Activities, Mark Lane

Sport and Co-curricular Activities

New Director of

Helping St Andrew’s College students to become ‘better tomorrow than they were today’ in their various sporting and cultural pursuits is a key focus of new Director of Sport and Co-Curricular Activities, Mark Lane. “There are lots of important life learnings when students get together in teams or groups and strive for a common goal. If they can walk off the field or stage knowing that they have all tried hard and given 100 per cent, that is a culture people want to be part of.”

Sport is Mark’s passion. He is a former professional cricketer, having played for Wellington, Central Districts, Canterbury, and the New Zealand U20 side.

He was also in the New Zealand Junior hockey team.

For 12 years, Mark was employed by New Zealand Cricket in various roles, including a five-year stint as General Manager of Community Cricket. Although Mark’s new role is focused on sport and culture, he also has a strong academic background – coming to St Andrew’s College from Christchurch Boys’ High School, where he had taught Mathematics since 2014.

Mark was also highly engaged in the school’s sports programme, serving as coach of both its First XI cricket and First XI hockey teams.

Early in Term 1, staff and parents had the privilege of attending an inspiring presentation delivered by Dr Sven Hansen, founder of The Resilience Institute. Through his esteemed career, Dr Hansen has developed significant knowledge around the themes of resilience and human performance. His presentation introduced the audience to some of the important physical, emotional and mental strategies that help humans to progress in life.

Head of Well-being and Positive Education, Kerry Larby, says the St Andrew’s College community is benefiting greatly from its ongoing relationship with Dr Hansen and The Resilience Institute. “It is vitally important that our community develops a shared understanding and vocabulary of well-being and Dr Hansen has certainly enabled this.”

Research shows that resilient people connect with others, have an optimistic growth mindset and are engaged and focused in life. They do not fall into patterns of worry, selfcriticism, fatigue and overload.

Kerry says the ‘outstanding’ professional learning gained through the association with The Resilience Institute is forming the basis of the next phase of St Andrew’s whole school well-being goal of cultivating resilience in our community. “Last year, a group of 26 staff volunteered to participate in an Innovation and Research Group focused on resilience. As part of this, they used an app to track and measure their own resilience. The group’s progress between pre and post measurement was celebrated as ‘outstanding’ compared to other companies The Resilience Institute works with around the world. This had a powerful impact on the resilience of our staff participants.” Following ‘resounding’ feedback, the staff Innovation and Research Group has decided to continue to explore the theme of resilience in 2020, with ongoing access to The Resilience Institute app, at a individual and organisational level.

He is excited by the ‘fantastic challenge’ as the new Director of Sport and Co-curricular Activities at St Andrew’s, and has been impressed by the ‘supportive, positive, forward-thinking’ culture at the College. Most of his Saturdays have been taken up with visits to sports sidelines, team trials, or watching various other cultural or co-curricular activities.

“It’s been great to meet lots of people in the parent community, and I’ve enjoyed seeing the engagement of students across many different activities.”

Maintaining the important sporting and cultural traditions at St Andrew’s College is another key focus for Mark. “It all comes down to values and helping our students to understand that taking part in sport and cultural activities is a privilege and not a right.

It’s important to keep our expectations high of young people when they represent the College, so they do it in the best way possible, both on and off the field.”

Dr Sven Hansen from The Resilience Institute in a presentation to staff.

New leadership roles in

Preparatory School

The retirement of former Deputy Principal, David Farmer, at the end of 2019, has seen the introduction of two Deputy Principal roles. Jonathan says these have been filled by ‘two very capable’ existing staff – Head of Teaching and Learning, Vicki Pettit, and Head of Preparatory School Sport, Alex Kelley, who have also continued in their current positions. Vicki has embraced her Deputy Principal role, in particular the opportunities and challenges involved in putting together

New Head of

Pre-school

New Head of Pre-school, Phillipa Stephens, says she is delighted to have come back to her hometown of Christchurch, and to have been made to feel so welcome in her new role. “The St Andrew’s College family is pretty special, and I have felt so supported and affirmed. It is also wonderful to be working alongside such a nurturing, professional teaching team in the Pre-school.”

the Preparatory School timetable for the first time. “I’m also enjoying the opportunity to work with the new-look leadership team.” As joint Deputy Principal, Alex says he aims to be a positive role model and to ensure the high standards and expectations set by the College are met by students.

“Logistics is another significant aspect of my role, and I enjoy the challenge of making sure the daily operation of events at the school run smoothly and seamlessly.”

Rather than appoint a Senior Syndicate Leader, also vacated by David Farmer, the Preparatory School has split the leadership of Year 7–8 students between Kelly McBride, the existing Year 7 Team Leader, and Morgan Sheppard, the new Year 8 Team Leader. Kelly McBride, who has taught at St Andrew’s for 20 years, says it is a privilege to be part of the leadership group and to lead the Year 7 team. “The Year 7 teachers

Phillipa graduated in 2005 and has been working in Early Childhood Education for 15 years. She moved to Auckland 10 years ago, and before her return to Christchurch, was working for the Kindergarten Association of Auckland, supporting head teachers with appraisals, mentoring and coaching, and supporting newly registered teachers. She was also a curriculum specialist and says her ‘kete of knowledge’ has proven valuable during the transition into her new role at St Andrew’s. In 2020, Phillipa will put her high-level thinking and experience to use as she prepares the Pre-school’s Strategic and Annual Plans, which will identify emerging priorities, she says.

are collaborative, dedicated and highly competent, and always put the students’ best interests first. Our main goal for the start of the year is to ensure a smooth transition from Year 6 to Year 7. Another major focus is on developing resilience and well-being.” Morgan Sheppard started teaching at St Andrew’s in the middle of 2019, and says he is also ‘very happy’ to be part of the leadership group. “I am excited to be working with such a motivated and passionate team, and also with the Year 8 teachers and students.”

The Preparatory School Leadership Group is completed by Head of Middle Syndicate, Meg Feller, and Head of Junior Syndicate, Heather Orman.

“Our new leadership team, new staff, and existing staff are well aligned in terms of our values, who we are, and what we do, and are looking forward to a productive and successful year,” says Jonathan.

“Another key focus is continuing to strengthen our internal evaluation practices, so we can understand the impact of changes we make for positive outcomes for our children.”

Phillipa is also focused on building relationships with the teaching team, children, their families, and the wider College.

“I’m really enjoying getting to know everyone,” she says.

Head of Pre-school, Phillipa Stephens

11 Regulus

Exciting new leadership opportunities in 2020 have seen some ‘highly experienced people’ make the step up into the Preparatory School Leadership Group, says Preparatory School Principal, Jonathan Bierwirth.

“The introduction of new leadership positions has enabled us to spread the load, while allowing more people the opportunity to be in the light, and part of the important decision making process in the Preparatory School.”

Leadership and Governance

The Preparatory School leadership team, from left, Head of Junior Syndicate Heather Orman, Year 8 Team Leader Morgan Sheppard, Year 7 Team Leader Kelly McBride, Principal Jonathan Bierwirth, Deputy Principal Vicki Pettit, Deputy Principal Alex Kelley and Head of Middle Syndicate Meg Feller

Introducing our

2020 leaders

student

Another wonderful group of students have been appointed to more than 100 leadership roles for 2020.

Leadership is an opportunity and responsibility our young leaders take seriously, and they are well supported in their roles. The 2020 prefect team, under the leadership of Heads of College, Emily Tyrrell and Hugh Montgomery, have introduced a theme called 2020 Vision as their guiding principle for the year.

Emily Tyrrell Head Girl Emily is excited about the theme of 2020 Vision, and in her role as Head Girl, plans to encourage students to get clear on their goals and values, remain true to themselves, and engage in some of the many academic, cultural and sporting opportunities available at St Andrew’s.

She would like to be seen as a positive, approachable leader, who is open to talking through new ideas with fellow students. Emily is an accomplished dancer and was Head of Dance in 2019.

She also plays touch rugby, social basketball, and flute in the orchestra.

Highlights of Emily’s time at the College include being a 2019 Robert Burns Scottish Scholar and helping to organise Dance Revue and the Senior College Formal in 2019. Next year, she is considering studying Veterinary Science at Massey University or having a gap year at Camp America.

Hugh Montgomery Head Boy Helping students to understand the positive impact of setting achievable goals and striving for them is a focus of Head Boy, Hugh Montgomery. As a young Samoan man, Hugh enjoys ensuring students of all cultures feel welcomed and accepted at St Andrew’s, where Inclusivity is a key value. He says his most important qualities as a leader are being relatable, genuine, and courteous.

Hugh is a talented academic, plays guitar and piano, and is a star sportsman, having played for the First XV for four years. He also competes in athletics, touch rugby and swimming, and has played other sports for the College. Hugh’s options post St Andrew’s include studying Sport Psychology or Business Studies at the University of Canterbury or having a gap year. He also hopes to progress his rugby career with the Crusaders after being a member of the franchise’s Junior Academy.

Aleisha Davis Deputy Head Girl Aleisha says she is privileged and humbled to be Deputy Head Girl, and her plans include building on the College’s already amazing culture, to create a fun and enjoyable St Andrew’s College experience for as many students as possible. She would like to be seen as a hard-working, dependable role model for younger students, and an approachable leader who is always available for a chat. Aleisha is a talented hockey player who has been in the First XI since she was in Year 9.

Attending Tournament Week with the team is one of the highlights of her time at St Andrew’s, along with playing in the Senior B touch team. When Aleisha leaves the College, she hopes to go to university to study a science-based field, potentially Engineering, Veterinary Science, or Forensic Science.

Omri Kepes Deputy Head Boy Omri Kepes is excited about the year ahead, with his main goals as Deputy Head Boy to create a positive vibe within the College, and to leave it with a sense of ‘togetherness’, and a tighter, more connected community. He aspires to be a leader who is personable and approachable, and someone who students feel comfortable asking questions of, or talking to. Highlights of Omri’s time at St Andrew’s have included playing for the First XI hockey team for several years and taking part in debating since Year 9. He has also taken up squash this year. Omri plans to take a gap year to travel with friends after leaving St Andrew’s, and on his return to New Zealand, potentially study Engineering or Architecture. He may also look to work on some start-ups, or similar business development options.

Libby McKinnel Head of Girls’ Boarding As Head of Girls’ Boarding, Libby McKinnel is determined to be a positive role model, and to ensure boarders, particularly those new to the College, feel at home in the boarding environment. She is proud to give back to the boarding community she first joined in Year 11, from Southland.

Libby is committed to the boarding theme of Inclusivity for 2020, and with Head of Boys’ Boarding, Mini Toga, has implemented new initiatives to bring students of mixed ages and genders together. Attending Federation Cup with the First XI hockey team and going to camps to Castle Hill are among the highlights of Libby’s time at the College.

She also participates in athletics, cricket, and Speech and Drama. After leaving St Andrew’s, Libby would like to go to university, possibly to study Marketing and Design. She is also keen to progress her hockey career.

Aminiasi (Mini) Toga Head of Boys’ Boarding Mini Toga came to St Andrew’s from Fiji on a rugby scholarship in Year 11, and says he is proud to be the first Pacific Island student to hold the role of Head of Boys’ Boarding at St Andrew’s College. He is keen to be a role model for the younger Pasifika generation at the College and enjoys looking out for all of the younger boys in the boarding houses, to ensure that they feel welcome and comfortable. Mini is a key member of the First XV rugby team, had a prominent role in the 2019 Senior production, Parade, and is a member of the Māori and Pasifika group. He hopes to get a spot in the Crusaders Academy in 2021, or be awarded a university sports scholarship. Starting a building apprenticeship is another possibility for Mini once he leaves school.

Leadership and Governance

2020 Prefect Team

Middle School Leaders

Preparatory School Prefects

Kate Allan Jeremiah Anderson-Gardner Albert Bell Manaia Butler Lucy Cammock-Elliott Ella Clearwater Jasmine Donald Grace Donaldson Jack Forrest Xavier Guillemot-Rodgerson James Holyoake Kate Hughes Timothy Justice Angus Kelliher Elena Limmer-Wood Pippa McAnergney Archie Milligan Kate Robinson Jessica Roche Bella Rose Jack Rule Marshall Setu Henry Spark Kelly Ting Harrison Waghorn Tom Wells

Sarah Anthony Skye Atkins Tessa Bishell Charlotte Brown Tom Edwards Zoe Elmey Jonty Foote Selena Gan Toby Harvie Pippa Henderson Rachel Holyoake Jacob Horrey Thomas Kamo Couper Killick Jakarta Klebert Grace Lawrence MacGregor Matthews Max McIntyre Madeline-Rose Morrow Charlotte Roche Patrick Ryan Corin Simcock Charli Watts Estee Wilke Alexander Wilson Harry Withers Cindy Xiong Luke Zhu

James Anthony Priya Bartlett Olivia Bloom William Currie Scarlett Gray Ryan Gu Oliver Jacobs William Lindores Nadia Marriott Ruby McPhail Katie Miller Hannah Morris William Richards Claudia Russell Solomon Seatter William Sherborne Elia Short Madison Wallace

13 Regulus

(Back) Head of Boys’ Boarding Aminiasi (Mini) Toga, Deputy Head Girl Aleisha Davis (Front) Head Girl Emily Tyrrell, Head Boy Hugh Montgomery, Rector Christine Leighton, Deputy Head Boy Omri Kepes, Head of Girls’ Boarding Libby McKinnel

Passion for

Performing Arts Each year, audiences are wowed by the professionalism, maturity, and incredible acting, dancing and musical talents displayed by students during the annual Senior and Middle School productions, and at various other performances throughout the year.

Performing Arts is thriving at St Andrew’s College, and one of the department’s key strengths is the working relationship and friendship that exists between three highly experienced staff members, Head of Drama and Dance Laurence Wiseman, Head of Music Duncan Ferguson, and Dance and Drama teacher and Arts Co-ordinator Ginnie Thorner.

As well as teaching students in their individual specialist areas, the three have worked closely together for several years, lifting students to reach their full potential in the theatre performance space. “We respect each other’s strengths and roles, and see the bigger picture, which enables us to work together for the greater good,” says Head of Music, Duncan Ferguson. “We also have really high standards and work hard to get the best out of our students, whether they are actors, singers, dancers, musicians, or have technical roles. We’ve never had the mentality, ‘this is just a high school show’.”

Head of Drama and Dance, Laurence Wiseman, says a ‘lack of territorialism’ and the ability to respect each other’s ideas is also key. “We are given a certain amount of autonomy to choose material which challenges not only the students, but us as well. Last year’s Senior College Production, Parade was one of the most challenging shows we’ve ever done.”

Head of Drama and Dance Laurence Wiseman, Head of Music Duncan Ferguson, and Dance and Drama teacher and Arts Co-ordinator, Ginnie Thorner

Performing Arts Co-ordinator, Ginnie Thorner, enjoys being part of a team of creatives with complementary strengths. She says participating in Performing Arts subjects has many benefits. “As they explore many different situations in an imaginary context, students develop an understanding of what it is to be human and express the human experience.

Creative students can also find their tribe alongside like-minded students with similar interests in the really positive Performing Arts community at St Andrew’s College.”

From a Music perspective, Duncan says the theatre productions provide his students with a great opportunity to extend their leadership and performance skills, on top of their already busy performance programme. “Arts and Music are very different, and it is a great crossover for our musicians to be part of the musical theatre world, and to work alongside theatre students who are often more extroverted by nature.”

When it comes to life beyond school, Duncan says students from Performing Arts subjects have much to offer.

“Creativity is now a core value at St Andrew’s College, and it also helps industries to grow. The essential skills students learn in Performing Arts can set them up for all sorts of careers.”

Laurence says as students develop an understanding of the stories and themes in theatre, their world view and perspective on others often changes.

He believes any role in the workforce which requires dealing with people and communications, such as law, social work, media, teaching, and many other sectors, can benefit from employees with experience in the Arts.

For now, he says the team’s focus is on the 2020 group of Performing Arts students. “We have a fantastic melting pot of different temperaments and interest groups in Performing Arts.

At times we might appear like a big dysfunctional family, but it all works brilliantly.”

Where are they now?

We catch up with some recent graduates of St Andrew’s College who are continuing to explore a wide range of Performing Arts pursuits.

Grace Dephoff

Sophie Wells

Spotify streams, and three multiplatinum records. She was a finalist on The Voice of Holland, and has featured at over 20 international festivals, with support slots for the likes of Jhené Aiko, Boney M, and Hollie Smith. Sacha also runs SOLE Music Academy.

Cameron McHugh

Sophie Wells (OC 2014) graduated from Unitec with a Bachelor of Performing and Screen Arts (PostProduction and Directing) as a Senior Scholar in 2017. After working as a freelance videographer, she moved to London in January 2019 to take up the role of Multimedia Production Officer at Shakespeare’s Globe, collaborating with cast and creatives to produce, direct, and distribute a variety of digital media in order to tell the Globe’s story all over the world.

Jack Duff

Cameron McHugh (OC 2016) graduated from the National Academy of Singing and Dramatic Art in 2019, having performed in multiple musicals, as well as writing original music for a play, and an original musical. He is now teaching all around New Zealand with dreams of becoming an accomplished Musical Director and teaching at his own performing arts school.

Samantha Deller

Neil MacLeod Jack Duff (OC 2015) graduated from the acclaimed Bachelor of Fine Arts (Music Theatre) course at the Victorian College of the Arts, where he was the recipient of the 2018 Ron Freedman Memorial Award and 2018 Grace Marion Wilson Trust Scholarship. He now has professional representation, which he hopes will guide him through a successful performing arts career in Australasia and beyond.

Sacha Vee

After being heavily involved in Performing Arts at St Andrew’s College, Samantha Deller (OC 2016) took a year to decide whether or not to pursue a career in the Arts. In the end, she decided to complete a Bachelor of Nursing, but is still exploring her passion for performance with the University of Canterbury’s Musical Theatre Society – MUSOC.

After completing a Bachelor of Music at Otago University School of Music and an Honours year at Auckland University, Harry Grigg (OC 2014) has performed principal roles in two Australian operas and has been successful in a number of competitions. He is a 2020 New Zealand Opera DMMF Studio Artist and later this year will begin his Master of Performance studies at the Royal College of Music in London.

Christchurch neo-soul singer and songwriter, Sacha Vee (Sacha van Beek OC 2002), has established a following across the globe with more than 50 million YouTube views and

Neil MacLeod (OC 2016) is an independent musician/producer based in Wellington, who since leaving Christchurch, has been working on a wide variety of projects. His last self-released EP, To Unfold, was toured across New Zealand, with two sold out shows in Wellington. Aside from his personal work, Neil has worked as a producer/writer on a host of local projects, such as Pacific Heights and Tunes of I.

15 Regulus

Grace Dephoff (OC 2017) is in her final year at the Victoria College of Arts in Melbourne, completing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film and Television.

After graduating, she wishes to pursue cinematography as well as writing and directing her own films.

Grace twice won Best Film at the St Andrew’s College Film Fest.

Teaching and Learning

Harry Grigg

Another outstanding

year of

academic achievement

Many St Andrew’s College students achieved outstanding success in NCEA, with a total of 228 Excellence endorsements (or 36 per cent of students) achieving this highest benchmark across all three year levels (74 at Level 1, 77 at Level 2, and 77 at Level 3). Congratulations to all students who gained overall Excellence endorsements, along with the many students who gained subject endorsements.

New Zealand Scholarship Awards Congratulations to the 19 Year 13 students and five Year 12 students who achieved 39 Scholarships between them, after gaining some of the very best marks in the country across a range of subjects. A special congratulations to College Dux, Hamilton Martin, and Charles Zhang who achieved five Scholarships each, and Mackey Johnston who gained the top mark in New Zealand for Technology and won an Outstanding Scholarship. The two other Outstanding Scholarship winners (finishing in the top 50 students nationwide) were Thomas Pope-Kerr (English) and Philip Nordt (Drama).

• Daniel Bishop – Chemistry, Accounting; • Jordan Bourke (Year 12) – Chemistry, Calculus; • Samuel Croot (Year 12) – Chemistry, Physics, Calculus; • Aleisha Davis (Year 12) – Chemistry, Physics; • Samantha Ferrier – Painting; • Shannon Fraser – Economics; • Charles Fulton – Chemistry; • Louis Grant – Geography; • Yuji Hattori – Calculus; • Mackey Johnstone – Technology ICT (Outstanding); • Jin Ju (Victoria) Lee – Music; • Ayla Marshall – Health/Physical Education;

Hamilton Martin – Dux 2019 Hamilton Martin was the deserved winner of the David Wilton Prize for the Dux of St Andrew’s College for 2019. He excelled across a number of academic disciplines and was awarded five NZQA Scholarships – in Chemistry, Physics, Classics, English, and Calculus. Hamilton was also awarded a General Excellence Prize, the Beanland Cup for Year 13 History, and the Physical Science Prize. He won a silver medal in the 2019 Chemistry Olympiad competition, achieved Scholarship Calculus as a Year 12 student, and attained an A+ in his university Mathematics paper.

• Hamilton Martin – Chemistry, Physics, Classics, English, Calculus; • Imogen McNeill (Year12) – English; • Juliette Newman – Biology; • Philip Nordt – Drama (Outstanding); • Thomas Pope-Kerr – English (Outstanding), Geography; • Arsh Primuswala – Geography; • Eva Pringle – Health/Physical Education; • Tom Shipley – Agriculture/Horticulture; • Rose Siebuhr – English; • Jack Stokes – Agriculture/Horticulture; • McKenna Wilson (Year12) – Geography, English; • Charles Zhang – Physics, Geography, Classics, Statistics, English.

Board Scholarships The following group of student leavers from 2019, were presented with Board of Governors Scholarships after gaining NCEA Level 3 Excellence endorsements.

• Jemma Alexander • Harry Anderson • Jasmine Ball • Sienna Beer • Alexandra Bingham • Daniel Bishop • Andrew Blay • Anika Boet • Ashleigh Bradford • Marcella Bragg • Ethan Bright • Rinay Chandra • Lewis Edmond • Samantha Ferrier • Shannon Fraser • Charlie Fulton • James Garbett • Victor Gan • Samuel Gordon • Callum Hampton • Etienne Harrington-Watt • Blake Harvey • Yuji Hattori • Loren Hay • Mackey Johnstone

• Mikeely Jones • Jack Kelliher • Grace Kelly • Thomas Kepple • Charlie Kinney • Justine Klassen • Shea Laws • Jin Ju (Victoria) Lee • Meg Longley • Ayla Marshall • Hamilton Martin • Corban Mathewson • Bruno Mitchell • Bradley Moreton • Megan Moore • Francesca Morrow • Jake Newlands • Juliette Newman • Philip Nordt • Matthew Palmer • Hana Pearce • Thomas Pope-Kerr • Henry Qiu • Angus Rainey • Ayrton Shadbolt

• Rose Siebuhr • Tom Shipley • Alicia Smith • Victoria Spratt • Abbey Stokes • Oscar Story • Fredrick Studholme • Iona Taylor • Jamie Te Whata • Oscar Toohey • Bella Trott • Cassia Trowsdale • Meg Vallabh • Dunyachut (Rocky) Vatananan • Zachary Venning • Luca Vinnell • Yingquan (Andrea) Wang • Levi Wilson • Elliot Wood • Charles Zhang • Jenny Zhu • Tony Zhou

99.5%

gained NCEA at Level 1

99.5%

gained NCEA at Level 2

96.1%

gained NCEA at Level 3

88.9%

gained University Entrance

Top Technology student Mackey Johnstone (OC 2019), has left a lasting legacy at St Andrew’s College, both as a top scholar, and for creating a project which continues to have a daily positive impact for staff during the lunchtime food rush.

He says he was ‘stoked and a little shocked’ to find out he was the top Technology student in New Zealand, following the 2019 NCEA Scholarship examinations when he received a perfect score. “I thought I must have read the result wrong. I was surprised and very excited.”

Mackey also won an Outstanding Scholarship for his project, which was to create an online staff payment system for the College Cafeteria. To complete food orders using the system, staff now simply swipe their St Andrew’s College ID tag in front of a screen on the Cafeteria counter. Their purchases are automatically charged to their account and later automatically deducted from their pay. This has significantly sped up the purchase process and greatly reduced the length of the staff queue each break time. “The staff lines in the Cafeteria had always been a problem. When Head of Innovation and Information Services, Wilj Dekkers, and I first talked about the project, it seemed

Zealand

a perfect fit. It was a great thing to do for the College community, and I knew the advanced technology would challenge me and show my skills.”

It was with help from various other stakeholders at St Andrew’s, particularly ICT Systems Administrator, Joshua Harrison, that Mackey’s system was able to be fully integrated into the College’s IT network. “Joshua was a great help, particularly around integration and security. Helpdesk Supervisor, Kagan King also had some ingenious, random ideas that helped, and others in the IT Department provided great support as well.”

Mackey enjoyed working with a range of stakeholders on the project, including Cafeteria Manager, Sharon McDonald, and the Accounts and Communications teams, who provided feedback on the project design, and how the information and transactions should flow. “It was great to interact with people who had an investment in the project, and who wanted it to succeed.”

Mackey says ICT teacher, Phil Adams, also provided fantastic support. “He inspired me to push myself with all the technology and was an instrumental figure in my success.”

17 Phil Adams is understandably proud of Mackey’s achievements. “He is a curious, talented, and hard-working student, who balanced the demands of multiple stakeholders to build a great solution. He also did a good job of writing up the project, summarising all the decisions he made and the reasoning behind them, which the markers found very valuable.”

Mackey says the almost 60-page document he put together to outline his project was highly detailed. “It included all of the conversations I had with stakeholders, and the ton of problems I ran into and how we solved them.”

This year, Mackey is enjoying his studies in Computer Science at the University of Canterbury, and says he is proud of his top student achievement, and his project. “I loved every minute of it. It was a great motivator to wake up and do some work that was really fun. Working with stakeholders and creating solutions in the real world is something I would happily do as a career.”

Regulus

in New

Teaching and Learning

Mackey Johnstone (OC 2019), with Marketing Communications Co-ordinator, Camila Reyes, and Cafeteria Assistant, Marlene Scott.

Academic

successes

2019 successes The outstanding academic achievements of our students in late 2019 are featured below (please note the use of 2019 year groups).

Future Problem Solving The Year 8 team of William BainbridgeSmith, Tama Connelly, Chantelle Xiong (captain) and Isobel Forsey achieved first place in the Dramatic Presentation of Action Plan and second place in the Team Booklet at the Future Problem Solving National Finals, which qualified them for the Future Problem Solving Program International in June 2020. In the Individual Booklet, Megan Simpson (Year 8) placed first and Scarlett Gray (Year 7) third.

Microbiology Ruthie Konusi (Year 12) was accepted to attend Hands-On at Otago 2020 to take part in a week-long Microbiology project.

Robotics A team of Year 9 students, Bede Miller, Naomi Dana, Daniel Robertson, Mia Fraser and Bailey Moir, won the national OneWorld Robotics Competition. This saw them secure an invitation to the World Challenge in Sydney and win a prize pool of 20 robot starter kits, along with professional development for the College.

Speech and Drama A group of 21 Year 2–3 students sat their Oral Communication Assessments and were assessed

by Jessica Rees (OC 2003) who is an examiner for Speech New Zealand.

Pasifika Academic Awards 2020

The following students gained Distinction passes – the highest level of pass possible: • P reliminary: Hana Baddeley, Oscar Han, Andrew Li and Aaron Yu (all Year 2); • I ntroductory: Charlotte Currie, Charlotte Everest, Louis Hyland and Ben McKendry (all Year 3).

Tech Den App Competition The inaugural Tech Den Competition saw seven Year 10 Digitech teams present their app ideas to a panel of experts from the tech sector. Teams had to design an app solution to a problem they had researched in the Health, Agribusiness, Social, or Future Cities space. They then created a business case and an app prototype, which they pitched to the judges. The winner was ‘Buzz’ – an app designed by Patrick Ryan (CEO), Gavin Gao, Fergus Rutledge and Logan Pegley (all Year 10) to enable elderly people to discover, choose and attend social events in their area. It also had a rating and a chat function.

Head of Middle School, Mikae Tuu’u, Marshall Setu (Year 13) with his parents either side, and Te Reo Māori Studies teacher, Pete Westrupp.

At the Canterbury Pasifika Academic Awards, which recognise the academic achievement of Pasifika students from the wider Canterbury region, Marshall Setu (Year 13) was awarded the Supreme Academic Award, as the highest achieving Pasifika student in Canterbury for 2019. This was a wonderful acknowledgement of Marshall’s achievements in Level 2 NCEA, which included over 90 Excellence credits.

Robotics

World Scholar Cup Xavier Dickason (Year 12) competed in the World Scholar’s Cup Tournament of Champions at Yale University in the USA, doing incredibly well to finish in sixth place overall in the Senior Division. In the team competition, he worked with two students from Australia, placing ninth overall.

Young Farmer Contest

OneWorld Robotics winners Bailey Moir, Naomi Dana, Daniel Robertson, Bede Miller, Mia Fraser.

2020 successes

Marshall Stokes and Fergus Sidey (both Year 10) were first at the Regional Finals for the Junior Young Farmer contest which means they are off to Nationals (in some capacity) in July.

The event format was changed several times due to cancellations/closures and the boys did really well to get first place after completing two live quizzes on the computer, while talking to each other over the phone.

St Andrew’s College students in action at the VEX Robotics Competition National Championships.

St Andrew’s has achieved its best VEX Robotics season so far, with two of the four teams competing in the VEX Robotics Competition National Championships in Auckland, making it to the quarter finals. They were the Year 10 team of Bede Miller, Bailey Moir and Riley Thomson, and the Senior team, comprising Jordan Bourke, Samuel Croot, Benjamin Gee and Alan Fu (all Year 13).

New teaching

2020 Teaching and Learning

staff for

Leisha Connolly has joined the Social Sciences Department on a fixed term for 2020. She has a Bachelor of Science and a Graduate Diploma Teaching and Learning.

Valerie Eves has joined the History Department on a fixed term for 2020. She has a Master of Science Research and Learning from the University of Oxford.

Daniel Hill has joined St Andrew’s as an English teacher. He has a Bachelor of Arts (English Literature) and a Post Graduate Certificate of Education.

Ashleigh James is a Health and Physical Education teacher. She has a Bachelor of Physical Education and a Graduate Diploma in Teaching.

Andrew Kerrison is a Design and Visual Communication teacher. He has a Diploma of Teaching, and a Diploma in Specialist Subjects.

Nicole Kilbride has joined St Andrew’s as an English teacher. She has a Bachelor of Arts (English Literature), a Graduate Diploma Teaching and Learning, and a Certificate of Proficiency in History and Sociology.

Mark Lane is the new Director of Sport and Co-curricular Activities. He has a Bachelor of Science (Mathematics) and a Graduate Diploma of Teaching.

Heidi Schout (OC 2010) has joined St Andrew’s as a Health and Physical Education teacher. She has a Bachelor of Sports Coaching and a Graduate Diploma in Teaching.

Mia Silverman is the new Head of Media Studies. She has a Bachelor of Film and Video and Graduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching, and is completing a Post Graduate Certificate of Education (Mentoring and Leadership).

Dayna Stirling has joined St Andrew’s as Teacher in Charge of Health.

She has a Bachelor of Education (Physical Education) and a Graduate Diploma Teaching and Learning.

Michelle Tewkesbury has joined the Science Department on a fixed term for 2020. She has a PhD, and Graduate Diploma of Teaching and Learning.

Richard Webster has joined St Andrew’s as a Careers Counsellor.

He has a Bachelor of Science, Graduate Diploma in Teaching, and a Diploma in Career Guidance.

Marlene van der Vent has joined St Andrew's as a Year 1 teacher.

She has a Diploma of Teaching.

Fiona Patterson is a new Year 5 teacher in the Preparatory School.

She has a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning.

Monique O'Sullivan is a new Year 2 teacher. She has a Master of Teaching and Learning.

Dave Ermerins has joined St Andrew's as a Year 7 teacher. He has a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning.

Pre-school Phillipa Stephens is the new Head of Pre-school. She has a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning Early Childhood Education.

19 Regulus

Preparatory School

Secondary School

An

The introduction of a weekly mindfulness session in the St Andrew’s College Pre-school is having noticeable benefits, says Head of Pre-school, Phillipa Stephens. “The children are becoming more aware of themselves and others and are building their confidence and well-being. Mindfulness helps the children to better understand their feelings and emotions, and can also help to lower anxiety and stress.”

of

calm

Mindfulness sessions are held on Friday afternoons, when the children can choose to come and sit on mats in a large circle, with candles and plants in the middle, and soft music playing.

Pre-school teacher, Emma Richards, then leads them through two or three practical mindfulness activities. Mindful eating is an example of the many sensory activities enjoyed by the children during the sessions. They are given a small piece of food and asked to use all five senses to describe the experience of putting it into their mouth and slowly chewing it. Emma encourages the children to breathe in and out and to listen to what their body is doing, slowing down their breathing and clearing their minds. She also encourages the children to think about how they are feeling, such as happy, or tired.

The introduction of mindfulness into the Pre-school programme is a great complement for the weekly yoga class, which has been run by teacher, Jo Gregg, for several years.

Both are popular activities, with the children always having the choice whether to engage. “I can see so much benefit from these simple techniques which brings the children into the present moment and into their own bodies, while creating calm. It is a lovely way to end a busy week,” says Emma.

Festive fun and

giving back for the City Mission. I was amazed once again by the generosity of our St Andrew’s College families, as we ended up donating a trailer-load of goods. The children saw how their one or two donated items added to the mountain of goods, which helped them to understand how every small action really can make a difference.”

Each year a large Christmas tree is put up in the Junior Department, with all Years 1–3 students making a decoration for it. “Every child is also asked to bring a food or personal item to go under the tree

A Christmas Concert and Year 3 Leavers’ Celebration was a special event on the Junior Department’s end-of-year calendar, which included singing with instruments, dancing, Jump Jam, and Christmas carols.

Year 2 students also contributed beautiful handmade paper birds, angels, and circle decorations to the Christmas tree by the staircase in Strowan House, and were excited to visit and see their handiwork.

Year 3 students shared heartfelt messages about their time spent in the Junior Department, before receiving their leaving certificates.

The following day, the Junior Department visited Ferrymead Heritage Park, where they stepped back in time to find out how Christmas was celebrated over 100 years ago.

The children and staff dressed in clothing of the day and took part in activities including cookie making, card making, Christmas Eve parlour games, and Boxing Day races. “It was an action-packed day, full of wellplanned learning experiences, and the perfect way for the children to celebrate the end of their school year,” says Heather.

Teaching and Learning

The final week of school is always a special time for students in the Junior Department to celebrate their year together, enjoy festive activities, and reflect on how they can give back in some way, says Head of Junior Syndicate, Heather Orman. “Along with the wonderful festive spirit at this time of year, we convey an important underlying message in line with our College value of Inclusivity. Our students love to help, and we provide opportunities for them to share their kindness and generosity with others, both within the St Andrew’s community, and broader communities.”

Regulus

21

Top left: Junior students with the Christmas tree they helped to decorate. Top middle: Lous Highland-Cook (then Year 3) with Principal of the Preparatory School, Jonathan Bierwirth. Top right: Chloe Sha (then Year 2) playing the xylophone. Bottom left: Lucas Chima (then Year 1) at Ferrymead Heritage Park. Bottom middle: Florence Twiss (then Year 1) at Ferrymead Heritage Park. Bottom right: Junior students after the Christmas Concert and Year 3 Leavers’ Celebration.

Left: Emmett Lawler (then Year 3) with his buddy Charlie Hole (then Year 4).

Above: The Years 3–5 choir performing.

Once a week throughout Term 4, Year 3 students visit the Middle Syndicate, when they might attend an assembly, have morning tea or lunch with the Year 4 students, meet the Year 4 teachers, or do activities with a Year 4 buddy. “We also create a mock start of the day, so the Year 3 students can practise putting their bags in the lockers and going to class. By the time they arrive to start Year 4, they are feeling comfortable in the new environment.”

A smooth transition One of the most significant transitions for students in the Preparatory School is the step up from Year 3 to Year 4, when they leave the Junior Department to join the Middle Syndicate of Year 4–6 students. “The Junior area is so compact, colourful and contained, and it can be quite a change for the younger students to move into the main part of the Preparatory School, where they share the big playground and turf with the older children. To help them feel confident and comfortable about this transition, we put a lot of initiatives in place at the end of each year so the students can familiarise themselves with their new surroundings,” says Head of Middle Syndicate, Meg Feller.

Building strong connections between the year levels in the Middle Syndicate is another focus, says Meg. “We have team fitness sessions together twice a week, and team assemblies every fortnight, which are run by a different class each time.

Our Years 4–5 choir meets every week, and on Wednesday afternoons the Syndicate takes part in kapa haka.”

Growth Mindset Persistence Awards are given out each week, with one deserving student receiving a trophy, which sits on their desk for the week as a reminder of their achievement. Key Competency Awards are given twice a term. “We have a strong focus on the College’s Developing Positive Relationships (DPR) values, and how these are integrated both at school and at home. Our focus for Term 1 was ‘responsibility’, which is a key value our students develop as they move through Year 4.”

Meg says parents are kept well informed of their child’s progress, with Seesaw and email being the main forms of communication. “With lots of initiatives in place, and good communication with parents, we support our students to make a positive, happy transition into the Middle Syndicate.”

Support through change The beginning of the year is a significant time for students in the Preparatory School’s Senior Syndicate.

The Year 8 students anticipate an exciting final year in the Preparatory School, with many taking on leadership roles.

They are also aware their transition to Secondary School is not far away.

With around half of the intake of Year 7 each year made up of new students from contributing schools, and the balance taking the step up from Year 6 at St Andrew’s College, the start of the year is a time for these students to settle into their new environment, and make new friends, says Year 7 Team Leader, Kelly McBride. “We understand students in both year groups go through a lot of change and have put a number of initiatives in place to support these transitions, as well as their physical and mental health and well-being.”

Fun activities, which bond students and help them to make new friends, are a priority early in Term 1. The Year 8 students took part in an adventure-based Leadership Day,

which put them into unfamiliar groupings and helped to identify young leaders. They also completed a Red Cross first aid course in preparation for their camp at Castle Hill. The Year 7 students got to know each other during days spent surfing at Sumner Beach, and sailing at Lake Rua. Various lunchtime clubs, such as Minecraft, Drama, Stitch Club, Chess, Debating, and Music, along with regular team fitness sessions, have also kept the students busy and interacting with each other.

There have even been social class get-togethers, with students, their parents, and families, meeting outside school hours. These experiences all help to build the family culture that St Andrew’s College is renowned for.

Additional support for Year 7–8 students is provided by two key programmes – the Travellers Programme, which helps students to build resilience and key life skills as they make these important transitions, and Bounce Back!, a multiple award-winning positive education approach to well-being, resilience, and social-emotional learning. “The environment our

students are growing up in is more challenging than for previous generations, with things like social media having a dramatic impact.

The Travellers and Bounce Back! programmes provide excellent tools to help students deal with life challenges, while developing resilience, persistence, and dedication. They learn not to quit when things get hard,” says Kelly.

Later in the year, as the Year 8 students prepare to leave the Preparatory School, they will start to work closely with the Year 9 Dean and Head of Middle Syndicate, attend Secondary School assemblies, and work with some specialist Secondary School teachers in subjects such as Science and Mathematics, says Year 8 Team Leader, Morgan Sheppard.

“We work hard to foster a positive learning environment in the Senior Syndicate, so our students are confident, happy, and have a positive growth mindset. This helps them to do their best both inside and outside the classroom and continue to make successful transitions into the future.”

Teaching and Learning

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Left: Getting ready to sail are Year 7 students, Edie Burtscher, Jenna Russell, and Gemma Hawker. Top right: Surfing at Sumner Beach are Year 7 students, Jackson Stewart, Jack Mangos, Beau Robertson, and Joshua Blackman. Bottom right: William Lindores (Year 8) learning CPR.

Landscape leaves

lasting impression

Visitors to St Andrew’s College often remark on its picturesque campus and beautiful gardens, which are linked by cleverly designed paved areas, and anchored by the Centennial Chapel, historic Strowan House, and the meandering Strowan Stream.

Since the earthquakes, St Andrew’s has worked closely with Jasmax landscape architects to implement a landscaping master plan, which has complemented the extensive capital developments at the College over the last decade. Key projects include ‘a home away from home’ around the boarding houses; a central ‘street’ with rain gardens and local ecosystem plantings; the main entrance and forecourt with bespoke

centennial columns, gates, poetic stone inserts and shared surfaces; a new drop-off zone improving safety; and the Stewart Junior Centre and Pre-school landscape and playgrounds, which won a Learning Environment New Zealand 2018 award for Excellence in Educational Facilities – Landscape/ Outdoor Learning.

He says one of the stand-out projects was the award-winning Stewart Junior Centre and Pre-school landscape and playgrounds. “This vibrant and fully customised environment provides a variety of learning and play opportunities, maximising ‘play value’ to inspire children to explore their world and nature, while supporting physical and psychological development. This is a future-focused facility, designed as a legacy to last for future generations.”

Adrian says a trusting and collaborative relationship has grown between Jasmax, St Andrew’s College and the consultant team. “St Andrew’s has valued the role landscape architecture can have, where the College’s belief in the landscape vision has been intrinsic to its success. The last 10 years has been an amazing journey for the Jasmax landscape team of Mike Thomas, Rob Lawry, and myself, and we are proud of how the landscaping has transformed the campus.”

St Andrew’s Property Manager, Mark McGregor, says the College’s grounds and maintenance team have done an outstanding job of bringing the landscaping master plan to life, with Gardener, Rochelle Dunster, and Head Groundsman, Michael Seaward, having pivotal roles when it comes to the garden areas. “Both have worked closely with Adrian Taylor from Jasmax, and myself, providing input into the plantings, as well as the maintenance and irrigation aspects of the projects. The gardens really are Rochelle’s domain. She is so passionate about them and does such a fantastic job while bringing her own flair to her work. I’m also proud of the

entire grounds and maintenance team for the way in which they have stepped up over the last decade. There has been a huge amount of development on campus, and they have done a tremendous job.”

General Manager, David Evans, says St Andrew’s values its longstanding relationship with Jasmax, and the hard work of the College’s grounds and maintenance team, in bringing the creative vision to life. “The landscaping projects have really tied our building development programme together over the last 10 years. The result is the icing on what is now a really great cake.”

The St Andrew’s College Grounds and Maintenance team, from left, Michael Seaward, Mark McGregor, Rochelle Dunster, Caleb Aperahama, Mike Johnston, Perry Storr

Resources and Environment

Jasmax Senior Landscape Architect, Adrian Taylor, says the landscape projects at St Andrew’s College have been delivered with ‘seamless consistency’. “Unique elements have been created in the landscape and align the campus with the College’s pedagogy and character. The plantings have been designed with high seasonality and diversity to be reflective of a ‘home-style garden’, in order to provide a sense of domestic familiarity and well-being to students.”

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Photographs courtesy of Jasmax and David Baird Photography

From the Director

Development The support of the Old Collegians Association runs through so many of our campus developments, and we are excited to announce that the Old Collegians Association has also provided financial support for the Theatre Complex. In honour of the funding, the foyer in the Theatre is now named The St Andrew’s College Old Collegians’ Foyer.

Excitement is building around the new Theatre Complex, with construction planned to start later this year. In the meantime we acknowledge some significant support for this project, which has come from within the St Andrew’s College community.

In December, Ben Gough (OC 1991) and his wife Pen, from the Ben Gough Family Foundation, made a very generous donation towards the Theatre, which we are thrilled to announce, is now called the Ben Gough Family Theatre.

The Ben Gough Family Foundation’s focus is on supporting those who show a deep passion and unwavering commitment to having a positive impact at an individual and community level. The Foundation’s support of the Theatre Complex has been a great kickstart to the Your Legacy, Our Future campaign, and is also a significant show of support for the importance of cultural pursuits at St Andrew’s, and our new College values of Creativity and Inclusivity.

The Gough family has a long history at St Andrew’s, with Ben, and his father, Blair Gough (OC 1964), both attending the College. Ben is also the benefactor of Spirit of Adventure and Outward Bound scholarships awarded to two students at St Andrew’s each year.

The College has also received a generous gift from the Sinclair family in honour of their father John R Sinclair, who was Deputy Rector (1983–1996) and Administration Manager (1997– 2000) at St Andrew’s College. The John Sinclair Scholarship is to be awarded to a student to attend St Andrew’s College (Years 11–13) who might not otherwise be able to attend, or remain at the College, but who, in the Rector’s assessment, is highly motivated to make a positive academic, sporting or cultural contribution to the College.

In March, the Arts Block gained a new look and splash of colour with the addition of two new billboards, bringing to life the Your Legacy, Our Future campaign.

Thanks to our

generous

supporters

St Andrew’s College has a proud philanthropic culture and longheld tradition of giving back. We are grateful for the generosity shown each year by individuals, families and businesses connected to the College, whose support helps us to provide top class buildings and facilities for current and future students.

Our community has once again shown amazing generosity in 2020, and we would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge those who have contributed so far this year. All donations for 2020 will be published in our 2020 Philanthropy Report and on the St Andrew’s College website.

Theatre Seats and Notes Dr W and Mrs S Bailey Mr W S and Mrs K E Blade Brook family Chandra family Dan and Belinda Charteris Coventr y family Everest family Kelly Hinkley and Murray James Mr J Li and Mrs W Shi Hongwei Liu Ed and Nicky Newman Andrew and Schira Withers Min Chaun Wu David Yu and Jian Sun Fitness Centre Mr J T and Mrs R M Blake Rick and Janet Nicholls New Highland Members St Andrew’s College Rugby New Thompson Founders’ Circle

John Sinclair

If you would like to know more about how you can support this campaign, and the development of our two latest projects, please contact me on +64 21 339 707 or MNE@stac.school.nz.

The Ben Gough Family Foundation Sinclair family

Cafeteria

palm oil free

When several students approached Cafeteria Manager, Sharon McDonald, about the College Cafeteria going palm oil free, she immediately took their request on board.

Teacher in Charge of the Sustainability Council, Ellen Hampson, says the move to a palm oil free Cafeteria is to be congratulated. “It is very much appreciated, both the action itself, and the role modelling for our students.”

Resources and Environment

Palm oil is a vegetable oil, derived from the oil palm tree, which is in our foods, cosmetics, cleaning products, and fuels. Sharon says the students who approached her expressed their concerns around the social and environmental impacts of palm oil production including the displacement of indigenous peoples, habitat degradation, deforestation and loss of biodiversity. “When I was a child I remember being told if we lost our forests, we would lose the breath of the earth, and now it’s happening.”

Sharon is in her 30th year at St Andrew’s College, and says she and her team have been introducing sustainable practices for a considerable time. “We use brown paper bags or sustainable food cartons instead of Gladwrap for almost every product these days. We are also more conscious of healthy options for the students and have introduced a lot more vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free choices.”

Cafeteria Manager, Sharon McDonald

Shrove

Tuesday At the Preparatory School chapel service on Tuesday 25 February, students learnt about the origins of Pancake Day, an old English custom of using up perishable ingredients in the house before Lent.

Following the service, the traditional ‘Pancake Race’ was held for new Preparatory School staff. Students and staff enjoyed cheering the participants on as they raced with their fry pan and pancake. Well done to the winner of the ‘Pancake Race’ for 2020, Year 5 teacher, Fiona Patterson.

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“The students asked if I would check to see if we were selling any products with palm oil in them, and if we could exclude those that did. We had already been conscious of this issue, and only found a couple of products containing traces of palm oil, which have now been removed from the Cafeteria.”

Historic win in Gillette Cup

The First XI cricket team’s spectacular win in the Gillette Cup national finals in December 2019, is one of the stand-out sporting achievements in the history of St Andrew’s College.

This was the first time St Andrew’s had made it to the national final, the pinnacle of New Zealand Secondary Schools’ one-day cricket, so to go one better, and win the title, was outstanding, says coach, Mike Johnston.

“As a coach you always dream of the perfect game, and the last game of the tournament against Hamilton Boys’ High School was the complete game of cricket for us.

The boys put on a magnificent display of batting, bowling and fielding, scoring 276/8 in their 50 overs, and bowling the Hamilton side out for 102. Everything aligned.”

Star players in the side included Rhys Mariu (named joint Most Valuable Player at the tournament) and Jesse Frew (both then Year 13), who were selected for the New Zealand U19 cricket team this year. Both scored well with the bat, with Jesse achieving an outstanding 103 against Otago Boys’ High School. Jordy Frew’s (then Year 11) off-spin bowling also proved dangerous, securing him 11 wickets for the tournament. Zakary Foulkes (then Year 12) was another century-maker in the team with an impressive 110 runs against Rosmini College. Mike says while the stand-out players performed well, the team’s strength was that it didn’t rely on them, with all 13 team members stepping up and contributing with the bat, ball, or in the field. “Everyone played their role exceptionally well and contributed at crucial stages in the tournament.

Our batsmen scored runs when it counted, our pace bowlers had some great spells, and our fielders were superb, and definitely a class above.”

First XI captain, Rhys Mariu (Year 13)

More

honours for

The win over Hamilton Boys’ High School in the final match secured the championship for St Andrew’s College, which is one of the very few co-educational schools to win the title since the competition began in 1990. The fairy tale end to the tournament was no overnight success for Mike, who had taken six previous St Andrew’s College First XI teams to regional finals of the Gillette Cup. “We were pipped at the post a couple of times, and probably had the hardest pool in New Zealand to get past because of Christchurch Boys’ High School. I always thought we had a chance of doing well at the national tournament if we could get past them in the regionals.”

Mike said the team shared a strong bond, had a lot of fun together, and really enjoyed their cricket. “We also had a great support team around us, with co-coach, Robbie Frew, and manager, Pete Darling, both outstanding. We received huge support from the St Andrew’s College community during the tournament, and the wider Canterbury community who turned out on the final day to support us.” Since the tournament, Rhys Mariu has represented New Zealand at the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup in Bangladesh, where the team finished fourth after their playoff match against Pakistan was washed out. “Rhys did incredibly well and was probably among the top 10 run scorers in the tournament.

Unfortunately, Jesse Frew got a shoulder injury and couldn’t go.”

Winning the Gillette Cup is the pinnacle of Mike’s exceptional 19-year coaching career at St Andrew’s, during which time 16 former players he coached at the College have gone on to play first class or international cricket at senior level.

At the final chapel service of 2019, Mike was awarded the inaugural ‘Rector’s Medal’ by Rector, Christine Leighton.

This new award is presented at the Rector’s discretion for an exceptional achievement of a student, staff member or Old Collegian. Mike’s service to cricket as coach of the First XI for 19 years, culminating in the Gillette Cup win, made him a deserving recipient. Mike still plays cricket himself, being a member of the Canterbury Over 60s team which won the national tournament in January. He was later named in the New Zealand Over 60s cricket team, which will play in a tournament against Australian sides in September.

Mike was also awarded a 2020 Lifetime Achievement Award from Sport Canterbury, which he had been scheduled to collect at the ORIX New Zealand Canterbury Sports Awards on Friday 3 April.

In 2020, Mike is enjoying the challenge of bringing the next crop of promising young players through into the First XI side. “We’re in a rebuilding phase, and it’s always exciting to seeing the new players grow and challenge themselves, understanding how important it is to play at the top level.”

The 2019 First XI are in the top four youth teams at the Canterbury Sports Awards, which was due to be announced in early April, but was delayed due to the lockdown.

First XI cricket coach, Mike Johnston, receives the inaugural Rector’s Medal from Rector Christine Leighton, with team manager, Pete Darling looking on.

Values and Culture

St Andrew’s College batted first in all five matches at the Gillette Cup, amassing impressive scores of over 300 runs against Wellington College, Rosmini College, and Otago Boys’ High School, which the team defended with ease. The only blip came in the third round against Lindisfarne College, when St Andrew’s mustered 141/9 in their 50 overs, which was surpassed

by Lindisfarne in 42.1 overs.

The plaudits for First XI cricket coach, Mike Johnston, known to most on campus as ‘Scrump’, have continued since the Gillette Cup victory.

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The 2019 First XI cricket team: (back) Pete Darling (manager), Mike Johnston (coach), Etienne Harrington-Watt (Year 13), Zakary Foulkes (Year 12), Connor Hotton (Year 12), Will Anderson (Year 11), Harrison McMillan (Year 12), Harrison Waghorn (Year 12), Rob Frew (co-coach) (front) Ben Innes (Year 13), Jordy Frew (Year 11), Jesse Frew (Year 13), Rhys Mariu (Year 13), Harrison Darling (Year 13), Jack Rule (Year 12), Tom McKay (Year 13)

Scrump

Honouring the

Founder

The St Andrew’s College community was unable to gather for the Founders’ Day Assembly because of the COVID-19 pandemic, with many also missing the opportunity to see the wonderful display in The Green Library and Innovation Centre honouring the founder of the College, Rev. A T Thompson.

The display was put together by Preparatory School Art teacher and Museum Curator, Pip Dinsenbacher, and Head Graphic Designer, Craig Morgan, and featured a 1920 AJS combination motorcycle, similar to the one Rev. Thompson famously rode around the College grounds during its establishment at Strowan in 1917. Pip has also been working on a special exhibition in the College Museum about Rev. Thompson, which will be completed once the College reopens.

As a passionate historian, who has written about Rev. Thompson many times before, Pip remains just as enamoured with the man he was. “He had a hard life, a tragic life, yet it was also an incredible life, and we really wanted to take this opportunity to celebrate that.”

Alexander Thomas Thompson was born in Invercargill in 1876, and although he missed some of his schooling at Invercargill Grammar School, he still managed to become Dux and win a scholarship to secondary school.

However, at the age of 12, and without consultation with his parents, young Alexander left school to become an apprentice draper. He worked for the next four years, attended night school, and became a lay preacher in his mid-teens, before deciding he wanted to forge a career as a minister. After attending Otago Boys’ High School for his matriculation year, Alexander won a generous scholarship from the Presbyterian Church to complete his Bachelor of Arts degree at Otago University, then won a scholarship to complete a Bachelor of Divinity degree at Yale in the United States, becoming the first New Zealander to attend this prestigious ‘Ivy League’ University.

After completing his studies at Yale, Alexander was determined to circle the globe before returning to New Zealand, and with little money, paid $10.00 to work as a cattleman, living below decks on a first-class liner, sailing to Britain.

When several of the rich passengers on board heard there was a Yale graduate working as a cattleman, they insisted on meeting him, and upon learning that Thompson’s luggage had been stolen below decks, they gave him £12.00 to kit himself out.

Once he returned home to his fiancée, Mary Kemp, they married, and had their first child, a daughter, at Thames, where Alexander, now Rev. Thompson, had his first parish. They moved to a new parish in Masterton in 1906, where tragedy struck when Mary died in childbirth. Mary’s mother and sister then cared for and brought up Rev. Thompson’s toddler daughter and day-old son away. He threw himself into his church work to try and cope with his grief. Some years later Rev. Thompson

married a Masterton woman, Robina Cameron, and they had four children, one boy and three girls.

Around this time, an attempt to start a boys’ school in Masterton was thwarted.

He was then instrumental in the establishment of girls’ boarding school, Solway College. Thompson’s sister-inlaw, Marion, was its first principal.

By this time, aged around 40, Rev. Thompson had grown a huge reputation, and was called to the St Andrew’s Presbyterian parish in Addington, finding the social stratums and expectations of Christchurch quite different to sleepy Masterton, says Pip. “As well as being a good preacher, he was expected to give weekly lectures on subjects such as Geology and Astronomy, and make personal calls to the parishioners’ homes. He provided incredible pastoral care throughout World War I and later, the Spanish flu outbreak.”

Rev. Thompson vacated the manse in Addington, and St Andrew’s College, a ‘Preparatory and Secondary Day and Boarding School for Boys’ was established. A series of events led to the College’s move to Strowan. Rev. Thompson, assisted by his friend and parishioner, Charles McCrostie had been ‘wooing’ parishioners and gathering small donations.

A $5000 bequeath from the generous North Canterbury run-holder, Duncan Rutherford, coincided with the Stead family putting their property ‘Strowan Park’ on the market.

Rev. Thompson made a complete reconnaissance of the property on his motorbike, saying in his memoir, “I even crept by stealth, on foot, down the entrance drive and by the terraced stream with its lovely overarching trees, which, in my mind, I dubbed ‘the poet’s walk’. I came to the conclusion, which I have held through all years since: ‘There is only one place for St Andrew’s College, and that is Strowan’.”

The purchase was completed in late 1917, and ever since, thousands of people have been woven into the College’s rich history.

Rev. Thompson left Christchurch in 1919, but St Andrew’s remained a significant part of his life. A few years before he died in 1956, his family donated a portrait of him to the College, says Pip. “When we look at this rather stern portrait of Rev. Thompson on the landing in Strowan House, there is only a small hint of the amazing man he was. His personal life was marked with grief and loss, and his health was always poorly, yet he was hardworking, compassionate and kind, with his faith in and his devotion to God, Presbyterianism and St Andrew’s College remaining his enduring legacy.”

The Founders’ Day Address from Rector Christine Leighton was recorded and sent out to the St Andrew’s College community, instead of being delivered in person. Some of the highlights include Christine’s reflections on life at St Andrew’s in the 1960s, when the 60 Years On group attended the College.

The main focus of her message was about College founder, Rev. A T Thompson, “a scholar, visionary, indomitable fundraiser, and a tireless worker, friend, and good man, whose vision, commitment, and character was inspirational,” she said.

Rev. Thompson lived through World War I (1914–1918), the Spanish Flu (1918), World War II (1939–1945), and the New Zealand Polio Epidemic (1940s). “He knew about difficult times and overcoming adversity.

At this challenging time for us all, I believe his story has some important messages.”

Christine says Rev. Thompson was committed to the College’s founding values of Truth, Excellence and Faith, and to establishing a school which taught not only reading, writing and arithmetic, but which worked with parents and guardians to develop a 'sound character' amongst the children, including instruction in industry, cleanliness, honesty and unselfishness.

Rev. Thompson was also a creative and published poet, who passionately believed in inclusivity.

Christine read some of the Founder’s own words in her address, a verse from one of his poems, which is still highly relevant in today’s uncertain world.

Out in the world midst stress and strain We’ll do our utmost to maintain The truth and freedom learning of these More previous than prosperity.

Values and Culture

Soon after his induction in Christchurch, an old document was found from the Commissioner of Crown Lands allocating three acres of land to the Scottish settlers for a church and school. This led to Thompson developing a ‘blueprint’ for a Presbyterian boys’ school, which he presented to other church leaders, including Dr Erwin, of Knox Church, and which was unanimously approved in December 1916.

This is the second year in a row that the traditional Founders’ Day Assembly and Highland Games have been disrupted due to global events. Last year, the Highland Games had just begun when the terror attack occurred in Christchurch. The cancellation of this year’s events was disappointing for students, staff, and the many Old Collegians who were supposed to be gathering to celebrate their 60 Years On reunion.

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Top: Head Graphic Designer, Craig Morgan, and Preparatory School Art Teacher and Museum Curator, Pip Dinsenbacher, have started to curate an exhibition on Rev. A T Thompson. Bottom: A replica motorcycle and sidecar like Rev. Thompson used to ride around the St Andrew’s College campus.

Founders’ Day Rector’s address

A welcome for

new students

The start of the year can be an anxious time for new students, however, a range of initiatives are put in place at St Andrew’s College to ensure everyone feels welcomed.

In the Secondary School, a special Mihi Whakatau Assembly is held on the first full day back at the College, when all new teachers and students are formally welcomed. At this year’s Mihi Whakatau Assembly, the College’s Kapa Haka Group and Pasifika students were an important part of this ceremony, in particular, Tamati Frost (Year 12) who delivered the whaikōrero on behalf of the tangata whenua.

Tamati also led a Mihi Whakatau to welcome the eight new international and two exchange students and their families to St Andrew’s College, again with support from the Māori and Pasifika group. This set a great tone for the rest of International Orientation Day, which included the new students getting to know the College community and campus, and enjoying a gondola ride up the Port Hills.

R

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A group of 25 new day students in Years 11–13 also took part in a relaxed orientation camp at Castle Hill, where they were joined by Head of Senior College, John Ruge, their Deans, and the Heads and Deputy Heads of College.

The New Student Camp was a great opportunity for the students to have an authentic introduction to Outdoor Education at St Andrew’s College, to connect with each other, and make new friends. A Boarders’ Weekend of activities helped new boarding students to connect with others and settle into the boarding community.

With these initiatives, and many others in place, new students quickly fit into their new environment at St Andrew’s College, and are ready for a positive year ahead.

REGULUS is available as an e-magazine making it easy to read – anywhere, and on any device!

If you would prefer to receive Regulus as an e-magazine please contact us at records@stac.school.nz.

positive impact

There are two fresh, new faces on the St Andrew’s campus, who are having a positive impact on students and playing an important complementary role to the College’s guidance team.

In Term 1, youth workers Matt Cossey and Honor Clement from the 24-7 YouthWork programme joined St Andrew’s for 10 hours a week.

Head of Guidance, Tom Matthews, says they are outstanding young people with an incredible skill set.

“As well as having one-on-one sessions with students, Matt and Honor act as mentors and coaches, run lunchtime groups, and get involved in activities which connect students. They provide excellent role modelling for behaviours such as conflict resolution, healthy socialising, how to talk to each other in a kind way, and sorting out difficulties when they arise.”

Tom says the youth workers were introduced to support student well-being, and to assist students who may not necessarily need guidance counselling, but who may be wrestling with some of the many problems and pressures teenagers face. “Sometimes rather than see their Dean or a counsellor, students might prefer to chat to someone closer to their own age, who can mentor them through an issue, or perhaps guide them to create more social connection.”

The 24-7 YouthWork programme is well-established around New Zealand. Honor, who works with female students, and Matt, who works with male students, came to St Andrew’s from Majestic Church in central Christchurch.

Matt says no two days they spend on campus are the same, however making friends has been a hot topic in the early part of the year, when a significant number of students are settling into a new environment. “We talk a lot with students about how to make friends. Working through issues and conflict resolution is another big part of what we do.

Sometimes students want to chat about general home stuff, or they might just want to kick a ball around or shoot some hoops. If they don’t want to talk, that’s ok too.”

Tom says the 24-7 YouthWork programme is already providing a valuable bridge between the students, school, and community.

“The feedback from students is that they love having Matt and Honor around. Their introduction has been such a success, we’re planning to integrate them even more, with additional lunchtime activities, and eventually, activities in the classroom.”

Honor says she and Matt have made a three-year commitment to working with St Andrew’s College, which will enable them to build good relationships. “We hope that within a year or so we will know the majority of students.”

Students can request one-on-one sessions with the youth workers. If it becomes apparent the student might need more formal help, then the youth workers will connect them with the guidance team. “We can continue to support them through this journey, and can even sit in on their counselling sessions if they wish,” says Matt.

24-7 youth workers, Honor Clement and Matt Cossey

Values and Culture

having

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Youth workers

New opportunities to

lead and learn

The boarding community at St Andrew’s College has had a great start to the year, with students bonding over fun activities and events, having some new experiences in the revamped Prep (study) programme, and taking on some new leadership opportunities.

All Year 13 students in 2020 have become Kaiāwhina – a leader or support person in a community. “Under the fantastic leadership of Head of Boys’ Boarding, Aminiasi (Mini) Toga, and Head of Girls’ Boarding, Libby McKinnel, our Year 13 students have enjoyed stepping into these new leadership roles,” says Director of Boarding, Matt Parr.

Heads of Boarding, Mini Toga and Libby McKinnel, are already proving to be positive role models in the boarding houses and have been working hard to develop their theme of Inclusivity, says Libby. “Mini and I are committed to building the culture in boarding by implementing new initiatives to strengthen relationships between the genders and all year levels in the boarding houses. In Term 1, we started focus groups of mixed ages and genders, led by Year 12 students, which go out once a term to do activities together.”

Mini says he is proud to be the first Pacific Island student to hold the prestigious role of Head of Boys’ Boarding at St Andrew’s, and has experienced first-hand how St Andrew’s College lives its core value of Inclusivity. “It was a huge transition for me to leave my family in Fiji at the age of 15 to come here, but I felt immediately welcomed. With the support of the boarding staff and teachers, and the help of my peers, I’ve become the man I am today. I am humbled to be seen as a role model for the younger Pacific Island generation at St Andrew’s, and to show them that anything is possible if you are willing to put yourself outside your comfort zone.”

This year, St Andrew’s has introduced a unique ‘UChoose’ programme for boarders’ Prep (study) time, when they have the choice in the second half of each session to either continue to study independently, join a study group, or take part in a tutor-led activity. Twice a week, a ‘Flexi-Prep’ session replaces the discussion option, and students can use this time to learn anything from how to change a car tyre, to Te Reo Māori, or have a supervised workout in the gym.

“This programme has transformed Prep time and gives our tutors the opportunity to share their knowledge, experiences, and broad range of skills with the students,” says Matt.

Along with the academic, sporting and cultural opportunities on offer at St Andrew’s, Matt says communal living in a co-educational environment, socialisation, the development of organisational skills, and resourcefulness, are just some of the life skills boarders develop at the College. “These factors add up to what I call the ‘boarding advantage’, or the added value boarding can create.

As they journey through their education at St Andrew’s College, our girls and boys build strong friendships and develop a broad set of life skills, which will help them to flourish in life well beyond secondary school.”

In Term 1, boarders have enjoyed lots of activities, experiences, and opportunities since their arrival back at St Andrew’s in late January.

Thompson Assistant House Manager Jo Ah Kuoi, Rutherford House Manager Ian White, MacGibbon Assistant House Manager Lisa Laughlin, Director of Boarding Matt Parr, MacGibbon House Manager Struan George, Thompson House Manager Jo Morrow, Rutherford Assistant House Manager Maxine Shepherd

Boarders bond during events The Boarders’ Orientation Weekend and Valentine’s Day Dinner are always enthusiastically embraced by boarders at the start of the year. These events also help new boarders to settle in and make friends, says Director of Boarding, Matt Parr. “The start of the year can be a nervous time for new boarders, however by the end of Boarders’ Orientation Weekend, they are usually feeling comfortable and relaxed and ready to tackle the school year.”

A group of 44 new boarders joined the St Andrew’s boarding community in 2020, including 33 at Year 9 level. They were welcomed to the College a day before the rest of the boarding community arrived back at the College and had their first taste of the delicious food served by the College’s catering team at a family barbecue, served by the Peer Support Leaders.

Once all students were back in the boarding houses, it was time to get together in House groups to organise chants, costumes, and House Entrances ready for the fun activities over Boarders’ Orientation Weekend. These included everything from ‘Capture the Flag’ and ‘Fat Mat Splat’, to a mini Olympic tabloid featuring egg and spoon races, wheelbarrow and sack races, and a House tug-o-war.

Heads of Boarding, Mini Toga and Libby McKinnel, organised a highly successful ‘Amazing Race’ for the Sunday morning activities, which gave the various year levels a chance to spend some more time getting to know one another. The traditional Boarders’ Chapel Service was a fitting way to end the weekend.

A couple of weeks later, the boarding community gathered in the Strowan House Dining Room for an entertaining Valentine’s Day themed dinner, organised by ‘The King and Queen of Hearts’, Mini Toga and Libby McKinnel, and the Erwin House Leaders, Lucca Burley, Sam Banks and Carter McCann. Students enjoyed a delicious meal, special decorations, a ‘blind date’, and a beautiful solo performance by Catelin Riordan (Year 12).

behaviour. When supporting student well-being and student achievement, our decision making also revolves around what a great parent might do. We are really lucky with the layers of staffing, quality of dedicated people, and the great team culture we have in boarding at St Andrew’s College.”

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The fact that many tutors, and all management staff in boarding at St Andrew’s College have a teaching background, is a key point of difference, says Director of Boarding, Matt Parr. “Our teaching backgrounds mean we understand how to work with young people and manage

Values and Culture

The dedicated boarding team

StAC Unplugged It is a heartening sight to see the front fields at St Andrew’s College awash with Year 9–11 students at lunchtimes – and not a mobile phone in sight.

The new StAC Unplugged initiative means that from 8.20am until 3.20pm each day, students in the Middle School cannot access their mobile phones. The idea was trialled at the end of 2019 and was so successful, the Middle School decided to implement it right throughout 2020, says Head of Middle School, Mikae Tuu’u. “We are seeing so many positives.

The fields are full during lunchtimes, with lots of activities, students talking and laughing, balls flying all over the place, and meaningful conversations and interactions taking place.”

The Middle School already had a policy that devices couldn’t be used in the classroom unless directed by a teacher. StAC Unplugged has taken it one step further. “The idea stemmed from observing our students, and

students from other schools, spending so much time on their devices.

Research has shown a worsening trend in anxiety and depression in young people with the advent of Facebook and other social media. We are supporting our students’ well-being and mental health through the StAC Unplugged initiative, and believe disconnecting is also leading to greater engagement in the classroom, when students get outside and give their brains a proper rest at break times,” says Mikae.

Organised lunchtime activities are gradually being introduced, including a Sports Café, funded by the PTA, where students can access sports gear to use at lunchtime. “Lots of court activities are taking place, and our 24/7 youth workers regularly engage with a range of students during the breaks. For those students who simply want to hang out, that’s fine too.”

Mikae says staff and parents have wholeheartedly supported the initiative and while there has been some

disagreement from students, the majority have adapted well. To combat student concerns around access to timetables, appointments and meetings, the Middle School has re-introduced a printed Middle School diary, which has the students’ timetables and other information inside. “The diary is a convenient size which slips inside the students’ blazer pockets. This is another way we have tried to reduce our reliance on technology,” says Mikae.

StAC Unplugged is in place until the end of the year, when it will be reviewed.

“Doing nothing was the easy option, but it definitely wasn’t the best option.

Student well-being is a priority, and we had a responsibility to act.”

An incredible seven records were broken on the day. These included Hayden Vickery (Year 11) running 23.00 seconds in the Senior Boys’ 200m, breaking the old record set by T A Hart in 1959, Hugh Montgomery (Year 13), who ran a scintillating 10.04 seconds in his Senior Boys’ 100m heat to beat the old record of 10.80 seconds previously held jointly by S R Farrell (set in 1992) and J R Maug (in 2001), and Tapenisa Havea (Year 12) who broke two records,

in the Senior Girls’ discus and shot put, and whose throw in the shot put surpassed the previous record by a whopping 5.5 metres. Other recordbreaking athletes were Elliot Graves (Year 9 – U14 Boys’ 1500m), Couper Killick (Year 11 – U15 Boys’ discus), and Neve Moulai (Year 12 – Senior Girls’ 400m), who broke a 25-year-old record.

House spirit was also to the fore, with Rutherford claiming the Champion House honours on the day.

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The Secondary School Athletic Sports Day was held in perfect weather conditions, with a number of parents and grandparents coming along to enjoy the occasion. Over 1000 Secondary School students competed, or supported, a great variety of track and field events.

Values and Culture

Athletic Sports Day

Te Waka Calling

Ceremony

It was an early start on Thursday 27 February for our 210 Year 10 students, who gathered at Kairaki Beach, where the Waimakariri River flows to the sea, to witness the sunrise and take part in their Calling Ceremony.

The ceremony is part of ‘The Rite Journey’ course, which is a significant component of the Te Waka programme. During this significant occasion, students are ‘called’ by their teachers on their journey towards adulthood. It is also an opportunity for them to acknowledge the end of childhood, and to show gratitude to

the people who have influenced them throughout their lives to date.

An important aspect of the ceremony this year saw the students write a childhood behaviour they wished to ‘let go’ of on a stone or shell, then symbolically throw it into the river.

The next Te Waka ceremony, The Departure, took place on Wednesday 11 March, when parents, carers and mentors joined the students to give their blessing and support for the programme, and to reflect together, and express gratitude for, the students’ childhood experiences.

A home

away from home

Philipp’s host mother, Vivien McCaskey, says she and husband Scott McCaskey, son Michael, and daughter, DeArna (who is in Year 10 at Burnside High School) have hosted 12 international students over the last four years, after being asked to take in an international student from another

Michael McCaskey says hosting international students brings their house ‘alive’. “It’s cool to host people who are my age, who I can talk to and hang out with.”

Now well practised as a ‘host mum’, Vivien has introduced some fun ways for the students to learn about New Zealand. “We have a list of ‘must-do’ activities which we tick off, as well as a food poster, which has pictures of many different Kiwi foods, including New Zealand salmon, kiwifruit, Marmite, and Pineapple Lumps. We give the students each food to try, then record on the poster whether they liked it or not.”

Head of International and Student Exchanges, Palē Tauti, says there are many options for families interested in hosting an international student.

“Some students are with us for a term, and others for a whole year. There are also holiday homestays, where

students live with families for the school holidays only.”

Palē says around five to 10 homestay families are needed each year.

“Although there is a financial benefit, the biggest opportunity most families enjoy is welcoming a person from a new culture into their home and showcasing the Kiwi lifestyle.”

Vivien McCaskey says the international students they host are treated like members of the family. “We make it clear they have responsibilities and are expected to eat dinner together with us as a family every night, which is not always a common thing.”

Her advice for other prospective homestay parents is to ‘give it a try’ even if it is just for a short homestay visit. “Don’t be put off by having someone new in your home as they will respect it. Open communication is really important, and you need to be their parent as much as their friend. We love to give international students the opportunity to embrace experiences that most Kiwi kids take for granted. It’s great to see the change in them that can occur.”

International Year 11 student, Philipp Beckhove (centre), with members of his homestay family, Michael McCaskey (Year 11) and Vivien McCaskey.

Values and Culture

Christchurch and its surrounds have been a welcome playground for Philipp, who has an adventurous spirit and a love of the outdoors. Some of his favourite spots to visit included Sumner Beach, Mt Herbert, and Corsair Bay, where he enjoyed swimming, surfing, biking, sailing, and hiking. He also enjoyed fishing, one of his favourite pastimes in Germany.

school during the school holidays.

“It was great for our children, who loved having someone in the house who spoke a different language. They asked if we could host another student and it went from there.”

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Having a genuine experience in a Kiwi family, while learning more about the culture and people of New Zealand, are among the benefits of staying with a homestay family, says international student, Philipp Beckhove (Year 11) from Germany. During his time at St Andrew’s College in Term 1, Philipp lived with Michael McCaskey (Year 11) and his family in Northwood. “It’s been great to do lots of activities with my homestay family, and even some exploring on my own at weekends.”

Cultural catch up

2019 achievements The outstanding cultural achievements of our students in late 2019 are featured below (please note the use of 2019 year groups).

Ballet Riley Lyons (Year 9) is a Junior Associate Classical Ballet Major with the New Zealand School of Dance and was selected to continue with this programme in 2020. She will attend intensive weekend training sessions in Wellington, working with New Zealand’s best practitioners, as a pre-selection for a possible future career in the art form.

Creative Writing At Tūranga Library, The Duchess of Cornwall joined a workshop for young people participating in The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition, which is run by The Royal Commonwealth Society, of which the Duchess is Vice-Patron. Radha Gamble (Year 5), Priya Bartlett (Year 7) and Rebecca Bolton (Year 12) all received recognition for taking part in this year’s competition, in which 11,000 students wrote about the theme of ‘A Connected Commonwealth’. The entrants had to consider how they can work to use cultural, technological, and environmental connections for positive change across the Commonwealth.

Rebecca Bolton achieved a Gold Award in the essay competition.

Audiences enjoyed four sellout performances of the Ballet Academy’s incredible production of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, which took them on a fantastical journey with Dorothy and her Oz friends. Every Ballet Academy dancer, from Years 1–13 participated – with over 150 cast members in all. They delivered a stunning performance, and everyone danced beautifully, under the tutelage of Dr Carolyn Cairns, Ballet Academy Artistic Director, who directed and choreographed the production.

Jack Calder (Year 11) attained a Highly Commended Award in the Zephyr Short Story Competition, run by the Wellington Branch of the New Zealand Society of Authors.

Priya Bartlett (Year 7) had a poem selected for The New Zealand Poetry Society Anthology 2019, called The Perfect Weight of Blankets at Night.

She attended the Book Launch in Auckland where she read her poem.

Xavier Dickason (Year 12) had a poem accepted for publication in Re-Draft, a collection of poetry and short stories by students from throughout New Zealand.

Three students entered the 2019 Peter Smart Writing Competition which was judged over the Christmas holidays, with the following placings:

Priya Bartlett (Year 7), Rebecca Bolton (Year 12) and Radha Gamble (Year 5) meeting The Duchess of Cornwall with other Canterbury students.

Ballet Academy Production – The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

Pieta Bayley (Year 9) was awarded first place in the Creative Writing Division (Poetry) of the 2019 International Torrance Legacy Creativity Awards.

• G race Lawrence (Year 10) was awarded first place in the Year 10 category for her flash fiction piece, Damaged;

• S kye Atkins (Year 10) was awarded second place in the Year 10 category for her flash fiction piece, Yellow; • Isla Calder (Year 9) was awarded third place in the Year 9 Category for her flash fiction piece, London in the Rain.

Media Studies Isla Lewis (Year 12) won Best Editing for her short film Window Shopping in the School Shorts Screen Competition, held at Reading Cinema. Her film was up against 19 other films, including four from St Andrew’s College.

Debating Oscar Bloom (Year 12) was selected for the Canterbury Debating team.

Music Pippa McAnergney (Year 13) was part of a selected group of songwriters who worked with Bic Runga last year.

The group came together at the Arts Centre to share some work.

Music

Head of Culture, Elliot Wood (Year 13), was accepted into the prestigious Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre at the Victoria College of the Arts in Melbourne.

Theatresports The Junior Theatresports team of Thomas Kamo, Grace Richan and Alexander Wilson (all Year 10), and Ethan Bonis and Marco Leighs (both Year 9), competed against five other teams in the junior final of the Court Theatre’s annual Theatresports in Schools competition. The team were real crowd pleasers, and came second overall.

2020 achievements Ballet Examinations The following dancers achieved Scholarship Nominations following national ballet examinations (late in 2019) – Riley Lyons and Sophie O’Connor (both Year 10), Mei-Lin McClelland, Charlotte Brown and Anja Sander (all Year 11), Charlotte Sloper and Evelyn Clarke (both Year 13) and Rose Siebuhr (OC 2019). Riley Lyons (also a Classical Major Associate with the New Zealand School of Dance) gained second place in New Zealand.

Pippa McAnergney

Pipe Band Campbell Wilson (Year 13) competed at the Turakina Highland Games in the North Island, with some outstanding results. He won the U21 New Zealand Championship Hornpipe and Jig and the A Grade 2/4 March, and was second in the U21 2/4 March.

The A and B Pipe Bands enjoyed a full weekend of competition at the Provincial Championships and Canterbury Centre Contest. For the A Band, this was their first competition since March last year, and was an opportunity to compete against strong adult bands in Grade 2. The B Band, although quite new to piping, had excellent performances on both days against adult bands too. Results were: Provincial Championships • A Band: Juvenile – First; • B Band: Juvenile – Third; • Grade 4: Third.

Results Sunday 1 March – Canterbury Centre Contest

National Pipe Band Championships A group of 59 students (including nine Old Collegians), eight staff, and 82 parents and supporters went to Invercargill for the National Pipe Band Championships in midMarch. The B Band was an exceptionally young group, with many of the students playing at their first national contest. Results were: • A Band – second place Juvenile and second place Grade 2; • B Band – fourth place Juvenile and ninth place Grade 4A. Pipe Band tutors, Richard Hawke, Graeme Bryce, Jamie McEwan and Alexandra Wilson, won the National Grade 1 Championship with the Canterbury Caledonian Pipe Band.

• A Band: Juvenile – Second; • A Band: Grade 2: Second; • B Band: Juvenile – Third; • Grade 4: Third.

Creative Writing Pieta Bayley (Year 10) had both a short story and a poem published in the January 2020 issue of Fingers Comma Toes.

Members of the Pipe Band in action during the National Pipe Band Championships.

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Musical Theatre

Values and Culture

Hansen Hong (Year 7) passed the ABRSM examination for Grade 8 Piano with high distinction and Grade 6 Violin with distinction.

Community and

Service

New Zealand Gift and Homeware Fair Award At the three-day New Zealand Autumn Gift and Homeware Fair in Auckland, Amelie Coggan (Year 11), won Best New Product ahead of hundreds of other exhibitors. Amelie designs and individually handcrafts delightful clay figurines, which she sells through her own business, called Little Joys.

Year 8 Buddy’s Hour of Kindness Class 8T prepared an hour of fun and kindness with their Year 1 buddies.

They made gifts, organised games, and planned a fun time to show kindness to others during this unsettling time.

Mufti Day – Colour Your Day Students in the Secondary School held a mufti day to support the Colour Your Day cause. The inaugural nationwide event was organised to provide New Zealanders with an opportunity to support the families of those affected by the 15 March terrorist attack, by wearing colour, and also to support St John. The College collected $1623.80 which will be given to the wonderful people at St John for equipment and training.

Pipe Band Community Service Pipe Band Director, Richard Hawke, and pipers, Oskar Trafford (Year 10), Lachlan Johns, Jakarta Klebert and Ryan Stewart (all Year 11), performed brilliantly for the Plate Up for a Purpose event, which was fundraising for back-to-school costs for KidsCan.

Amelie Coggan (Year 11), and some of her award winning Little Joys range.

World Vision Day Several Community Service Leaders attended the World Vision Leadership Conference, with the theme Kotahitanga: Unity in the face of division in the world. One of the key issues looked at was the human cost of the climate crisis and the shared understanding that global issues require co-operation from a global community. The students heard from some fantastic guest speakers at their lessons on leadership, and they reinforced the idea that change starts with ‘me’, and it starts now.

Abby Jones (Year 12) with Lucy Cammock-Elliot, Madeline Tutty and Alan Fu (all Year 13) at the World Vision Leadership Conference.

Pipe Major Campbell Wilson (Year 13) performed at the Family Memorial Service marking the ninth anniversary of 22 February 2011 earthquake.

Campbell played a moving Highland Cathedral for everyone who gathered at the Avonhead Park Cemetery.

Top: Dylan Liu (Year 1) with Jasmine Hooker (Yea 8). Bottom: Logan Dawson (Year 1) with Harry Jack (Year 8).

Scholarships fund of a

adventures

lifetime

Two more St Andrew’s College students have had the experience of a lifetime, thanks to the generosity of Old Collegian, Ben Gough (OC 1991), who funds annual scholarships for a Year 11 student to attend Spirit of Adventure, and a Year 12 student for Outward Bound.

He wasn’t sure what to expect but was ‘extremely impressed’ by what he experienced. “My biggest highlights were the relaxed way things were run, and the other people on the trip, who I’m still in contact with. At the start, I found it a challenge to put myself out there and make the connections that I did. Going up the mast and tying and untying the sails were the other main challenges for me.”

William says since going on the adventure, he thinks more deeply about things, and has a greater appreciation for the hard work that goes into organising an initiative on the scale of Spirit of Adventure.

Sophie Henderson (now Year 13) was the other Ben Gough Family Foundation Scholarship recipient and took part in a three-week Outward Bound experience in January.

“I applied because I wanted to gain more confidence in my own abilities and try some new things.”

Her group of 16–18 year olds were based at Anakiwa, and completed a range of challenging activities, including two tramps, two sailing activities, high ropes, rock climbing, and a three-day solo, along with lots of other smaller activities and team building exercises. “I loved the sailing. It was great fun to be able to captain the boat with everyone on it. I also surprisingly enjoyed running the half marathon.”

Having always struggled with heights, Sophie says she surprised herself by managing to complete most of the rock wall climb, and the high ropes.

Sophie’s friends have noticed that she is a lot more confident in herself, and in her own abilities, since returning from Outward Bound. The experience has also inspired Sophie to get a part-time job, and apply for a School to Seas programme, run by the New Zealand Navy for females who are interested in Science subjects.

“I’d like to thank Ben Gough very much for this amazing opportunity. It was a truly life changing experience, which I wouldn’t have done without the scholarship.”

Main image: Year 12 student William Twiss (front left) sailing on Spirit of Adventure. Left: Year 12 student, Sophie Henderson (right) with other students on Outward Bound.

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William applied for the scholarship as he knew Spirit of Adventure would be an interesting experience and something completely different from the norm. “I thought it would be a great way to refresh after exams, and to make some new friends.”

Values and Culture

William Twiss (now Year 12) says he was ‘incredibly grateful’ to be awarded the scholarship from the Ben Gough Family Foundation to attend Spirit of Adventure in December. “I would like to thank Ben Gough for the great privilege of going on this sailing trip.”

Swimming

Sports

The Secondary School Swimming Sports were held at Jellie Park Recreation and Sport Centre on Friday 6 March.

As always, there was a great House spirit, and the fiercely fought House Competition was won by Rutherford, making it a clean sweep for them in both the Swimming Sports and Athletics Day. There were many outstanding individual performances in all age groups. Overall champions were:

Girls Senior: Katie McBride (Year 13) U16: Skye Atkins (Year 11) U15: Isabelle McConchie (Year 10) U14: Holly McCarthy (Year 9)

Boys Senior: Angus Kelliher (Year 13) U16: Callum Lockhart (Year 11) U15: Harrison Kyle (Year 11) U14: Ryan Marsh (Year 9).

www.montreux.co.nz

factory & showroom 400 Barbadoes Street, christchurch

Another successful

rowing season However, prior to this, the squad had enjoyed a great season on the water, which started with the Canterbury Championships, where they first got to test themselves against other schools and clubs. Between them, the St Andrew’s squad made an impressive 30 A finals, with 13 crews gaining a top three finish. Gold medals were won by the Novice double sculls, Girls’ U17 quad sculls, Boys’ U16 eight and four, Boys’ U17 coxed four, and Men’s U19 coxed quad sculls.

The South Island Secondary Schools' Rowing Championships would prove to be the culmination of the rowing season for St Andrew’s College. Our crews did incredibly well to qualify for 21 A finals and seven B finals, winning two gold, three silver and four bronze medals.

“This was a fantastic effort and a great opportunity for our crews to put all of their hard work during the season into practice,” says Teacher in Charge of Rowing, Riley Gain. “Not being able to attend Maadi Cup was disappointing for the squad, Head Coach, Guy Williams, his enthusiastic team of coaches, and the many St Andrew’s staff and parents who worked tirelessly to support the rowers. However the squad made the best of the season, and put in some great performances they can all be proud of.”

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At the South Island Club Rowing Regatta, 32 crews made it to A finals, with a further five making B finals. St Andrew’s crews finished with four gold medals in the Boys’ U17 four, Boys’ U19 four, Boys’ U16 four, and Boys’ U16 eight, three silver, and three bronze medals.

Four boys’ crews performed well at the Head of the River regatta, then it was on to the Canterbury Secondary Schools Championships at Lake Hood for the entire squad. Despite illness and injury within the group, St Andrew’s College made 30 A finals, and achieved three golds, eight silvers and five bronze medals.

Values and Culture

The cancellation of the Maadi Cup event due to the COVID-19 pandemic was a disappointing end to the season for the St Andrew’s College rowing squad, particularly for those Year 13 students who won’t get another opportunity to participate in the pinnacle of Secondary Schools’ rowing in New Zealand.

South Island Secondary School Medals Gold

Silver

Bronze

Boys’ U16 four: Sam Long, Fergus Rutledge, James McLaren, Henry Farrell, Amalia Ling

Boys’ U15 double: Oliver McDonald, Tom Rutherford

Girls’ U18 double: Sophie O’Connor, Freddy Todhunter

Boys’ U16 eight: Sam Long, Fergus Rutledge, James McLaren, Angus Hill, Henry Farrell, Ethan Allison, Oliver McDonald, Tom Rutherford, Oscar Rutledge

Boys’ U15 eight: Spencer Welsford, Lachie Odlin, Tom MacLean, Matthew O’Donnell, Matthew Patterson, Sam Hartnell, Andrew Greig, Guy Daniels, Lotte Hope Boys’ U18 four: Caleb Brown, Lachie Muir, Ben Farrell, Ashton Corkery, Alex Carrodus

Boys’ U17 four: Caleb Brown, Lachie Muir, Dylan Smith, Ben Hartnell, Alex Carrodus Boys’ U18 novice four: Tom MacLean, Matthew Patterson, Joe Drury, Lachie Odlin, Amalia Ling Girls’ U17 double: Amelia Speight, Sophia Rutherford

Amalia Ling (Y12) holding the medals for the Boys' U18 novice coxed four

Sports

round up

2019 round up Air Cadets Milo Betts (Y11) was promoted to Corporal at Air Cadets and also attained his poutahi, the first level in mau rākau Māori weaponry.

Athletics A group of 30 Preparatory School students competed at the Canterbury Primary Schools Athletic Championships at Ngā Puna Wai. Students to reach the podium were:

Year 9 pole vaulters Torin Ward and Mitchell Corkery

• Y6: Sasha McIntyre and Jack Shearer, both third in 1000m;

• Claudia Knight (Y12): silver in Senior Girls high jump;

• Y 7: Rylee McBride second in long jump and 100m, and first in relay. Ana Tau first in 60m and relay. Jasmine Hooker first in 1200m. William Richards fifth in long jump. Gemma Wong and Mia Montgomery first in relay.

• Tapenisa Havea (Y11): bronze in Senior Girls shot put;

New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Athletics Championships

• Mitchell Corkery and Torin Ward (both Y9): third equal bronze in Junior Boys pole vault.

Basketball Mac Stodart (Y13), Te Rina Cooper (Y11) and Lauren Whittaker (Y9) were awarded Canterbury Basketball Association All Star singlets.

Lauren Whittaker (Y10) and Madeline-Rose Morrow (Y11) participated in the Canterbury High School All Star games, which were curtain raisers for the Breakers game at Horncastle Arena in December.

Lauren Whittaker (Y9) and Te Rina Cooper (Y11)

Beach Volleyball Junior Mixed 4×400m relay team (back) Nikkita McIntyre (Y9), Couper Killick (Y10), (front) Sienna Stowers-Smith (Y9), and Michael McCaskey (Y10).

In December, a group of 21 athletes travelled to Wellington to compete in the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Athletics Championships. Despite bad weather, the St Andrew’s team performed exceptionally well, winning three gold medals and national titles, two silver medals, and three bronze medals, along with a number of top 10 placings and personal bests.

Highlights included Eva Pringle and Ayrton Shadbolt (both Y13) picking up medals in their Senior steeplechase events, Maia Anderson-Broughton (Y13) defending the Senior Girls’ 200m title that she won in 2018 in Dunedin, and the win by the Junior Mixed 4×400m relay team, giving the four runners their first ever national medal.

Four students were named in the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Paper Team – Maia Anderson-Broughton, Eva Pringle, Ayrton Shadbolt (Y13) and Claudia Knight (Y12).

Placegetters were: • Maia Anderson-Broughton (Y13): gold in Senior Girls 200m; • Eva Pringle (Y13): gold in Senior Girls steeplechase; • M ichael McCaskey (Y10), Sienna Stowers-Smith (Y9), Nikkita McIntyre (Y9), Couper Killick (Y10): gold in Junior Mixed 4×400 relay; • Ayrton Shadbolt (Y13): silver in Senior Boys steeplechase;

Tineke Hinton and Lauren Whittaker won the Year 9 Doubles competition at the South Island Secondary School Beach Volleyball Championships.

Cricket Rhys Mariu and Jesse Frew (both Y13) were named in the Canterbury U19 cricket squad for the National U19 Tournament.

Year 11 students Scott Janett, Harrison Bisphan, Cameron Slee and Arden Ongley were selected for the Canterbury Metro U17 Red cricket team.

The Preparatory Girls’ First XI competed in the Canterbury Regional Cricket Tournament after qualifying from the Christchurch Zone. After defeating Waimea College, Nelson, and Craighead Diocesan School, Timaru, they progressed to what was essentially a play-off for the national finals against Heaton Normal Intermediate. They lost to a strong Heaton team, receiving silver medals after finishing second in Canterbury.

Football Charlotte Roche (Y10) was selected for the New Zealand Secondary Schools Girls’ U16 football team to travel to America in April.

Dylan Smith (Y12) was in the Mainland Football (Canterbury, Nelson and Marlborough) team which won the U16 National Age Group Tournament in December.

Gymnastics

Motocross

Tennis

Poppy Rumble (Y9) won bronze at the New Zealand National Rhythmic Gymnastics Competition.

At the Extreme Enduro National Championships Series, Round 3, Cody Doerner-Corson (Y13) was second in the EnduroX and the Hard Enduro, and Luke Doerner-Corson (Y11) was first in the EnduroX and the Hard Enduro. After the final round of the New Zealand Extreme Off-Road Championship Four Round Series, Luke Doerner-Corson finished in first place in Bronze Class Overall.

Both the Boys’ and Girls’ Preparatory School tennis teams won their respective A Grade tournament at the Canterbury Primary Schools’ Tennis Tournament, with the boys retaining their 2018 title.

Jiu Jitsu Neko Brewer (Y9) won silver at the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gi Nationals, with Eli Brewer (Y8) winning gold in his division.

Neko Brewer (Y9) and Eli Brewer (Y8)

Jump Jam The Years 4–6 Jump Jam team, Uptown Thistles, were second in the Years 4–6 Challenge, in the Challenge South Island Regional Competition.

The team was coached by Sophie Goode (Y11), who was the youngest coach in the competition and was awarded Student Coach of the Year.

Mountain Biking

A group of Secondary School students competed at the Canterbury Secondary Schools’ Tennis Junior Championships with some outstanding results: • Y ear 9 Boys Singles: Winner Liam Barrett, runner-up Marley Murray;

Harri Silcock (Y11), Benjamin Leech and Henry Spark (both Y12) won the ECan Junior Men’s category of the 6-hour Blast mountain bike team relay at McLeans Island. The St Andrew’s Boys’ team placed second overall out of 209 teams.

• Y ear 10 Boys Singles: Winner Finn Emslie-Robson and runner-up Blake Cullen;

Mountain Running

• Y ear 10 Girls Doubles: Runners-up Charli Watts and Selena Gan.

Edward McGuckin (Y12) competed at the Bell Hill Challenge Trail Run in Sheffield, a 15km run off-road around the hills, and was third in the Open Men’s category against much older competitors. Edward, along with Benjamin Greenwood and Tom Wells (both Y12), won the Schools Division in the McMillan 10km run from Southbridge to Leeston.

Netball Lose Faingaanuku (Y11) was one of 50 students to be selected from around New Zealand to attend the National Netball Development Camp, which took place in January 2020, where she was coached by five former Silver Ferns.

Polo The StAC A polo team of Tom Wells (Y12 – Captain), Tom Turner (Y10 – Most Valuable Player for B Grade – Tournament 1) and Samuel Foote (Y11) won B Grade Division at the SUPA Polo tournament. Tom Turner was also a member of the Christchurch combined team which won the A Grade Division against Christ’s College. Brad Pugh (OC 2018) umpired every chukka throughout the day.

• Y ear 9 Boys Doubles: Winners Marley Murray and Josh McPhail; • Y ear 10 Boys Doubles: Winners Liam Barrett and Blake Cullen;

Macklan Robertson (Y8) was third in the Year 7–8 Boys’ event at the Primary and Intermediate School Tennis Championships.

In Years 7–8 Doubles events at the South Island Primary and Intermediate Schools’ Tennis finals, Ricky Kotepong (Y7) and his partner were first, Macklan Robertson (Y8) and his partner were second, and Ruby McPhail (Y7) and her partner were first.

Touch Rugby Mia Montgomery (Y7) was part of the Canterbury U14 Girls’ team and Fynn Harris (Y7) the Canterbury U14 Boys’ Black team, who were undefeated in all their games in a regional tournament in Nelson.

Surf Lifesaving Years 4–6 Jump Jam team, Uptown Funk

Karate Elijah Hyde (Y9) achieved his black belt in mixed martial arts (karate).

Karting At the Canterbury Grass Kart Championships, Harri Silcock (Y11) was second in the Junior Open class, and Seth Moore (Y10) was second in the Junior Standard Lifan Class.

Rakiatea Tau (Y8) won the Years 7–8 Boys’ title at the Surf Lifesaving Primary School Championships.

Swimming Megan Lilly (Y11) was in the North Canterbury 4×50m freestyle relay team which broke a Canterbury swimming record for 15–16 year old females.

Mia Montgomery and Fynn Harris (both Y7)

Values and Culture

Addison Williams (Y8) received the Canterbury Hockey Most Improved Player for the U13B Canterbury Girls’ team.

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Hockey

Trapshooting Olly Hood (Y12) and Maggie Hood (Y9) represented the New Zealand Shooting Team at the Oceania Shooting Federation Championships in Sydney.

Maggie was in the New Zealand Women's Skeet Team which was second in the final behind a strong Australian team.

Maggie Hood (Y9) was first in the North Island Girls’ Skeet. Olly Hood (Y12) was third in the New Zealand Boys’ Skeet, and Juliette Newman (Y13) was third in the New Zealand Girls’ Skeet.

Triathlon At the Canterbury Primary and CAIM Schools Triathlon, Sasha McIntyre (Y6) and Amber de Wit (Y7) both finished second in their races, Jessica Drury (Y6) was fourth, and Sam McAlister, Adam MacFarlane and Eddy Connolly (all Y7) all finished in the top 10.

Volleyball At the South Island Junior Secondary School Volleyball Championships, the Junior Boys’ team was second in Division 2. They were the only team to take a set off eventual winners Linwood College all week, losing a tight, hard fought final 1–2. The Junior Girls’ A team was eighth in Division 1, and the Junior Girls’ B team finished in the top 12 in Division 2.

2020 Adventure Racing The Mixed adventure racing team of Henry Spark, Tom Wells (both Y13), Benjamin Ferrier and Molly Spark (both Y12) biked, ran, abseiled, and kayaked their way to first place in the Mixed category at the South Island Secondary Schools’ Adventure Racing Championships. They finished second overall from 46 teams in 7 hours 10 minutes hours.

In the Absolute Wilderness Six-hour Adventure Race on the West Coast, the Year 12 team of Molly Spark, Benjamin Ferrier and Alice Egan finished second in the Mixed team category and were the third fastest team overall.

Badminton Jack Wang (Y13) was second in Mixed doubles at the Badminton Auckland Open Championships. He also won triple titles in the Open level at the Canterbury St Paddy’s Day Tournament.

Basketball Madeline-Rose Morrow (Y11) was selected for the Canterbury U17A Girls’ basketball team to play at the National Championships.

Tineke Hinton (Y9) and MadelineRose Morrow (Y10) were named in the tournament team at the Canterbury Junior Volleyball Championships.

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Beach Volleyball

Kate Allan and Marijke Hinton (both Y13)

Kate Allan and Marijke Hinton (both Y13) won the silver medal in the Senior Girls’ Division 1 at the New Zealand Secondary Schools Beach Volleyball Championships. Kate and Marijke went on to represent the Canterbury U19 team at the New Zealand Provincial Beach Volleyball Championships, where they won bronze.

Tineke Hinton (Y10) won a gold medal in the U17 grade at the New Zealand Provincial Beach Volleyball Championships, alongside her partner from Burnside High School.

Cricket Harrison Bisphan (Y12) was selected for the New Zealand U17 Indoor Cricket team.

At the Canterbury Cricket Awards, the Year 9B team won their grade for 2019, the First XI won the Ara Shield and were the joint winners of the One Day Trophy. Jordy Frew (Y12) was awarded Bowler of the Year and Rhys Mariu (OC 2019) Batsman of the Year.

Nicholas Daniels (Y13)

Nicholas Daniels (Y13) was first in the Elite Men’s category of the BMXNZ South Island Championships.

Canterbury Sports Awards The First XI cricket team were named as finalists for the Lincoln University Outstanding Junior Sports Team of the Year 2020 at the Canterbury Sports Awards.

The following group of Preparatory School students were selected for Christchurch Junior Cricket Association (CJCA) Summer Tournament teams: • Y ear 6 – Spencer HammarCampbell, Angus Laing, Hunter Mason and Charlie Russell; • Y ear 7 – Spencer Ballinger, Joshua Blackman, Liam Costeloe, Thomas McIntosh, Tom Simpson and Alessio Viettone-Smithson;

Gemma Lewis (Y10) was selected as the (non-travelling) reserve for the New Zealand U17 team competing in the World Team Championship (Mounted Games) being held in Scotland in August. She was also a member of the Canterbury team that competed in the Mounted Games regional competition, and the Canterbury U17 team, which competed in three events at the Horse of the Year Competition. Georgia Lewis (Y7) was third overall in U12 pairs mounted games at the Horse of the Year Competition.

Football Jasmine Donald (Y13) was selected for the Senior Women’s Team for Māori Football New Zealand. In January, the team took part in the Trans-Tasman Clash of the Cultures, against an Australian First Nations team, with New Zealand winning 3–2.

• Y ear 8 Emerging – Fraser Balasingam and Benjamin Harkerss.

Values and Culture

BMX

Equestrian

Coast to Coast Henry Spark (Y13) was first in the Male School Category in the individual Two Day event in the Coast to Coast, with a time of 12 hours and 36 minutes.

He was 47 minutes ahead of the next competitor. He also placed fifteenth overall in the Two Day competition out of 268 competitors.

Regulus

Molly Spark (Y12) competed in the individual Mountain Run, placing first in the Female School category, second in the Female category, and sixteenth overall from 104 runners. Molly ran 33km in 3 hours and 21 minutes.

49

Jasmine Donald (Y13) Georgia (Y7) and Gemma Lewis (Y10)

Futsal The Senior Girls’ team were crowned Canterbury champions after winning the Canterbury Regional Futsal Tournament.

Golf The St Andrew’s College golf team won best team gross at the Canterbury Secondary Schools Golf Championship.

Madeleine May (Y12) also won the overall individual competition (boys and girls). The win qualified the team for the national tournament. Team scores were: Madeleine May (Y12) 72, Hayden Lam (Y9) 76, Sebastian May (Y10) 75 and Mika MacDonald (Y12) 78.

Karate Henry Spark (Y13), left, and Molly Spark (Y12)

Cindy Xiong (Y11) was first in the 14–15 years Premier Grade Kumite at the Canterbury Classic 2020 Competition, and was third in the Kata.

Mountain Biking Three teams competed in the Rakahuri Rage six-hour mountain bike relay race. Henry Spark (Y13), Harri Silcock (Y12) and Benjamin Leech (OC 2019) completed approximately 150km between them in the six-hour race, finishing second out of the 105 teams.

Tom Wells (Y13), Nate Pringle (Y12) and Bailey Graham (Y10) finished ninth and were the third Junior team. Molly Spark (Y12), Jenna Hirschfeld (Y11) and High Performance Fitness Centre Manager, Greg Thompson, entered the Open Mixed Team category, finishing fourth from 16 teams.

Rogaine

Alys Scott (Y11) represented New Zealand in the FIS Youth Slalom and Giant Slalom U16 races in Pokal Loka, Slovenia, and Zagreb, Croatia.

There were 28 nations involved in these races and over 70 girls in the U16 category. In Zagreb, Alys placed 18th in the Slalom and ninth for her birth year, and in Giant Slalom placed 19th and ninth for her birth year. In Pokal Loka, Alys placed 28th in Slalom, ninth for her birth year and in Giant Slalom placed 44th and 17th for her birth year.

Clayton Shadbolt (Y12) and Henry Spark (Y13)

At the Canterbury Secondary Schools Rogaine Championships, Henry Spark (Y13) and Clayton Shadbolt (Y12) teamed up to convincingly win the title, amassing 1600 points and beating Cashmere High School by 150 points.

The boys were second overall in the Open Four-hour Event, competing against all the adult teams.

Rowing Preparatory School mountain bikers

A group of Preparatory School students raced in pairs in the Huxster Mountain Bike Schools Team Relay at McLeans Island, with four students reaching the podium. They were: • S carlett Gray and Amber de Wit (Y8): first place Year 7–8 Girls Team race; • S asha McIntyre and Jessica Drury (Y7): third place Year 7–8 Girls Team race.

Polo

Skiing

Benjamin Farrell (Y13) and Caleb Brown (Y12) were selected for the Rowing New Zealand Junior Trial Squad after they earned silver in the U18 coxed four at the South Island Rowing Championships. A longer than usual list of 67 athletes was named after the scheduled Maadi Cup National Secondary Schools’ Regatta which was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lachlan Muir and Dylan Smith (both Y12), Henry Farrell and James McLaren (both Y11) have been named on the South Island U18 trialist list.

Unfortunately, due to the lockdown, trials are no longer taking place.

Surf Life Saving A group of Preparatory School students took part in the Surf Life Saving Canterbury Championships.

Podium finishers were: • S am McAlister (Y8): second diamond race, third surf race; • A dam MacFarlane (Y8): second beach sprint.

At the South Island Life Saving Championships, podium finishers were: • S am McAlister (Y8): U13 Boys – second board race and run swim run, third surf race, second overall U13 boy; • L ucy McAlister (Y6): U10 girls – second board race and diamond race, second overall U10 girl.

Swimming At the Swimming Canterbury West Coast Junior Championships, Rylee McBride (Y8) won eight gold, one silver and one bronze medal, and Jessica Drury (Y7) won a silver medal. At the 2020 Junior Festival – All Stars, Rylee McBride also won seven gold, three silver, and two bronze medals.

Rebecca Hurley (Y12) won a silver medal in the 15–19 year age group at the La Grande Swim, swimming 5km from the harbour in Wainui to the Akaroa Recreation Grounds.

A group of Preparatory School students competed at the ISSA Zone Swimming Sports achieving 11 first placings, eight second placings, and 13 third placings. First placegetters were:

Tom Turner (Y11)

Tom Turner (Y11) has had a great polo season. He played in Queenstown Polo Sotheby’s Silver Cup, the South Canterbury Six Goal where he got Best Playing String of Ponies, and the Blenheim Six Goal Tournament where he was awarded Most Improved Player.

Tom was also selected to play in the South Island U21 team.

Tom was also awarded the prestigious Most Improved Junior Player award by the South Island Polo Association.

• A nthony Song (Y5): breaststroke;

Lachlan Muir (Y12) and Dylan Smith (Y12)

Rugby First XV players Mini Toga, Isileli Saumaki, Joel Parry and James Carr (all Y13), Jack Harding, Torian Barnes and DAngelo (Lino) Tauti (all Y12) were selected for the Crusaders Pre Academy.

• J essica Drury (Y7): freestyle, breaststroke; • C harlotte Kyle (Y7): backstroke; • W illiam McConchie (Y8): backstroke, breaststroke, relay; • S am McAllister (Y8): relay; • R ylee McBride (Y8): breaststroke, butterfly, relay; • E lia Short (Y8): relay.

Tennis At the Canterbury Secondary Schools’ Tennis Championships, Farrah Richards (Y12) was runner-up, and Blake Cullen (Y11) was third overall.

Finn Emslie-Robson (Y11) was the youngest Canterbury player in Men's Premiere Tennis this season, and won seven out of nine matches.

Touch Tom Ruwhiu (Y11) was selected for the New Zealand U16 touch team.

• Canterbury Team of the Year U16 Boys: Tom Ruwhiu and Jackson Foster (both Y11), Lucas Te Rangi and Tom Harris (both Y10); • Most Valuable Player Canterbury U16 Boys: Tom Ruwhiu; • T eam Contribution Award U16 Girls: Sienna Stowers-Smith (Y10); • C anterbury Touch Coach of the Year – Te Reo/Māori Studies teacher and Senior Touch Rugby Coach, Pete Westrupp.

Volleyball Anaya Cole (Y12) was selected for the New Zealand Junior Women's Volleyball team, which will compete in the Asian Championships later in 2020. Also selected for the team were Georgia Hollings (OC 2019) and Georgia Bonne (OC 2019), with the three girls being the only players from the South Island in the team.

At the South Island Senior Volleyball Championships the Senior Girls’ team defended the South Island title they won in 2019. They were unbeaten in five matches, dropping only one set before beating Marlborough Girls’ College in the semi-final 3–0. The final against Burnside High School was an epic

encounter, with momentum swinging both ways. However the St Andrew’s girls came out on top to win 3–1.

Other St Andrew’s teams also performed well at the South Island Senior Volleyball Championships, with the Senior Boys’ team finishing fourth, the Senior B Girls’ team finishing fourth in Division 2, and the Senior C Girls’ team taking out the Division 3 title, following a hard-fought 3–2 win over Taieri College in the final.

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Values and Culture

The following students were recognised at the Touch Canterbury Junior Prizegiving:

Senior Girls’ volleyball team (from left) Back: Melanie Vannoort (volleyball co-ordinator), Lose Faingaanuku (Y13), Tineke Hinton (Y10), Alice Thomson (Y13), Kate Hughes (Y13), Mikae Tuu'u (coach) Front: Anaya Cole (Y12), Emily Allan (Y13), Annabelle Jones (Y13), Marijke Hinton (Y13), Kate Allan (Y13)

Regulus

Jackson Foster and Tom Ruwhiu (both Y11), Lucas Te Rangi (Y10) and Tom Harris (Y10) played in the Canterbury U16 Boys’ touch team which won the Junior National Touch Tournament.

The team was coached by Paul Harris (father of Tom Harris) and Te Reo/Māori Studies teacher, Pete Westrupp.

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Message

from the

President

10 years on…

On Friday 1 November, several old friendships picked up where they had left off, when around 40 members of the 2009 year group reunited at Strowan House for the 10 Years On reunion. Rector Christine Leighton welcomed the Old Collegians to the reunion, which was also attended by their former Dean, Ian White, who expressed how proud he was of the year group and the things they had accomplished post St Andrew’s College. The guests enjoyed drinks and delicious food prepared by Catering Manager, Russell Gray, and his team. They reminisced and laughed while looking at photo boards and their Leavers’ Profiles, which were also on display. After a couple of hours, many moved on to No.4 Bar and Restaurant in Merivale, where the catch ups continued.

These are certainly interesting times, and, as I’m sure everyone can appreciate, the rapidly evolving situation around the COVID-19 virus has presented some challenges for St Andrew’s College.

It was of course disappointing that Founders’ Day and the Highland Games had to be cancelled and we hope these can be celebrated later in the year.

The pandemic is affecting our reunion calendar for 2020, with the 60 Years On reunion postponed to 2021. Other reunions and functions, certainly within the next few months, are also likely to be affected. Discussions will be had with year group co-ordinators to assess if a reunion can proceed or whether it is postponed to 2021. While there are significant mental health benefits from being able to reconnect with your classmates, the health and safety of Old Collegians and school staff is paramount.

Class of

2009

On a brighter note, we were able to hold a Blenheim regional function in February, which was combined with a Boarding Road Show. Around 60 Old Collegians, current, and prospective parents, shared a fantastic evening.

Also in February was the annual Golf Tournament, run in conjunction with St Andrew’s College cricket.

Congratulations to Geoff Barclay (1982) who won the Old Collegians’ Trophy on a countback from Peter Darling (1981). Thank you to all sponsors, Paul McEwan (1971) for organising and hosting the day at Waitikiri Golf Course, and the First XI cricket coach, Mike Johnston, for arranging all the prizes.

Last, but certainly not least, in December, the Old Collegians’ executive voted to support the Theatre Complex rebuild, pledging $150,000 and securing the naming rights to the new foyer. We look forward to what will be a fabulous enhancement to the College campus on its completion in 2021.

Jonathan Wells (1987) President From left: Matt Gafikin, Harry Haske and Matt Cox

Canterbury and Wanaka

A&P Shows

St Andrew’s College was well represented with stands at the Canterbury A&P Show (13–15 November 2019) and the Wanaka A&P Show (15–16 March 2020). At the Canterbury A&P Show, the St Andrew’s tent was located beside the Vero livestock pavilion and had a steady stream of visitors.

These visitors included former Community Relations and Alumni Co-ordinator, Kate Stanbury, and her baby son Jack. The shows are always a great way to connect current students with Old Collegians, and the past, present, and prospective parents who stopped in to visit the College’s new look stand.

Former Community Relations and Alumni Co-ordinator, Kate Stanbury, wth her baby son Jack and Addison Williams (Year 9).

It has become a Christmas tradition for Rector Christine Leighton and the Alumni and Development office to host a morning tea for Old Collegians, spouses of Old Collegians, past parents, and special friends of St Andrew’s College who live at Ngaio Marsh Retirement Village. On Wednesday 18 December, Christine and the team joined around 10 of these wonderful people in the atrium at Ngaio Marsh, to host a lovely catch up, and hear some special memories shared by this group.

Nancy Stewart, Rector Christine Leighton, and Ngaire Kilpatrick at the Ngaio Marsh Morning Tea.

An excellent turnout of 64 players gathered at Waitikiri Golf Course for a combined golf tournament, organised by the Old Collegians Association and St Andrew’s College cricket.

Geoff Barclay (1982) won the Old Collegians’ Trophy on a countback from Peter Darling (1981), with both on 38 points. The best gross scores were 76 from Dennis Kelliher and 78 from Paul McEwan (1971). The Old Collegians Association and St Andrew’s College cricket were grateful to the many sponsors who supported the event, Paul and Julie McEwan for organising and hosting the day, and First XI cricket coach, Mike Johnston for organising the prizes. A great day was had by all.

Blenheim

regional event

On Monday 24 February, Rector Christine Leighton, Old Collegians Association President Jonathan Wells, and Alumni and Events Co-ordinator Kelsey Williams, joined with Director of Boarding, Matt Parr, and Registrar, Lynn Smith, to host a combined Blenheim Old Collegians regional function alongside a Boarding Road Show. Around 60 Old Collegians, current and past parents, and prospective families, gathered at the Marlborough Vintners Hotel on a beautiful Blenheim evening. It was wonderful to hear lots of stories and see people connecting, no matter what stage of the St Andrew’s College family journey they were at.

From left: Murray, Phillip and Roger Rose with Rector Christine Leighton.

Old Collegians

Morning Tea

Annual Golf Tournament

53 Regulus

Ngaio Marsh

Classnotes Jim Wilson (1954) went on many expeditions with his close friend, Sir Edmund Hillary, with one of their most famous, and dangerous, being the Ocean to Sky expedition, a 2525 kilometre jet boat journey through India. Jim, among many things, a distinguished academic, mountaineer and climber, and aid worker, was the driver of the jet boat on this trip, which Hillary called his ‘greatest adventure’. After completing the river journey, which passed through deep gorges and rapids, the group set off to climb a then unnamed Himalayan mountain above the source of the Ganges. During the climb, Hillary succumbed to altitude sickness and had to be rushed off the mountain.

Jim has a starring role in a recent film made about the expedition, called Hillary: Ocean to Sky, which was released in October 2019. It includes remastered original footage from the 1977 expedition, and interviews with all remaining expedition members, including Jim. In 1973, Clyde Collins (1959) drove his Ford Cortina to win the OSCA Championship, which was set up by Clyde and a group of other motorsport enthusiasts after the Open Saloon Class was scrapped by Motorsport New Zealand. The new class is still going strong, and during the OSCA 50th anniversary celebrations, Clyde watched his son Adam Collins (1986) race a replica of the original Cortina at Ruapuna Speedway. Clyde and Adam built the replica car together, which was a special experience for them.

Tell us your news!

If you know of any Old Collegians you think should be featured in our Class Notes section or would like to tell us what you are up to, we’d love to hear from you.

It doesn’t have to be significant achievement – our community just loves to hear about what fellow Old Collegians are doing.

So please do not be shy and send any updates and information to oldcols@stac.school.nz

Paul Currie (1968) has become the only transport manufacturer ever to be inducted into the New Zealand Road Transport Hall of Fame, which was presented at a gala held at Bill Richardson Transport World in Invercargill, in September 2019. The award honours Paul as an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the New Zealand road transport industry. Paul became an apprenticeship tool and die maker after leaving St Andrew’s at the age of 15, and was later a professional hunter, and marine engineer. In 1973, he started working for Trailer Manufacturing Company (TMC), founded by his father, Ian, starting on the factory floor and working his way up. He became a partner in the firm in 1975, and since then the company has achieved many industry-leading milestones. The company celebrated 70 years in business in 2018, and is the oldest trailer manufacturer in New Zealand.

Grant Gilbert (1968) was awarded a life membership of the Hurricanes Youth Rugby Council. Grant was president of the Council for six years, and taught at Lindisfarne College in Hastings from 1985 to 2015, where he was the First XV rugby coach for 20 years. Former Lindisfarne student and All Black, Israel Dagg, has said Grant was a major influence on him, and helped him to excel in the sport.

An Old Collegian golf team of Paul McEwan (1971), Mike Wells (1979), Don Maginness (1960) and Jack Allan (1960) won the Strowan Rose Bowl Tournament, only the second time a St Andrew’s College Old Collegian team has won the tournament since the College first presented the trophy in 1967.

Paul Currie (left) receiving his induction into the Road Transport Hall of Fame award from Scott O’Donnell (CEO of the HW Richardson Group)

Paul McEwan, Mike Wells and Don Maginness

Dale Stephens (1977) has been selected as National’s candidate in Christchurch Central for this year’s election. Dale is the Director of Māori Business at New Zealand Trade and Enterprise. He is a former police officer, presenter on the television show, Crimewatch, and chief executive of two national sports bodies.

Dale Stephens

The Willows cricket team turned up with a very formidable line up at the annual fixture against the First XI, including Old Collegians Paul McEwan (1971), Ryan McEwan (2009), James Tapper (2010), Ben Ward (2011) and Adrian McFedries (1994). The experience of The Willows’ team proved too great on the day.

Sabrina Salmon (2011) and Sarah Williams (Deputy Head Girl 2011) paid a surprise visit to St Andrew’s College, when they caught up with Rector Christine Leighton, visited Thompson House and met several boarders, caught up with former teachers, and sang Jerusalem in the Centennial Chapel accompanied by Bryan Botting on the organ. Sarah is working as a relief teacher in Christchurch after five years teaching at Cobden School in Greymouth. Sabrina studied at Berklee College of Music in Boston, USA. She is now a professional singer/songwriter living in Los Angeles, who has worked with several famous artists.

Ashleigh Shipton (2012) was the recipient of the University of Otago 2018 Prince of Wales Prize – the University’s premier undergraduate award which recognises not only academic ability but extra-curricular interests as well.

Ashleigh Shipton (centre) with her parents Ted and Elspeth.

Sam Williams (2014) has competed Bachelors degrees in Theology, and in Arts (Psychology and German) at the University of Otago. Shortly after, he was offered a place in the Master of Literature in Analytic and Exegetical Theology programme at the University of St Andrews, Scotland.

Andrew Manning (2010) has finished his Masters in Musical Directing degree in Scotland.

Sam Lane (2015) has been playing for the Black Sticks for the past four years.

Earlier in the year they played Spain, resulting in one loss and one win, and they also played the Olympic Gold Medalists, Argentina, at the Ngā Puna Wai hockey stadium.

Obituary – Ernie Poole It is with sadness that we record the passing of Ernie Poole. Ernie was a passionate and proud Old Collegian who, after leaving the College, served in a number of ways including as a boarding house master, as President of the Old Boys’ Association from 1963–1964, and Secretary of the Old Boys’ Association in 1989. In his final year at the College (1950), Ernie was Head Prefect, and he overhauled the prefect punishment system to make it more transparent and consistent.

Ernie, somewhat unsurprisingly, went on after gaining his Master of Arts degree, to a distinguished teaching career culminating as Deputy Principal of Riccarton High School. Ernie is survived by his six children and their partners, and a number of grandchildren.

Gone but not forgotten

Raymond Nu’u (2015) was a member of the Highlanders rugby team which played the Crusaders in Christchurch.

Brian Moore (1945)

Thomas Russel (2017) visited St Andrew’s and Rector Christine Leighton in Term 1. He has been rowing full time since leaving school.

At the World Championships in 2019, St Andrew’s College had more Old Collegians racing at this elite representative level than any other school in New Zealand. The rowers were Thomas Russel, Ben Taylor (2017), Robbie Manson (2007), and John Storey (2005). Robbie Manson has also qualified for the Tokyo Olympics in the double.

Peter Rayne (1950)

William (Alan) Gray (1946) Lyndon van Christie (1947) Donald Gunn (1950) Bryan Flood (1953) Peter Morrison (1953) John Little (1954) Gary McMeekan (1956) Keith Adams (1957) Peter Dick (1957) Brian Marsden (1957) Gavin Maginness (1959) David Pirie (1960)

Upcoming

Events

13 June (TBC) Rugby Reunions (Teams of 2010, 2000, 1990, 1980, 1970, 1960, 1950)

8–9 May (Postponed) 50 Years On Reunion

24 July (TBC) Annual Dinner

22 May (Postponed) 10 Years On Reunion

28–29 August (TBC) 40 Years On Reunion

John Cummings (1962) Keith Gallagher (1965) Harry Simons (1973) Mark Fairbairn (1977) Andy Anderson (1988) James Harding (1994) Olivia Brown (2014)

For the full 2020 Old Collegian Events Calendar please visit stac.nz/OldColsEvents

Old Collegians

Sarah Williams, Rector Christine Leighton, and Sabrina Salmon

Keegan Bragg (2013) was one of only 12 students to be accepted into the two-year Masters of Theatre (Directing) course at Victoria College of the Arts in Melbourne. Before applying, Keegan had been directing independent shows, and shows for the Long Cloud Youth Theatre Company in Wellington. He completed his Bachelor degree at Victoria University, Wellington.

55 Regulus

Leo Carter (2012) scored six sixes in one over for the Canterbury Kings cricket team during their Super Smash Twenty20 match against the Northern Knights. This history-making feat has only been achieved six times previously at domestic level or above, and it is the first time it has been achieved by a Kiwi, or in the country. Leo also scored a very impressive 226 not out for Canterbury in a four-day game against Wellington.

Welcome to the world Cleo Joy Fowler

Daughter of Kate Twomey (2001) born 26 April 2019.

Paige Car oly Hammon n d

Daughter of Peter H am m o n d born 4 Ju (2002) ne 2018.

Madeline ox Margaret B

Elliot Box Daughter of emma G (2005) and ox (2007) B ) ne ay P (née 2019. e n born 22 Ju

w Harrison Andre Macdonald

s Le Couteur Coate Son of Samantha .

19 20 r be vem (2014) born 16 No

A Bonny Bear for your baby!

Have you had a baby recently? We’d love to hear about this new addition to your family. Send us a photo of your baby and your contact details and we will send you a complimentary St Andrew’s College Bonny Bear. This cute teddy bear is a part of our St Andrew’s College merchandising range and is especially for our St Andrew’s community members. For more information visit our website stac.school.nz.

Email your photo and contact details to Kelsey Williams at KWL@stac.school.nz

Focus on what matters

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