St Andrew's College Annual Report 2025

For the year ended 31 December 2025

BOARD CHAIR REPORT

For the year ended 31 December 2025

As Chair of the Board of Governors, it is my pleasure to present this Annual Report and reflect on another significant year in the life of St Andrew’s College.

St Andrew’s College is a community shaped by strong traditions, enduring values, and a shared commitment to helping young people flourish. Our history gives us confidence, but it is our willingness to continue evolving that ensures the College remains well positioned for the future.

Financial Results and College Health

The Board was pleased to see continued strength across many aspects of College life during 2025. Student numbers remained strong at 1,603 students, reflecting the confidence families continue to place in a St Andrew’s education.

Over 98% of those sitting NCEA examinations at each level gained an achieved pass. 92.9% of students in Year 13 gained university entrance. Students attained an impressive number of 64 scholarships across a diverse range of subjects.

We also saw ongoing participation and achievement across academic, cultural, sporting, and service activities, opportunities that remain central to the holistic education we value so highly. Alongside these accomplishments are the many everyday moments of growth, connection, and encouragement that define the St Andrew’s College experience.

The College delivered a net operating deficit for the year of $987,666, compared with a surplus of $1.6 million in the previous year. While both revenue and costs grew, this outcome largely reflects an increase in depreciation following the revaluation of property last year. The result was in line with a budgeted $1 million deficit for the year.

The Group, which includes the College, the Foundation, the Old Collegians Association and the Parent Teachers Association, reports a net operating surplus of $918,743 for the year, a reduction from the net surplus of $10.7 million last year. The comprehensive surplus for the Group for the year, including revaluations of investments, was $702,619.

The College continues to foster a philanthropic culture to grow the St Andrew’s College Foundation. In 2025 we were extremely grateful to receive $225,000 in donations. With wise stewardship, and a market that saw growth during the year the Foundation’s funds under management grew from $23 million to $25 million. This continues to strengthen our capacity to ensure the College’s long-term financial health and support the offering of scholarships. The Foundation gave $637,000 to the College in scholarship grants in 2025 which supported 25 students with diverse interests and talents enjoy our high-quality educational offering.

The financial statements have been audited by BDO, endorsed by the Board’s Audit and Risk Committee and subsequently approved by the full Board at its meeting on 14 May 2026. No issues were raised by BDO in respect of the audit, and they complimented the efforts of the College’s Financial Controller, Dan Ellis and his team. The Board also acknowledges the sound financial management and quality of reporting from the finance team.

Strategic Planning

2025 marked the beginning of a new chapter for the College with the appointment of our new Rector, Mark Wilson, while also providing an opportunity for the Board and College leadership to reflect carefully on the future direction of St Andrew’s.

Throughout the year, considerable work was undertaken to develop the College’s new strategic direction. Importantly, this process began with listening, to students, staff, families, alumni, and our wider community. The insights gathered through consultation helped shape a strategy that honours the strengths and traditions of St Andrew’s while recognising the opportunities and challenges facing education in a rapidly changing world.

The new strategic plan, Weaving the Future with the Threads of Tradition; Whatu ate anamata ki ngā whenu tuku iho, embodies who we are including elements of our Presbyterian faith, Scottish heritage and relationships with manu whenua. Our task is to strengthen and shape what already makes this place special so that it continues to flourish.

The refreshed vision, Where people belong, grow and flourish to make a positive difference in the world, reflects both our ambition and our responsibility as a school community. Alongside this, the College’s enduring values of Truth, Excellence, Faith, Creativity, and Inclusivity continue to guide our decisions and actions. These values in turn run through the four key threads that will guide the College in the years ahead – the science of learning and art of teaching, well-being: growing and caring for our people, outstanding and holistic educational opportunities, and people, partnership and place.

While strategy provides direction, it is ultimately people who bring it to life. This year we welcomed Mark and Judi Wilson into the St Andrew’s community with warmth and enthusiasm. On behalf of the Board, I would like to acknowledge Mark’s strong and steady leadership during his first year as Rector. Leadership transitions are significant moments for any school, and Mark has approached the role with clarity, care, and a genuine commitment to partnership across the College community.

Capital Development

During the year, approximately $3.5 million was invested in capital projects, primarily the redevelopment of the Religious Education block, now named the Burnett Wing. This project, including seismic strengthening, modernised learning spaces, and new science laboratories, was supported by the generous contribution of the Burnett Valley Trust, after whom the building is now named.

Alongside strategic and financial planning, work also continued on the College’s long-term property master planning to ensure our campus and learning environments continue to meet the evolving needs of students and staff. This work will continue into 2026 and shape our facility development in the years to come.

Board Acknowledgement

To our staff, thank you for your dedication, professionalism, and deep care for our students. The quality of a school is ultimately shaped by its people, and the commitment shown every day across classrooms, sports fields, performance spaces, boarding houses, offices, and support services is deeply appreciated.

To my fellow Board members, thank you for the generosity, expertise, and stewardship you bring to the governance of the College. During the year we farewelled Rob Woodgate following nine years of dedicated service, including as Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee. Rob made a significant contribution through his wisdom, integrity, and financial expertise, and we thank him sincerely. We were also pleased to welcome Dave Bennett to the Board and look forward to the experience and insight he brings.

I would also like to acknowledge the continued support of our families, alumni, Foundation, donors, volunteers, and wider community. The strength of St Andrew’s College has always rested in the quality of its relationships and the shared belief in the value of education that develops character as well as capability.

Most importantly, we acknowledge our students. Their curiosity, resilience, creativity, kindness, and willingness to contribute continue to inspire confidence in the future. They remain at the centre of every decision we make as a Board.

Together, we can achieve a place where people belong, grow and flourish to make a positive difference in the world.

Felicity Odlin Board Chair

St Andrew’s Presbyterian College Board of Governors Inc.

COLLEGE REPORT

It was an absolute pleasure to take up the role as Rector from the start of 2025, and for my wife Judi and I to become part of this very special community

From the beginning of this year, I enjoyed getting into many of the classrooms to see the quality teaching and learning in action. I have been so often impressed with the focus and engagement from our young people on what they are doing and learning. This is our core business as a school, and the quality programmes provided by our committed teachers are clearly delivering real academic rigour and high expectations and standards. There is a positive culture at St Andrew’s College that leads and enables our young people to grow and develop their own unique talents. This is certainly supported through the extensive and diverse range of co-curricular activities and opportunities across the performing arts, sports, and a wide range of clubs and groups.

SCHOOL ROLL

By the end of the school year, the average roll for 2025 was 1,151 in the Secondary School and 452 in the Preparatory School, with a total average of 1,603 students. The Pre-school average roll for 2024 was 42 children.

Our total College roll numbers (1 July) have grown 10% from 1464 (2018) to 1606 (2023) and have consolidated since at 1603 in 2025. The Preparatory School grew 4.6% from 433 (2018) to 453 (2023) and have consolidated to 452 in 2025. The Secondary School grew 11.5% from 1031 (2018) to 1150 (2024) and consolidated to 1151 in 2025. The ratio of girls in the College has grown steadily in recent years also from a 40:60 girl/boy ratio in 2018 to a 45:55 ratio in 2025.

ACADEMIC / NCEA

We were delighted with our NCEA results with 98.2% pass rates at Level 1, 100% at Level 2 and 98.1% at Level 3. Many ākonga achieved outstanding success with 224 Excellence Endorsements across the 3 Levels: 72 at Level 1, 82 at Level 2, 70 at Level 3. An excellent total of 64 NZQA scholarships were gained by 33 students from Years 11, 12 and 13, with three of these at the Outstanding level. Year 12 student, Cohnor Walsh, gained a Top Subject Scholarship award in Technology and was presented with his award at the awards ceremony held at Parliament at the end of April. 25 Year 13 students gained Scholarships, Joshua Adams gaining six and Daniel Officer, James Anthony, Cayden Wang each gained four Scholarships. From Year 12, Alex Manson gained four Scholarships, including an Outstanding Scholarship and Luke Manson gained three Scholarships including an Outstanding Scholarship. What makes these academic results particularly impressive is that we are not an academically selective school, as around 25% of our students receive learning support.

St Andrew’s College students continue to value the opportunities and support provided to achieve personal excellence in their studies and qualifications. A total of 59 university scholarships were awarded to 48 Year 13 students entering university in 2025, including a number to overseas universities.

Many students excelled in national and international academic competitions, reinforcing St Andrew’s reputation for outstanding achievement. Four students gained ICAS Gold Medals for achieving the top results in New Zealand, while others earned top honours in competitions such as the National Spelling Bee, where a Year 9 student placed first, and the National Schools’ Poetry Award, where two students were finalists, alongside success in Creative Writing at national level.

Students also achieved exceptional results across Science and Mathematics, including a Year 11 student placing second in the South Island Brain Bee and multiple top performances in national and international Mathematics competitions, with several perfect scores. The Year 10 team won the national Future Problem Solving competition, qualifying for the international finals in the United States, and a team also progressed to the International Ethics Olympiad.

Students continued to excel, with victories in Cantamath, the Canterbury Mathematics Competition, and the Da Vinci Decathlon, where St Andrew’s was the top-performing school overall. Success extended to debating, chess, cybersecurity, languages, Science competitions, and VEX Robotics, alongside strong results in speech and drama, including placings at regional competitions including Ngā Manu Kōrero and other speech events, as well as representation in programmes such as Youth Parliament and the UN Youth Ambassador Programme.

It was impressive to see St Andrew’s students achieving at such a high level and representing their academic learning on both the national and international stage

Alumni Graduates

The College received information of 120 St Andrew’s College Old Collegians who graduated from the University of Auckland (11), University of Canterbury (60), Lincoln University (24), University of Otago (23) and Victoria University of Wellington (2) in 2025.

STAFF

2025 saw 14 new permanent teaching staff join the College (thirteen in the Secondary School and one in the Preparatory School).

Our staff numbers in FTE’s (Full Time Equivalents) have continued to remain flat even though there are always movements in staffing. Pre-school stayed at 5.6, Preparatory School dropped slightly to 40.5, Secondary School rose slightly by 0.9 to 119.4, and Support Staff also saw a small rise to 59.8. The net movement was up 1.3 to 225.3 FTE’s.

In 2025, several St Andrew’s College staff members were recognised with significant national and specialist awards. Phil Adams (Teacher in Charge of Digital Technologies) received a prestigious ISNZ Honours Award for his outstanding contribution to education, while Matt Parr (Director of Boarding) was honoured by the New Zealand Boarding Schools Association for Outstanding Service, recognising his leadership and long-standing impact on boarding.

At the College level, Ginnie Thorner (Performing Arts Co-ordinator) was awarded the Marily Scanlon Prize for Teaching Excellence, acknowledging her dedication and influence across Drama and the Performing Arts. Further staff achievements included Andy Kerrison being named VEX Robotics Teacher of the Year, and the Grounds Team, led by Mike Seaward, winning the Christchurch Beautifying Association’s Summer Garden Competition.

Secondary School teaching staff continue to engage with a wide range of professional learning, both within and beyond the College.

Key areas of focus for internal PD in 2025 were:

• The adolescent brain and its implications for teachers (also presented in the Preparatory School);

• Curriculum change;

• Leadership development through coaching;

• Interpreting data to better know student needs;

• AI, technology, and support for staff with the new learning management system.

New to St Andrew’s College teaching staff were supported with lunchtime meetings in Term 1 and part of Term 2 as part of their transition into the College.

SPORT

St Andrew’s College continues to be widely recognised for a sports programme that successfully balances performance and competitive excellence, with broad participation and personal development. Students are equally encouraged to pursue elite pathways and to engage in sport for enjoyment, well-being, and lifelong involvement.

In 2025, the College celebrated another outstanding year of achievement, with several teams and individuals distinguished at both national and international levels. Most notably, nine St Andrew’s College teams achieved top three placings in New Zealand – an exceptional reflection of the depth and quality of the programme. These successes included the Senior Boys’ and Girls’ 3x3 basketball teams, the Girls’ 1st XI hockey team, the Girls’ Senior A volleyball team, the Athletics team, and an impressive four crews at the prestigious Maadi Cup regatta.

Individual excellence was equally evident, with 25 students earning New Zealand representative honours across a range of sports. In addition, several graduating students secured sporting scholarships to international universities, further highlighting the strength of the College’s athlete development pathways and the opportunities available to our students beyond school.

Participation in sport remains a cornerstone of the St Andrew’s experience. Engagement levels continue to be exceptionally strong, with 94% of Preparatory School students and 89% of Secondary School students actively involved in at least one sporting activity. This high level of engagement reflects a culture that values inclusion, commitment, and the holistic benefits of sport.

Underpinning all sporting endeavours is a strong adherence to ‘The Thistle’ and the College’s values of Truth, Excellence, Faith, Creativity and Inclusivity. St Andrew’s College teams consistently demonstrate these values in action, competing with integrity, humility, and a spirit of inclusivity. This culture ensures that success is measured not only by results, but also by the way in which those results are achieved.

CULTURAL

With strong participation across music, dance, drama, and cultural groups, 2025 was a year of outstanding performances and achievements. In music, choirs, orchestras, and ensembles performed with distinction, with the senior choir winning Best Mixed Choir at The Big Sing, while jazz groups achieved multiple gold awards and rock bands reached the Rockquest regional finals, showcasing original compositions and confident performances. Several students also gained national recognition through chamber music awards and selection for prestigious national events.

Ballet and dance programmes continued to flourish, with a record number of NZAMD scholarship nominations and students achieving national success, including a national winner and top placements. Students also gained selection into national programmes, including The New Zealand School of Dance and national ballet competitions. The Ballet Academy’s annual production, The Sleeping Beauty, was a highlight of the year, showcasing the talent, precision, and artistry of the dancers. Highland dancers achieved at the highest level, with students winning multiple national titles, including an overall New Zealand U16 Championship.

The Pipe Band maintained its position as one of the leading school programmes in New Zealand, winning both the Juvenile and Grade 2 titles at the National Championships. Individual performers gained national and international honours, with several students selected for the National Youth Pipe Band of New Zealand, representing the College on the national stage. Major performances such as StAC Attack continued to showcase the strength and discipline of the programme.

Debating was another highlight, with junior teams winning both the Canterbury Secondary Schools competition and the Junior Regional Championships. At senior level, students

achieved strong regional results, with one student selected to represent Canterbury at the New Zealand Schools’ National Debating Championships.

Cultural groups played a significant role in College life, with the Pasifika group performing at Polyfest, Fiafia, and major College events, and kapa haka representing the College at the Tūhono Festival and supporting Ngā Manu Kōrero. Cultural celebrations such as the Music Festival, Film Fest, and Dance Revue showcased student creativity, with the Film Fest highlighting exceptional filmmaking talent, including award-winning productions such as Blue Light Project (Best Film) and Breakfast Battle (Best Junior Film), alongside multiple individual awards for acting, directing, and technical excellence.

A wide range of productions brought the performing arts to life, including the Senior production of Twelfth Night and the Middle School production of Diary of a Wimpy Kid, both of which showcased exceptional talent from cast, musicians, and production crews. Across all cultural disciplines, several students gained New Zealand representative honours, reflecting the outstanding commitment, skill, and breadth of opportunity within the College’s cultural programme and further highlighting St Andrew’s College on the national stage.

Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award Programme continued to be a significant area of achievement, with St Andrew’s College recognised for the second year in a row as the leading school in New Zealand for the number of Gold Awards completed in a single year. A total of 22 students achieved their Gold Award, including five Year 12 students and 17 Year 13 students, while a further 48 students completed the Silver Award. In total, more than 365 students across Years 11–13 took up the challenge, alongside all Year 10 students for whom the Bronze Award remains a compulsory part of the curriculum. These achievements reflect an outstanding level of commitment and perseverance from the students involved.

CALENDAR EVENTS

As usual, the many events which brought the College together strengthened a sense of belonging and community. A particularly significant occasion was the pōwhiri at the beginning of the year, supported by Ngāi Tūāhuriri, which formally welcomed me as the new Rector, along with students, staff, and whānau. It was a moving and memorable ceremony.

Major events throughout the year provided both participation and celebration. Athletic Sports Day and Swimming Sports showcased strong House spirit and outstanding individual performances, while Founders’ Day and the Highland Games marked 108 years of St Andrew’s College, celebrating its Scottish heritage through tradition, performance, and strong community involvement. Polyfest and Fiafia Night were vibrant expressions of Pasifika culture, and StAC Attack once again delivered an impressive celebration of Scottish music, piping, and dance. Highlights included the Address to a Haggis and the presentation of a specially framed piece of music to me as Rector,

Mark Wilson. The Anzac Day Service was an important moment of remembrance, marking 70 years since the original Memorial Chapel was built to honour those who served, and Matariki celebrations were celebrated across the College with a range of activities, including a special Secondary School assembly and a Preparatory School chapel service.

Social occasions such as the Year 11 Semi-formal at Riccarton Racecourse and the Senior College Formal at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre were highly anticipated and enjoyed by all. Highlights included the StAC Ag Show, Year 13 Theme Week, and Grandparents’ Day, which welcomed around 800 grandparents and further strengthened the sense of community. The Presbyterian Schools’ Conference, co-hosted with Rangi Ruru Girls’ School, provided valuable opportunities to strengthen relationships through our common Christian faith, with student performances and presentations contributing to the occasion. The Esports Room Open Week, following the opening of the facility in early August, saw a steady flow of students exploring the space and marked the introduction of Esports as a new co-curricular activity.

The usual Secondary School assemblies continued to highlight student leadership, achievement, and character. The Leadership Assembly and Prefects’ Investiture set a clear direction for the year, while the Academic Assembly recognised outstanding scholarship and NCEA success. The Prefects’ Assembly, centred on the lively Battle of the Holidays theme, featured a thoughtful Prefects’ Address reflecting on the 2025 motto, ‘Grounded by the thistle, surrounded by connection,’ and was enhanced by entertaining performances from senior staff, making it a standout event. The Boarders’ Assembly, based on the theme ‘Hunt for Boarder People’, featured a Morning Comment encouraging students to choose between ‘two doors’ representing comfort or courage, alongside the usual inclusion of animals and the much-anticipated boarders’ dance, created a fun and engaging occasion for all.

Old Collegians remained strongly connected to the College through a wide range of events, including the Auckland Gathering, and regional gatherings, as well as milestone reunions – 10 Years On (2011–2015), 30 Years On (1995–1999), 40 Years On (1985–1989), 50 Years On (1975–1979), and 60 Years On (1965–1969), alongside key occasions such as the Gentlemen’s Lunch, Annual Dinner, rugby reunion, and Golf Tournament offering meaningful opportunities to reconnect and reflect on shared memories.

The end of the year was marked by a series of special Leavers’ events, including the Boarders’ Annual Dinner, Leavers’ Chapel, 13 Years On Function, Leavers’ Assembly, and Leavers’ Dinner at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, recognising the achievements of the graduating students and celebrating their time at the College.

Alongside these major occasions, events such as the rowing boat naming ceremony, which formally welcomed two new Hudson fours, Rutherford and Rentoul, into the College fleet and celebrated the strength and tradition of the rowing programme, the Te Waka Homecoming Ceremony, marking an important milestone for Year 10 students as they reflected on their growth alongside their families, and the Combined Boarders’ Chapel, which brought together boarders from St Andrew’s College and neighbouring schools in a spirit of connection and shared worship,

added further depth to College life. A wide range of camps, workshops, conferences, cultural and language weeks, and service initiatives also enriched the year. Together, these events contributed to a rich and engaging year, reinforcing the strength, spirit, and inclusiveness of the St Andrew’s College community.

PRIZEGIVING CEREMONY

The 109th St Andrew’s College Prizegiving, held at Wolfbrook Arena, was a celebration of the year’s achievements and the collective efforts of students, staff, tutors, coaches, and support teams.

Top academic awards were presented to College:

Dux: Jasmine Hooker

Proxime Accessit: Daniel Officer

Preparatory School Dux: Emma Zhang

Preparatory School Proxime Accessit: Elina Wang

The programme featured an impressive range of performances from across the College, including Preparatory School kapa haka, the Pipe Band and Highland dancers, senior choirs Staccoro and Stacchorus, jazz band, orchestra, ballet, and chamber musicians. The evening culminated in a powerful Aotearoa medley finale, now a highlight of Prizegiving for the third year in a row. This ambitious performance brought together more than 100 singers and musicians from across the College, combining choir, orchestra, rock band, chamber groups, and soloists in a seamless and moving celebration of New Zealand music. Featuring works by Crowded House, Six60, Stan Walker, and Shapeshifter, the finale was widely acclaimed for its scale, musicality, and emotional impact, once again capturing the imagination of the audience and attracting significant national attention.

At my first Prizegiving as Rector, the breadth of the College’s achievements was celebrated, encompassing not only academic success, but also personal growth, excellence in the performing arts, and the many acts of kindness, leadership, and service that define the St Andrew’s community. The challenges of the year were acknowledged, with an emphasis on resilience, compassion, and the importance of belonging. Recognition was given to Val Wells, a dedicated member of the Ladies’ Circle, for 50 years of creating the beautiful floral displays that have become a cherished feature of Prizegiving. Sincere appreciation was expressed to staff, coaches, and volunteers whose commitment provides exceptional opportunities for students, and those reaching significant long-service milestones were acknowledged. Tribute was also paid to Preparatory School Principal Jonathan Bierwirth on his retirement after nearly 30 years of devoted service, recognising his outstanding contribution to the College and wishing him every success for the future.

The Board Chair highlighted the strength of the College’s traditions alongside its future direction, outlining a new strategic vision centred on people, partnership, and place. She also thanked the wider community for their support and acknowledged the Board’s valued contribution, with recognition of Rob Woodgate’s retirement after nine years of dedicated service, including his leadership of the Audit and Risk Committee.

The Valedictory Speech, delivered by the Head Prefects, was a thoughtful and heartfelt reflection on the values of kindness, bravery, and authenticity. Drawing on their own experiences, they spoke about resilience in the face of challenges, the importance of supporting others, and the value of being true to oneself, offering a meaningful farewell to the Year 12 and 13 leavers and encouragement to those continuing their journey at St Andrew’s College.

SPECIAL CHARACTER AND COMMUNITY SERVICE

At St Andrew’s College, tradition and our Presbyterian heritage bring the whole community together for a chapel service at the start of each term. 2025’s theme, “Perspective Changes Everything,” encouraged seeing from different viewpoints to better understand others. Staff received a puzzle piece as a reminder that everyone contributes to the bigger picture, a theme woven through all four staff chapels.

Chapel Bands, introduced by Head of Music, Duncan Ferguson, enriched Thursday chapels with four student-led groups. In Year 12 Religious Education, we launched Youth Alpha, sparking discussion on Christian faith fundamentals.

Highlights included Max Barclay’s Anzac address, raising $15,000 for So They Can, World Vision’s 40-hour challenge with $10,000 raised, and Prayer Stations engaging over 40 students and staff. Term 3 featured hosting the Religious Education and Chaplains of Church Schools in New Zealand and the Presbyterian Church Schools Conference. Term 4 focused on Leavers’ and Year 11 Communion Chapels and Advent Services, with strong student contributions to Presbyterian Support and the City Mission Christmas Appeal.

Chaplaincy and the chapel continue to provide support to our Old Collegian and family communities in significant life moments from birth to marriage and life’s end.

Parents contributed to College life through targeted funding initiatives led by the PTA, supporting a range of projects including new facilities, equipment for co-curricular activities, and the Annual Giving Appeal. The Old Collegians’ Association also made a significant contribution to Annual Giving, while the Ladies’ Circle supported enhancements to the Secondary School Library. The Foundation continued its ongoing commitment to supporting student scholarships.

DEVELOPMENT

In 2025, the Development Office strengthened its approach through a renewed focus on community engagement and sustainable giving. A key milestone was the establishment of the Head of Development and Community Relations role, aligning development strategy more closely with the College’s parent and stakeholder community in a post-COVID environment.

The 2025 Annual Giving Appeal raised $141,370, supporting the installation of solar panels on the Pre-school and Stewart Junior Centre roofs. Completed at the beginning of 2026, these new panels contribute to reduced energy costs, enhanced environmental sustainability, and provide valuable real-world learning opportunities for students.

Philanthropic support across the College remained strong, with participation across all giving tiers and new members welcomed into both the Strowan Club and Highland Society. This broad base of support reflects a growing culture of giving and a shared commitment to the College’s long-term priorities.

We remain deeply grateful for the bequests received from Old Collegians, the PTA, and the ongoing support of charitable trusts and the St Andrew’s College Foundation. Together, these contributions continue to strengthen the College’s financial sustainability and help create meaningful opportunities for current and future students.

CONCLUSION

I have consistently been struck with the passion and appreciation of our current students and parents have for our College, and so many of our Old Collegians still speak of this as their “home” with a strong sense of connection. Clearly St Andrew’s College not only delivers an outstanding education but establishes a lifelong connection and network for everyone who is part of this special community.

Therefore, I conclude with the final words of a poem by Reverend Alexander T Thompson whose vision founded this College and captures this sense of lifelong belonging. This poem is engraved up our driveway and known as The Poet’s Walk. These final words are “When school days are over, and pupils depart, may its sweet benediction ever dwell in each heart.”

Mark Wilson Rector

WHOLE SCHOOL GOALS 2025

The whole school goals for 2025 were well met and key outcomes are detailed here.

VALUES AND CULTURE

• Enhancement of the House system with increased student engagement, broader participation opportunities, strengthened leadership development, and improved house identity and visibility;

• Establishment of PERMA-V as the whole-school well-being framework, including baseline data collection, curriculum development, staff alignment, and implementation planning across all year levels.

TEACHING AND LEARNING

• Strengthened teaching practice through a focus on motivation, feedback, coaching conversations, and increased use of student voice to inform learning;

• Consistent use of explicit instruction and data-driven teaching in the Preparatory School, with clear evidence of student progress and improved well-being outcomes;

• Development of a balanced technology and AI framework, including policy creation, digital literacy education, and increased awareness of appropriate use.

LEADERSHIP AND GOVERNANCE

• Strengthened staff engagement through systematic use of AskYourTeam feedback, review groups, and improved communication and meeting practices;

• Robust leadership development through expanded coaching programmes, “Courageous Conversations” training, and targeted professional development for leaders;

• Completion of consultation and development of the new Strategic Plan (2026–2030) with strong community engagement and Board approval.

RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT

• Significant improvements in Health and Safety, including near-complete EOTC compliance and widespread implementation of Safety Seek systems;

• Ongoing digital transformation, including progress toward integrated systems (Veracross, Toddle, Aurion) and improved data processes and workflows;

• Advancement of HR and payroll system implementation, with migration progress and full rollout planned for 2026;

• Expanded staff technology professional development, including AI tools, cyber security awareness, and productivity systems;

• Continued progress in sustainability initiatives, including planting programmes, recycling systems, student-led environmental projects, and solar energy planning;

• Increased student leadership and engagement through sustainability and community partnerships.

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

ACADEMIC REPORT

For the year ended 31 December 2025

Academic Achievements in 2025:

Children at or above national

MATHEMATICS

Children at or above national averages

The Preparatory School remains focused on strengthening learning strategies and skills across all year levels. Progress in Literacy and Numeracy continued throughout 2025, alongside the ongoing development of students’ ability to apply effective learning tools and approaches. Students achieved strong outcomes against national benchmarks. The Preparatory School continues to be recognised as a leading example of a contemporary, 21st-century learning environment.

Children

Children within or above their year level standard

Preparatory School results against National Benchmarking:

NCEA AND SCHOLARSHIP RESULTS 2025

Our 2025 NCEA results included a total of 224 Excellence endorsements and 243 Merit endorsements, as well as 64 NZQA Scholarships, three of which were Outstanding Scholarships. At Level 1, students gained 72 Excellence endorsements, at Level 2, 82 Excellence endorsements, and at Level 3, 70 Excellence endorsements.

High academic achievement is celebrated at the College with students striving to achieve NCEA Excellence endorsements, Merit endorsements, and College premier academic awards. A good number of students are also recognised for their performance in national and international competitions. We also celebrate the personal achevements of all students, for instance our Academic Improvement Award which honours those students with the greatest academic rank improvement over a period of time.

Staff are working intensively towards the achievement of our target of all students completing each year of study having achieved the relevant NCEA Level certificate. The College has very effective processes for monitoring and tracking student progress and achievement, such as individual student monitoring and extensive tracking of student achievement throughout all year groups.

Level 1

In 2025, the College’s Level 1 pass rate was 98.2% and 24.7% better than the national figure. 41.6% of students gained a Merit endorsement (14.5% higher than schools nationally), and 32.6% gained Excellence (22.4% higher than schools nationally). The Excellence endorsement outcome was 72, ahead of the target established at the beginning of the year of 65.

Level 2

At Level 2, the pass rate was 100%, slightly up on the 2024 figure of 98.7% and 26.4% better than the national figure. 37.1% of students gained a Merit endorsement (11.8% higher than schools nationally), and 29.7% gained Excellence (14.4% higher than schools nationally). The Excellence endorsement outcome was 7 higher than the target established at the beginning of the year of 75.

Level 3

At Level 3, the pass rate was 98.1%, 2.9% up on the 2024 figure and 24.5% better than the national figure. 33.2% of these students gained a Merit endorsement (6.7% higher than schools nationally), and 28.4% gained an Excellence endorsement (13.8% higher than schools nationally). The Excellence endorsement outcome matched the target established at the beginning of the year of 70.

University Entrance

92.9% of our Year 13 students gained University Entrance compared with 52% in schools nationally.

Scholarships

Our students achieved an excellent 64 Scholarship passes in this premier assessment, including three Outstanding awards in Calculus, English, and Technology.

NCEA Level 1

% Achieved and ratio of Endorsements

StAC Achieved

Canterbury Achieved

StAC % Endorsed

Canterbury % Endorsed

StAC % Excellence

Canterbury % Excellence

NCEA Level 2

% Achieved and ratio of Endorsements

StAC Achieved

Canterbury Achieved

StAC % Endorsed

Canterbury % Endorsed

StAC % Excellence

Canterbury % Excellence

NCEA Level 3

% Achieved and ratio of Endorsements

StAC Achieved

Canterbury Achieved

StAC % Endorsed

Canterbury % Endorsed

StAC % Excellence

Canterbury % Excellence

University Entrance

% Achieved

StAC Achieved

Canterbury Achieved

The Achieved percentages are those of the students participating in the NCEA or University Entrance programme.

The percentages of Endorsed and Excellence are the ratios of those students who achieved the NCEA level. Endorsed means Excellence and Merit endorsements together.

This is the standard format provided by NZQA and used by schools generally when reporting the results.

Please note that there are no longer any Declile level reports available.

OUR PEOPLE

The Board of Governors

BOARD MEMBERS

Board appointed

Felicity Odlin Chair Financial Manager

David Bennett Chief Financial Officer

Jamie-Lee Tuuta Barrister

Parent nominees

Peter Armstrong CEO

Alan Merry CEO

Alpine Presbytery nominee

Peter Nelson Managing Director

Staff nominee

Nick Letham Deputy Chair Law Partner

Old Collegians’ nominee

Stephanie Bain People and Culture Consultant / Director

Rector

Mark Wilson Rector

BOARD SECRETARY

Justine Scott College People and Business Manager

Board Committees

Audit and Risk Committee (ARC)

Chair David Bennett Board

Members Richard Boon (to September)

Dan Ellis (from September)

Financial Controller

Financial Controller

Felicity Odlin Board Chair

Mark Wilson Rector

Peter Nelson Board

Health and Safety Board Sub-committee

Chair Alan Merry Board

Members Peter Armstrong Board

Mark Wilson Rector

Art Preuss Health and Safety Manager

Justine Scott People and Business Manager

Kerry Larby Head of Well-being

Remuneration and Nominations (RNC)

Chair Nick Letham Deputy Board Chair

Member Felicity Odlin Board Chair

College Disciplinary (CDC)

Chair Felicity Odlin Board Chair

Plus, two other Board Members appointed by the Board at the time.

Foundation Board of Trustees

Chair David Boyd

Members Richard Smith

Matthew Lancaster

Gordon MacLeod

Mark Mulholland

Tom Stanley

2025 President Roles

Old Collegians Association Zoe Merrick

Parent Teacher Association Tim Gibb

Ladies’ Circle

Gail Turner

For the year ended 31 December 2025

Student Numbers

Total Boys

Preparatory Boys

Total Girls

Preparatory Girls

Total Students

Total Preparatory

PREPARATORY SECONDARY

Student roll numbers as at 1 July 2025, MOE Returns.

Pre-school

Preparatory School

Secondary School

Student Staff Ratio Staff

PREPARATORY RATIO

SECONDARY RATIO TOTAL

Pre-school Staff

Preparatory School Staff

Secondary School Staff

Total College Other Staff

Total Staff

RATIO

PRE-SCHOOL STAFF

PREPARATORY STAFF

SECONDARY STAFF OTHER STAFF

TOTAL STAFF (FTE’S)

2025 STUDENT LEAVERS

For the year ended 31 December 2025

211 Year 13 students moved on from secondary education in 2025.

163

Year 13 students went on to university

Lincoln University (26)

Massey University (2)

Not decided which university (9)

AUT – Auckland University of Technology (1)

University of Auckland (6)

University of Canterbury (77)

University of Otago (40)

Victoria University of Wellington (4)

48

Students made other choices

Apprenticeship (8)

Gap Year (14)

Employment (8)

Polytechnic (10)

Other (6)

Undecided (2)

PUBLIC BENEFIT REPORT

The purpose of this Public Benefit Report is to outline how St Andrew’s College engages with the wider community and actively promotes access to its education and resources. When read alongside the Annual Report, it provides additional insight into the College’s non-financial activities.

The College is a registered charity (CC22462). The charitable objectives relevant to this report are to:

• provide a school or schools offering facilities and an environment that support sound learning and foster the development of character and life values grounded in the Presbyterian tradition;

• accept contributions, collections, donations, legacies, bequests, gifts, grants, and subsidies.

Under the College’s constitution, beneficiaries include students, parents, staff, Old Collegians, and any other charitable purposes as directed by the Presbytery of Christchurch. The College also receives support through financial grants from the St Andrew’s College Foundation from time to time.

The College is committed to ensuring access to its educational programme and welcomes applications from all parts of the community. A wide range of scholarships and bursaries is available, including those for academic achievement, music, sport, culture, and boarding.

The George Feilding Hight Scholarship, Endeavour Scholarships, and additional bursaries support students who, in the opinion of the Rector, may otherwise be unable to attend St Andrew’s College due to financial circumstances.

STRATEGIC PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE

The College remains committed to a sustainable future, supported by both short- and long-term strategic planning. Our current strategic framework, Framing Our Future, continues to guide our direction through to the end of 2025. It is built around six key priorities: High Performance, Opportunity, Partnership and Social Responsibility, Celebration and Community, well-being, and Place and Space.

Work is now in progress on our next strategic direction, Weaving the Future with the Threads of Tradition, which will be launched at the beginning of 2026. This next phase will retain the strength of our existing foundations while setting a clear course for continued growth and development.

These strategic priorities continue to inform our approach, with a focus on ensuring every student leaves the College having experienced personal success. We aim to equip students with the confidence, self-awareness, compassion, and sense of responsibility needed to take the next steps in their learning journey and contribute positively to the wider world.

Our founding values remain central to who we are, underpinning a culture of consistency, trust, and continuous improvement. Our core values of Truth, Excellence, and Faith, alongside Creativity and Inclusivity, reflect both our heritage and the aspirations of our community.

Our vision is for every student to flourish at the forefront of high performance educational practice, within a community that values care, tradition, and creativity. We are committed to providing young people with the foundations and opportunities they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.

COMMUNITY SERVICE PROGRAMMES AND STUDENTS HELPING OTHERS

The College remains committed to fostering purposeful partnerships at local, national, and global levels, creating meaningful opportunities for learning while strengthening civic engagement and social responsibility. Each year, St Andrew’s continues to build and deepen enduring relationships across these communities. These partnerships enhance both academic and service experiences, support collaborative learning, and strengthen our engagement with community service and not-for-profit organisations. Through these connections, students are encouraged to engage thoughtfully with the world around them, reflecting our strategic priorities of Partnership and Social Responsibility and supporting their development as informed and contributing members of society.

The College has comprehensive programmes in place to support these objectives. Part of the Senior College philosophy is ‘developing social responsibility’. Every student in the Senior College completes a set number of community service hours to receive their Bronze, Silver, or Gold Community Service Award. In 2025, Senior College students performed approximately 6336 hours of community service.

St Andrew’s College students participated in a wide range of community and service initiatives throughout 2025, supporting both the College and the broader community. This included the College’s ongoing partnership with So They Can, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting disadvantaged students, teachers, and families in under-resourced regions of Africa. In 2025, a total of $14,823 was contributed to So They Can, supporting Mwikantsi School in Tanzania as part of our Memorandum of Understanding.

Community Service Leaders ran student theme days raising money to support several charities and Secondary School tutor groups ran initiatives to support World Vision, Christchurch City Mission, Cancer Society, Youthline, Kairos Food Rescue Kitchen, Christchurch School of Music and Royal New Zealand Returned Services Association, totalling $3148. Offerings from chapel services collected $606 for the Christchurch City Mission, $447 for World Vision and $397 Kairos Food Rescue Kitchen. Then at the end of the year, for Christmas, staff, and students from across all year levels donated gifts to the Christchurch City Mission.

Castle Hill Outdoor Education Centre

Pest control initiatives continue, with ongoing wasp and stoat management undertaken in partnership with Craigieburn Wasp Wipeout and the Craigieburn Trapping Alliance. Students remain actively involved in wilding pine control work.

Fire and Emergency, along with the Castle Hill Crisis Response team, continue to share access to key resources, including generators, a satellite phone, firefighting equipment, and emergency accommodation. LandSAR and Education Outdoors New Zealand (EONZ) also make use of the lodge and facilities for training and meetings at a significantly reduced rate, recognising their contribution to the community and the Outdoor Education sector.

Use of the lodge by community groups and the public continues to grow, with the facility supporting a range of users such as Lincoln University, recreational cycling and running events, and family gatherings.

Daffodil Day

Students right across the College raised funds for the Cancer Society New Zealand’s annual Daffodil Day. The Sustainability Council sold fresh daffodils grown on campus; Preparatory School students wore a touch of yellow with their uniform to support the day, and the Pre-school children had a ‘Dress in Yellow’ day and gold coin donations. Tamariki also created daffodil-inspired art, made yellow playdough, and painted their faces with yellow flowers.

Food for Humanity House Challenge

The second annual Food for Humanity House Challenge was another great success with House leaders displaying the cans of food collected through the efforts of students and staff in the different Houses, which were donated to the Hoon Hay Foodbank. MacGibbon collected the most items overall, followed by Rutherford, then Erwin and Thompson.

Gumboot Friday

Many students across the College traded in their black school shoes for a pair of gumboots on Gumboot Friday, which was run in association with the Secondary School Boarders’ Assembly, to raise money for the I Am Hope Foundation, which provides financial assistance to young people requiring support with their mental health.

Personal Product Bags

A new Community Service initiative supported people experiencing homelessness and hardship in Christchurch by providing practical care packs for Kairos Rescue Food Kitchen. After learning of the organisation’s need, student leaders introduced an ongoing programme where each tutor group contributes one or two drawstring bags of essential personal care and comfort items each term. The packs include toiletries, hygiene products, and small extras, helping those using Kairos’ facilities. The initiative received strong support from the St Andrew’s community.

Pink Shirt Day

On Friday 16 May, the College came together to celebrate Pink Shirt Day, a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up against bullying and fostering a culture of kindness, respect, and inclusivity. Prefects, Milla Smith and Jonty Lang (both Year 13), delivered a moving and impactful address at the Secondary School Assembly, which concluded with a call to action: to be upstanders, not bystanders. The Preparatory School was awash with pink as students gave a vibrant show of support, transforming their classroom doors into powerful messages of kindness, each one uniquely expressing what it means to be an upstander.

Red Zone Planting

In early March, Secondary School students packed up their 2000 repotted seedlings to transfer to the central Eco-Action Project nursery. The Preparatory School also packed up their

repotted seedlings. In mid-May the young trees and shrubs were transported to the Red Zone for the first 2025 Community Planting. This flagship sustainable action project involves both the Sustainability Council and the Duke of Edinburgh programme.

EYES ON THE WORLD – CREATING GLOBAL CONNECTIONS

The St Andrew’s College Exchange Programme has had an exceptional start to 2025, providing students from Years 10 to 13 with exciting opportunities to explore new environments, embrace different cultures, experience diverse educational settings, and build meaningful, long lasting global connections. This year, students can apply for exchanges to Australia, Canada, Scotland, England, and China.

A significant development for 2026 will be the introduction of a new exchange to Beijing, China, offered through the New Zealand China Friendship Society. This partnership provides eight students in Years 11 and 12 with the chance to travel to Beijing for a 10 day cultural and educational exchange, immersing themselves in both the historical and modern aspects of China.

Our long established exchanges to Australia continue to thrive, with Year 10 and 11 students travelling to Barker College and Presbyterian Ladies’ College in Sydney. Earlier this year, we were delighted to host students from Lakefield College School in Ontario, Canada, and in return, two St Andrew’s College students have enjoyed experiencing the crisp mid-winter climate of Canada.

We are currently amid the application and selection process for exchanges to Scotland, Canada, and China, and it is encouraging to see strong interest across all programmes.

Finally, we acknowledge our prestigious and long standing Robert Burns Scholarship, which selects two students to travel to Scotland as ambassadors of St Andrew’s College. During this exchange, students immerse themselves in Scottish culture while visiting six independent schools, from Edinburgh through to the northern Highlands of Elgin.

Looking ahead, students in Years 11 and 12 will have the chance to participate in exchanges to Scotland, Canada, and England, scheduled to take place in 2026.

For the past 19 years, St Andrew’s College has partnered with the St Vincent de Paul Society (SVDP) to support the responsible reuse and redistribution of end-of-life ICT equipment.

What initially began as small-scale donations of computers, keyboards, mice, and monitors has developed into a well-established initiative. Today, the ICT Department coordinates the collection of a wide range of IT and audio-visual equipment during each holiday period. These resources are then recycled, refurbished, and repurposed by SVDP, extending their useful life and supporting communities in need.

Through this programme, donated equipment is redistributed to low-decile schools and churches across New Zealand and the Pacific, helping to improve access to technology and digital learning environments.

Recent contributions include:

• 10+ Epson projectors as part of the College’s ongoing renewal programme;

• Microsoft Surface Go 3 devices from the Junior Department;

• Legacy flat-screen monitors replaced during technology upgrades.

Looking ahead, the ICT team will conduct a further review of storage holdings during the Term 2 holiday period, with additional donations scheduled to continue supporting this long-standing partnership.

This initiative reflects the College’s commitment to sustainability, community support, and maximising the value of its technology investments.

STUDENTS THRIVING THROUGH INCLUSIVE LEARNING

The Learning Support Department continues to strengthen its inclusive, evidence-informed approach, ensuring all ākonga are supported to thrive. Our focus is on recognising individual strengths, removing barriers to learning, and empowering students to become confident, independent learners.

Vision and Values: Our vision is to support neurodiverse learners and those experiencing challenges within a safe, caring, and non-judgemental environment. Guided by our core values of Inclusion, Equity, Empowerment, and Partnership, we work collaboratively with whānau, staff, and the wider community to ensure every learner feels valued and supported.

Grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, tika, pono, and aroha, our practice reflects integrity, care, and a commitment to doing what is right for each student.

Supporting Diverse Learners: We support a wide range of learners, including those with dyslexia, ADHD, autism, executive functioning challenges, social-emotional needs, and other diverse learning differences.

Early identification through assessment data, teacher insight, and whānau voice allows us to provide timely, targeted support across the Preparatory and Secondary Schools.

Our approach is strengths-based. We often describe the brain as a Ferrari, powerful and capable, but requiring the right fuel (respect and belonging) and conditions (effective teaching and support) to perform at its best.

Targeted and Responsive Support: Using a tiered Response to Intervention (RTI) model, support is flexible and responsive:

• Tier 1 / Universal: High-quality, differentiated classroom teaching;

• Tier 2 / Targeted: Targeted small group interventions;

• Tier 3 / Tailored: Intensive, individualised support.

Progress is closely monitored to ensure interventions accelerate learning and respond to changing needs.

Focus on Executive Functioning and Resilience: A key priority this year has been strengthening executive functioning skills, including organisation, planning, working memory, and self-regulation. These skills are critical for building independence and success across all learning areas.

Alongside this, we continue to develop resilient learners who can persevere through challenges, view mistakes as opportunities for growth, and build the confidence to take ownership of their learning.

Ensuring Access and Equity: We remain committed to equitable access to learning and assessment for all Learning Support students. Through inclusive practices and tailored support, we ensure every ākonga has fair and meaningful opportunities to demonstrate their understanding. Students who qualify for Special Assessment Conditions (SAC) are supported to access appropriate accommodations, helping to remove barriers and promote equity in assessment.

Looking Ahead: Our next steps include deepening classroom use of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), strengthening executive functioning supports across the curriculum, and continuing to amplify student voice.

At the centre of our work is a simple commitment: every ākonga is known, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.

SHARING OF FACILITIES

St Andrew’s College has a large campus with excellent sporting and educational facilities. Many groups both national and international also make use of our facilities.

2025 was a busy year for the leasing part of our business with various groups booking a range of our facilities across all the term breaks and more.

Our Boarding facilities were used by the following groups: Scotch College, Scots College, Geelong College, The Kings School, Students Against Drunk Driving, Volleyball New Zealand, Total Tours – Maitland Junior, Total Tours – Knox Grammar, Estilo Travel – Oakhill College, Total Tours – Calrossy Anglican, North Wellington FC (two groups), Wellington Brass Youth Trust, Helensville Junior Rugby Club, Mosgiel Brass Band, St Andrew’s College Pasifika Group, and Christchurch Archery Club.

We also had other groups hiring out other buildings and amenities on the campus: Church, Wedding and Funeral Groups: Latimer Church, three weddings and six funerals

Cultural Groups:

David Yu, Christchurch Liedertafel Choir, The Entertainment Company, Piano Academy Christchurch, Highland Piping Society, Canterbury Drummers Club, Waikato Basketball Council, Korfball New Zealand, Highland Dance Company of New Zealand, Christchurch Civic Music Council, Lisa Laughlin, Iryna Maksymova, and Julie Hawke.

Sports Groups:

Canterbury Regional Basketball, Canterbury Rugby Football Union, Christchurch Girls High School, Canterbury Basketball Association, Canterbury Hockey, and Canterbury Rams Basketball.

Other:

Holly Tang Yoga, Educate Plus NZ, Orion New Zealand, AFS New Zealand, St John Youth, Friends of Futuna, and Makers & Creators.

STAFF SHARING KNOWLEDGE

As well as providing the highest education within the College, St Andrew’s staff continue to engage in the wider educational community and regularly share their expertise beyond the school. Several teaching staff were markers for NCEA in various subjects and contributed as speakers at conferences.

In 2025, the Secondary School hosted nine trainees from training providers across Terms 1, 2, and 3. Staff act as Associate Teachers and support the trainees’ teaching practice experience in classrooms throughout the course of the teaching placement. Teachers observe, both informally and formally, trainee teachers, and provide detailed and constructive written feedback throughout the placement.

In 2025, the Preparatory School hosted trainee teachers from various institutions, with staff serving as mentors during their classroom placements. Many staff also volunteer in their communities and contribute to sports and cultural groups outside school hours.

Staff actively contribute beyond the classroom, volunteering in their communities, coaching sports and cultural groups, and supporting student-led causes. Continuing a valued tradition, they ended 2025 by donating gifts to the City Mission, placing them under the Centennial Chapel Christmas tree alongside student contributions for collection just before Christmas.

Staff presenting at conferences:

Treena Bonnett English

Hayley George English

Christine Fildes English

Donna Jones English

Mitch Howard Mathematics

Jon Fahlander Mathematics

Rhonda Schmidt Mathematics

Duncan Ferguson Music

NZATE National Conference: Tāmaki Makaurau

NZATE National Conference: Tāmaki Makaurau

NZATE National Conference: Tāmaki Makaurau

NZATE National Conference: Tāmaki Makaurau

New Zealand Association for Mathematics Teachers’ Conference

New Zealand Association for Mathematics Teachers’ Conference

New Zealand Association for Mathematics Teachers’ Conference

Music EdNet Conference and MENZA Conference

Ginnie Thorner Literacy in Drama Whakamana, Mana Reo Conference and MENZA Conference

Staff leadership of Professional Associations:

Staff also contribute voluntarily to the wider educational community, demonstrating a willingness to be engaged and active participants in the process:

Andy Kerrison Graphics and Technology Teachers Association

Canterbury GTTA Chairperson

Canterbury Robotics (Kiwibots) Regional Co-ordinator

Ginnie Thorner Primary Drama Collective Conference Convenor and Lead teacher

Justine Lee Canterbury Digital Technology Teachers

Secretary

Ben Hughes NZARETSC (Religious Education Teachers and School Chaplains) Treasurer and Executive team

Fiona Taylor NNZALT Convenor of the NZALT Conference

Donna Jones Waitaha English Committee member

SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT

The College’s pastoral care objective is to provide a programme that celebrates the unique talents and personalities of each individual while developing resilience, emotional intelligence, and overall well-being in all students. Our approach is grounded in the PERMA-V framework, fostering Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Accomplishment, and Vitality, to support flourishing across all aspects of student life.

The Pastoral Care programme is underpinned by the College’s guiding values of Truth, Excellence, Faith, Creativity, and Inclusivity. Through this holistic approach, we aim to ensure every student feels comfortable, confident, and connected to their school community, enabling their time here to be both rewarding and enriching.

In 2025, the Secondary School College kapa haka group was led by Matua Wiremu, with support from Connor O’Rourke. The group performed at a range of school events throughout the year, including supporting our kaikōrero at the annual Ngā Manu Kōrero speech competitions and sharing te ao Māori with the wider College community.

Their commitment to kapa haka was evident in both performance and practice, strengthening their connection to te reo Māori me ōna tikanga. The group continues to be an important part of the College’s cultural identity, providing meaningful opportunities for students to grow in confidence, leadership, and cultural knowledge.

In Term 1, all students from Years 4–8 participated in kapa haka sessions with Kapa Haka tutor, Matua Steve Reid and Te Reo Māori teacher Mary Leota. A variety of traditional and modern waiata and hymns were sung and the actions learned. Simple stick games and Te Haka o Hato Ānaru (St Andrew’s haka) were taught and all the boys who were in the team travelling to Australia for the Sports Tour worked hard to learn the haka to perform before matches.

In Term 3, 85 students from Years 4–8 opted into the performance group. This group perfected their programme of the boys performing intricate rākau moves to the waiata ‘Rākau Whiuwhuia’, followed by the waiata ‘E Minaka Ana’, the girls poi dance to ‘Haere mai’ and the extended school haka. They performed with distinction in the Tūhono Cultural Festival in the Town Hall and opened the proceedings at the annual College’s Years 7–13 Prizegiving at Wolfbrook Arena. Throughout the year the kapa performed in school assemblies, at three Mihi Whakatau, and on other special occasions.

In 2025, the Secondary School College Pasifika Group was led by James Jenkinson and supported by Connor O’Rourke. The group performed at several College and community events, including the Presbyterian Schools Principal Conference hui in held at the College, chapel services, and at a local rest home during Samoan Language Week.

A highlight was their performance at the Ōtautahi Polyfest and St Andrew’s College Fiafia Night, where the group beautifully represented and celebrated cultures from around the Pacific Island nations represented in our College community.

New to the cultural calendar, was a Pasifika Group and whanau ‘Camp’ which included shared kai and a chapel service, attended by students and their whanau, followed by an evening of activities and sleepover in the MacGibbon House boarding facility.

Year 13 leavers from the group were recognised with special ula on their last day of school to acknowledge their contribution to not only the group, but also the College.

2025 was another highly successful year for the St Andrew’s College Pipe Band, with continued growth and outstanding competitive results. The A Band were crowned New Zealand Juvenile Champions and won the Grade 2 National Championship, while the B Band placed fourth in Grade 4A. Student participation increased to 164, reflecting strong recruitment and engagement across the programme.

The band maintained a strong presence at College and community events, including Anzac Day services, StAC Attack, and regional Highland Games, while students also achieved notable success in major solo competitions both in New Zealand and internationally.

COMMUNICATION WITH OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY

The College website provides easily accessible information to keep the wider community informed about school activities and developments. The Annual Report and the annual Philanthropy Report are both available online, the latter highlighting the philanthropic and volunteer contributions of staff, students, and parents within the St Andrew’s community. The College’s magazine, Regulus, is also published online, sharing updates on campus developments, alumni news, and student achievements. Information relevant to the local community is communicated through the website and social media channels, with direct communication to neighbouring residents where appropriate.

To read more about what is happening at the College or to read the Philanthropy Report, please visit the College website at stac.school.nz.

College Income and Expenses

ST ANDREW’S COLLEGE FINANCIALS

St Andrew’s College includes our Secondary and Preparatory Schools, our boarding facilities, and our Pre-school.

The 2025 result was a $1m deficit. This result was expected, and aligned with the 2025 budgeted deficit of $1m set in late 2024. The key driver of this deficit was an increase in depreciation costs due to both the 2024 revaluation of land and buildings ($17.7m increase and $57.6m increase respectively), along with the capitalisation of the Ngā Toi Performing Arts Centre. The College continues to enjoy a full roll which drives our income, and continues to scrutinise costs whilst ensuring the needs of our students are met.

The Cash Surplus achieved each year helps pay for our building programme. The $6.08m achieved this year was more than the $3.6m of capital expenditure, which meant that the College could continue to reduce the level of debt carried. This reduction, along with a softening of interest rates in 2025, meant that the College significantly reduced interest costs compared with budget. The College continues to rely on the cash surpluses and donations to repay this borrowing, to fund the building programme, and to thereby keep our campus fit for purpose.

The complete Tier 1 Financial Report can be found on the Charities Services web site www.charities.govt.nz, registered charity number CC22462 for the St Andrew’s College and Group, and CC25213 for the Tier 2 St Andrew’s College Foundation report. These reports have been prepared in line with the External Reporting Board (XRB) standards as required by Charities Services. They were audited by BDO, independent accountants, and both received clean reports.

The high level reporting of the Group, extracted from the full audited report, is shown at the end of these financial pages. The Group numbers include the College, Burnett Valley Farm, the Foundation, the Old Collegians Association, and the Parent Teachers Association combined.

The Old Collegians Association full report is also available from the Charities Services website (CC27778), as is the Parent Teachers Association full report (CC51447).

Secondary School Preparatory School

Pre-school

Other Contributing Services (1)

Service Departments (net Cost) (2)

Operating Donations (3)

OPERATING SURPLUS

Building Donations less Interest cost CASH SURPLUS Depreciation

TOTAL NET SURPLUS / (DEFICIT)

$000’s

Capital Expenditure for 2025 was $3.6m, of which $2.9m represented investment in building projects around the College, such as the RE Block strengthening and renovation ($1.5m), a complete renovation of the Arts Block toilet facility ($0.6m) and $0.15m on replacing the Arts Block walkway roof. Other projects that were continuing into 2026 were the Preparatory School Playground replacement and the Science Storage facility addition.

$673k was spent on new equipment across the College, including new projectors throughout the the College, heatpump upgrades, a replacement John Deere Gator, sports and media, and ICT equipment, as well as furniture and equipment for the renovated RE Block.

NOTES:

(1) Includes Boarding, Leasing, International Students, and College Shop.

(2) Includes Administration, Development, Property, Communications, and ICT departments.

(3) Includes Scholarship Grants from St Andrew’s College Foundation, and The Denis Ager Trust, as well as parent donations from PTA and other co-curricular parent groups e.g. Rowing Club (boats).

Fixed Assets (NBV) Net Book Value

(NBV)

The College is run by the Rector and the Executive team, and it is closely governed by the Board of Governors, while the Foundation is run and governed by the Board of Trustees.

The College is an Incorporated Society and a registered charity, and governed by the Board of Governors on behalf of past, present, and future students, parents, and the St Andrew’s College community. The College is a “Not-for-Profit” organisation with the operating costs incurred each year mostly paid for from the fees collected from the families of the current students.

The assets of the College which are largely the land and buildings have been funded mostly by past and current students / families, as well as from generous donations received from the community. These are maintained to a high standard and are continually being kept “fit for purpose” for current and future students.

BURNETT VALLEY FARM

For the year ended 31 December 2025

The Burnett Valley Farm is owned by the Burnett Valley Trust (BVT). The College is the sole beneficiary of this trust. The farm is situated near Cave in South Canterbury.

The College relinquished the lease on the farm in April 2020, and it is now leased by BVT to a third party. Through agreement with the BVT the College retains ownership of all 194.5 ha of forestry assets on the farm, including ownership of all carbon credits associated with these forestry assets.

The College continues to maintain the forestry blocks with 89.7 ha as Forest Stock (harvestable trees) and 104.8 ha as Carbon Forest (farming carbon credits and the trees are not available to be harvested). The College employs Forest Management Ltd. to manage the forestry assets on its behalf, and to provide the year end valuations.

In the official Charities Services financial report the College figures include the Farm Operation, however they are reported separately in this report.

ST ANDREW’S COLLEGE FOUNDATION

the year ended 31 December

Our Foundation receives and invests donations to enable it to support the College. This support includes helping to fund scholarships.

The Foundation is governed by the Board of Trustees who engage Forsyth Barr to manage the investment fund.

Funding for both ‘George Hight’ and ‘Foundation’ scholarships comes from the Foundation’s ‘Scholarship Grants’.

The complete audited Tier 2 report is available on the Charities Services website (CC25213).

(1) “Unrealised Gains” is the increase in market value over the cost of the investments held. These gains are not locked in until an investment is sold, and may decrease or increase depending on market conditions.

Global financial markets finished 2025 delivering positive returns, supported by monetary policy, resilient economic conditions, and generally solid corporate earnings. Domestically, economic conditions continued to stabilise towards the end of 2025, with the Reserve Bank of New Zealand reducing the Official Cash Rate to 2.25% following cuts in October and November. The New Zealand economy in general remains susceptible to world events.

While global equity markets remain near record highs amid ongoing debate around valuations, artificial intelligence-related investment, and geopolitical risks, the Foundation continues to adopt a long term investment policy and a diversified asset allocation strategy to mitigate risk.

ST ANDREW’S COLLEGE OLD COLLEGIANS (INC.)

For the year ended 31 December 2025

Total

/ (Deficit) (8,712) 33,478 Investment income (interest and dividends) 25,753 20,231 Realised gain / (loss) (1,246) 10,457 Unrealised gain / (loss) 30,856 62,920 Management of fund (8,141) (6,933)

Total Investment Surplus / (Deficit) 47,222 86,675

St Andrew’s College Old Collegians (Inc), known as St Andrew’s College Old Collegians Association, is incorporated under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022 and is a registered charity under the Charities Act 2005. The Association was incorporated on 19 February 1935.

The main objectives of the Association are to foster and maintain an interest by Old Collegians in St Andrew’s College (the College), and provide the opportunity for its members to engage with fellow members, the College and the College community; and to support the activities of the College and its community, including the promotion and advancement of education at the College.

Following instructions per the PBE IPSAS 35 Consolidated Financial Statements accounting standard, the College ‘Group’ figures now include those for the Old Collegians. The full Old Collegians Tier 3 report is available from the Charities Services website (CC 27778).

ST ANDREW’S COLLEGE PARENT TEACHERS ASSOCIATION

St Andrew’s College Parent Teachers Association, is incorporated under the Incorporated Societies Act 1908 and is a registered charity under the Charities Act 2005. The PTA was incorporated on 24 June 1933.

The main objectives of the Association are to promote co-operation between parents / caregivers and teachers, and the Governing authority of the College, and to raise and expend funds to aid this.

Following instructions per the PBE IPSAS 35 Consolidated Financial Statements accounting standard, the College ‘Group’ figures now include those for the Parent Teachers Association. The full Parent Teachers Association Tier 4 report is available from the Charities Services website (CC 51447).

GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

These Financial Statements are extracted from the audited Tier 1 Financial Report uploaded to the Charities Services website. These Group numbers represent the combined results for St Andrew’s College, Burnett Valley Farm (forestry), St Andrew’s College Foundation, Old Collegians Association, and the Parent Teachers Association.

STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE REVENUE AND EXPENSE

For the year ended 31 December 2025

REVENUE

Fees

Sales

Other exchange revenue

Donations

Grants

Other non exchange revenue

Investment income

Other income

Total Revenue

COSTS

Employee benefits expense

Scholarships and discounts

Curriculum delivery costs

Boarding and kitchen costs

Property and equipment related costs

Administration and related costs

Shop cost of goods sold

Farm (forestry) costs

Depreciation

Investment costs (loss on disposal)

Investment costs (net fair value decrease)

Other expenses

Total Costs

SURPLUS / (DEFICIT) BEFORE NET FINANCE COSTS

Finance income

Finance costs

Net Financing Income / (Cost)

SURPLUS / (DEFICIT) FOR THE YEAR

Other comprehensive revenue and expense

Gain/(Loss) on revaluation of syndicated property investments

Gain/(Loss) on revaluation of ETS carbon credits

Gain/(Loss) on revaluation of carbon forest (future value)

Gain/(Loss) on revaluation of property, plant and equipment

Total

581,162 46,303,865 11,578,637 36,795 (838,401) (801,606) 10,777,031 9,298 (163,926) 156,204 75,241,087 75,242,663 86,019,694

STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE REVENUE AND EXPENSE

For the year ended 31 December 2025

Accumulated Revenue and Expense

Balance at 1 January Surplus / (deficit) for the year

Revaluation Surplus

Balance at 1 January

Other comprehensive revenue and expense for the year

BALANCE AT 31 DECEMBER

Total Equity

Balance at 1 January

Total comprehensive revenue and expense for the year

BALANCE AT 31 DECEMBER

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

As at 31 December 2025

Cash

Receivables

GST

Inventories

Prepayments

Total

Property,

Intangibles

Total

Advances

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

For the year ended 31 December 2025

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Tuition and boarding fees

Goods and services provided

Grants, donations, and bequests

Payments to employees

Payments to suppliers

Interest received

Net GST (paid) / received

Net cash inflow/(outflow) from operating activities

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Interest received

Dividends received from investments

Proceeds from disposal of biological assets

Proceeds from disposal of investments

Payments for purchase of property, plant and equipment

Payments for purchase of investments

Investment fund management fees

Net cash inflow/(outflow) from investing activities

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Proceeds from draw down of loans

Repayment of loans

Interest paid

from financing activities

ACADEMIC

UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIPS:

59 awarded

ICAS:

4 Medals – Year 7 Writing, Year 9 Mathematics and Science, Year 12 Science

BRAIN BEE:

Year 11 Runner Up South Island

SPELLING BEE:

National Champion and Runner Up

ETHICS OLYMPIAD

South Island Runners Up

FUTURE PROBLEM SOLVING:

Year 10 Team National Champion

3 Individuals and 3 Teams – National Finalists

CREATIVE WRITING:

National Schools Poetry Award – 2 Finalists

DECATHLON:

Year 9 NZ da Vinci Competition Winners, Years 10 & 11 Runners Up

VEX ROBOTICS:

Year 8 Runners Up South Island VEX IQ Nationals

MATHEMATICS:

Year 9 Cantamath Winners

Year 12 Canterbury Competition Winners

SPEECH:

Ngā Manu Kōrero: Senior Māori Impromptu – Third Years 5 & 7 Winners Rotary Christchurch Schools Competition

CULTURE

ORCHESTRA:

7 students NZSS Symphony Orchestra

PIPE BAND:

NZ Champions, Grade 2 and Juvenile (U18)

TOP STUDENT SUCCESSES

Congratulations to our students for their outstanding successes across sports, cultural and academic areas.

FOOTBALL:

Girls’ 1st XI Third NZSS Div 2

Primary Boys Winners CPSSA

BASKETBALL:

Girls Senior A Fifth NZSS

Girls Senior A and Junior Girls Winners NZSS Zone 4

Senior Girls 3x3 Runners Up NZSS

Senior Boys 3x3 Third NZSS

Preparatory Boys Winners and Girls Runners Up CPSSA

CULTURAL CELEBRATIONS

Music Festival

Film Fest

Dance Revue

Pipe Band StAC Attack

COLLEGE PRODUCTIONS

The Sleeping Beauty (Ballet Academy)

Diary of a Wimpy Kid (Middle School)

Twelfth Night (Senior College)

Northern Meeting, Scotland, U18 Solo Piping Champion

NZ U21 Solo Piping Championship Runner Up Oceania Solo Drumming Champion U18

NZ Young Piper of the Year (U21) Runner Up

5 students – National Youth Pipe Band

ROCK BAND: Rockquest Best Song

JAZZ BAND:

Gold Award Ara JazzQuest

3 Gold Awards MEFA Festival

CHORAL:

Big Sing Best Mixed Choir

2 students NZSS Choir

BALLET:

13 NZAMD Ballet Distinctions and Scholarships

NZAMD Ballet Scholarship Awards – 1st and 3rd place

SI Ballet Awards – Finalist and Scholarship Winner

New Zealand School of Dance – Ballet Associate

DEBATING:

Junior Regional Winners and Impromptu Runners Up CSS

HIGHLAND DANCE:

Winner New Zealand Championship Overall U16 and 6 U16 titles

DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S HILLARY AWARD: 22 Gold awards

NEW ZEALAND REPRESENTATIVES: 14 Recipients

FLAG FOOTBALL:

U12 World Championships Fifth

NETBALL:

Senior A Fifth SISS

Year 9A Runners Up SISS Junior Tournament

VOLLEYBALL:

Senior A Girls Third NZSS

TOUCH:

Mixed Runners Up NZSS (Dec 2024)

TENNIS:

Senior Girls Fourth NZSS

Senior Girls Runners Up & Senior Boys Third SISS

ATHLETICS: NZSS Championships – 1 Silver, 2 Bronze (Dec 2024)

SISS Championships – 12 Gold, 3 Silver, 2 Bronze

TRAP SHOOTING:

National Skeet Champion NZSS

Junior Single Rise Champion NISS

TRIATHLON:

16–19 Girls Tenth World Junior Championships

U16 Girls Winner SISS and NZSS

U19 Boys Third SISS

Year 8 Open Winner CPSSA

ADVENTURE RACING:

Open School Event Winner SISS

Open Men’s 2-day Team Third Coast to Coast

CRICKET:

Year 10 Winners SISS

SKI AND SNOW SPORTS:

Winner CSS Mixed Team

Mixed Ski Team Winners SISS

ISSA Primary Team Winners and

Intermediate Co-ed Team Runners Up

ROAD RACE:

SPORT

ROWING:

HOCKEY:

FUTSAL:

Girls Year 9 & Senior Girls Runners Up CSS

MOUNTAIN BIKING: SISS Championships – 1 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze

SWIMMING: CSS Championships 9 podium finishes

CROSS COUNTRY:

Year 9 Runner Up SISS

Junior Girls and U16 Boys team Winners

CANOE POLO:

Senior Open Winners SISS

GOLF:

Winners CSS

SQUASH:

Individuals Runner Up CSS

ZONTA AWARDS:

Winner Boys Category 2 – Football and Softball Referee

Highly Commended Girls Category 5 – Girls’ 1st XI Hockey

Highly Commended Girls Category 6 – Athletics, Rugby, Basketball, Touch Rugby

NEW ZEALAND REPRESENTATIVES: 25 Recipients