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Matt’s personal philosophy on supporting student well-being and achievement is to make decisions based on ‘what a great parent might do’. “I believe great parents set the culture and tone of their family and foster a sense of belonging, protection, and direction. We set the same intentions in our boarding family at St Andrew’s College. I’m fortunate to lead a large team who deliver an incredibly high duty of care. Everything we do revolves around supporting the students’ number one objective for being here – to get an excellent education.”
Matt came to St Andrew’s College from Christchurch Boys’ High School where he was Assistant Manager of Adams House for three years, and was also the school’s Director of Communications, a teacher, and a sports coach. He is an Old Boy himself, having played for the First teams in rugby and cricket for three years at Christchurch Boys’ High School, and serving as Deputy Head Boy in his final year.
During a gap year in the United Kingdom Matt had his first taste of teaching at an agricultural school in Somerset. While in the UK, Matt met his future wife, Nancy, and on their return to New Zealand, he spent four years studying Physical Education at the University of Otago. After a year teaching English in Japan, Matt completed his post-graduate teaching studies, and started his teaching career back at Christchurch Boys’ High School as a Health and Physical Education teacher.
Struan's educational journey is closely intertwined with his commitment to boarding. Starting as a Physical Education & Health Teacher and House Tutor at Timaru Boys’ High School, he transitioned to St Andrew’s College in 2003, becoming House Tutor at McGibbon House. In 2011, he returned to St Andrew’s College, drawn to the first-class cricket offerings at the College, assuming the role of House Manager at MacGibbon House. Recognising the transformative impact of boarding, Struan expanded his commitment in 2023, now also serving as the Assistant Director of Boarding.
As a devoted father of four boys, his personal commitment to boys' education is profound, emphasising the importance of keeping them engaged and active. His insights into the transition from home to boarding life are not only professional but deeply personal, with his eldest son recently embarking on a journey with the Air Force. Struan brings a wealth of experience and understanding to his multifaceted roles at St Andrew’s College.
Ian has been House Manager of Rutherford Boarding House for several years. He has a student-centred philosophy with a very good understanding of adolescents. He recognises the need for young adults to be given the opportunity of self-responsibility accompanied with structures that make them accountable, while developing a strong sense of independence. Ian teaches Technology as well as Design and Visual Communication, having a variety of practical skills. Outside of boarding he has a wide range of interests and is presently involved in open water swimming in the summer and skiing in the winter. He enjoys travelling extensively and is known for undertaking spontaneous trips away overseas.
Laura took up the role of Assistant House Manager of Rutherford House in 2023. With a long history of youth work, event management and StrengthsFinder coaching, it was the pastoral care opportunities that drew Laura to this role.
Her more recent experience of also working within an independent school enrolment team means she also brings an understanding of the education sector with her, and a greater understanding of the investment a family makes when choosing a school like St Andrew's College. While her employment only began in 2023, Laura has felt connected to the College for much longer than that as her husband, Assistant Chaplain Ben Hughes has been working at St Andrew's since 2017. When not at work both Ben and Laura are likely on the sports sideline or at a dance rehearsal for one (or both) of their two young daughters, Isla and Eden.
Bronwyn began teaching at St Andrew’s College in 2007; teaches French, Te Waka and Travel and Tourism, and is Head of Languages. She was a Dean from 2015–2019 and has a passion for pastoral care in education. Family is extremely important to Bronwyn. She is married to Tim who works for Aviation Security, after serving 24 years in the New Zealand Police, and they have three children. Bronwyn brings her experience of parenting along with experience as a Dean into boarding. She understands the challenges young people face and believes in developing responsibility, independence and confidence in them so they may flourish beyond their time at school. To keep fit and healthy, Bronwyn enjoys running and walking her dog.
Jo joined Thompson House as Assistant House Manager in 2013. She came to St Andrew’s College with a background in theatre and film and has also worked with various social agencies. The development of confidence and inner strength is something Jo loves to see throughout a young woman’s boarding experience. She enjoys being an active member of a hugely diverse, warm hearted and close extended family. She has a passion for film, theatre, art and music festivals and relishes spending time with her borrowed boxer dogs at the beach and on walks in the Port Hills.
Lisa has been at St Andrew's College since 2010 and joined the boarding family in 2017. Her knowledge of the school and her passion for working with children has been a great fit for MacGibbon house. Lisa, being from Canada, knows what it is like to live away from home and goes the extra mile to create a welcoming family environment for each and every student. She believes communication between boarders, parents and staff is an essential ingredient for a positive boarding experience.
Meet our Boarding Staff