Community and service – August 2026

Business Studies Night Market

The Business Studies Night Market on Monday 15 June featured more than 30 student-led stalls showcasing innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Students from St Andrew’s College, St Margaret’s College, Rangi Ruru Girls’ School, and Cashmere High School presented a range of products and services, from handcrafted products and baked goods to well-being solutions and practical services, applying learning in entrepreneurship and business. The event attracted strong community attendance and provided an opportunity for students to engage with customers, test ideas, and present their ventures in a real‑world context.

Girl Guide Award

Isla Kempthorne and Hollie Miller (both Year 13) achieved the Queen’s Guide Award, the highest international award in Girl Guiding. The award reflects a sustained commitment across service, leadership, and outdoor experiences over a five‑year period.

International Languages Week

Students participated in an International Languages Quiz and a range of food‑based experiences during International Languages Week in mid-June which celebrated cultural diversity across the College. Highlights included pain au chocolat for sale, and a giant one-metre-wide chicken and chorizo paella prepared by Spanish teacher, Alexis Evlampieff. The week connected to broader global themes, including the international focus of major events such as the FIFA World Cup.

Kairos Rescue Food Kitchen Blue Bag Appeal

For the second year, St Andrew’s College supported the Kairos Rescue Food Kitchen Blue Bag appeal. Each tutor group contributed to filling bags with items such as toiletries and everyday necessities, with students bringing one or two items to support the initiative. A total of 120 bags were collected and delivered, containing essential items for individuals and families in need.

Samoan Language Week

Samoan Language Week was marked across the College in May through a range of activities led by the Pasifika Group including shared Pasifika food, a mindfulness session featuring colouring in traditional designs, and visits to the Junior Department where students led mele (songs), movement, and cultural activities. The Pasifika Group also contributed to Senior College and Middle School Chapel Services through song and prayer by Jairo Senio (Year 12) and Iosefo Tito (Year 11).

Spirit of Adventure

Ten Year 10 students took part in a five-day Discovery Voyage onboard the Spirit of Adventure, sailing from Auckland Harbour around the Coromandel and Hauraki Gulf with students from several North Island schools. From early morning swims to hoisting sails, climbing the mast, navigating coastal waters in rafts, and adapting to life at sea, the students consistently stepped outside their comfort zones. The experience provided a valuable opportunity to develop independence, leadership, and a strong sense of responsibility.

Well-being Leaders

Well-being leaders, Ary Son and Carter Evans (both Year 12), are contributing to a cross-school committee organising student-led hui for young people across Canterbury each term. Supported by charity, Seed the Change, they are working to bring compassion into action across Ōtautahi. The Term 2 hui featured speakers, panel discussions, and opportunities for students from over 20 schools to take action through random acts of kindness across central Christchurch.

Year 10 Activities Week

Year 10 students undertook a range of learning and service experiences during Activities Week. All classes completed a Red Cross First Aid course, covering emergency response, CPR, AED use, and basic first aid; visited the International Antarctic Centre, and planted more than 1200 native plants in the Red Zone with the Eco Action Trust.