From the Board

Looking back, celebrating now, and setting our sights on the years ahead.

On Thursday 12 June, the Board welcomed guests to the College’s 108th Annual General Meeting, an important occasion to present the Annual Report and Financial Statements and to reflect on the highlights and challenges of the 2024 school year. It was a year marked by continued strength: full rolls, excellent academic outcomes, vibrant participation in co-curricular life, further staff professional development, and deepened support between staff and students.

The AGM also served as a moment to recognise governance continuity and change. My own role as Chair, alongside Nick Letham’s as Deputy Chair, was ratified for another term.

We farewelled long-standing Board member, Rob Woodgate, who chose not to seek reappointment after three terms and nine years of service. As the longest-serving current Board member and Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee, Rob played a vital role in stewarding the College’s financial health. His wisdom and integrity guided many key decisions, and we extend our thanks for his valuable contribution.

It was my pleasure to welcome David Bennett to the Board. David brings a wealth of experience in finance and leadership. He is CFO at Market Gardeners (MG) and his previous roles include CFO at Ryman Healthcare, Group Financial Controller at Westland Dairy, and in audit at Deloitte. He has three children at St Andrew’s College, a son in the Secondary School and two daughters in the Preparatory School. David now chairs the Audit and Risk Committee, and we look forward to the perspective and expertise he brings.

Our past achievements are only possible through the dedication of many. From our Board and Management team to our teachers, support staff, community groups, and volunteers, each person plays an essential role in creating an environment where ākonga can thrive.

This year, we were delighted to welcome Mark Wilson as our new Rector. In his first six months, he has already made a remarkable impact on College life. Whether attending student performances, sports matches, or alumni reunions, Mark has shown a commitment to fostering strong connections across our community. We also extend our appreciation to his wife, Judi, for the warmth and support she has shown, not only to Mark but also to the broader College family.

Their contributions, along with dedication from the Board, management team, and wider community have ensured a smooth transition, making it feel as though Mark has been part of the College for longer than just this year.

We live in a time where the pace of change is swift, and the future is increasingly difficult to predict. From AI and climate change to evolving social media landscapes and global education trends, the world requires us to be adaptable and responsive.

Navigating this complexity is most effective when guided by a clear and considered plan as reflected in the following whakataukī;

Tē tōia, tē haumatia

Nothing can be achieved without a plan and way of doing things

As a Board, we are looking forward with purpose. This year, we began the process of revising the College’s Strategic Plan, a vital exercise to reaffirm our purpose, recognise our strengths, identify areas for growth, and map a clear direction for the coming years. This plan will provide an updated and shared vision, shaping decision-making across every aspect of College life.

In tandem, we are developing a new Property Master Plan. This blueprint will assess our current facilities and outline the staged improvements needed to support our strategic priorities.

Importantly, our planning incorporates voices of our community. Through surveys and focus groups over the past few months, we’ve heard what you value most about the College, what needs attention, and what facilities will best support future learning. We’re grateful for the insightful and constructive engagement which continues to shape our direction.

We are also looking outward, to national demographic shifts, regional challenges, and global innovations in education. By learning from other schools leading the way and understanding the broader context, we aim to position the College for long-term success.

The revised Strategic Plan will be shared with our community later this year, and we look forward to your continued involvement as we take these important steps together.

As we honour our traditions, celebrate the present, and embrace future possibilities we remain committed to keeping our students, past, present, and future at the heart of all decisions. With this focus, I am confident our College will continue to grow and thrive for generations to come.

Felicity Odlin
Board Chair
On behalf of the Board of Governors