Ellesse Andrews WORLD CHAMPION CYCLIST

NOVEMBER 2017 NOVEMBER OwAN EYE ON THE ST PETER’S COMMUNITYl

Years 7–13 l Co-educational l Day & Boarding Proud to be supporting St Peter’s, Cambridge

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Wayne Pamment - Harcourts PROUD TO BE A GOLD SPONSOR OF ST PETER’S, CAMBRIDGE Contents Owl

The next big thing? The story of a world champion 26 10 The Lion King Jr enchants 20

The best Matrixx school New ideas a success project ever for Zuru story 13 22 30

2 Principal’s note 3 Our journey to a world-class school 4 Staff welcomes 6 Head students 8 Leadership at St Peter’s 14 What is Media studies? 15 NCEA - IB, what’s the difference? 18 10 reasons to celebrate 24 Lessons on the NZX National 25 Agribusiness tournament 28 The farm classroom highlights 29 New species? 32 31 What we learned on exchange 33 Enjoying success together 34 The rugby pathway

35 AIMS Games Celebrating 36 Staff farewells 30 years of girls 41 The road to realising a dream 42 Give everything a ‘crack’ 4029 43 2016/2017 Graduands

Call us: +64 7 827 9899 Experience St Peter’s Subscribe to our weekly newsletter InTouch: FOR YOURSELF [email protected] Visit our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/STPETERSschNZ Come to Open Days Visit our website: www.stpeters.school.nz Friday, 16 March 2018, Full School Advertise in the Owl: [email protected] Owl Editor: Mary Fleming, Volom Friday, 22 June 2018, Years 7 and 8 Owl Graphic Designer: Kath Carmody Cover photo: Emma James

Years 7–13 l Co-educational l Day & Boarding PRINCIPAL’S NOTE Focused on Well-being

Well-being, or wellness, refers we couldn’t deliver some of the instead of having to do it in their to diverse and interconnected outcomes of our pastoral review. own time. dimensions of physical, mental, and social well-being that extend FROM 2018, ST PETER’S WILL HAVE THE OUTCOME OF OUR EXTENSIVE beyond the traditional definition A 7-DAY, 6-PERIOD TIMETABLE. PASTORAL CARE REVIEW IS A NEW of health. It includes choices The start and end times of each day CARE FRAMEWORK. and activities aimed at achieving stay the same, except for a later The key finding of our pastoral care physical vitality, mental alacrity, start (9.10am) on Fridays, to allow review was that at the heart of our social satisfaction, a sense of staff time for professional learning system were adults that genuinely accomplishment, and personal similar to this year. cared about our students. However, fulfilment. the framework and system were The timetable is flexible to provide hard to navigate, systems were not Student well-being underlies much more options for students; 99% will embedded or did not exist. And, of our six key goals for 2017 at St be able to have their first choice of as the Education Review Office Peter’s (outlined in the June edition course and avoid clashes. pointed out, it was not cohesive. of Owl Magazine). I’m pleased to We also have the flexibility to say we are making good progress. Using the four competitive houses timetable and teach our new well- Two of our most significant as the vehicle for pastoral care, I being curriculum, and improve tutor achievements are the establishment believe, will be very successful. group (now called learning group) of a new timetable and a new time. • Firstly, students already belong to framework of pastoral care. a competitive house and identify International Baccalaureate Both changes are student- with it. students will have CAS (Creativity, centred improvements that work • Within each house, a lead dean Action and Service) timetabled, together; without a new timetable, and two assistant deans will be responsible for the students

2 (Years 9-13) in their house. schools. Programmes that provide OUR JOURNEY TO Students in Year 7 and 8 each required interventions and therapy have a dean responsible for need to be early and effective. their care. This new student World-class management system will mean THE WELL-BEING CURRICULUM CONTINUES better communication and sharing CURRENTLY UNDER DEVELOPMENT AT ST PETER’S of information between staff – The St Peter’s Trust Board aims WILL GO A LONG WAY TO and students will be better cared to deliver a ‘world-class’ holistic PROVIDING OUR STUDENTS for. education for every St Peter’s WITH MORE SKILLS TO MANAGE • Learning (tutor) groups will be THE EMOTIONAL STRESSES OF student. This ongoing journey of single sex in Years 9, 10, and GROWING UP. review and improvement is taking us all around the School. co-ed in Years 11 to 13. This The traditional topics covered will enable age and gender by the health curriculum will be The current focus for Senior appropriate learning outcomes in covered in a much broader well- Leadership is Pastoral Care – a well-being to be delivered. being curriculum: major component of the St Peter’s • Students will have more • well-being will be taught at all experience as the largest co- leadership opportunities in the levels educational boarding school in the house system, and more inter- country. • it will be age and gender specific house events will boost house We’re increasingly aware that spirit. • there will be more focus on resilience building, self- some of the current facilities within PASTORAL CARE AND STUDENT awareness, emotional the school prohibit our ability to WELL-BEING HAS NEVER BEEN intelligence, conflict resolution confidently meet modern day MORE IMPORTANT. skills, social media and device requirements for student well- being. Accordingly, improvements Those at the forefront of teenage use, relationships, leadership, to boarding facilities have been mental health will tell you that, mindfulness, relaxation and accelerated. At the same time, more and more, their clinics are meditation, and much more parents will see increased staffing filled with anxious teenagers. • all will be delivered through a within some of the houses and an positive psychology education Anxiety is a survival mechanism that increase in health and well-being lens. is switched on when dealing with services on site. threats. Twenty-first Century schools The most exciting initiative to 1 must be nimble, adaptable and Psychologist Gwendoline Smith come from the Pastoral Care prepared to work with parents to believes that many teens are review is plans for a new Wellness support young people in this rapidly anxious in non-life-threatening Centre, a facility we hope to begin changing world. Pretending issues situations, such as not making construction of in 2018. In part, this do not exist, or that it is not the A teams, not wearing the “right” new facility will replace the existing role of schools to help is clearly clothing labels, and don’t know day houses. It will also enable not an option. After all, if a student how to solve basic problems for day and boarding students to mix is not happy, has no resilience or themselves. more. And it will house key health is addicted to their screen, then and well-being services. We look She claims anxiety is on the rise, they are unlikely to do their best at forward to telling you more in the because too many young people school. are not resilient. Too many do not next edition of Owl Magazine. Arthur Broadhurst, our founder, know how to adapt. If you have A hugely positive sign that our had it completely right with never had to solve a problem, how journey to ‘world-class’ is working the philosophy of ‘Body, Mind will you learn to do so? is evidenced by unprecedented and Spirit’. He probably did not demand for places at St Peter’s. According to Sir Peter Gluckman, imagine a well-being educational This, combined with continued we need to promote resilience by programme as part of being well- growth in the Waikato region are exposing children to emotional rounded, but I believe it is now an both very positive signs for the stresses. We need to build self- essential ingredient of a rounded future of our School. control skills at an early stage of education. education by ensuring that there Mr David Heald are competent and adequate Chairman, support systems in secondary Mr Dale Burden St Peter’s, Cambridge Principal Trust Board

1. “Knowing”, by Gwendoline Smith (Sarah Harris, NZ Herald)

www.stpeters.school.nz 3 WELCOME

TODD BARKER STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING COACH Passionate about helping our youth to learn and grow their capabilities, as well as an all-round sportsman, Todd Barker is a welcome addition to Sport at St Peter’s in the role of Strength and Conditioning Coach.

Todd brings with him a wealth of experience, having worked as Strength & Conditioning Coach for the Waikato Rugby Union for the past 10 years. He has also worked extensively with secondary students, boys and girls, at school and regional level.

AMY FEATONBY HEAD OF FACULTY (HOF) ENGLISH

We welcome Amy Featonby as our “My teaching style encourages literature, using new HOF English. autonomous learners who can be texts as a way to proud of their achievements.” evaluate and question With a proven track record of society and the world. outstanding leadership, also She encourages students to marking and working for NZQA, her challenge themselves with new experience and passion for teaching make Amy well-suited to heading up English at St Peter’s.

A love of literature initially drew Amy to teaching. She studied at Massey University and has taught English for nine years. She’s forward-thinking and highly proactive in the classroom.

“I think it is imperative that teachers develop curiosity in their classrooms,” says Amy. “Gone are the days of ‘chalk and talk’.

4 SHARON ROUX ANTHONIA DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT FOSTER HEALTH AND SAFETY ADVISOR For the past 4 years, Sharon has previous role Anthonia comes to commuted to Auckland from she worked closely us with an outstanding Hamilton daily. She was the with university students on background in Health and Safety. Development Manager for the stewarding donors. She has worked in the Kinleith Pulp Faculty of Education and Social and Paper manufacturing plant, “Education is a cause that Work at the University of Auckland. and a national aviation company. resonates deeply with me, and Well before that, she worked for When she started there, the St Peter’s is a wonderful school the Ministry of Social Development, faculty had no donors nor alumni that deserves to be supported focusing on youth development. engagement activities. By the time and lauded for its “Body, she left, the faculty had met its Mind and Spirit” philosophy to “I have worked a lot with youth in campaign target two years ahead of education.” both a professional capacity and schedule. She now joins us at my personal life to support them in Sharon is extremely St Peter’s. achieving the best they can.” passionate about her role. She By definition, advancement enjoys making dreams come When she’s not at work, she’s professionals tend to work with true and being part of all that looking after three children. She is alumni and donors but in Sharon’s is good for humanity. also on the motocross committee, and heavily involved in sports.

She is passionate about getting the best out of people and empowering them to achieve the most, while remaining healthy and safe at the same time.

EMMA JAMES MEDIA AND PUBLICATIONS ADVISOR

Emma began her career as a The most positive journalist three years ago at the aspect of being at Cambridge Edition. St Peter’s so far (one month) has been the welcoming She hasn’t worked in a school environment. role before, but had a lot to do with students in her previous job, Emma handles the weekly interviewing and photographing newsletter, website newsfeed, them. and social media accounts. She is always interested in “I enjoy working with people and love hearing about student and staff seeing students thrive,” says Emma. achievements. Emma is passionate about people Email [email protected]. and sharing their achievements. She also has a love for horses and photography, and is often seen around the campus with a camera in her hands.

www.stpeters.school.nz 5 WE ASKED OUR HEAD STUDENTS: WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT BEING AT ST PETER’S?

Head Boy Charlie King said...

IN AN ENVIRONMENT AS DIVERSE, POSITIVE AND COMMUNITY DRIVEN AS ST PETER’S, IT IS HARD FOR A STUDENT NOT TO STRIVE TO REACH THEIR POTENTIAL IN ALL ASPECTS OF THEIR BUSY SCHOOL LIFE. With students from all walks of life and from all corners of the globe, we are exposed to many cultures, beliefs and ideas. Through this, a St Peter’s student learns to respect unique traits in every person.

Open-minded thinking and understanding leads to a culture that encourages success and, more importantly, encourages us to strive for success. I believe the motivation that comes from the students themselves, with the assistance and support from others, is what produces the most success.

A student first has to be part of a community where they feel comfortable about their own endeavours to do well in sport, academically or culturally.

This is what St Peter’s offers: a culture that allows growth in spirit, nurtures passion and encourages enjoyment in what we do.

SUPPORT OF SUCCESS IS THE BEST THING ABOUT BEING AT ST PETER’S.

6 Head Girl Mirren Tye said...

Five years at St Peter’s has impacted my life in many ways, I don’t believe who I have become and what I have achieved so far would have been possible elsewhere.

ST PETER’S IS RENOWNED FOR BEING NOT JUST A SCHOOL BUT MORE SO A COMMUNITY. The community is upheld by both students and staff. We are compassionate, encouraging and motivating. And because of this, we demonstrate respect and support for each other. This is displayed on the sports field, the music rooms, the classrooms, and contributes to the visible pride associated with being a student here.

ST PETER’S HAS TAUGHT ME TO BE OPTIMISTIC AND TO MAKE THE MOST OF EVERY WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY ON OFFER. I have tried activities I would never have imagined being involved in. Like singing and dancing in the optional inter-house competitions. Who knew that someone with (as I like to refer to it) ‘not a musical bone in their body’ could perform in synchronised swimming, senior house and full house performances? All competitions which require singing and dancing on a stage, in front of the whole school.

NOT ONLY ARE WE TAUGHT TO PRIORITISE, WE ARE ALSO ENCOURAGED TO ORGANISE AND BE ORGANISED. At St Peter’s, we thrive off motivating students to step out of their comfort zone and embrace all there is on offer. The range of I believe that getting out of my subjects, sports, and musical/ comfort zone to try something new, theatrical opportunities is truly plus learning to be organised are phenomenal. So, it’s important that both skills that will help me outside we learn to prioritise activities in of school. And, undoubtedly, have order to make the most of it. helped shape me into who I am today.

www.stpeters.school.nz 7 BE OPEN TO BEING BETTER FROM 2018, ST PETER’S STUDENTS AT EACH YEAR LEVEL CAN OPT TO TAKE PART IN AN AGE-APPROPRIATE LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME. IN DOING SO, THEY WILL LEAVE SCHOOL EQUIPPED WITH LEADERSHIP SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES DEEMED VALUABLE FOR ADULT LIFE. CHIEFLY, BEING OPEN TO NEW POSSIBILITIES.

St Peter’s Associate Principal At the same time, the leadership and Guy Claxton (“The Learning Julie Small currently oversees programme is designed to give Powered School”), Julie has also leadership at St Peter’s, ensuring students a stronger voice in shaping surrounded herself with a team the principles are consistent from their school learning environment. of teachers, who have been the Senior Leadership Team, right developing their expertise in “Leadership should be a continually down to Year 7. growing great young people, to evolving entity” stresses Julie. “Our create a programme that is both “Growing leadership capabilities first step is shaping a programme to diverse and well-rounded. school-wide will help us to draw fit our context and audience, rather out the best in everyone across our than making something fit.” Based on ‘coaching to improve learning community” explains Julie. performance’, this methodology Whilst the programme is grounded instills skills for life. “The development of leadership in the work of multiple thought teaches us to have coaching leaders, including Carol Dweck Students have been fully involved conversations with other people to (“Growth Mindset”), Professor too. The 2017 School Prefects, along unlock their best ideas. We should Lea Waters (“Visible Wellbeing”) with a Year 12 group, trialled weekly all be open to being better.”

8 The top 6 skills and attributes of a leader: 1. Open to learning 2. Resilience 3. Care for others 4. Integrity 5. The ability to work collaboratively 6. Respectful

sessions this year. Feedback indicated that the programme should be introduced to the younger year levels as soon as possible – thereby shaping future leaders of the school. WHAT ACTION WILL YOU TAKE? The same strategies being used In the final Y12 Leadership session with Ms Small, she asked the group: with students are being introduced to staff, senior leadership and “Based on what you have learned from these sessions, what action will you strategic leadership groups across take?” the school. Emma Frengley (left) said: “I will try to get involved in all leadership “From what we have seen so far, it opportunities at school, whether that be helping out at events or taking looks like we will have a mixture initiative and helping with student voice. I will try to be a good role model, of staff coaching, as well as older students coaching younger year even if I do not get a leadership opportunity in 2018. I will carry this on also as levels. We’ll also invite guest I leave St Peter’s and go to university.” speakers to continually bring new thinking. Sophie Anderson (middle) said: “I will focus on being a multiplier, rather than a diminisher. This means that when working with other people, I will “We’re delighted to see that simply by learning to listen and coach try to listen to everybody’s ideas, and encourage them as much as possible, effectively, our leadership strategy to ensure that we maximise each other’s potential within our learning and is already opening our St Peter’s leadership. This is important as it helps groups come to decisions quicker, community to new potential all the whilst still ensuring the group’s ideas reach across all aspects that need to be time. covered in whichever situation I may be in.” “Already, through the work we have done with students, we’ve Annalise Scott (right) said: “Attending the leadership sessions opened my identified skills and attributes eyes to what makes a good leader and the different styles of leadership. important for St Peter’s and applied When leading others, I am going to approach it with an open mind. I aim to these to our new prefect selection work on developing and manipulating my style of communication and leading process, for example. appropriately to best fit the people or situation around me. I have learnt that “We just need to keep focused understanding, and taking into consideration the team around you, and their on learning the art of coaching to values, is an important step towards being a successful leader.” unlock potential” Julie concludes.

www.stpeters.school.nz 9 The story of A WORLD CHAMPION SHE HOLDS A WORLD RECORD AND THE JUNIOR TRACK CYCLING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE. HER HUMILITY AND COMMITMENT TO PERFORMING BETTER, PLUS HER ABILITY TO MAINTAIN A HEALTHY BALANCE BETWEEN LIFE AND SPORT MAKES 17-YEAR-OLD ELLESSE ANDREWS AN INSPIRATIONAL ROLE MODEL FOR YOUNG PEOPLE.

Asked about how it felt to set THE RIGHT SUPPORT a World Record, Ellesse said it Ellesse is grateful to live in a felt more like a personal best. family of cyclists. Dad Jon is a It was the fastest time any former Commonwealth Games young woman had done that medallist and Olympian, and race. Ever. now the national junior coach. It was in the qualifying round for Mum Angela also represented the women’s individual pursuit New Zealand in mountain biking. that Ellesse set the new record, At St Peter’s, she has the completing the 2km race in a support of people who have time of 2min 18.080. In the final, competed at similar levels. she beat Italian star Letizia St Peter’s Cycling Coach Tim Paternoster by a margin of 0.603 Carswell is another former seconds. Olympian and Commonwealth Her recent triumph puts her Games medallist. Fiona Carswell alongside Gemma Dudley and competed at the Junior Worlds, Steph Mckenzie as the Kiwi the Commonwealth Games and females with the most medals the Olympics. won at the junior track champs, “I really appreciate having though two golds put Ellesse at my Dad coach me. Both my the top of that list. She won her parents know about sport and first gold medal in the women’s commitment and they have been team sprint at the 2016 Junior Her first visit to St Peter’s was with me every step of the way. World Champs. during the 2015 Cycling World Cup. “My teachers are also really Ellesse only started cycling at “I thought St Peter’s looked like an encouraging and supportive. the age of 14. Her first race at the awesome school but didn’t think I They’re realistic with deadlines end of 2013 “was just for fun”, she would ever come here. and support me with extra tutoring says. That performance earned “Later that year, after Nationals, I when I fall behind.” her a place at the South Island realised that to progress my cycling Championships in 2014 – and she COMMITTED TO ‘BETTER’ and keep up with my studies, hasn’t looked back. coming to St Peter’s would be a Training is a huge commitment for great option.” Ellesse of course. THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS Ellesse moved to St Peter’s for Ellesse applied for and was “My aim is to keep getting better” the start of 2016. She’s studying awarded a scholarship to St Peter’s. she notes. “I’m not sure where cycling will take me, but getting to biology, chemistry, statistics, music “Moving to St Peter’s has really the Olympics would be good! And technology and PE. enabled my cycling career” she you can’t just get there by chance.” Prior to that she lived and went says. “Having the Avantidrome right to school in Wanaka. She missed here makes it so much easier for me A typical school day, when in a lot of school, with training to balance my two interests: doing training, involves gym before school commitments at the Velodrome in well at school and being a better once a week. She was at school Invercargill. cyclist.” from 8am to 3pm. Sometimes during study periods or lunch,

10 “ My advice to other young people committing to something big is to make sure you enjoy it. It’s much harder to work for something you don’t truly want.”

Junior World Championships Italy Road Nationals 2nd 4km Team Pursuit 1st Road Race 1st 2km Individual Pursuit and NZ Schools Road Champs New World Record 2nd Road Race 1st Points Race-NZ title Track Nationals 2 gold medals Waipa Networks District 1 silver medal Sports Awards Junior Sportswoman of the Year

Ellesse with her parents Angela and Jon at the Junior World Champs 2017

www.stpeters.school.nz 11 she’d be on the track or erging. She trained after school too, Monday to Thursday.

On weekends, she does at least two hours on her road bike, Saturday and Sunday.

In the four weeks leading up to the World Champs Ellesse trained twice a day, building mental and physical coping mechanisms. That’s one and a half hours in the gym twice a week, plus 2-3 hours on the track 3-4 times a week.

In the two weeks’ prior, she was on the track daily, sometimes morning and evening.

WOULD SHE HAVE DONE ANYTHING DIFFERENTLY? “No” she says with confidence. “Initially I felt guilty spending time away from cycling on other sports. I loved netball and was often encouraged to stop, but didn’t. I’m glad I followed my passions.

“My advice to other young people committing to something big is to make sure you enjoy it. It’s much harder to work for something you don’t truly want.

“Also, keep a balance between having a social life, school and training.”

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ELLESSE? Ellesse leaves St Peter’s at the end of this year. As a cyclist, her sights are set on the National champs in February. ST PETER’S On the academic side, Ellesse CYCLING SUCCESS 2017 has applied to Waikato University for 2018. She’s still undecided JESS CARSWELL JACK CARSWELL between a Bachelor of Science and Nationals Titles 1 Nationals Titles 5 a Bachelor of Social Studies – it Golds 2 Gold 4 depends which course fits better Silvers 6 Silvers 4 with her cycling commitments. ALLY WOLLASTON Again, it’s all about balance. HAMISH BANKS Nationals Titles 1 Nationals Titles 6 Interested in cycling at St Peter’s? Gold 3 Gold 3 Contact Fiona Carswell on 07 827 9899 Silvers 5 Silvers 3 for more information. Bronzes 1 Bronzes 2

12 The best school project ever

AT ST PETER’S THERE IS ONE OF On show the day I turned up in — IF NOT THE — BEST SCHOOL the classroom, was a wide variety PROJECTS ON OFFER, YEAR of machines in various stages of 13 DESIGN AND ENGINEERING construction. Some were similar, STUDENTS BUILD THEIR OWN reinforcing the shared learning MOTORBIKES! experience, while others were The bikes being built, range from wildly different, determined by each 50cc, 2-stroke pit bikes, through to student’s needs and overall design. the slightly-larger 70cc, 4-stroke Hamish Flett built the only bike with motards. One boy opted instead for a swingarm and shock in the class the chance to build a go-kart, which at the time. It was the furthest from he then sourced an XR250 engine completion; his bike was in pieces for, because the original 125cc just as he polished the frame and wasn’t enough. swingarm in preparation for sending The students built these bikes it to the powder coater. for NCEA level grades, which go “I’m building it for my nephew”, he towards University Entrance. Plus explains, “I’m going to gift it to him of course, there are the life skills once it’s all finished.” attained through planning out a project and then working on it with It was clear from his work, Hamish their own hands. is serious about bikes. “I’m planning to become a motorcycle mechanic “It is the ability to be skillful and use next year, and I’ve been working at the design process to work through Peter Glidden Honda for the past any issues that arise”, their teacher two holidays and really enjoying it”, Sharyn Macpherson explained. he says. “It is wonderful to see the boys If making plans and following them develop problem solving skills “Everyone helps everyone out”, through is part and parcel of the to perfect their bikes, they are another student – Issa Kunda – course, I’m pretty confident the enormously proud of their work, as tells me, as I admire his blue pit boys are going to be well sorted, am I.” bike. “There’s more experience and in both their NCEA grades and the less experience around so, with The students purchase a kit with long road ahead. everyone able to help each other everything they need to build out, it all balances out.” Best of all, the boys are learning the bike - plastics, forks, wheels, in one of the best environments brakes, fuel tank and seat - but they Design Engineering is offered at possible, and working have to design and fabricate their St Peter’s in Years 11, 12 and 13. collaboratively. own frame from scratch.

WORDS AND PHOTOS BY MATHIEU DAY-GILLETT/ DIRT RIDER DOWNUNDER MAGAZINE www.stpeters.school.nz 13 What is Media Studies? THE WORLD WE LIVE IN IS PROGRESSING AT A RAPID RATE. WITH NEW TECHNOLOGIES AND MEDIA PLATFORMS SPRINGING UP BY THE DAY, WE ARE CONSUMING MORE MEDIA NOW THAN WE EVER HAVE BEFORE. BUT WHAT EFFECT DOES THIS HAVE ON SOCIETY?

Is it a positive thing? How is media 1. The critical analysis and study “Through Media Studies students impacting the way we think, behave of media and its impact; such as are exposed to a wide range of and interact with each other? And genre, narrative, representation, theory, techniques, skills, analysis what are producers really thinking technical analysis, and the social and critical thinking that will allow when they craft these media texts implications of media. them to become active and critical that we consume, often without thinkers as they interact with and 2. The creation of media; such a second thought? Well, these interpret their world. It’s a great as the writing of a script or questions and many more are what course leading onto lots of different article, planning the technical we seek to answer in Media Studies. careers.” construction and intention for a Media Studies is an exciting subject media product, and finally the that looks at the way media is creation of that product. Where can Media Studies created and crafted, how different Mr David Vesseur heads up Media lead you? aspects influence this process, as Studies at St Peter’s. With seven  Marketing and well as analysing the impact this years’ experience teaching the communications has on an audience. subject, he says he really likes the  Print media The university approved course is analysis of how we engage and  Film, radio, television, available to students in Years 11, 12 interact with media, and the power journalism and 13 and is broken down into two it has to shape our thoughts and  Event management distinct aspects: beliefs.  Design  Social media marketing  Web-based business

14 St Peter’s is one of only 10 schools in New Zealand with accreditation as an IB world school. This means we offer students the option of two pathways: The National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. NCEA What’s the difference?

NCEA challenges students of WHY IB? all abilities in all learning areas. of literature, a second language, The IB pathway appeals Students are offered huge flexibility mathematics, humanities and to students for a variety of in their course programming and science. Academic excellence reasons: some choose it for this is the pathway that most is coupled with an emphasis on the connectedness between students select. personal development in areas subjects and the focus on such as research, philosophy and IB Diploma is hailed as the global-mindedness. Others value social awareness. international equivalent of NCEA. the international study options IB It differs from NCEA in that it is a creates. IB Diploma students take six two-year course spanning Years 12 subjects, of which three subjects “The IB Diploma programme is and 13. Less flexible, it emphasises are studied at Higher Level (HL) aimed at average to good, self- high academic standards in the and three at Standard Level (SL). motivated students, with a strong mandatory areas of literature, a work ethic,” notes Greg. “It is not In addition, the programme second language, mathematics, an elitist qualification, but its has three compulsory course humanities and science. rigorous standards and in-depth requirements that are included During Year 11, all St Peter’s study of subjects do require to broaden the educational students undertake NCEA Level 1 commitment, organisation and experience and challenge students qualifications. At Year 12, students initiative.” to apply their knowledge and choose to either continue with understanding. Students are Understanding IB NCEA or begin the two-year IB required to complete a course in IB emphasises high academic Diploma course. the Theory of Knowledge (TOK), standards in the mandatory areas write a 4,000 word Extended Essay (EE) and participate in a number WHY NCEA? Understanding NCEA of Creativity, Activity and Service At each Level of the qualification NCEA is the national qualification (CAS) projects. for senior secondary school (Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3), students in New Zealand. students are assessed on the Assessment learning attained in their selection IB Diploma subjects are assessed Deputy Principal Greg Haines of subjects. through a combination of says that “The NCEA pathway is continuous coursework and Achievement Standards equally good for academic or non- external examinations at the end of Individual NCEA subjects are academic students. the two-year programme. subdivided into Achievement “NCEA is a forward-thinking Standards, some of which approach to education because are assessed internally (and of its flexible structures and moderated externally) during assessment, which allows NCEAthe academic year and some For more information on academic students to demonstrate skills externally through the NZQA (New pathways at St Peter’s, see and knowledge through authentic Zealand Qualifications Authority) www.stpeters.school.nz/ learning contexts. national examinations at the Academic/Learning-Areas-and- “We are very pleased with the end of the year. Each successful Subject-Choices performance of our students across assessment earns credits that the three levels.” contribute to a certificate at Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3. Most subjects offer between 16 and 20 credits.

www.stpeters.school.nz 15 NCEA MEET JOSEPH

SPORTSMAN, ACADEMIC AND WE ASKED HIM: MUSICIAN, JOSEPH EXCELS AT MOST THINGS HE PUTS HIS MIND Why NCEA? “I decided that I was better off TO. THIS YEAR HE WAS AWARDED extending myself in the NCEA CO-DUX, RECEIVED THE SILVER pathway, where I could take the OWL FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE, sciences and maths subjects whilst WAS RE-AWARDED THE ACADEMIC doing some of these at Level 3 HONOURS BADGE AND WAS in Year 12. This has been a huge RUNNER-UP OVERALL IN THE advantage during Year 13, as I’ve NIWA SCIENCE FAIR. been able to focus some of my Where will you go from St Peter’s? class time to co-curricular study, for “Next year I will study Medicine at IN 2016 JOSEPH WAS AWARDED instance the Chemistry Olympiad Otago University.” THE ACADEMIC HONOURS BADGE, and Science Fair. What did you enjoy about NCEA A SCHOLAR’S TIE AND SENIOR “A big talking point of IB is that it and what was your biggest SPORT COLOURS FOR SNOW makes you a well-rounded student. challenge? SPORTS. However, although I was taking “I have really enjoyed the freedom solely NCEA Science and Maths of NCEA, enabling my access to subjects, I was still highly involved the Science Fair. I investigated in the arts and sport, taking part in the properties of beetroot using the 2017 school production, having my prior Chemistry knowledge, two acts in the gala showcase, which placed me as Runner-up in being an avid skier and much more.“ the whole fair and gained me an internship at NIWA. What subjects are you taking? “My biggest challenge in NCEA “In Year 13, I am studying Chemistry, would definitely be having to make Physics, Statistics and Calculus.” subject choices, weighing up the What career path will you follow? fun of the Arts versus my passion “I am hoping to have a career as a for Science and Maths.” medical professional. At this point, I am not sure where I will specialise.”

16 MEET JESS

AN EXEMPLARY ALL-ROUND WE ASKED HER: ACHIEVER, JESS WAS AWARDED HER SENIOR SPORTS COLOURS Why IB? “I chose to do IB because I liked the (ATHLETICS), A SILVER OWL FOR philosophy of the holistic education ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AND and having a globally-recognised HER ACADEMIC HONOURS THIS qualification.” YEAR. SHE IS ALSO A SCHOOL What subjects are you taking? PREFECT AND A MEMBER OF “In Year 13, I am studying HL Visual THE STUDENT EXEC TEAM. Art, English and Business, and take What did you enjoy about IB and SL Maths, Spanish and Biology.” IN 2016 JESS WAS AWARDED what was your biggest challenge? ACADEMIC HONOURS, SENIOR What career path will you follow? “I’ve really enjoyed being around SPORTS COLOURS (ATHLETICS), “I am hoping to eventually become like-minded people in IB and CULTURAL COLOURS, A either a CEO of a business (possibly pushing myself to achieve my goals. my own) or a Marketing Manager, SCHOLAR’S TIE AND WAS HEAD The biggest challenge I faced was ideally involved in business balancing deadlines and other co- OF GWYNNELANDS. somehow.” curricular activities, particularly at the start of this year!” HER CHOSEN ACADEMIC Where will you go from St Peter’s? PATHWAY WAS THE IB DIPLOMA. “Next year I will be studying a conjoint degree of BCom and BA (majoring in Spanish) at the University of Auckland.”

www.stpeters.school.nz 17 10 reasons to celebrate

4 Zonys for Starlight Express St Peter’s won Best Youth Production, Best Costume Design, Best Hair & Makeup and Best 1 Sound Design for the 2017 school production, plus several more nominations. The Zony Awards recognise excellence in Musical Theatre.

1st XV win National Co-ed Champs 2 St Peter’s 1st XV beat Feilding High School 31-3 to take out the National Co-educational School Rugby Championship for 2017, winning the NZ Barbarians Trophy for the first time ever.

Best Overall School at NIWA Science Fair St Peter’s retained the NIWA Shield for ‘Best Overall School’ for the second year running. St Peter’s 3 students also won the following sections: Year 7-8 Planet Earth and Beyond, Year 9-10 Living World, Year 9-10 Physical World, Year 9-10 Planet Earth and Beyond and Year 11-13 Senior Sciences.

An invitation to train at Calgary Year 12 student Chloe McMillan won Silver and Bronze at the NZ Junior (Ski) Nationals at 4 Cardrona, earning her valuable international FIS points, as well as an invitation to train at Calgary in Canada in 2018.

1st at Aria Singing Awards Victoria Hos (Y12) was 1st in the 16-18yr age-group at the New Zealand Aria Singing Awards. 5 She placed 1st in the Folk/Traditional section,2nd for Own Selection and 2nd for Sacred/ Oratorio. This was her first major competition.

4 National Reps in Lacrosse 6 Brooke Bolstad, Tyla Grafas, Sophie Unsworth and Taylor Jakeman played for the NZ U19 Festival Team in Surrey, England.

4 Golds for St Peter’s Music Viva Stringendo (string orchestra), Petra Musica (full orchestra), Petrafied Phunk (jazz funk band) and Impact (percussion ensemble) all took out the top places at the 2017 Waikato/BOP Band 7 & Orchestra Festival. Our Guitar Orchestra won Silver. The awards placed St Peter’s as the top orchestral school in the region.

Coach of the Year 8 St Peter’s Director of Rugby, Mr Sean Hohneck won the Kukri Secondary Schools Coach of the Year award at the 2017 Gallagher Waikato Rugby Awards.

A Decade of Dominance 9 1st XI Girls’ Football won the Knockout Cup again in 2017. They have won both their league and the knockout competition for 10 years in a row!.

Hamilton City Netball Champs Netball Academy training paid off for the 9A team, who put on a show of clinical attacking play 10 and team unity to win their championship for 2017.

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www.stpeters.school.nz 19 The Lion King Jr enchants

The stage show phenomenon loved by audiences around the world was simply enchanting on the St Peter’s stage. Our 2017 Year 7 and 8 (Prep) production The Lion King Jr was described as outstanding and enjoyed by young and old alike. Some laughed, some cried, most sang along.

Directed by St Peter’s Teacher in Charge of Drama Renate O’Sullivan and vocal direction by Head of Department Music, Michael Schroeder, the young Year 7 and 8 students shone, their enthusiasm contagious.

The show was also a brilliant example of senior students guiding and supporting junior students. Particularly outstanding was the choreography, by Year 12 students Madi Dearlove, Tyla Grafas and Anna Hocking. Senior students worked in a large variety of crew roles, including assistant to the Director, lighting and sound, hair and make-up and stage crew.

School children from around the Waikato and Bay of Plenty were treated to a matinee show before the cast and crew performed to sell-out audiences over two nights.

“The calibre of talent that staff have worked with throughout the creative process has been incredible, and these young performers have grown hugely through the experience” said Director of Performing Arts Victoria Trenwith. “The show was a resounding success, indicating we have much to look forward to in the future of performing arts at St Peter’s.”

20 www.stpeters.school.nz 21 New ideas for

INNOVATION HAS BEEN KEY TO THE CONSISTENT SUCCESS OF TOY COMPANY ZURU. DID YOU KNOW THE FIRST ZURU PRODUCT WAS A MODEL HOT AIR BALLOON THAT ZURU DIRECTOR MATT MOWBRAY INVENTED FOR THE NIWA SCIENCE FAIR WHILE AT ST PETER’S?

When St Peter’s Business and Approximately 30 teams came selected to present their ideas to Entrepreneurial Centre (the BEC) up with concepts but only the Zuru. This was done via Skype, with gave student innovators in Years 8, 9 best 10 ideas went through to the students making a video to support and 10 at St Peter’s the opportunity next round – pitching their ideas their pitch. to pitch a new toy idea to the multi- to a St Peter’s ‘Dragon’s Den’. Up for grabs was a $500 Zuru prize million dollar toy company, the Judged on concept, prototype pack for the winner and a $300 prize competition was fierce! and presentation, four teams were pack for the runner-up.

Inflatable Combo Water Gun Laser Tag Zara Gray, Molly Bayly, Ashleigh Everton - Year 9’s Ethan Batley, Mohamed Ibrahim, Justin Vela-Reynolds, - Year 10’s

Concept Concept A pedal-powered pool inflatable with water guns Players wear a vest that changes colour if they are (the girls are pictured with a model prototype). tagged with water.

Target audience Target audience Girls and boys, 6 years plus. Girls and boys, 5-15 years.

Advice from ‘Dragon’s Den’ Advice from ‘Dragon’s Den’ Sell the product differently, e.g. Sell the water gun Don’t quit’ pursue this idea even if you don’t win separate and ensure only your water gun fits the the competition. socket. Key selling points for Zuru Key selling points for Zuru • Our toy is new and never seen before. • The toy has wide appeal. • It will be great fun for summer. • It has everything a kid would want in the pool! • It’s easy to set up; all you need is the vest and water guns. The best thing about this idea • We have reinvented laser tag into an easier and We all agreed, we want one! It’s different to other cheaper format. toys and we think it could offer kids all around the world so much fun! The best thing about this idea It’s kind of like laser tag with a summer twist. And it’s different from anything currently available.

22 Escape from Planet Mars Ella Taylor, Leith Anderson - Year 9’s Beeboes Sophie Waddell, Ashleigh Stuart, Bella Illston - Year 10’s

WINNER RUNNER UP $500 prize pack $300 prize pack

Concept: Concept: A strategy game, players have to get a metal ball Beeboes are fidget toys that can be used in many over alien theme obstacles to reach planet earth. different ways, from simply rolling them around, to trying to knock another Beebo off the board. Target audience Girls and boys, 5 years plus. Target audience Girls and boys, 5 years plus. Advice from ‘Dragon’s Den’ Perhaps it could come with different games and Advice from ‘Dragon’s Den’ themes. Make sure the magnets don’t pose a choking hazard for young children. Key selling points for Zuru • It’s a game that encourages family bonding Key selling points for Zuru (away from electronic devices). • Our toy is innovative, and original. • Players have to use strategy and team work to • The simple design means that it is easy and complete the game. cheap to manufacture. • It is easy to adapt, expand, and change the The best thing about this idea design, as well as create ad-ons. It’s different to anything currently available. The best thing about this idea It’s fun for kids and adults of all ages, and can be used anywhere.

“This has been an exceptional students have had to consider their of the biggest toy brands in the opportunity for St Peter’s students” target market, create a business world. It’s an experience they can says Business Studies Teacher Chris presentation, make a realistic only learn from.” Macleod. “Through the process, the prototype and sell their idea to one

– St Peter’s Business and Entrepreneurial Centre is proudly supported by ZURU.

www.stpeters.school.nz 23 ON LESSONS THE NZX Business and Enterprise (BEC) around investing, predicting students have been playing on economic influences on businesses, the NZX virtual platform in a understanding what good game sponsored by Milford Asset investments might be and why. All Management. Buying and selling really valuable life lessons.” shares over 12 weeks, the students WHAT ALEX LEARNED… In addition to ‘valuable life lessons’, were competing to see who could there was cash up for grabs. First Year 9 Alex Kenel make the most ‘profit’. prize was $250, second prize $100 came third. He Students from all year levels (Years and third prize was $50. Winners invested in Xero, 9 to 13) competed in the Milford Alice Jin and Christina Xiao have A2 Milk, Mainfreight Investment Share Game. also been invited to spend the day and Fisher & Paykel at Milford Asset Management - to Healthcare. BEC teacher Craig Morrison was experience life in the day of an enthused by the opportunity. Why these companies? investment business. “Students learned strategies “Because Xero stock had declined substantially in 2014. It then recovered about 30% in the 3 months prior to my WHAT ALICE LEARNED… purchase due to a string of good news Alice Jin (Year 10) won the Milford “During the stories, including the fact that it had Investment Share Game. She and process, we reached the impressive milestone of 1 partner Christina Xiao invested in learned so million customers worldwide. I expected Air New Zealand (AIR), the Australia much” says the upward trend to continue, and and New Zealand Banking Group Ltd Alice. We finally fortunately it did.” (ANZ), Westpac (WBC), New Zealand know how to buy Alex notes that he really enjoyed the Oil (NZO) and A2 Milk Company stock, in other words, Milford Investment Share Game and (ATM). Here’s why: trade equities. We learnt jargon learned plenty. about stocks and shares. And most Why these companies? exciting, we are going to Milford Asset “I didn’t know that the value of “Air New Zealand, as the major airline Management to learn more! companies could change so much in in New Zealand, has a safe, satisfying such a short time and that due to the environment, and it runs sustainably.” “I am sure we are going to be much changes in value, if you buy and sell more confident in the field of stocks “ANZ is one of the major banking at the right time you can make a lot of and shares. I also believe the groups in New Zealand. It has money. experience will have a significant programmes both domestically and impact on choosing my future career.” “I discovered that learning about overseas. different companies, studying their Alice is considering becoming an “We chose A2 Milk because New share price charts and following the economist. Zealand is famous for dairy. market can be quite interesting and Most surprisingly, it had the best exciting, especially when your shares (performing) stock out all five are going up!” companies.

24 AGRIBUSINESS A CAREER FOR EVERY INTEREST

Geneticist, agricultural or horticultural consultant, operations manager, soil scientist, agronomist, marketing manager, business analyst, vet, trade negotiator, farm manager… the list of possible careers in Agribusiness is endless. And this is why St Peter’s is on the list of a few schools offering this innovative subject to science and commerce students from 2018.

“Agribusiness is not just about cows, sheep or gumboots” explains Commerce Teacher Craig Morrison, “there’s a lot of business opportunities beyond the farm gate.

“Agribusiness combines agri- “ Agribusiness combines science, agri-marketing, agri- agri-science, agri-marketing, innovation, agri-management and finance, with underlying themes of agri-innovation, agri-management and finance, growing value, future-proofing and with underlying themes of growing value, sustainability.” future-proofing and sustainability. ” The course involves a lot of experiential learning; gaining The vineyard was established last spring. We expect our first harvest in Autumn 2019 understanding and applying examples of industry ‘best practice’ to conceptual learning within the classroom. The course will be overseen by Science and Commerce Teachers.

Visiting local businesses and doing work placements within agriscience and agribusiness sectors will be an integral part of the course. St Peter’s is ideally placed between two rural towns (Hamilton and Cambridge) where there’s a plethora of agribusinesses for students to learn from.

Craig adds that the surrounding farmland at St Peter’s creates ample opportunity for hands-on learning. There are three hives on Owl Farm “Our agribusiness students will Of course, demonstration dairy farm “Taking this course will open our be able to make, market and sell Owl Farm, a joint venture between students up to so many excellent value-added products like cheese. St Peter’s and Lincoln University is opportunities in the future.” St Peter’s bee hives are already up right on the doorstep too. The University of Waikato, Lincoln and running, so we can produce and “Agribusiness is a great option for University and Massey University market honey. And a vineyard has students in an economy based are amongst 17 key agribusiness been established on site, enabling on agriculture, as is the case in organisations partnered with our students to eventually produce New Zealand” concludes Craig. St Peter’s in support of the new and market wine.” subject.

www.stpeters.school.nz 25 The next BIG thing? YEAR 12 STUDENT TOM MONTGOMERIE FOUND AN INTERESTING CONCEPT, SAW A GAP IN THE MARKET, MADE A PLAN AND IS NOW RUNNING COPPER AND CREAM - A SUCCESSFUL ROLLED ICE-CREAM BUSINESS - WITH SOUND PLANS FOR THE FUTURE.

Business planning, innovation dozen trips to Auckland Customs and process saw Tom win the Office, plus an extra $800 before I St Peter’s 2017 Foundation got my hands on the machine. Six Entrepreneur of the Year. weeks later than expected!”

Tom originally saw the idea As a food business, Tom also on Facebook, liked that it was needed Health and Safety something different and innovative, registration. He was prepared knew there was a ready market for for that: “We custom built the ice-cream over the summer and (upcycled) trailer around the council within a couple of months, he was food safety by-laws to ensure we one of the first to open a rolled ice- would pass. It took meetings with cream business in New Zealand. two different councils, weeks of nervous waiting and a huge amount “When I started there was only of paperwork but it was well worth one other shop in the country,” the effort and a proud moment Tom explains. “I saw a huge gap in when we got the paperwork.” the market. Since February (2017), five other shops have opened in Having a mobile trailer provides Auckland and there’s one other Tom with the opportunity to go mobile trailer in Hamilton.” further afield. Again, that provides more challenges. Tom imported the ice-cream rolling machine from China, but he didn’t “Finding the best spot has proven to borrow the money. be harder than I once thought. Even with a food safety permit, I need a This entrepreneur was already part mobile trader’s licence to sell on of a family sweetcorn business. public land,” he explains. What’s In six years, Tom, along with his more, he’ll need a mobile trader’s brothers and cousins, went from licence for each different location. selling cobs to passers-by at What Tom has learned He has some good ideas up his their driveway, to delivering loads 1. Business is more than sleeve to mitigate this expense. making a quick buck – it of 8,000 cobs of corn to local needs to be sustainable. businesses twice weekly. Here was For now, Copper and Cream has a 2. As a business owner, you regular spot at the Hamilton Night Tom’s capital for the ice-cream take a lot more pride in venture. Markets at The Base and K-mart. things. They will also be at the Cambridge 3. You need to plan for Importing the machine from China Trash & Treasure market every expansion, especially capital was the easy part month over summer. Make sure expenditure. “What I didn’t know was the amount you try the next big thing – rolled 4. If you run a good business, you reap the rewards. of tax I had to pay, plus the effort ice-cream from Copper and 5. Aim to have every customer involved to get it through customs. Cream! leave with a smile. It took many emails and half a

26 Connecting children with dairy

Aka Aka School students Liam Clatworthy, Sandy Muir, Nathan DairyNZ’s Education Programme is now used in over Ripia and Tyronne Kitcher with their germination experiments. one-third of primary schools and one quarter of secondary schools around the country. LINKING URBAN AND RURAL SCHOOLS Thanks to farmer volunteers, 4500 children, plus teachers DairyNZ’s Class-ified Game of Moostery challenge has and parents, visited a dairy farm in the past year and over connected 200 urban schools with 200 rural schools 21,000 children have visited a farm since the Find a Farmer over the last two years, helping children learn about the programme launched six years ago. different communities in which they live in. SCIENCE IN SCHOOLS The schools complete a series of challenges, concluding with a skype session where each class races to identify DairyNZ’s hands-on science kits have helped teachers bring their mystery match. learning alive in the classroom and explore science through the context of dairy. ROSIE Each science kit is distributed to 200 teachers, reaching The Cowbassador of the education programme, Rosie the approximately 6000 children. The kits provide all the tools cow, continues to delight and educate children at events a class needs to complete a science experiment, which can and through the Rosie’s World website. then be shared at ourfarmvisit.co.nz. An astounding 2.9 million people have visited the Rosie’s There are six different science kits; on riparian planting, World website since it’s launch six years ago. water quality, cheese making, 3D design technology and bacteria, and each one has gone to 200 classrooms – ourfarmvisit.co.nz • rosiesworld.co.nz that’s a total of 1200 classrooms and 36,000 children. rosieseducation.co.nz

SCHOLARSHIPS SUPPORT DAIRY’S FUTURE

DairyNZ’s scholarship programme supports new talent into providing 55 undergraduate scholarships to tertiary careers in dairying farming, agribusiness and agriscience. students each year.

In 2017, the existing undergraduate scholarships were “Through career events targeting high schools and boosted by a post-graduate Farm Systems Masters universities, increased awareness has seen demand for Scholarship. these scholarships grow, with over 130 applications received last round from both rural and urban schools,” “This scholarship aims to develop systems thinking in future says Susan. “The recipients are the cream of the crop researchers and developers before they enter their specialist – academically talented and passionate about all things field,” says Susan Stokes, DairyNZ industry education dairy.” facilitator. Where scholars work “Up to three placements are offered each year, with students based at DairyNZ working on industry-relevant About 85 percent of these undergraduate scholars are research.” employed near or on-farm, or undertake further study.

Fifty-five undergraduate scholarships The return on investment (ROI) for levy contribution is estimated at 4:1, a return of $4 to the industry for every Providing financial support, industry connections and $1 spent. As more students graduate, this ROI is expected motivation to succeed is a key focus for DairyNZ in to rise to 9:1. dairynz.co.nz/scholarships Owl Farm

Providing knowledge St Peter’s School/Lincoln University Demonstration Dairy Farm

Article by Louise Cook, Demonstration Manager, FARM CLASSROOM Owl Farm

Be it students from St Peter’s, a local primary school, final year students from Lincoln University, New Zealand Young Farmers Leaders, or from Punahou High School in Hawaii and Michigan State University, there’s a steady stream of students through the farm gate. And seldom does a group leave without making a positive impact on the sustainability of Owl Farm.

Agriculture and Horticulture the quality of water leaving the Approximately 130 tertiary students students from St Peter’s are on farm farm. have come to learn about the weekly, using the farm paddocks challenges facing a modern At our September Farm Focus Day, or stock as a tangible data source and productive New Zealand Ryan presented his findings to as they explore the intricacies of farming system. Their greatest 130 people from the agribusiness primary sector business and the interest lies in what practices and sector. They, too, were blown away challenges of managing a biological techniques we can practically and by the maturity of his work. system. There’s even a small economically employ to mitigate beehive area on the farm enabling Over 300 primary school children our farming footprint. Wetlands, studies to branch out into the have visited Owl Farm in the last pasture species, judicious use smallest farmed animals on earth. six months. Seeing cows and of fertiliser, improving individual calves up close, understanding cow performance efficiency and There are enterprising individuals a little bit about how cows make plantain are topics that evoke much like Ryan Wisnewski (Year 10), who milk, and how we are protecting discussion. completed a study on the Owl Farm the environment, has been an Wetland for his NIWA Science Fair Finally, 55 students were on farm enriching experience for everyone. Project. His data will be invaluable for Ecoblitz recently (see page It certainly shapes our thinking in understanding how we utilise our 29), studying the smallest of living on how to best tell the story of wetland in the future to enhance things on and around the farm. sustainable farming. Our bright and enthusiastic young people, with their passion for the world around them, are enormously valuable to New Zealand’s future. Being able to play even a small part in how they learn about the interface of sustainable farming, agribusiness, biology and ecology is an absolute privilege for both Owl Farm and St Peter’s.

Follow Owl Farm on www.facebook.com/OwlFarmNZ

28 it’s not a totally unusual event, but it’s still nice to find something new NEW SPECIES? and St Peter’s School can be proud of it.”

An unusual fungus was also found A never-before-seen moth and a and infrared motion-sensor during Ecoblitz. rare fungus were discovered in photography under the expert Cambridge, when students and guidance of Dr Curran and Dr Jon “One of the students posted up a scientists teamed up for the 2017 Sullivan. photo of a fungus and the national Ecoblitz on Owl Farm. expert on fungi doesn’t recognise They scoured the campus for it, so we took a sample,” Dr Sullivan “An Ecoblitz is a way of insects, birds, fish and vertebrates said. systematically surveying different such as possums, ferrets, rats, mice habitats in a way that we can and hedgehogs. “That could be another new repeat in future years to look at discovery made, just like that.” “The biggest thing is educating change over time,” said Dr Tim these students and getting them The samples collected at this year’s Curran, a senior ecologist at Lincoln seeing nature through our eyes, Ecoblitz will be analysed over the University. with the same passion that we see next two years and compared with Lincoln University’s ecology it,” Dr Curran said. the 222 different species found at department pioneered the award- the school in 2015. Year 8 student Bella Anderson winning concept in Canterbury in particularly enjoyed catching The Ecoblitz was funded by 2014, with the aim of giving high moths in light traps and spider the Waikato River Authority school students the opportunity to spotlighting. and involved experts from explore and connect with nature. Lincoln University, Te Papa, the “We used torches and we were “In 2015 we held an Ecoblitz at Owl Department of Conservation, looking for spiders in the dark. It Farm for the first time to establish Wildlands Ecological Consultants, was really cool, we found some big some baseline data. That data was Christchurch City Council, ones,” she said. used to make some management Canterbury Museum, Scion and decisions about the farm in One night, Entomologist Brian NIWA. particular,” said St Peter’s HOD Patrick trapped a moth he had Article by Steph Bell-Jenkins, Biology Sara Loughnane. never seen before. Cambridge News “Since then some environmental Mr Patrick has been on nearly 3,800 initiatives have been put in bug-hunting missions all over New place, including a wetland Zealand over the past 47 years, restoration project, and so this is and said the moth could be a new a comparative study to measure species to science. the impact they’ve actually had on “Or it could just be something in biodiversity.” the North Island that I don’t know 40 students volunteered for the about,” he said. two-day Ecoblitz this year, learning “I have found probably the thick end ecological survey techniques such of 300 new species in my life, so as electro-fishing, spotlighting

www.stpeters.school.nz 29 Matrixx A SUCCESS STORY

Matrixx is St Peter’s first elite hip hop dance crew. Named for the start of something new, the crew made it all the way to the national championships in their debut year, an extraordinary achievement. So, what has inspired this success?

OVER 60 STUDENTS FROM YEAR 9 INITIATED AND NAMED BY THE CREW HAD A GOAL TO GET TO 13 AUDITIONED, BUT ONLY 10 STUDENTS, THE CREW OWNED TO THE NATIONAL CHAMPS. WERE SELECTED. THEIR SUCCESS. Captain Madi Dearlove (Year Samara Mockford is one of three “Students floated the idea of this 13) notes that the Matrixx crew Year 10’s (the youngest) in the crew. elite crew. We went with it because came together due to a collective we knew there was plenty of talent passion and drive to be successful. “We had to audition for this group, and ambition to choose from at St “That is exactly what we needed to because it’s the competition team Peter’s” explains St Peter’s HOD be able to do well this year.” for St Peter’s. Dance Jenna Bagshaw. Project was their first competition, “I feel driven when I think of a “Following their selection, the girls in June. The crew placed 8th. coming competition and how the were asked to think about what At Dance NZ Made Regionals in long hours and early mornings will was important to them and come August, they came 1st in the Year come in handy at comp, because up with a name. ‘Matrixx’ came 11-13 section. This earned them a our set will be clean and sharp. from Ava Gallien. She thought place at Dance NZ Made Nationals. “Thinking of those who would love it was fitting, as this was a new Although they didn’t place in the to be in Matrixx, but didn’t get the revolution of dance to come out of top three, being there was success chance also drives me. When it St Peter’s — and that it would only enough. comes to performing, we give it all grow from there. Matrix meaning Manager Bex McGuire agrees that we’ve got.” ‘to grow’”. their ability to work together was what made Matrixx a success story SOME HAD VERY LIMITED INSTRUCTOR MIRIANA WETERE- so quickly. “Matrixx is only one of EXPERIENCE. RYDER WAS A SCHOOL GIRL a few teams where juniors and Like Ally Sciascia, who says “The SUCCESS STORY. seniors get to work together. Our audition and selection process at Miriana was the first person to Year 13’s were exceptional leaders the end of 2016 was very nerve receive an Arts Tie at her high and included the younger ones in racking. I had never been put in school for dance. At 17, she everything. that sort of situation before. represented New Zealand at the “I can’t wait to see what Matrixx “It was also only my first year of hip 2014 World Hip Hop Champs in Las produces next year.” hop, so you could say I was very Vegas. much a newbie. When I found out She’s currently studying a Bachelor Interested in Dance at St Peter’s? that I had been selected for the of Media Arts and Photography at Contact our Director of group I was over the moon!” Wintec and was recently selected Performing Arts on 07 827 9899. to dance in a Paris Goebal music video. How’s that for inspiration?

30 WHAT WE LEARNED ON EXCHANGE THREE ST PETER’S STUDENTS WENT ON EXCHANGE TO SOUTH AFRICA THIS YEAR.

ANNA LUSCOMBE AND MADDIE BROWN WENT TO DIOCESAN SCHOOL FOR GIRLS (DSG) “I chose South Africa for my exchange, because it seemed like a cool place and a really cool experience to have” says Anna.

For Maddie, it was the amazing stories from past exchange students that inspired her. “Plus, my parents have been to South Africa and they said it was one of their favourite countries to visit!”

The girls were there for five weeks. They both say the experience didn’t change them as people, but definitely changed their perspective on third world countries. Hannah looking over Cape Town from Table Mountain “The people were so friendly and HANNAH FALCONER WENT TO SOMERSET COLLEGE caring. Even the people in the very poor parts of Africa, who have “I chose South Africa because I with a stream of people, but in South nothing, are still smiling and enjoying had always wanted to go there and Africa I was a day student, which was all aspects of life!” Maddie explains. had heard so many stories from my definitely a new experience. I also parents” says Hannah. She was there had only one ‘sibling’ and lived in a School life was a little different for six weeks. huge city.” compared to St Peter’s: boarders shared a cube with curtains for doors “Being over there made me realise Hannah’s most memorable and school started as early as 7:30am, how free we are over here. With all experiences were paragliding from ending at 3pm. the security and precautions, I felt Signal Hill and going up Table that if I had stayed any longer, I may Mountain. The students were also very close, have suffocated. many of them having been at “Going on exchange was an incredible boarding school together since Year 1. “(School) life was almost the complete experience, which I will never forget. opposite to my life at St Peter’s. Being I have some amazing memories and Meeting new, potentially life-long a boarder here, I’m constantly living I strongly encourage future Year 10’s friends was the best part of the trip to apply.” for both girls, as was the African wildlife. “We would just drive past giraffes and monkeys on the side of the road!” Anna remarked. “It’s not every day (that) you see wild animals in New Zealand.”

L-R: Jules Basson (DSG), Maddie Brown and Anna Luscombe (St Peter’s) and Kelly Hobson (DSG)

www.stpeters.school.nz 31 NATIONAL TOURNAMENT HIGHLIGHTS

1st XV Rugby won the National Co-ed Cup. The U15’s came runner-up in the U15 Tournament at Lindisfarne College.

1st XI Girls’ Football were the highest ranked team in the Waikato/BOP region, coming 6th overall at the NZSS Premier Tournament in Taupo.

Cycling brought home four Gold and five Silver medals from the NZSS Cycling Champs in October. A combined total of 9 Golds and 8 Silvers for 2017 gives them the highest number of National Table Tennis placed Championship victories 6th in the NZSS of any school in New A-grade competition. Zealand. Ricky Yeung came 3rd in the individual competition.

Premier Boys’ finished 3rd at the regional Premier Girls’ competition, Basketball won qualifying the Zone Two for National Regional Finals, Tournament for for the third year the first time in a row. They ever. came a close 2nd at National Tournament in October.

Lacrosse was 1st XI Boys’ Hockey 3rd at National finished 5th at the Olympic Champs. Stick Satellite Tournament.

32 ENJOYING SUCCESS TOGETHER

AT JUST 16 YEARS OLD, YEAR 11 STUDENTS CHARLISSE LEGER-WALKER AND ELLA BRADLEY HAVE MADE HISTORY IN NEW ZEALAND BASKETBALL – THEY WERE PART OF THE FIRST NZ WOMEN’S TEAM TO QUALIFY FOR THE FIBA WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP.

Close friends, Charlisse and Ella she, too, is quick to note that have played together for St Peter’s qualifying for the World Champs since Year 9. is motivation to work harder. “One thing I will need to improve on The pair have won Gold in every is adjusting to how quick and fit competition they’ve played in players from other countries are. together so far, the 2017 NZSS We’ll need to improve our fitness champs their first ever Silver. They and agility to combat different were also selected to play for NZ at styles of play.” both U17 and U18 level this year.* On the back of their success in 2017, They attribute much of their success the girls are determined to keep to date to having similar goals, doing better, with the following on on court and in the classroom. their list of priorities: Plus, they are fortunate to have people taking a real interest in their 1. Win back the NZSS National title development. in 2018 2. Play at the FIBA Basketball World “Our friendship has grown through Champs in 2018 basketball” says Charlisse. “Being 3. Win a scholarship overseas to school friends, we push each other study and play basketball to do better. Away at tournament, we study together too. We’re a good If their current ambitions and team.” determination are anything to go by, we’ll be seeing much more of these St Peter’s Coach Leanne Walker two in the future. (a former Tall Fern) is another big source of inspiration, notes Ella. * Unfortunately, Ella was injured before the U18 Oceania Championship in “Mrs Walker’s commitment to Guam. Charlisse did go and was part basketball is amazing; she gives of the New Zealand team to qualify her time and knowledge to anyone for the FIBA tournament in Asia (World Cup qualifier). She was also named in wanting to learn. I know I’m lucky to the Tournament Team. In other words, have her as my coach!” one of the top five players at the tournament. Photos: FIBA (the International Basketball Federation) Motivation to train harder… Charlisse captained the NZ U17 team and was also highest points scorer at the Asia Cup. Together with Australia, Japan and China, the NZ team qualified for the FIBA U16 World Championship – to be held in Belarus, Minsk, in July 2018.

For Ella, the level of competition and intensity at this level was different to anything she’d experienced before. “Being able to compete in that environment, with the amount of experience I have, was really motivating to train harder and improve,” she notes.

While Charlisse dwells on the honour of playing for her country,

www.stpeters.school.nz 33 THE RUGBY

PATHWAY

On the back of the success of had an insight into how serious the improving my skill set.” the St Peter’s 1st XV at the Co-ed New Zealand Rugby Union take James notes that the Waikato Nationals, Year 13’s Ollie Norris, cheating, as players were being Rugby Union (WRU) had prepared James Thompson and Peni Finau drug tested. them well for the Barbarians were selected for the 2017 NZ “In playing the game, we learned experience: “We’ve always been Barbarians Schools team. Ollie what you can achieve when you told that the higher you go in rugby; (prop), James (lock/loose forward) don’t let the occasion get to your the character of the players gets and Peni (lock/loose forward) are head. We knew Feilding was going better. They were right.” passionate about rugby, with high to be tough, but we had confidence hopes for a future in the game. “I enjoyed the professionalism. Our and stayed composed to do what hydration, weight and how we felt James and Ollie have played in the we did.” was tested every morning. We did St Peter’s First XV for three years. This experience led to selection into hot and colds after every single Peni, just one. training and game.” “Rugby has shown me how far The Barbarians side won both brotherhood can get a team,” says For the three games, beating Tongan Schools James. “It’s an awesome feeling 33-19 and the NZ Maori U18’s 28-24. knowing you’ve got 30 other boys boys, putting For the three boys, putting on the backing you.” on the “Baba’s “Baba’s Jersey” was unforgettable. Ollie agrees that rugby creates They want more. a close bond but notes that the Jersey” was The rugby pathway sees all three coaching he’s had at St Peter’s has with an offer from the WRU for the made him a better player. This year, unforgettable. next two years. he’s learned to be mentally fit. Local boys, James and Ollie are “I have learned how important They want more. already signed to the U19 Rugby mental toughness is when on the Academy and Hautapu Rugby Club. field and in the gym. You need to the NZ Barbarians Schools side – They have rugby scholarships to be able to get through the tough becoming part of a completely new Waikato University. Both young times.” team and a whole new level of play. men have regional and national At Nationals, the boys were representation in their sights – their For Ollie, the best part was the really tested and they came out goal being to don the black jersey honour of representing his country. triumphant – beating former for the U20 World Cup. “When I came to St Peter’s, I never national champs Feilding to win imagined myself representing my Peni is undecided on his immediate the Co-ed National Cup. James country in the sport I love. future but may play professional admits the exposure to this kind of rugby in Japan. pressure was a new challenge. “The biggest lesson I learned was to always continue to get better, “You’re always under scrutiny” because there are other great he says. “The public and national players that can take your position. selectors are not only watching you So, I need to keep growing and on the field, but off it too. We also

34 AIMS Games – the ultimate competition

THE AIMS GAMES ARE THE SPORTING HIGHLIGHT OF THE YEAR FOR INTERMEDIATE STUDENTS; OUR BEST SPORTS STARS COMPETING AGAINST INDIVIDUALS OR OTHER TEAMS FROM SCHOOLS AROUND THE COUNTRY.

This year, St Peter’s entered 84 students (from our small pool of less than 200 in Year 7 and 8) to compete against over 10,000 other competitors from 300 schools at the national event in Tauranga.

In our biggest representation at AIMS, our preppies competed in eight different disciplines: netball, rugby sevens, football (girls and boys), hockey, 6 a-side hockey, cross country, BMX and golf.

Highlights included: • BMX star Jack Greenough (Year 7) won Gold in the Year 7 Boys’ Time Trial and Silver in the Year 7 Boys’ Moto. He and Baxter Shaw (Year 8) came 4th as a team.

• Ing Thanchanok won Bronze in the Stableford. She was 4th in the girls’ section and 9th overall (boys and girls).

• Girls’ Football finished 14th out of 39 teams.

Jack Greenough (front), and Baxter Shaw (right) in the team competition Photo credit AIMS games

Golf Academy student Ing Year 7 and 8 girls’ football team shows off her bronze medal

www.stpeters.school.nz 35 STAFF FAREWELLS

YEAR END IS A TIME FOR FAREWELLS. 8 STAFF MEMBERS ARE RETIRING, 5 HAVE MOVED OVERSEAS AND 4 ARE MOVING ON TO OTHER SCHOOLS. WE THANK THEM FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTION TO THE SPECIAL CHARACTER OF ST PETER’S AND WISH THEM EVERY SUCCESS.

ANDREW DOUGLAS KAY HOGAN LINDA BROADBENT Deputy Principal Director of Equestrian Lippincott House Director; Prep Teacher; Assistant Director of Andrew first came to St Peter’s as “Being passionate about your job Boarding Sports Manager in 2007. Within a means happily working long hours couple of years, he was Deputy and time just flies… It’s the end of an era in Lippincott Principal. His focus shifted to House, Linda Broadbent is retiring I can hardly believe I started at St leadership and human resources, at the end of 2017 after 22 years at Peter’s seventeen years ago, with but sport was still key. He was also the helm. a handful of riders and unfinished Morris House Director for five years. facilities. How different it is now! House Director, Prep Teacher, Rugby was always Andrew’s Social Studies and English Teacher, My priority has always been the passion. He commanded a great Linda cared deeply about student students and horses under my care, deal of respect amongst the 1st welfare. and to do as much as I could to XV squad for his guidance and help them achieve their goals; the Linda loved working in Lippincott. encouragement. successes they have achieved over “It has been an absolute privilege to Being a positive influence is the years are exceptional. be part of so many girl’s lives and to Andrew’s real legacy - evident in see them grow into amazing adults,” I am proud to have been able to this message to students: she says. lead and develop the Equestrian “You may not always appreciate Academy and facilities, which “I will miss the everyday things. School or always enjoy it” he writes, contribute greatly to the special The chats that just happen ‘cause “but being at St Peter’s exposes you character of St Peter’s and we are there. Sharing the tears and to good people who demonstrate are much admired. I leave the laughter on the good and not so the importance of hard work. Equestrian Academy in great heart, good days. Helping someone to fully resourced and with everything achieve something that they didn’t “It encloses you with people who in place to ensure its future think they could do.” are always open to learning. It success. provides you with the opportunity The Broadbent family are a part of to be successful in whatever you I am excited about taking up new our history. Tony was Director of choose. challenges, but am also looking Sport and sons Sam and Ben are St forward to keeping in touch with my Peter’s Alumni. “At St Peter’s we also celebrate St Peter’s family.” every success. Enjoy that feeling, it The Broadbents will continue living is special.” in Cambridge.

Andrew’s love of the game has taken him to coach rugby in Italy. Linda with Patricia Steel, both stalwarts of St Peter’s School

36 DEBBIE USSHER DEREK CASTLE DOT WILKINS Head of Year 7 and 8 (Prep School) Prep Teacher Morris House Matron

Head of Prep for 13 years, closely “15 years, 6o terms, 600 school Dot retires at the end of 2017. involved in School Productions and weeks have flown by. I have both a Matron of Morris House for 14 years, Tutor in Wrigley House, Debbie sense of satisfaction and disbelief she and husband Geoff are part has touched the lives of many a St at the journey. of Morris history, having worked Peter’s student. Since 2003, I have worked with alongside House Directors John Debbie was teacher in charge of some inspirational people. As a Veitch, Andrew Douglas and finally assessment Years 7-10, part of the teacher, I feel most blessed to have Steve Wilton. She both enjoyed Thinking School Lead team and on been a part of the lives of so many the support of these three and the reporting committee. She was incredible young people, all with supporting them. coach for Waimaths, Lit Quiz teams their own personalities, skills and Whatever hour the doorbell rang, and Tournament of Minds. And she unlimited potential. Dot has loved “mothering” the helped design the Prep Block and I have held varied roles at St younger boys in the school, from playground. Peter’s: backstage for eight Prep Year 7 through to Year 9. On the co-curricular side, Debbie Productions, various camps going “Matron of Morris was both was Cue Caller for several School way back to 2003 when we went challenging and fun” says Dot. Productions. She also taught Year deep into the Ureweras for a week, “After three years of nurturing one 13 Ballroom Dancing. teacher in charge of senior dance set of boys, they’d move on and the (don’t ask), Kapa Haka, coach of “St Peter’s has epitomised the next lot of little fledglings moved in, basketball, touch, rugby sevens best in a holistic education,” says bringing a new set of challenges. and rugby, and House Director of Debbie. “I’ll miss the excitement Oliphant. “I have watched hundreds of boys and challenge of that, and seeing grow into lovely young teenagers. students grow the way they do here Rugby has been a passion of mine; Some come back to visit, with fond with the support of some wonderful I relished the opportunities to work memories, which is very heart staff.” with so many young men from 2nd warming.” XV to U15 to Prep, and see them “Thank you for all the wonderful develop as players and people. She’s grateful for the support memories, laughter and I thoroughly believe that sport of the St Peter’s community - discussions. teaches us a lot of life’s lessons management, admin, boarding, “We can’t always control events about courage, failure, camaraderie nurses, international, grounds, in our lives, but we can determine and goal setting. laundry, catering and cleaning. how we respond. To the students here: embrace “Thanks to the many parents too, “And for those students I was everything on offer, good and bad. for trusting me to take care of their fortunate enough to work with, It is how we celebrate success and precious children. And thank you to remember to believe in yourself as acknowledge our shortcomings all the students, past and present, I much as I believe in you.” that helps us to be the best we can wish you all the very best.” be. Be honest and learn to laugh at yourself.”

Dot with Steve Wilkins and Morris House Alumni

www.stpeters.school.nz 37 RICHARD CAIN LAURIS CROOK Parr House Director; HoD History & Archives Cambridge International Examinations Manager; Richard is retiring after 27 years at St Peter’s. Naturally, our favourite International Exchange philosopher had a lot to say... Co-ordinator; Maths teacher “Fare thee well my fellow Saints of Peter. Lauris Crook retires at the end of This is a time of reflection, breaking an umbilical cord that has lasted 2017 after a lifetime in education since 1990. It has been the utmost pleasure to see generations of people, and many years’ service to St students and staff grow physically, academically, emotionally, and many Peter’s as both parent and teacher. with a latent spirituality. In short, the St Peters’ psyche becomes firmly Her mantra - to instil in students entrenched in a person’s make up. a love of learning and a desire to achieve the best they can – will live To the students, those who are leaving like myself, and the future on. generations that will pass through the school, my lived experience has taught me that life is very fragile but the human spirit is strong. Many Lauris championed academic stimulating encounters await you, the continual challenge of ideas and excellence in her roles as Assistant values, visiting mystical and entrancing places, meeting a vast array of HOF Mathematics, Academic people, most of whom will be good, a few will be evil, and some just plain Dean and Manager of Cambridge plonkers. You will be faced with many decisions, some tough, some life International Examinations. changing, but my hope is that each one of you continue to grow as a person She took great pride in the special and, above all, do not stagnate. character of our school, assisting in Appreciate simple delights like a picnic with friends, the beauty and cruelty Chapel many times. of nature, and above all else the benefits of silence and reflection. Treasure At heart, she has always been each memory. They will assist you in withstanding the turbulence that a Maths teacher. “I love seeing comes with life. students develop to appreciate My great companion Socrates argues: “The unexamined life is not worth the beauty of Mathematics; its living.” Always be curious about the world around you. Above all, be willing elegance, as well as its usefulness. to learn until your last breath. I ask you to remember that education is not “I retire satisfied that I have been limited to assessments or examinations. The best skills you can have for the able to contribute to Mathematics modern world are adaptability and resourcefulness. education in New Zealand.” I will finish with the famous Latin phrase “Carpe Diem” – “Seize the day.” Her contribution was recognised Live life to the fullest. Finally, my aroha goes with you and I wish you all, with Life Membership to the not material wealth, but contentment in your life. There is no greater wealth Auckland Mathematical Association. than happiness. Ciao”. She also received a Teaching Excellence Award from the NZ Association of Maths Teachers.

Lauris was on the Parents’ Association, parent rep on the Trust Board and dedicated 16 years to the St Peter’s Foundation Committee.

Ricki and former student Anita Lala exchanging stories

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www.stpeters.school.nz 39 Celebrating 30 Years of Girls AT ST PETER’S

2017 marked the 30 year anniversary of girls enrolling at St Peter’s. Prior to that, the school was only for boys. There were 31 girls in that first intake in 1987, now girls make up half of the school roll.

70 people attended the special 30 Year High Tea in the Dining Room at St Peter’s in September. Guest speakers were District Court Judge Belinda Pidwell (a current parent), ‘founding girl’ Louise Makgill and Sacha Coburn of St Peter’s Parents’ Association. Each of them outlined the importance of women in society and the key roles that schools play in shaping the future for young women.

Several long standing staff members joined the celebrations, including Alistair and Jenny Gardner, Patricia Steel, Lynn Brock and Sue Wrigley (Ex-Chairperson of the St Peter’s Trust Board).

40 The road to realising a dream Her dreams are to compete at the Olympics and to work as a Psychologist. Track and road champion Camille Buscomb acknowledges that the opportunities afforded to her at St Peter’s have driven her ambition to do well – on and off the track.

Camille spent her final three years of school (Years 11 to 13) here, between 2005 and 2008. Already she was aware of her talent as a runner, and she had definite goals. Encouraging excellence and celebrating success, the St Peter’s culture supported that mindset, says Camille.

“I think that St Peter’s really was a big part of shaping me into who I am today. My ambitions were encouraged, not rejected.

“The School was very performance driven, but balanced at the same time. There was a strong push for students to pursue sport, academics and the arts.

“I felt my athletic training needs were understood and my IT’S A HARD ROAD TO SUCCESS successes were rewarded. I trained hard throughout my Camille constantly challenges herself to be time at St Peter’s and I remember my teachers being very better. Since 2013, she’s competed at all the supportive. I did my best in both sport and the classroom.” big races in New Zealand, trying to improve her personal best (PB). This last year she Her success at school earned her an athletic scholarship at has been more focused on the international Purdue University (Indiana) in 2009. circuit. 2017 Camille feels that if she had to do it all again, she would • 2nd place Hobart B & E 10k road race, have done more at St Peter’s. “I’d have liked to have made Australia - 33:34 the most of being a teenager, as you grow up fast enough. It • Competed in Bolts All Stars Team Nitro, is more important to be happy, to have lived a fulfilled life, Australia than to be so dead focused on something.” • Paced Nagoya Women’s Marathon 1:12.06, Japan (PB) Her advice to students is: “Do as much as you can at school. • 2nd place National 1500m, Hamilton - If you have a dream, make sure you always keep the love of 4:20 the dream alive and enjoy the journey. Enjoying the journey • 8th place Carlsbad 5k road race, America will allow you to reach a higher destination.” 16:02 • 9th place Payton Jordan 10,000m World Camille did not complete her degree at Purdue, returning Qualifier, Commonwealth Games Qualifier to New Zealand in 2010. She completed her Bachelor of 31:45 (PB), America Arts at the University of Waikato in December 2016, with a • 3rd place Nijmegen 5,000m World Psychology Major and English Minor. Qualifier, • Commonwealth Games Qualifier 15:19 Today, she still finds herself balancing ‘body, mind and (PB), Holland spirit’. Committed to giving back to the community where • 8th place Stockholm Diamond League possible, she volunteers at Lifeline. 3000m, Sweden • 3rd place Floro Norway 1500m, Norway Based in Hamilton, she spends most of her time overseas, • 30th place World Champs 10,000m final, training and racing as she works towards her next goal: England competing at the Commonwealth Games in April 2018. She • 30th place World Champs 5,000m, has already achieved the qualification standard in both the England 5,000m and 10,000m events. • Japan Half Marathon (December)

Ever closer to realising her dreams, Camille is intent on further study to obtain her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and to become a registered Psychologist. Of course, she also has her sights set on the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2020.

www.stpeters.school.nz 41 Give everything a ‘crack’

A qualified marine architect (yacht designer), professional racing car driver, advanced driving instructor and now a detailer in frames and trusses, former St Peter’s student Mark Gibson is living proof that one can do whatever they put their mind to. And do several things at once.

Mark (aka Spud) was at St Peter’s between 2005 and 2009. A boarder in Oliphant and Broadhurst, he believes boarding taught him how to get along with people, even if you don’t see eye to eye.

A sporting enthusiast and reasonable academic, Mark gave school “a pretty good crack” and had a great time doing so.

“I loved the sporting side at St Peter’s. I would train for golf three times a week, play hockey three times a week and race motocross most Sundays. Generally, I would be doing something every day.” “ I would train for golf three times a FROM THE AGE OF 12, MARK week, play hockey WANTED TO BE AN ARCHITECT. three times a week In Year 13, he decided he liked boats better than houses. He was and race motocross most Sundays. studying English, Maths, Graphics, Photo: John Cowpland, Alphapix Tourism, Business Studies and PE. Generally, I would

From here, Mark went to Unitec in be doing something in his spare time. And not only on Auckland and completed his 4-year every day. ” ordinary surfaces. Mark instructs for degree in Applied Technology Audi, on ice, training people to drift (yacht design). “That was a great as a development driver. He on the ice flats up in the Southern time” he reminisces, “but the course raced in the NZV8 championship Hemisphere Proving Grounds. before moving into the full time V8 itself was quite difficult. I think in “Driving is a nice break from the Supertourer Championship as the my first year there was around 45 stress of an office job” he says. lead driver for JMR. students and in the last, less than “Only a couple of months ago, I was 10.” “This was pretty cool as I was racing doing 270kph in a brand-new Ferrari against the likes of Greg Murphy, 488 after a customer asked me to WHILE AT UNI, MARK STARTED Shane Van Gisbergen and a list of take him for hotlaps in his car.” RACING CARS. V8 Supercar greats. It would be fair This passion was further ignited to say that standing on the podium ST PETER’S HOLDS GOOD when he participated in a program next to Greg Murphy on my debut MEMORIES FOR MARK. run by Suzuki to win a funded drive would be a career highlight.” His advice to current students is: in the Suzuki Swift Sport Cup. “Enjoy school. We were always SINCE MEETING HIS FIANCÉ, MARK “I didn’t win that day, but my driver told how good we had it at school HAS DECIDED THAT DRIVING, trainer asked to be my manager. and that became apparent almost ALTHOUGH A LOT OF FUN, ISN’T A immediately after leaving. So, my brother Rob (St Peter’s, ‘REAL JOB’. 2003-2006) and I joined as a family He now manages a frame and “Pay attention in class. I am glad I race team and did two years of the truss business in Tauranga. He’s paid attention in maths as I use it Suzuki Swift Sport Cup.” a detailer, someone who designs daily now. In 2010, Mark came 4th and was frames and trusses prior to “And, most importantly, find Rookie of the Year. The following production. Another career that not something you enjoy and push year, he came 3rd. too many people are qualified to do. yourself to make that a career. From there, Mark was picked up Ever the daredevil, Mark still works Don’t be shy to take risks to make it by John McIntyre Racing (JMR) as an advanced driving instructor happen.”

42 2016/2017 Graduands Victoria University Auckland University Emma Carpenter Bachelor of Music Taegan Baxter Bachelor of Commerce and Olivia Houston Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Arts James Norris Bachelor of Commerce Victoria Birch Bachelor of Science Sarah Powell Master Museum & Heritage Studs Timothy Carpenter Master of Music Anthony Reid Bachelor of Arts Timothy Carpenter Bachelor of Music (Honours) Anthony Reid Bachelor of Commerce Samantha Denton Master of Science Anna Sing Bachelor of Science Honglu Feng Bachelor of Commerce Cameron Smith Bachelor of Commerce Jessica Field Graduate Diploma in Teaching William Stone Master of Strategic Studies (Primary) Wellington Tremayne Bachelor of Arts Michaela Hickey Master of Professional Studies Lisa Wilkinson GDip Teaching (Primary) Jessica Higgins Bachelor of Property and Alicia Williams Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Commerce Hannah Worsley Bachelor of Laws Jessica Hill Bachelor of Science Tzu Huang Bachelor of Arts University of Canterbury Wyatt Johnston Bachelor of Property Taylor Ashley Bachelor of Teaching and Learning Kendall Johnston Bachelor of Optometry (Primary) Mikaela Keir Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Owen Forsythe Bachelor of Engineering with Second Jieun Kim Bachelor of Arts Class Honours You Kwon Bachelor of Science and Stanley Jolly Bachelor of Engineering with Second Bachelor of Commerce Class Honours Shivani Lee Bachelor of Science Anthiony Karl Master of Science with First Class Emily Munro Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Honours Craig Piggott Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Oscar McLean Bachelor of Engineering with Second Harry Redwood Bachelor of Arts and Class Honours Bachelor of Laws Stephanie Reeves LLB, Bachelor of Commerce Nathan Roa Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Bradley Scott Bachelor of Science Merri Rogers Graduate Diploma in Teaching Aidan Wills Bachelor of Engineering with Third (Secondary) Class Honours Mark Taylor Bachelor of Arts University of Waikato Anna Timmings Diploma in Paediatrics Ben Powell Bachelor of Music with Honours Shara Van de Pas Bachelor of Science Madison Wright Graduate Diploma of Teaching - Thomas White Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Primary (GradDipT) Arnica Young Bachelor of Commerce Ross Fitz-John Bachelor of Social Sciences Daniel Reason Bachelor of Science (Technology) Otago University Rebecca Soffe Bachelor of Management Studies Sandra Mitchell Bachelor of Medicine and Zanian Steele Bachelor of Social Sciences Bachelor of Surgery Jono Merchant Bachelor of Laws Michelle Quin Bachelor of Pharmacy Jono Merchant Bachelor of Management Studies Jack Dray Bachelor of Science Caitlin Tucker Bachelor of Laws with Honours George Forster Bachelor of Arts Caitlin Tucker Bachelor of Social Sciences Jessica Hillbrook Bachelor of Commerce Ally O’Donnell Bachelor of Management Studies Isla McKnight Bachelor of Arts Jenny Eames Bachelor of Social Sciences Briar Meikle Bachelor of Commerce Courtney Fox Bachelor of Business Analysis Josephine Messam Bachelor of Commerce Liam Gray Bachelor of Electronic Commerce Christopher Lynch Bachelor of Science Carl Imlig Bachelor of Teaching - Primary Thomas Wood Bachelor of Science Joanna McKay Graduate Diploma of Teaching - Early Kate Allen Bachelor of Commerce Childhood (GradDipT) Alexandra Crawshaw Bachelor of Commerce Daniel Moore Graduate Diploma of Teaching - Hannah Keaney Bachelor of Commerce Secondary (GradDipT) Liam Nott Bachelor of Applied Science Caro Cameron Bachelor of Science Sean Watson Bachelor of Arts Caro Cameron Graduate Certificate in French Carl Gaylard Master of Science Ben Bayliss Bachelor of Communication Studies Laura Robinson Bachelor of Teaching - Primary Hanna Seifert Bachelor of Laws Jessica Fredricsen Post Graduate Diploma in Psychology Bradley Joubert Bachelor of Environmental Planning Joshua Caddigan Bachelor of Social Sciences Chia-Wei Lin Bachelor of Business Analysis Danelle Murphy Bachelor of Arts Alexus Perry Bachelor of Social Sciences Philip Ramsbottom Bachelor of Science (Technology) Gemma Tomlinson Bachelor of Social Sciences Bonnie MacGibbon Bachelor of Science Mereraiha Ikin Certificate of University Preparation

Lincoln University Amelia Wood Bachelor of Agricultural Science Harriet Fish Bachelor of Commerce, Master of Business Joshua Morrison Bachelor of Commerce Mitchell Van Loon Bachelor of Commerce (Agriculture) Samuel Wiltshire Bachelor of Commerce (Agriculture) Danyon Thomas Bachelor of Environmental Management and Planning Oliver de Groot Diploma in Horticultural Management, Diploma in Horticulture Robyn Gurnsey Post Graduate Diploma in Water Resource Management

www.stpeters.school.nz 43 TICKETS FROM For more information, $195 please contact FOOD, ACTIVITIES Neil McLaughlin REFRESHMENTS & Ph: 021 619 171 ACCOMMODATION e-mail: AVAILABLE [email protected]

Thornton Years 1961 - 1978 REUNION St Peter’s welcomes all students and staff from 1961-1978 to a special weekend reunion, celebrating 40 years since the Thornton Era. Come together to reminisce, renew friendships and experience St Peter’s, Cambridge in 2018.

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