Rolleston House
Welcome to Rolleston House
I look forward to meeting you all over the next few months and making 2024 an unforgettable year. This booklet will answer questions you may have about the House system at College and Rolleston House in particular.
The History of Rolleston House Purchased in 1975 from the University of Canterbury, Rolleston House was initially converted into classrooms and the clothing pool, and then in 1983, with some more renovations, it began a new life as a dayboy House. The name Rolleston House was originally given to it when it was Number 4 Hostel for Canterbury College (the predecessor of the University of Canterbury). Not only is it situated on the Rolleston Avenue corner but also William Rolleston, sometime Superintendent of Canterbury and Member of the House of Representatives, was at times an examiner of the sixth form in Latin and Greek, and a Fellow of Christ’s College from 1860–1903. The Rolleston House griffin emblem was taken from the Rolleston family crest. In history, the griffin’s amalgamation of lion and eagle gains in courage and boldness. It is used to denote strength and courage and leadership. Griffins are portrayed with a lion’s body, an eagle’s head, long ears, and an eagle’s claws to indicate that one must combine intelligence and strength. The House is a community that we would like to consider as one of the finest in College. The House motto of ainsi et peut-être meilleur – “thus and perhaps better” encourages students to reach their own standards of excellence in academic, sporting and cultural endeavours.
Rolleston House is located on the corner of Rolleston Avenue and Gloucester Street, diagonally opposite the Christ’s College front gates. Rolleston House has traditional character and good facilities for study and recreation. Years 11–13 students enjoy the privilege of their own study, while the Years 9 –10 students base themselves in the common room on the first floor. The courtyard space outside is used daily by the students for games and activities. Involvement in House duties and activities instil a sense of responsibility, pride and commitment to the house and help develop personal qualities and values. We pride ourselves on our House spirit, high standards and supportive environment. Please make contact if you have any questions between now and the start of the new year and I will be happy to discuss these with you. – Briar Wait, Housemaster
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The Housemaster
to a fantastic 2024 and welcome the opportunity to help your son grow in a supportive environment. Dr Briar Wait, Housemaster Mobile: 021 060 2401 Email: bwait@christscollege.com
I joined Christ’s College in 2014 and have been the Housemaster of Rolleston House since 2020. Following a BSc in Geography and Geology, and an MSc in Geology at the University of Auckland, I completed a PhD at the University of Canterbury. I then completed a Post-Graduate Diploma in Teaching through Victoria University. I teach Years 10–13 Chemistry, and am involved in both Football and Athletics. Since joining Christ’s College, I enjoy time spent building positive relationships with students and supporting them on their journey through high school. Outside of school, my husband and I spend time with our three children (19, 14 and 12 years of age) and two cats. As a family we like to get outdoors and enjoy summer camping, going to the beach and visiting family, as well as relaxing at home having barbecues and watching movies. The strength of Rolleston House comes from the community’s students, families and staff. The boys try their best, set high standards and have fun. I am proud of the positive attitude and community spirit of the boys and I look forward
Deputy Housemaster/Mentor Carey Prebble Carey has been a proud and involved member of Rolleston House since joining Christ’s College in 2016. A Technology teacher, Carey loves the challenge of problem-solving and working with young people to support them in individual projects and aspirations. Community service and engagement are very important for Carey as part of her House role. She strongly believes that giving time and resources is an important and enriching experience for our young men. As an educator and mentor to the Rolleston boys, Carey enjoys discussing big-picture ideas and encouraging individuals to take on responsibilities and follow their passions. Email: cprebble@christscollege.com
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New Boys in 2024
NAME
PREVIOUS SCHOOL
Oscar Abbott
Medbury School Medbury School
Alessio Barlozzi-Knothe
Brody Cheek Ben Cuddihy James Diprose
Auckland Normal Intermediate
Medbury School Halswell School Medbury School Medbury School
Korban Donaldson
Sam Ensor
Oliver Fisher-Starzynski
Overseas
Keoni Haddock Conor Kingston
Medbury School Medbury School St Mark’s School Sumner School Mt Pleasant School Medbury School
Ryan Ma
Riley Miller
Gabriel Murphy Joe Osborne Robbie Owens Charlie Saunders
Fernside School
Cobham Intermediate
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The House System
Christ’s College is divided into 10 Houses, seven for dayboys, three for boarders. The dayboy houses are Condell’s, Corfe, Harper, Jacobs, Julius, Rolleston and Somes. The boarding houses are Flower’s, Richards and School.
House Structure The House system is one of the strong features of College. It is not only the physical base from which the boys operate, but also where they develop close relationships, leadership skills and a real sense of community. Academic, sporting and cultural facets are all catered for, particularly in interhouse competitions. However, the House is a lot more than a physical space. It is the structure in which the boys form lasting bonds with other members of the House and develop a strong sense of unity over their five years at College. Their involvement in a wide range of duties, as well as interhouse academic, sporting and cultural activities, encourages and instils a sense of responsibility, pride and commitment to the House in particular and to Christ’s College in general, and helps develop personal qualities and values. The Housemaster The Housemaster is responsible for the individual development of every student in the House, both academically and in co-curricular pursuits. They are the first liaison between parents and College. They advocate for their students when necessary and are in regular contact with teachers.
The Mentor System All Houses have a Deputy Housemaster/ Mentor and staff mentors who assist the Housemaster with pastoral care. Each boy is assigned a staff mentor and, in vertical groups of boys from Years 9–13, placed in a mentor group. These groups meet their mentor each week. Year 9 students spend Term 1 with their Housemaster, before being integrated into the groups in Term 2. During these weekly meetings, boys can discuss their goals for the year, as well as participate in other activities, such as group discussions, led by senior students. The goal-planning process is student-driven, but guided and monitored by the mentor. Being part of a mentor group allows the boys to build a relationship with a member of staff who is not their Housemaster and is not necessarily one of their subject teachers. During the year, we invite parents to meet with their son and his mentor to reflect on the goal-planning process. This meeting provides an opportunity for the boys to explain what they aim to achieve and how they plan to realise their goals and aspirations. The mentor system was introduced in 2018 and, while it has made a positive start, is likely to be refined in years to come.
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Warren Lidstone / Mentor
Sarah Loughnan / Mentor
Samantha Stevensoon / Mentor
Victor Sue-Tang / Mentor
Dr Graeme Swanson / Mentor
Head of House and Deputy Head of House The Head of House and his Deputy are Year 13 students. They assist the Housemaster in the running of the House and represent the views of the boys in the House about any changes to House organisation. They are also responsible for the House Prefects. Years 9–13 Students All other students also have duties to maintain the environment in the House. Students would be expected to complete two or three duties each term. The duties involve cleaning and tidying the House and are required to be completed at the end of lunchtime and after school. The duty prefect inspects all the duties. It is important that the House is well
House prefects select and organise teams. Boys are encouraged to volunteer to be in teams, though teams are selected on merit, based on age group and ability. Interhouse activities are great fun and provide leadership skills, as well as
fostering a special spirit in the House. Boys can earn House colours for their
involvement and performance in interhouse activities. Boys get points for participating, making finals and winning championships. Athletic championships are held in Term 1, shortly after the swimming championships. In both cases there is an interhouse competition as well as the individual championships. Boys are encouraged to enter these competitions, both as individuals and in the various relay events.
looked after and kept tidy. Interhouse Activites
There are many interhouse competitions, which range from most sporting codes to drama, debating, singing and chess.
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House Environment
Daily Routine
The House has areas for study and recreation as well as secure bike storage. Other facilities in the House include: – a kitchen, with toastie machines, microwave and hot water – a locker room, with a full-size locker for each boy, supplied with a good quality combination lock to keep their locker secure – showers and toilets in the locker room.
For most students, the daily routine is: – arrive at Rolleston House by 8.15am – read the noticeboard for any notices and get their name checked off the roll by the Housemaster – organise books and folders for the first two periods of the day – House assembly at 8.15am, except on Thursday which has a late start, beginning with school assembly. – attend Chapel service (Monday and Friday), mentor groups (Tuesday) and school assembly (Thursday) – attend all classes – take part in sport or cultural activities after school. Be supportive • Lift each other up and recognise the strengths each individual brings to the House • Do your part in House events – be part of the team or be there to support • Be empathetic to those around you and help where needed Be engaged • Be willing to take part in House events and service opportunities • Check the noticeboards and be aware of when you are required for duties and other House commitments • Voice and action your ideas to make Rolleston House even better
Rolleston House Code of Conduct
Respect each other • Treat others how you would like to be treated • Make Rolleston House a place where everybody feels welcome by embracing diversity • Be considerate and polite to all other boys and staff Respect the House • Rolleston House is your home away from home while you are at College – treat it as such • Clean up after yourself and do duties when you are asked
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House Expectations
Chapel
House expectations are based on a need for organisation and respect, and apply to everyone in Rolleston House. They are not onerous and most students abide by them naturally. The following are the more common daily expectations: Roll House roll is taken each morning at 8.15am. Any boy who is late to school, for whatever reason, must report to the Housemaster as soon as he arrives at school. If school has begun, he should report to the main office. Permission All boys must obtain permission to be out of the school grounds at any time during the day, including going home for lunch. Breakage and Damage Students should treat the fabric and facilities of the House with respect at all times. Any breakages or damage within the House should be reported immediately to the Housemaster. Possessions All bicycles must be clearly and permanently named, and must be locked in the bike shed. All possessions and clothing must be clearly named. No boy may borrow any property from another boy without first gaining permission. Boys may return to the House at break and lunch to eat meals, study or for recreation. Boys tend to get changed in the House locker room for PE and sports practices. They may use the House after school. It is usually locked at about 7pm.
Chapel is a central part of College life. Boys are required to attend services on Monday and Friday before classes, congregational practice on Wednesdays, and two Sunday Chapel services per term. The Chaplain prepares boys for Confirmation, provided they are in Years 12–13. The preparation course is held in the second or third terms, with the Confirmation Service usually held later in the year. All services are listed in the College calendar or on the College website. Parents are welcome to attend any Sunday Chapel service. Boys who have a regular commitment in their parish church can apply for the Chapel requirement to be halved. A letter from their priest or minister is required and will be forwarded to the Chaplain.
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General Information
Contacts If there is any concern, parents should contact the Housemaster in the first instance. The Housemaster can then direct the concern to the Executive Principal, Deputy Principal or subject teachers as required. Meetings with teachers and members of senior management may then be arranged. Illness/Medical Absences For daily absences or illness, please call 03 364 8676 and leave your son’s name and reason for his absence. For extended absences, please contact your Housemaster. Leave If a boy needs to leave the school grounds during the day for a dental, doctor or physiotherapy appointment, his parents must contact the Housemaster. Parents are asked to try to arrange such appointments outside school hours whenever possible. If a boy is to be absent for a private reason for more than two days, parents are asked to request leave in writing prior to the absence. Such leave is granted by the Deputy Principal. Social Events During the year there will be social gatherings for parents of the different year groups. These will generally be held at school. Later in the year the Rolleston House Dinner is held at school. It is always a very enjoyable social occasion.
School Hours Students report to the House to be ready for House assembly at 8.15am. They leave school after they have met their academic, sport or cultural commitments, usually between 5–6pm. Dayboys should not stay around school after 6pm unless for a specific purpose. Notices The Christ’s College calendar for each term can be found on the College website. Students are asked to check upcoming events at the start of each week. Students are expected to listen carefully to notices at House assembly and must regularly check the House board, as well as Schoolbox and their College email. Lockers Each boy has a locker in the House, where he can store books and school equipment, packed lunch, sports gear etc. Boys are given a combination lock at the start of the year. They are expected to keep their lockers tidy; they must not leave food in their locker and should take their sports uniforms home for washing. House Duties Years 9–10 students are rostered to complete cleaning duties in and around the House at the end of break time, at the end of lunchtime and after school. This involves sweeping and does not involve any particularly dirty jobs. Senior students supervise House duties.
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Lunch Boys may eat their lunch where they wish within the school grounds. In Rolleston, Year 9 boys can use the lower common room if wet, or stay in the courtyard area in front of the House. The cafe is located in the Chapman Room and is open at lunchtime every weekday. It offers a wide range of food items and drinks, with healthy alternatives. Wherever boys eat, they are expected to put all rubbish in rubbish bins and cans/plastic bottles in recycling containers. A limited number of places are available for dayboys who wish to have lunch in the Dining Hall. Boys should apply on the first day of each term through their Housemaster. Lunchtime Activities Boys are encouraged to be active during lunchtime and make use of the sporting facilities such as Upper, the gymnasium and the weight training room. The library and the computer suites are open at lunchtime. Many interhouse events take place during lunchtime and boys will either participate or support House teams. In addition, boys can play ball games in the courtyard area in front of Rolleston House. Uniform Shop The Uniform Shop is located in Gloucester Street.
Laptops, Books and Stationery All textbooks issued by the school, exercise books and stationery items must be named. Students are expected to look after their books and keep them in good order. Boys are asked to use a school bag to carry their gear during the day. The boys need to ensure that they carry their laptops with them at all times. When not in use, they need to make sure they secure them safely in their lockers. Bicycles Boys are encouraged to cycle to school. They are asked to lock their bike in the cycle shed in the basement of the House. Some sporting codes (rowing, for example) require boys to cycle to venues for practice or competition days. Helmets must be worn at all times and bikes should have appropriate lights, especially in the winter months. Students are expected to follow the road code and to respect other cyclists and pedestrians at all times.
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Uniform
All uniforms should be purchased from the Uniform Shop upstairs at 10 Gloucester Street. A list of uniform requirements will be sent to all parents.
Sports Gear All Houses have their own colours for athletics and interhouse sports. The Rolleston uniform consists of black shorts, a maroon singlet with a black diagonal band and a maroon rugby jersey. There is no regulation footwear for PE and athletics, but all boys must wear footwear around the school or when running in the park. Sports gear can be purchased from the Uniform Shop.
In the senior school, a different blazer replaces the striped blazer worn by juniors. In all cases, blazers must be worn when on leave from College. Full uniform must be worn when going home after school, unless boys are being collected from directly outside the House. After sport practices, boys may travel home in sports gear or in a tracksuit. Formal Uniform The formal uniform consists of the grey suit and white shirt. It is worn on a Monday and Friday during Terms 2 and 3, and for Sunday Chapel services. Stripes Blazer Uniform This uniform consists of a striped blazer, white shirt, and mid-grey long trousers or black walk shorts (summer). It is worn on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday during Terms 2 and 3 and every day during summer. It is also worn for any sport exchanges.
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26/09/23
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