College – Issue 37

CHRIST’S COLLEGE MAGAZINE

ISSUE 37 WINTER 2019

ISSUE 37 Contents

Academic

Sport

Through the telescope at Tekapo

04 06 07 08 09 10

2019 Winter sport wrap Messing about in boats Basketball takes a leap Sam slays in the slalom

56 65 66 67 68

College physicists in Aerospace Challenge Chasing rainbows – Physics triumphs at Twizel

Testing creativity and ingenuity

The magic of theatre

Go Louis!

A capital day

Virtues

Boarding

Know one another

Mentoring and competition thrive in School House 12 Boarding life from the inside 13 Gentlemen with 21st century skills 14 You can't take the country out of the boy 15

Heritage

Three cousins, two wars

News & Events

Pastoral Care

In safe hands

76 77 78 79 80

Deputy Day Housemasters off to a good start

Curriculum is her passion

Tony moves to Rowing New Zealand

Culture

A room of their own A forest takes root

“Boys and the Arts: Great minds, big hearts”

18 24 28 31

Playing with fire

Development

Crazy frogs produce exceptional theatre

A feast of music

Development advances

Sporting Excellence, Health & Wellbeing facility update

Internationalism

83 84 86 87 89 90

Insights gained in China

34 38 40 43 44

Thank you to our donors 100 years at Harper House Sponsorship – a vital resource

“Big Build” Morocco suits Tom Mind shifters: ideas to inspire Taking a look at Wellington

Arriving in style My year at College

Embracing an international perspective

The Quadrangle

Character & Wellbeing

From the President Alex goes global Reunion Reports

92 94 96 99

MANifesto programme hits the mark MANifesto delves into teenage issues Blinkers off, growth mindset on

46 47 48

Privilege, responsibility and service

Lessons for everyone 49 Character and MANifesto awards prove popular 50 A journey of growth and discovery 52

Branch & community events

100 103 103

What's on

Deaths

GARTH WYNNE From our Executive Principal

As you can see in the pages of College , there is – as ever – much to celebrate in what College boys achieve. The stories reflect a combination of will and talent, both from the students involved and from our passionate and dedicated staff. There is no doubt the greatest asset College has is its staff. The Board of Governors makes it an absolute priority to ensure our teaching staff are the best they can be. This is reflected in the work of the Centre for Teaching Excellence & Research and the development of a range of professional learning programmes combined with a caring and forward-thinking culture. In recent years we have also placed a greater focus on staff and community wellbeing – a key aspect of our Strategy 2020. Enclosed you will find a copy of our Health & Wellbeing / Hauora document, which outlines our commitment to developing health and wellbeing initiatives at College. We have introduced a staff wellbeing committee who are focused on developing ways

to enhance staff wellbeing. And, as you will read, we have recently welcomed clinical psychologists Dr Sarah Anticich and Emily Baird as our College Counsellors. They will work with Director of Wellbeing & Positive Education John Quinn and other staff, especially Housemasters, to ensure we provide the best possible care for our boys and the wider community, and promote the path to personal fulfilment. We strive to make College a workplace of choice, because it is only when staff are fully committed, engaged and well that the true potential and value of the wide range of opportunities we offer our students can be achieved.

Garth Wynne Christ’s College Executive Principal

Christ’s College Magazine Issue 37, Winter 2019

Director of Advancement: Claire Sparks +64 3 364 6803 csparks@christscollege.com

College Magazine Writers: Catherine Hurley churley@christscollege.com Jocelyn Johnstone jcjohnstone@christscollege.com Graphic Designer: Melissa Hogan +64 3 364 8655 mhogan@christscollege.com

Change of Address: Admissions Registrar

Sarah Fechney +64 3 364 6836 registrar@christscollege.com

Printing : Caxton

EARTH & SPACE SCIENCE Through the telescope at Tekapo

Given that Christchurch is surrounded by earthquake faults, has two extinct volcanoes on its adjacent peninsula and has tsunami warnings in place along its beaches, it is little wonder that Earth and Space Science is a relevant topic to study. Dr Anna Johnston is a firm believer in students enjoying a sound understanding of their immediate environment in order for them to begin to make sense of planet Earth and beyond. Earth and Space Science, offered to students in Years 12 and 13, combines geography, physics, chemistry and biology in a meaningful way and is now established as a science in its own right. “At Level 2 it covers extreme earth events like earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanoes, and includes a geology paper and work on star and planet formation,” says Anna. “Whether you’re looking at the Alpine Fault, geological formations, or wind and weather systems and climate science, it’s really good, real and relevant to our lives.” Using College’s own telescope, situated above School House, students can make their own observations. By the time they are taking the Level 3 course they can begin looking at such phenomena as solar flares and solar storm events. Not surprisingly, this kind of science strikes a chord with many

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boys, who are intrigued by their discoveries. Their interest is further engaged by a field trip to the Mt John Observatory at Lake Tekapo, the first of which took place in 2018. In July, Anna took a second group south to the University of Canterbury facility, where they enjoyed spectacular views of galaxies, individual star clusters and, in particular, Jupiter. They also looked at some of the distinctive geological features of the Mackenzie region and atmospheric features, finding their studies and observations very relatable in an environmental context. “Once you know the basics of how the atmosphere operates and how it does its work, then you can begin to understand climate change and to look at what we’re doing now that’s different from before, and its ramifications.” Year 13 student Lachie Hazlett rates Earth and Space Science as one of his favourite subjects and says he found the visit to the Mt John Observatory and Tekapo an absolute highlight.

“To see Saturn and Jupiter was really cool, and it put into perspective how small Earth is compared to everything else in the cosmos. I loved being able to see the different galaxies that you can’t see with the naked eye. It was very exciting.” The group spent one day walking up the Roundhill Ski Area track, measuring wind speed and air temperature as they climbed. “It was really cool to see how fast the temperatures dropped – about 10 degrees in 100 metres.” They also spent time at Dark Sky Project, learning about the measures Tekapo has taken to keep the skies dark and make the night sky accessible to all, by reducing street lighting and adopting other measures to minimise light pollution.

“To see Saturn and Jupiter was really cool, and it put into perspective how small Earth is compared to everything else in the cosmos.” Lachie Hazlett

College Issue 37 2019

EARTH & SPACE SCIENCE College physicists in Aerospace Challenge

Christ’s College is the only secondary school to be included in a national business incubator programme for the New Zealand Aerospace Challenge 2019.

using satellite data and unmanned aircraft technology. Over five months all participants will further develop their ideas and create prototypes for a two-day event in October, demonstrating the technology at a “pitchfest” and awards event in Christchurch. Entries were judged by Airbus Head of Technology Asia-Pacific Cyrille Schwob and New Zealand leaders in aerospace, space, agritech, innovation, business, ecology and academia.

ChristchurchNZ and Airbus have announced the 18 participants selected for the virtual incubator programme, and College is named alongside established technology companies, universities, NGOs and start ups from across New Zealand. Dr Andrew Taylor wrote the proposal for the boys involved, which uses satellite imaging to look at the flow rate of Canterbury rivers and compares their findings with Environment Canterbury’s flow data.

“It’s a business development competition. We will produce complementary flow data which will be of use to NIWA and ECan in setting the minimum flow restrictions for these rivers.” The goal of the Challenge is to seek out innovative ideas and design solutions to identify how the agricultural sector can use space technology to be more sustainable. Participants have been asked to develop a product or service that detects, monitors or measures water or soil pollution

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Chasing rainbows – Physics triumphs at Twizel

that during that second, cars move 30m on the open road and the light is spread over three of the pixels of the satellite image, appearing as rainbows on the roads. We needed to be able to prove it, so we did a ground truth experiment on a day when we weren’t rowing.” Positioned in pairs at 800m intervals along the road between Twizel and the canal at Ruataniwha, the boys videoed the passing traffic. Later, Andrew looked at the videos and the recorded times, and using Year 10 Physics worked out the speed and whereabouts of the vehicles when the satellite took the image. “We then investigated. It was just like hunting asteroids, except that instead of looking up, we were looking down to find moving cars on the images.” All the boys thought the rainbows on the roads were cool and could understand why they were appearing, and were interested “If we can detect and count the traffic on country roads in satellite images, we can work out the traffic density on every country road in New Zealand, which has to be of use for those involved in the planning and maintenance of country roads.” Several of the boys have expressed genuine ongoing interest in the experiment, and Andrew now unashamedly calls it his “research hobby.” Using the available satellite data, applying it in a real world setting and presenting that the experiment was conducted to prove what was going on, says Andrew. And the wider ramifications?

They went to Twizel to row, but ended up chasing rainbows through the Mackenzie country. A group of 10 Year 10 boys learnt all about mental flexibility when their efforts on Lake Ruataniwha morphed into a science project using satellites to look at the earth. So began “Chasing Rainbows: Monitoring Road Traffic using Multispectral Satellite Imagery”, a paper presented at the New Zealand Institute of Physics conference in April by Physics teacher Dr Andrew Taylor, and then reworked as “Astronomy Looking Down” and presented at SuperVOSS 2019, the conference for Vatican Observatory Summer School alumni, at the Vatican Observatory, Castel Gandolfo, Italy, in September. “It’s a great example of how projects can develop from a question or an idea, and have interdisciplinary connections,” says Andrew. While studying some satellite images of the Mackenzie region, Andrew happened to see rainbows on the road, and together the group decided to try to explain exactly what they were. The European Space Agency’s Sentinel satellites carry a range of technologies, radar and multispectral imaging instruments for land, ocean and atmospheric monitoring. The data gathered as these satellites orbit the earth is freely available to anyone in the world. “We learnt that the satellite measures blue, green and red to get its colour pixels and each measurement is half a second apart. We know “It’s a great example of howprojects can develop froma question or an idea and have interdisciplinary

the research findings at conferences facilitates cross-pollination of ideas with people around the world. “These represent marvellous examples of countries collaborating on science matters. It’s a fascinating experience.”

connections.” Dr Andrew Taylor

College Issue 37 2019

TECHNOLOGY Testing creativity and ingenuity

The Aurecon Bridge Building Competition brings STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects to life, encouraging students to think outside the box, unlock their potential and get creative. After weeks of work designing and building model bridges made exclusively of balsa wood, glue and string, on Thursday 5 September at St Margaret's College it was crunch time. Schools from all over Christchurch participated in the competition, with College entering two Year 9 teams composed of Angus Gifford, Jaspar Thomas and Greg Robertson, and Alan Viles, Nathan Cranstone and Sean Jang. Each team was asked to introduce their bridge and discuss the design process and successes or difficulties they faced as they were building it, and all bridges were photographed and tested on visual appeal, workmanship, creativity, functionality and, finally, strength. Angus, Jaspar and Greg all said participating in the competition had made them think more seriously about the idea of becoming an engineer. They had originally planned to build a suspension bridge, but had instead come up with a new idea they hoped would be stronger. On testing, their bridge managed to withstand a 12kg load.

Alan, Nathan and Sean also had to change their original design due to technical difficulties while building, but talked about how they came together as a team throughout the process and learned many new things about engineering. Their design was inspired by the triangle – the strongest shape – and, when load tested, it managed to

withstand 29kg. The boys won an Innovation Award and a $500 prize for College, which they presented to Executive Principal Garth Wynne at assembly on Tuesday 10 September.

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DRAMA The magic of theatre

A fleeting trip to Auckland saw 55 Year 11–13 Drama students travelling through space and time to Shakespeare’s Globe and the trenches of World War I.

First, the boys were treated to a tour of the Pop-up Globe (PuG) in Ellerslie, the world’s first full- scale temporary working replica of Shakespeare’s second Globe Theatre, and one of Auckland’s most popular theatres. “It’s a truly remarkable space,” says Year 13 student Ryan Oorschot. “Standing there, imagining the audience surrounding you, it feels more intimate and personal than a standard stage.” Old Boy and PuG Senior Assistant Director Eddie Bijl and actress Ripeka Templeton showed the group around – and, as the setting could not be more apt, several Year 12 students took the opportunity to deliver the Elizabethan monologues they have been working on. All the boys appreciated the direction Eddie gave to help them make their work more effective. Year 12 student Ben Davis explains: “He told everyone they should focus on someone in the audience and channel that person’s energy to lift their performance. It makes it so much more interesting if you can personalise it, and it’s something actors in Shakespeare’s time would have done.” “It was loud and bright and kind of shocking – andwe really got into it.” Ryan Oorschot

Fletcher Anderson on stage at the Pop-up Globe

From the Globe, the group headed to the Civic Theatre to see War Horse. Based on the novel by Michael Morpurgo, the British National Theatre’s powerful, inventive and astonishing drama takes its audience from the bucolic fields of Devon, England, to the horrors of war in France. “It was amazing, really impressive,” says Ryan. “It was loud and bright and kind of shocking – and we really got into it. We were on the edge of our seats throughout the entire performance.” “The technology, the sound and lighting effects, the techniques the actors used, with voice, body and language combined to extraordinary

effect, and the mastery of the puppeteers – it felt as if we were watching real horses on stage. It was totally immersive, incredible and unforgettable,” says Ben. Drama – the theatre – brings actors, crew and audience together to create works that not only entertain, but also provide some insight into the human experience. This one inspirational day in Auckland, on Sunday 23 June, highlights the importance of storytelling to inform and enrich our lives.

College Issue 37 2019

ACADEMIC A capital day

One of the classic plays of the twentieth century, Samuel Beckett’s masterpiece Waiting for Godot has worked its gloomy magic on a new generation of theatregoers.

To see a professional performance of the play they had been studying in class, at Wellington’s Circa Theatre, was an opportunity too good to miss for College’s Year 13 Scholarship English students. “It’s a difficult play to understand, because on the surface not a lot happens. It’s pretty much two guys sitting on a bench talking nonsense,” says student Tom Vincent. “But if you delve deeper, there’s so much going on. Seeing it on stage, it made much more sense. It was really interesting and a lot funnier actually watching the performance. It really makes you think about existence, about some of the big questions in life, about the human condition – and I think that’s why it’s remained so present and is

still studied and staged so many decades after it was written.” The boys made the most of their whirlwind trip to Wellington. After catching a red-eye flight early on Wednesday 22 May, they explored the central city, before catching up with some Old Boys now at Victoria University of Wellington and taking a tour of the campus. Then they met some English faculty staff who talked about studying English at university and pathways for people with English degrees, before sitting in on a second year theatre studies lecture. “It was really interesting seeing the way they unpack different aspects of theatre.” In the afternoon the group went to Te Papa and saw the “incredible”

Gallipoli: The scale of our war exhibition, as well as some of the other collections housed at the museum, before their evening at the theatre. “It was a long day in Wellington and we packed a lot in,” says Tom. “It’s a very cool and groovy city, with so much to see and so much going on. We had a great time.” “It was really interesting seeing the way they unpack different aspects of theatre.” Tom Vincent

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Give me knowledge and I can change the world.

At Christ’s College, every boy is encouraged to have an academic sense of purpose. This is what has motivated me to reach my potential. Our teachers encourage us to push ourselves further, providing us with opportunities to take part in a wide range of examinations. It’s helped many of us win scholarships at some of the world’s top universities. I think it’s all down to the way teachers work closely with each of us, working out how they can best help us as individuals strive to achieve our very best.

College Issue 37 2019

Each boy at hi b st.

www.christscollege.com

BOARDING Mentoring and competition thrive in School House

Boys love competition, says School Housemaster Arthur Wood. “When you create it, it drives them together, and they thrive on it – whether it’s academic or sporting.” He has instituted the School House Inter-Mentor Group Challenge Trophy, which has seen the House split into four vertical groups of 15 boys each. “We’ve named them after the first four ships – CJ, Seymour, Randolph and Cressy. Each group is mentored by Year 13s assisted by the Assistant Housemaster, and through the year they earn points through competing in different activities, both physical and mental, and based on their Interim Progress Grades.” He says points are awarded for everything they take part in – from sports events to fundraising, or a quiz night or food challenge, like eating dry Weet-Bix. “Everyone has to be involved in something, and it’s proving a great way to drive everyone together. It’s fiercely competitive and they love it. Last year two groups were tied right to the very end.” Another innovation in School House this year is the introduction of a set of incentive based awards, the School House Man Awards, which are designed to turn a good House into a great House, says Arthur. “This followed a consultation process and brainstorming session with the boys, and a follow-up with the 2019 Year 13 group. The boys came up with some words to describe what a

School House man would look like, and then we worked on developing the awards programme. “It’s about the boys leaving a lasting legacy. Every Year 13 group is responsible for leaving the House in a better place than when they found it.” Three awards have been created – School House Black, School House White and School House Gold – and after a trial period, if successful, this will be rolled out to all three boarding Houses in the future. “These are awards based on the broad categories of House participation, service to the wider College, academic endeavour, personal attributes, duty and responsibility, and overall consistent effort. A lapel badge has been designed and will be launched at events for both boys and parents,” says Arthur. “Our aim is that these awards recognise boys in Years 9–12 who demonstrate College virtues and character strengths, and those in Year 13 who demonstrate the attributes of the ideal College graduate.”

According to Arthur, enthusiasm for the new awards is high, with the

boys right behind them. Year 12 student Ben Davis

endorses the system, which he says recognises those with a high level of commitment and who show key virtues. “The awards encourage hard work and commitment from those who it may not come naturally to, both of which are important character strengths to develop,” says Ben. The first set of awards was presented at the School House dinner in September, and more will be awarded at the School House prize-giving at the end of the year. The first recipients were: Black – Sam Macfarlane and Ben Macfarlane. White – Charlie Bassett, George Hutchinson, Tom Macfarlane, Homare Nakajima, Will Prentice, Caleb Tod and Henry Wells. Gold – Lachie Harper, Edward Hsing, Alex Todhunter, Thomas Graham and Will Chaffey.

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Boarding life from the inside

Demand across all year levels, from both overseas and within New Zealand, keeps College’s boarding Houses pulsing with life. Boys in School, Flower’s and Richards Houses receive a standardised and consistent level of care, even while the three Houses maintain their distinctive characteristics. This year the Friends of Boarding was established, a community of parents which operates as a forum for communication and information. Director of Boarding Darrell Thatcher says the idea is to look at the boarding programme overall, talk about the journey the boys are taking, and discuss topical matters, such as social media. “We want to have outside presenters as well, to provide an opportunity for us all to come together and listen – and for parents to tell us what they’re thinking. It’s important, too, for parents to understand the processes and systems which operate in the boarding Houses.” Boarding staff are also supported, with planned future opportunities for professional development and the chance to be apprised of the changing world in which the boys operate. “Social media and vaping are just two of the issues all boarding House staff need to be aware of and informed about. Teenage trends change quickly and we need to be sure we are all informed about emerging new ones.” Darrell says encouragement of the development of College’s fundamental character strengths is ongoing across all Houses. “It’s so important that in terms of character and leadership we look at developing these strengths in all our boarders. The boarding Houses offer a lot of openings for boys to grow in these areas.”

College Issue 37 2019

BOARDING Gentlemen with 21st century skills

“It’s all about building a strong family group of caring empathic young gentlemen with 21st century skills.” Richards Housemaster Kevin Harris can sum up the Richards House culture in a single sentence, but says it takes a bit more work to bring a group together as a community. One of the most successful ways he has found is holding Saturday night House barbecues during term time. They cut through any hierarchy, they tangibly demonstrate the servant–leader philosophy, and they are eagerly anticipated by everyone. So much so, that students who might go home for the weekend are keen to stay in order not to miss the fun. “We have the barbecue, with the senior boys planning and organising the event, doing the cooking and serving the younger ones, plus there’s table tennis, music, and sometimes karaoke. It’s about building relationships. The barbecues are about setting up opportunities to socialise,” says Kevin. And it has proven a powerful tool in building relationships across the boys from a multitude of different cultures who live in the House, including Samoan, Tongan, Chinese, Spanish, Japanese, Indonesian, Israeli, German and Australian.

Food is also central to another keenly anticipated event, the House Dinner – especially this year when there was salsa dancing with a South American expert, courtesy of the Chilean contacts of the House’s weekend staff. It is all part of Kevin’s vision for the House. “My vision is building these young men in all respects, helping them to develop with none of those ‘isms’, being accepting of all cultures, characters and persuasions. It’s about them looking back at themselves and seeing how they can improve and then supporting them to be able to do it.” Kevin says it is a demanding and constant role, “but so rewarding.”

“We’re trying to make Richards House an even more caring, nurturing home for the boys. Even when someone steps out of line, we’re there to advocate for them, and to enable them to grow through the experience. College life is busy and demanding, and in Richards we’re trying to let them have some downtime, yet encourage them to participate in their own way.”

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BOARDING You can’t take the country out of the boy

says Beau, who gardens on Thursday afternoons. “I really enjoy it – it’s been a great idea. Mr Vink just asked if I’d like to start a garden, and it took off from there.” With two younger brothers likely to head to Flower’s in the future, it is possible the special garden may become an ongoing Armstrong project. Beau is enjoying boarding. The best parts, he says, are being round your mates and hanging out together, and “the food is not too bad either.” Materials Technology is his favourite subject, rugby and polo are his favourite sports. For Housemaster Ben Vink, ensuring each student is comfortable and thriving in the House environment is paramount. “We’ve been working very hard with the juniors, embedding a positive culture and ‘home away from home’ atmosphere. We treat them like our own kids. It’s working well and we’re looking forward to a very positive future for Flower’s.” Allied with that is the professional focus of the staff team, and the four new tutors who work alongside the boys, helping to instil College values. “We’re working on making Flower’s House an even more welcoming place, where every boy is valued and encouraged to be the best he can.”

Leaving the family home for the world of a Christ’s College boarding House is a significant life change for students. It demands a new perspective and calls for real inner strength and resilience – and, if home is miles away, it can be challenging. When Year 9 student Beau Armstrong arrived at College this year he felt the enormity of the move, so Flower’s Housemaster Ben Vink devised a plan to make him feel more at home. The Flower’s House garden was a wreck, but once Beau rolled up his sleeves it quickly came into line, producing vegetables to grace Matron Karen Adams’s table.

“It’s been a great escape for Beau and it has expanded to him doing my garden, mowing the lawns and doing the edges,” says Ben. The individual approach has allowed the 13-year-old from a Waiau sheep and beef farm to settle well into House life, while using his agricultural skills right in the heart of the city. The once neglected Flower’s House garden is now flourishing, having been fed with fertiliser and compost. A rain gauge has been installed, and silverbeet, kale, rhubarb, chives, parsley and celery are in for spring. “When I first started working on it, the garden was full of weeds, so I pulled them out, and planted the first of the winter vegetables that Matron Karen got for me – kale, silverbeet, cauliflower and rhubarb,”

College Issue 37 2019

PASTORAL CARE Deputy Day Housemasters off to good start

In a first for dayboy Houses, this year College has introduced Deputy Day Housemasters to assist Housemasters and provide greater pastoral care. Caroline Black stepped into the role in Jacobs House, working with Housemaster Matt Thatcher who, she says, allows her considerable scope to initiate projects – including the inaugural charity dog walk from the College gates to the Christ’s College Cricket Grounds in Hagley Park to kick off 2020. “The boys were very clear they wanted to raise money for youth mental health, and that’s the area that the funds will go.” Caroline is also looking forward to Jacobs holding its third House quiz, a whole House event, which was first held in 2016. Her time spent in Jacobs House is pure pleasure, she says. “Every Wednesday I’m there all day, from House assembly, to playing table tennis with Year 9 and Year 10 boys at break or lunchtime, or talking leadership matters with the older boys. I love bringing the Jacobs community together, being with the boys and being with their parents. This role has meant I’ve been able to get to know a lot more of them very well.” Graeme Christey stepped up to be Harper’s Deputy Housemaster because he “wanted an insight” into the real role of the Housemaster.

“I wanted to do this so I could make an informed decision on whether I would enjoy such a role in the future.” Running the House on Wednesday for Matt Cortesi has certainly provided more than a glimpse. “Even with the small amount of work I'm doing in the House I'm gaining increased respect for the leadership shown by many boys. I'm enjoying working with many of the senior boys, especially on things like Wig Wednesday. Activities like that are a great way to get to know more of the boys personally. “And I've realised what a very big job Matt is doing for the boys and their parents, and on behalf of the staff here at College. “The Housemaster job requires a huge commitment of time and energy to do it well.” Dr Briar Wait is Deputy Housemaster of Corfe and is finding the more time she spends in the House the better her relationship with the students. “The more I give, the more I get back. I’ve gained a greater insight into the day to day lives of the

students and the more I know them, the more I can respond to their needs and support them. Corfe has a great bunch of people in it.” She enjoys the way she and Housemaster Ian Stevenson “bounce ideas around, which ultimately brings a balance.” Briar says the challenge of the role is having to deal with new situations and figuring out how to handle them. Like the others, she has learnt how much time and effort goes into the Housemaster role. “The House environment is like a family, and it's not a role that can easily be switched off. College is very lucky to have people who give so much to this role.” Nikki Bleyendaal is Deputy Housemaster at Julius House, where she has had a presence for many years. “The opportunity to take on the role in an official capacity was the obvious next step, and is a great chance to get to know our students and encourage and support them in both academic and non- academic pursuits.”

“Themore I give, themore I get back. I’ve gained a greater insight into the day to day lives of the students and themore I know them, themore I can respond to their needs and support them.” Dr Briar Wait

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From left: Caroline Black, Nikki Bleyendaal, Graham Christey, Dr Briar Wait and Alex Robertson

Under Housemaster Dr Mike Field’s leadership, she would like to include more conversations and skills around wellbeing and growth mindset, and to further celebration of and participation in the arts and culture side of the school. One of her personal goals is to foster a collaborative, engaged and supportive environment to ensure strong and fair leadership at the senior level. “We know the students are so much more than the faces they present in the classroom and as Deputy Housemasters we get to work with them and for them, rather than just teaching them a singular subject.” Alex Robertson is Deputy Housemaster for Condell’s House, and at the beginning of Term 4 is replacing Tony O’Connor as Condell’s Housemaster

“Working in ESOL I have a lot to do with the international students, but I’ve welcomed the opportunity to become more widely involved in the House system, and the pastoral role it offers. “I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the boys individually and being able to provide them with another point of support. This role has also taught me about the importance of the culture within the House, and how that helps them to develop as young men. I like the idea that it's a community of mutual support, where they learn to value each other’s individuality and support their successes.”

College Issue 37 2019

REACTION “Boys and the Arts: Great minds, big hearts”

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College Issue 37 2019

together “so the parcel is passed in perpetuity,” says David. “The young ones get the experience of being on stage with the older ones and learn key competencies with them. Some of the senior boys bring the techniques, conventions and elements learned in Drama classes, so the whole group learns more by “Some boys just shine on stage and it is wonderful this year that so many of the actors’ awards and magic moments went to younger boys in the Houses.” REACTION also appeals to boys who may not choose to participate in College’s mainstream drama productions, but who relish the opportunity to get involved in their House Play. “Lots of people enjoy different aspects of the productions and this year almost every House has benefited from the technical experience of Remy Fitzgerald and Ben Davis, who operated sound and light for almost every play.” Adjudicator Sarah Higginson was impressed by the work which had gone into all the plays and especially the standard of the top five. observation and practice.” He says there will always be standouts.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said it, and once again College proved it. In this year’s REACTION House Plays Festival, more than 160

Directors can be seasoned Drama students or newbies who have been entrusted by their Housemasters to do the job. “It’s a major undertaking for any boy in his school career. It’s a massive learning curve for the directors to manage, and they quickly learn what works and what isn’t appropriate. Organising rehearsals and coordinating practice times for boys with multiple calls on their time is a major undertaking – and crucial for a polished performance.” One of the most important things about REACTION is that it brings senior and junior students

boys put themselves on the line to create something special.

“Accepting the challenge of the REACTION House Plays Festival sets you free, enabling you to focus on the heart of learning: to question, set productive goals, solve problems, create solutions, make decisions and have fun,” says Director of Drama David Chambers. All of this year’s plays were very different in tone and subject matter, each in its own way proving a creative challenge for the directors – the boys who take on the responsibility of choosing the play, casting it, and bringing it to performance. “They’re the ones entrusted to initiate, develop and coordinate all the work involved. Miraculously, the humble House Play becomes the vehicle for the development of key curriculum competencies,” says David.

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REACTION House Plays Festival Awards 2019 House Leadership Awards This is a Test – directed by Tom Vincent (C) October Offensive – directed by Alex McKenzie-Rimmer (Cf) Superficia – directed by Tom Davidson (F)

Awards made are for boys who have applied clearly identifiable abilities – for example, ensemble awards are made to those who demonstrate clarity, cohesion and cooperation within their work. “We give production awards for the incorporation of technologies, and we give directors’ awards because we can see they have applied a wide range of skills to cover that enormous role.”

Murder at Merryweather Mansion – co-directed by Ed Bayliss and Ryan Oorschot (H) Rapunzel Uncut – co-directed by Josh Johnston and Louis Gunn (J) The Fourth Wall – directed by Fergus Beadel, assistant director Jack Lindo (J) Three Doors to Death – directed by Logan Quigley (R)

College Issue 37 2019

Ensemble Award – for onstage group commitment and sustained energy October Offensive (Cf) Rapunzel Uncut (J) Three Doors to Death (R) The Waiting Game (S)

Production Award – for effective use of drama technologies Rapunzel Uncut (J) October Offensive (Cf) Superficia (F)

How To Succeed in High School Without Really Trying – co-directed by Ollie Brakenridge and George Matheson (R) The Waiting Game – directed by Caleb Tod (S) No More Mr Nice Guy – directed by Fin Smith (So)

Christ’s College Canterbury

Special Technicians Award – for outstanding contribution and technical service for all Houses Ben Davis Remy Fitzgerald People’s Choice Award – for the play most obviously appreciated by the audience Night 1: How to Succeed in High School Without Really Trying (R) Night 2: No More Mr Nice Guy (So) Actors Award – for creation of credible character, with impact Fletcher Anderson (Teacher) – This is a Test Henry Mossman (Private Cuthbert Williams) – October Offensive Henry Briscoe (Force-Jones), Zac Matson (Vapid-Vorsely) – Superficia Jamie Barr (Detective McGloclyn), Jasper Johnson (Jameson) – Murder at Merryweather Mansion Will Simcock (Prince) – Rapunzel Uncut Nathan Orchard (Jason), Freddie Sudell (Soldier 1), Ben Sullivan (The Lead Female) – The Fourth Wall

Second Equal – overall House play October Offensive (Cf) The Waiting Game (S) Tothill Cup – Best House Play This is a Test (C) Adjudicator’s Special Awards – 2019 Magic Moments October Offensive – the final push The Fourth Wall – Kelly's stagehand Murder at Merryweather Mansion – the big guns showdown The Waiting Game – the chase Three Doors to Death – Gazza's death Superficia – Archive boy's smile Rapunzel Uncut – birth of Rapunzel

Oscar Gosling (Detective Woolrich) – Three Doors to Death Claude Tellick (Mr Zurm) – How to Succeed in High School Without Really Trying Lachie Harper (Guard 2) – The Waiting Game Fin Smith (Mills) – No More Mr Nice Guy Runner-up Best Actor Award Dominic Edmond (Lieutenant Mackenzie Gibson) – October Offensive Best Actor Award Jamie Yee (Alan) – This is a Test Directors Award – for overall realisation of script as a cohesive and compelling performance Tom Vincent (C) – This is a Test Alex McKenzie-Rimmer (Cf) – October Offensive Tom Davidson (F) – Superficia

Sarah Higginson, Adjudicator

Best Director Award Caleb Tod (S) – The Waiting Game

College Issue 37 2019

SENIOR PRODUCTION WEEK 12–19 MAY Playing with fire

Two of the most thought- provoking plays of the 20th century – The Arsonists by Max Frisch and Lord of the Flies by William Golding – were staged in the Old Boys’ Theatre in Senior Production Week in May. Similar but different, these two powerful works still resonate today. They encourage us to think about how we treat each other and our responsibilities to all humanity, and remind us of the consequences of apathy – how evil can triumph when good people do nothing.

Eyes wide open to evil Those who don’t stand up to evil become complicit. Don’t be afraid to speak up against wrongdoing – and act … These are just two of the messages of The Arsonists , a black comedy and extended metaphor about weakness in the face of evil. A strong Year 13 cast told the story of good natured Gottlieb Biedermann (Zac Matson) who allowed two visitors (Ed Bayliss and Nathan Penrose) to plausibly but insidiously install themselves in his home. Ignoring his wife Babette’s (Jorja Farrant) concerns and impervious to the warnings of – in Ancient Greek style – the

Chorus of Firemen, he allows the situation to escalate until it is beyond redemption. “I just want a quiet life. It’s hard for a citizen, used to doing good deeds,” says Biedermann at one point, his decency proving to be his weakness. The Arsonists was directed by Robyn Peers, with technical direction and pyrotechnics by Grant Bennett. The ending was truly spectacular – with smoke, sirens and explosions filling the theatre – and the audience were left with a lot to think about.

Christ’s College Canterbury

The Arsonists cast 12–14 May Gottlieb Biedermann Zac Matson Babette (his wife) Jorja Farrant (Cashmere High School) Anna (maidservant) Lily Thoroughgood (Cashmere High School) Schmitz (a wrestler) Ed Bayliss Eisenring (a waiter) Nathan Penrose Policeman Tom Davidson Doctor of Philosophy Alex McKenzie-Rimmer Mrs Knetchling Jorja Farrant Lead Fireman Caleb Tod Firemen Matias Biraben-Clough Tom Davidson Lachie Henderson Jack Lindo Alex McKenzie-Rimmer Logan Quigley Nic Turnbull

College Issue 37 2019

The answer lies in our humanity Perhaps the better-known play, Lord of the Flies – directed and designed by David Chambers – was presented by two talented casts in alternating performances. Active rebellion and bucking the system are hugely attractive to many young men, but Golding’s story explores how such activities can reveal the darker side of human nature. Without an ethical and altruistic counterbalance, individuals and societies crumble, even if they

best of humanity; through Jack and Roger, the play shows how manipulation and distortion can turn fundamental virtues upside down. Their bid to promote a savage society intent on conquest, through economic dominance, military supremacy and terrorist acts was confronting to the audiences that filled the OBT – and the fact that the play offered no redemption was strangely disconcerting. But the message, brilliantly conveyed through some excellent performances, was clear – if you don’t want a society led by Jacks and Rogers you have to fight for benevolence, which means actively promoting and respecting the Ralphs, the Piggys and the Simons of this world.

Lord of the Flies cast 16 & 18 May

Piggy Ralph

Archie Roberts

Elia Garrett

Jack

Josh Johnston

Roger

Kynan Salt George Lill

Sam Eric

Charlie Hanson

Simon

Ben Pownall

Maurice

Daniel Qi

Henry

Harrison Lund

Bill

Patrick McGregor

Wilfred Harold Robert Perceval

Ben Davis Ricky Yau

have a short season of glory. In Ralph, Piggy and Simon, Lord of the Flies depicts the

Jack Churcher

Sam Kirby

Peter Sam Boyd Naval Officer Ben Davis

Lord of the Flies cast 17 & 19 May

Piggy Ralph

Jamie Yee Tom Jones Louis Gunn Ben Young

Jack

Roger

Sam Eric

Fletcher Anderson Dominic Edmond

Simon

Owen Short

Maurice

Josh Mortensen

Henry

Kit Lamb

Bill

Ethan Manera Jarrad Hill Max Luisetti Max Thomas Henry Mossman Charlie Owens

Wilfred Harold Robert Perceval

Peter

Naval Officer Jarrad Hill

Christ’s College Canterbury

College Issue 37 2019

JUNIOR PRODUCTION Crazy frogs produce exceptional theatre

Christ’s College Canterbury

Touted by one patron as “one of the funniest College shows I’ve seen,” The Frogs: A Modern Adaptation entertained even the most sceptical of theatre-goers.

Born out of the chaos of marrying up Greek ensemble theatre with Elizabethan conventions and a cast of 30 incredibly eager junior students, this year’s production delivered a laugh a minute with exceptional success. While preserving Aristophanes’ classic satire, The Frogs: A Modern Adaptation forced audiences to question whether reality TV shows like Love Island and Keeping Up with the Kardashians have ruined our definition of entertainment. Have we grown lazy in our expectations for amusement, happy to watch people degrade themselves for their 15 minutes of fame? Why does no one go to the theatre anymore? In case you missed it, the show opens with the God of Wine and Theatre, Dionysus (Oscar Gosling), demeaning his long-suffering slave Xanthias (Ciaran Huntley).

Dismayed by the low-brow offerings of the modern entertainment industry, Dionysus decides it is time to bring culture back to the masses and embarks on a quest to retrieve legendary playwright William Shakespeare (William Olsson) from the Underworld. Things go seriously awry, however, when they are

accosted by some reality TV-loving demon frogs. The frogs appear croaking from the mists of the Underworld, threatening to destroy our heroic duo unless they create more reality TV shows for their enjoyment. Each frog tells its own heart-wrenching

College Issue 37 2019

story Dr Phil-style, starting with the doomed friendship of Poison Dart Tree Frog (William Law) and ninja turtle Michelangelo (William Sudell). Then there’s the woeful tale of Cane Toad (Jasper Johnson) who failed miserably on Australia’s Biggest Loser and was promptly run over by a jeep. They then discover that Hermin the frog is, in fact, a back-stabbing puppet and try to destroy him. Eventually Dionysus is released in order to find and resurrect the architect of the most disgusting reality TV shows of all time – Jane Austen, of course. Next we meet the formidable and feisty duo of Hades (Ryan Primus) and his stolen wife Persephone (Lucy Aitken), who try to set aside their marital difficulties in order to aide Dionysus’ mission. Once Shakespeare is found, his nemesis Jane Austen (Daisy Prosser) shows up, prompting a battle of the writers in the first ever Acting with the Stars! A ridiculous theatrical competition takes place, featuring the Horny Toad (Ed Davidson) as Elizabeth Bennett in Pride and Prejudice: Froggy Style and a bizarre ballroom scene from Romeo and Juliet set to the tune of “Crazy Frog”. Shakespeare wins over the judges, Dionysus whips him away back to the world of the living and the frogs are left ribbiting, while the persecuted Hermin (Ollie Jones) appears to exact his revenge on them all. It has been an incredible opportunity to work with such enthusiastic and extraordinarily talented young people, turning this archaic tale into amusement for the masses. A great deal of dedication from staff and students, whether on stage or toiling tirelessly in the background, truly brought this play to life. We acknowledge with gratitude all the passionate and generous contributions that have allowed us to create the world of The Frogs: A Modern Adaptation . Nikki Bleyendaal Director

Christ’s College Canterbury

MUSIC A feast of music

There is always plenty of music on campus and beyond as boys engage in every possible opportunity College has to offer.

To date, music has been dominated by the national Chamber Music contest, the Big Sing, Smokefree Rockquest and the Christchurch secondary schools’ orchestra festival. Music Director Robert Aburn says festivals and competitions are important because they allow a set of works to be performed at the highest possible level, The Chapel Choir continues to lead College’s regular worship, and recently contributed to the success of Ma ¯ ori Language Week celebrations by bookending the week with its powerful rendition of two very prominent waiata. “and to be perfected and shown at their very best.” Coming up in Term 4, the Big Band will perform in the Christchurch Big Band Festival in October and the choir will be preparing for its annual performances at the Advent Service and Carols on the Quad. Southern Jam 2019 Southern Jam is the only event of its kind in the South Island and its purpose is to inspire and educate both students and the public to keep enjoying and playing jazz music. The performers at the Southern Jam Youth Jazz Festival are all high school students aged between 13 and 18 years, and perform in Big Bands, Jazz Ensembles and Jazz Combos. The “These were greatly appreciated by the school community,” says Robert.

event has been running for 15 years and is a musical highlight for the participating schools and appreciative audiences who enjoy their performances. This year 21 bands attended Southern Jam, travelling from near and far across the South Island to Blenheim to participate in masterclasses, workshops and performances, and to be judged in the competition.

All the students’ work and the hours of effort they put into practicing was showcased to the judges and public, and rewarded at a prize-giving ceremony and gala concert in the ASB Theatre Marlborough. The judging panel was composed of professional musicians Hollie Smith, Mat Fieldes, Cameron Allen, Dixon Nacey and Stephen Thomas. College’s Big Band was awarded

College Issue 37 2019

adjudicators having the unenviable task of selecting those for the grand final. This year, College had four ensembles in the competition, including violins and piano; oboe, flute and piano; and a saxophone quartet. The groups received very constructive and favourable feedback from the judges. It was excellent for our students to see other groups performing and to gain a real sense of the camaraderie that comes from being part of a wider musical community. Playing music with other people is an immensely satisfying experience. Those with any experience of this, at any level, will understand how the process of making music can be immensely nourishing for the soul. We have musicians of all levels at College who put their skills to the test by working in small chamber ensembles where they are each responsible for their individual musical part. This is a very different feeling from playing an instrument as a member of a section in an orchestra or band – it requires a different approach in rehearsal and in individual practice in order to effectively shape your own part in relation to those around you. Acquiring these ensemble skills is a focus of our programme as we look to further develop and enhance our students’ musical experience. Already, the hard work they put in creates some very memorable and exciting musical performances.

TROMBONES Michael Taylor William Sudell Robert McClean

Gold and Shyam Hari was selected as the baritone saxophonist for the All Stars Band, a Big Band chosen by the judges and formed from the best performers in the festival. The sun shone, we had little rain (but one loud clap of thunder) and we appreciated the support from Executive Principal Garth Wynne and many of the boys’ parents. My thanks to Claire Oliver who steered the band to the award and to Anna Johnston who accompanied the trip. Nick Coxon Head of Instrumental Music Christ’s College Big Band SAXOPHONES Jack Glass (Head of Big Band) Jack Belcher Ben Davis Joshua Erasmus Shyam Hari

GUITAR Rory Doull KEYS Ederick He Nick Wilson

BASS Jeremy Kinley

DRUM KIT Matt Todd

PERCUSSION Matthew Brett

VOCALS Henry Briscoe Chamber Music

Nicholas Sutcliffe Music Tutor

For more than 50 years Chamber Music New Zealand has run an annual, nationwide competition for secondary students, in which hundreds of young musicians come together and perform to supportive audiences. The regional and district rounds are held all over the country, with

TRUMPETS Chris Ireland Nicholas Lidstone Chris Lee Oliver Butler Thomas McClean

Christ’s College Canterbury

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