College – Issue 34

CHRIST’S COLLEGE MAGAZINE

ISSUE 34 SUMMER 2018

ISSUE 34 Contents

Prize-giving

Virtues

College Dux

04 05 07 08 12

Suggestion box proves popular in Chapel

Proxime Accessit

Sport

2018 University Scholarships

Prize-giving 2017 Senior prize-giving

Success in summer sport

Heritage

Academic

Reginald Broughton: College's second Headmaster 78 Piper windows back in Chapel 81

Head and Deputy Head Prefects 2018 NZQA Scholarship Awards for 2017 Empowering teachers through coaching and mentoring Extending skills, widening horizons Literacy trial becomes mainstream subject as Learning Centre grows 29 More opportunities to experience the difference 31 Exchange programmes in the Modern Languages Department 34 College plays host to international visitors 38 Student creative writing 40 15 18 19 22 24 26 New faces Beyond the farm gate

News & Events

Surrounded and enriched by music

85 87 88 89 91

Doing good in the ’hood

“Bros for change” Claude’s charity of choice Cricket Live Foundation bowls boys over Brian Le Vaillant closes innings on teaching

Development Office

2018 Annual Appeal Campaign update

94 95 96 97

Why we're supporting College Sponsorship thank you event 2018

Boarding

Facelift for Richards

42 44 47

The Quadrangle

Greater structure, just as much enjoyment

2018 Head of Boarding

From the President A singer with soul

100 102 104 108 111 114 115

Culture

D and HM Tripp Travelling Scholarship

Reunion reports

Direct, conduct, play and sing Treading the boards at REACTION

48 52 57 59 60

Branch & community events

What's on – CCOBA 2018/2019 Calendar

A sell-out success For one night only

Deaths

A perfect win

Leadership

A new MANifesto

62 63 65 68

College becomes a global member school

Flicking the strength switch An afternoon of inspiration

GARTH WYNNE From our Executive Principal

The challenge for the editors of a magazine like College is to try to capture in words and pictures the spirit of a place. As the Executive Principal, I have the very good fortune of travelling between different elements of the College experience and seeing boys in a wide range of differing circumstances. I experience the spirit our editors try to capture in pictures and words. This latest College magazine really does reflect what I have felt over the past six months. We see reflected within a celebration of achievement, and as importantly, quality relationships. It is this latter element that I believe makes College such a wonderful community. As I move between classroom, stage, or sports field, I see relationships between boys that are enabling and encouraging. I see relationships between teachers, coaches and their charges which are inspiring and enriching. What I see is a sense of support for each other that creates our unique aspirational community and our special spirit. Boys here have the opportunity, if they so engage, to develop the self-efficacy through which they

can be at their best. The one thing I continually say to parents and boys in enrolment interviews is that Each boy at his best is only achieved through the alignment of parents and school and the boy himself being self-aware and purposeful. The following pages celebrate the strengths of both individuals and groups. We see the outcomes of curiosity, persistence, courage and compassion. We also see a sense of gratitude that is all pervading. Everyone knows that very little of value can be achieved alone, and that is very much exemplified within this edition of College . As we celebrate the present, we look ahead so current experiences can be enhanced and developed to enable every boy to contribute to, and benefit from, our atmosphere of excellence. College reaches a very wide readership of the Christ’s College community. Can I encourage you to visit the school and be a part of the experience? Our gates are always open to ideas and initiatives. If anything in this magazine resonates with you and inspires an element of

contribution, don’t hesitate to be in touch. College thrives on its diversity and its disposition to forge its own sense of institutional excellence.

Enjoy College and the spirit therein.

Garth Wynne Christ’s College Executive Principal

Christ’s College Magazine Issue 34, Summer 2018

Director of Admissions, Marketing & Communications: 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

WILLIAM JU College Dux

Not only was William Ju College’s 2017 recipient of the Wacher Prize for Academic Head of School, but he was also a complete participant in the co-curricular life of the school.

Balancing his workload was difficult at times, especially with music taking up such a large amount of time. “This was the reason I had to drop the bassoon part way through the year. I no longer play the bassoon, but I still occasionally play badminton at Otago.” William says his best memories of Christ’s College are the times he spent around his friends. “I made my strongest friends – friends who I still see today at university.”

year where I had failed to even earn a Gold Badge.” “By seeing how much my effort had changed the outcome of my results, meant that that particular moment stands out to me the most.” William’s favourite subject was English, especially in Year 13. “This was because of the freedom we had to pursue our interests. Because of my teacher Ms Rayward, I was also able to analyse film with a student from the University of Canterbury and also investigate genres that I found interesting.”

Now studying Health Science First Year at Otago University, and hoping to move onto medicine, William credits College with giving him the opportunity to believe in himself. “Even when I did not achieve as highly as I did the previous year, the teachers and my friends were still supportive of me, giving me the confidence to try my hardest. “In my last year of College I realised how hard work can triumph talent. From going from effectively the bottom of my class to the top, I can say the only difference between my results was due to how much effort I put in. To everyone who aspires to do better, learn and move on from your mistakes. It is only through reflection that you can achieve your best.” William showed great dedication in his pursuit of academic excellence, was the holder of a Gold Tie, and had superb NCEA results. He received a Top Achievers’ Scholarship from the University of Auckland and an Academic Excellence Scholarship from the University of Otago. At College he played badminton and tennis, was a member of the school orchestra, and involved in chamber music, earning an Honours Tie for his excellent contribution to instrumental music. He was also a member of the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Orchestra in 2015 and 2016. William says he had many academic highlights at College, the most memorable when he received his Gold Tie “as this was just after the

“To everyone who aspires to do better, learn andmove on fromyour mistakes. It is only through reflection that you can achieve your best.” William Ju

Christ’s College Canterbury

CAMERON STEVENSON & SIMON BROWN Proxime Accessit 2017

Joint runners up to Dux

Cameron Stevenson

Camerson Stevenson says College “was pretty special.” “I felt it prepared me for a lot of things by providing the opportunity to participate in them, whether that be sports or cultural. “My highlight of my time at College was being in a tight-knit class for five years, overcoming NCEA together.” Looking back, he says he appreciates the time and effort of the teachers who held extra classes for Scholarship students – “I’m really glad we had those.” “I had a natural tendency toward the science subjects, particularly Calculus and Physics, for their objectivity. I enjoyed Biology for the huge variety of interesting examples of life and how it demonstrated that complex things could be reduced to simple mechanisms.” Originally from Zimbabwe, Cameron has spent most of his life in Christchurch and is currently at the University of Canterbury studying computer science and mathematics. “I aim to graduate with a degree to go into software development with long term goals of working on computer science research in graphics or aerospace.”

“My highlight of my time at College was being in a tight-knit class for five years, overcoming NCEA together.” Cameron Stevenson

College Issue 34 2018

Simon Brown

And he loved House singing events, “because the atmosphere of the competition and the performance of good music had such a buzz to it.” He enjoyed History, Chemistry and Classics best because he found the teachers “incredible.” Born in England, where he lived until he was nine, Simon says College was probably the best school in which to have received his secondary education. “Not only because I think single sex education is beneficial for boys and because College has some incredible teachers, but because of the House system.” Being in a group for five years develops strong bonds and drives a passion for being the best, he says.

“This has shaped my future by making me much more comfortable with getting to know people and taught me how best to form these lasting bonds for a long time to come.” Simon hopes to work in the film industry in the future and to become a successful screenwriter overseas. He says those hours at College spent poring over a textbook or typing an assignment may seem worthless sometimes, “but such a huge sense of accomplishment comes from forcing yourself to do something well. Everyone should strive for that. A bit of toiling at the time actually makes you happier in the long run.”

Simon Brown, who is now studying a Bachelor of Arts at Victoria University and doing a double major in film and media studies, recalls the highlight of his time at College being the Japan tour of 2015. “I had an incredible time immersing myself in such a different culture and I bonded with so many boys over the course of the trip – some of whom I still consider to be some of my best friends today.” Year 9 camp was another favourite. “I barely knew anyone coming to College and it helped me make a huge number of friends in only five days and settle into College incredibly quickly.”

“I barely knew anyone coming to College and it helpedme make a huge number of friends in only five days and settle into College incredibly quickly.” Simon Brown

Christ’s College Canterbury

CELEBRATING OUR 2018 University Scholarships

Congratulations to the Year 13 students who were offered university scholarships for tertiary study in 2018.

Sam Abbot University of Otago New Frontiers Entrance Scholarship Luke Alderton University of Canterbury John Waller Memorial Scholarship University of Canterbury College of Business & Law Award for Excellence University of Otago New Frontiers Entrance Scholarship Jacob Banks Victoria University Excellence Scholarship Hugo Beale Victoria University Excellence Scholarship Louis Beckert Lincoln University Sports Scholarship Simon Brown Victoria University Excellence Scholarship Sam Cameron-Dunn University of Auckland Top Achiever Scholarship University of Otago Academic Excellence Entrance Scholarship Patrick Coates University of Otago Academic Excellence Entrance Scholarship Ben Dickie University of Otago Performance Entrance Scholarship Fong Fu University of Otago Academic Excellence Entrance Scholarship Kelvin Gong University of Otago Leaders of Tomorrow Entrance Scholarship Kevin Guttmann University of Canterbury College of Business & Law Award for Excellence Ethan Clements Victoria University Achiever Scholarship

William Ju University of Auckland Top Achiever Scholarship University of Otago Academic Excellence Entrance Scholarship Sam Julian University of Auckland Top Achiever Scholarship Chris Jung University of Auckland Top Achiever Scholarship Jeffrey Lai University of Otago Leaders of Tomorrow Entrance Scholarship Vincent Li Accepted to the Rhode Island School of Design, USA Ben Marshall-Lee University of Auckland Top Achiever Scholarship Victoria University Excellence Scholarship University of Otago Academic Excellence Entrance Scholarship PwC Accelerate Programme Scholarship James Newton University of Otago Leaders of Tomorrow Entrance Scholarship Jono Raymond University of Otago New Frontiers Scholarship Cameron Stevenson University of Auckland Top Achiever Scholarship University of Canterbury Computer Science High Achievers Award AIMS Scholarship University of Otago Academic Excellence Entrance Scholarship Nuku Tau University of Canterbury Emerging Leaders' Scholarship Henry Phelps Lincoln University Sports Scholarship

College Issue 34 2018

MAJOR PRIZE WINNERS Prize-giving 2017

Citations from Rob Donaldson – Deputy Principal

Ben Marshall-Lee

Head Prefect’s Prize and the Ormsby Medal

“The Head Prefect’s role is challenging. The Head Prefect has to represent the interests of his peers, the junior boys and be loyal to the school. He is often called upon at short notice to deal with problems and resolve conflicts. Our Head Prefect this year, Ben, has shown great determination and resilience in the performance of his duties. He is cheerful, determined, enthusiastic and self-disciplined. Above all, he is known for his positive and optimistic demeanour. He also gets on very well with students of all ages, as well as the staff. Ben was always focused on improving the school and he enjoyed being part of the growth of the student voice. He particularly liked the idea of boys being more proactive and taking ownership of the school and of their own conduct. Ben was determined to implement ideas that came from the ranks of the students and he introduced the activity sessions on Upper so that juniors could socialise and have fun. He led the prefect team effectively. He has represented the school with pride on many occasions and is an excellent ambassador for College. We thank him for all that he has done and wish him all the best for the future.” “The winner of this prestigious prize has shown great dedication in his pursuit of academic excellence. William is the holder of a Gold Tie and has superb NCEA results both in terms of total credits at Excellence, as well as the percentage of Excellence grades received relative to his total credits. William has received a Top Achiever Scholarship from the University of Auckland and an Academic Excellence Entrance Scholarship from the University of Otago. William has achieved all of this while involved in the full co-curricular life of the school. He played badminton and tennis and was a member of the school orchestra and involved in chamber music, earning an Honours Tie for instrumental music for his excellent contribution. He was also a member of the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Symphony Orchestra in 2015 and 2016. We congratulate William on his dedication, and his determination to reach the highest scholastic standards.” William Ju Wacher Prize for Academic Head of School

Christ’s College Canterbury

Simon Brown and Cameron Stevenson

Runners up to the Wacher Prize for Academic Head of School

“There are joint winners of this prize in 2017. Simon and Cameron are highly motivated, outstanding scholars, with many scholastic achievements to date. Both are holders of the Gold Tie for being in the top five students in their year group for NCEA results and they have accrued an impressive number of NCEA credits at Levels 2 and 3. Simon achieved a Scholarship in Statistics for 2016. He has recently been awarded a Victoria University Excellence Scholarship. He is well known for his outstanding contributions through writing, drama, film and Model United Nations, thus showing the breadth and depth of his talent and commitment. Cameron achieved Scholarship in Calculus for 2016. He has recently been awarded the University of Auckland Top Achiever Scholarship, a University of Canterbury Computer Science High Achiever Award and a University of Otago Academic Excellence Entrance Scholarship. Cameron has made a contribution to the wider life of the school as part of his pursuit of an all-round education.”

Brent Criglington

Executive Principal’s Prize for Service

“The recipient of this award stands out for his exceptional service to the school and the single award of the prize this year is testament to the scale of his excellent contribution. The list of Brent’s achievements is impressive and spans a wide range of College activities. These include stage manager for Singin' in the Rain , mentoring of juniors for Treasure Island , providing technical support for Arts Week in 2016 and 2017, technical support for senior drama productions, House plays, athletics sports, and assisting with social events such as the Year 11 semi-formal, as well as an enormous contribution to a wide variety of College film productions. All of this has been undertaken with great skill and efficiency. Brent has shown commendable humility, as well as the true spirit of selfless service to the school.”

Sam Cameron-Dunn

HM Chrystall Prize for All-round Merit in Sport and Scholarship

“Sam has a fine academic track record, with an impressive number of Excellence credits at NCEA Levels 2 and 3. He was awarded a Gold Tie in 2016 and 2017 for being one of the top five scholars. He has recently been awarded an Auckland University Top Achiever Scholarship, as well as the University of Otago Academic Excellence Entrance Scholarship. He was a very effective and dedicated captain of the 1st XI football side this year, as well as of the futsal team and received Colours for football in 2016 and 2017. He has represented College at Canterbury swimming and tennis championships and has been a finalist in a number of College athletic events. Sam has managed this balance of top quality sport and scholarship while being a very effective Deputy Head Prefect and also being involved in cultural activities.”

College Issue 34 2018

Hugo Beale

Somes Prize for Outstanding Overall Contribution to the Arts and General Scholarship “The recipient is a very capable scholar. He received a Gold Badge for his Level 2 results and has already secured an Excellence endorsement for Level 3. Hugo has made an astonishing contribution to the arts in his time at College. In 2017 he took a lead role in Singin' in the Rain , was captain of Theatresports, crucifer for the Chapel Choir and a member of Schola Cantorum. He directed and produced many films at College and has received accolades for his filmmaking prowess. He was director of photography for the award winning film, A Perfect Child . He has also been involved in numerous drama productions, including the Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival, LADS, Dr Faustus and Our House . He was a member of the Arts Committee. He also made a strong contribution to debating, music and House drama for Jacobs House.”

Vincent Li

Maling Memorial Prize for Outstanding Service to the School

“This prize goes to a student who has made a powerful contribution to the life of the school. Vincent showed great initiative last year when he led an investigation into the viability of joining Round Square. He subsequently became the inaugural leader of the International/Round Square committee. His excellent leadership of the committee led to a Round Square day in Term 2 and a very successful International Week in Term 3. He will be remembered for his excellent address to the boys in Chapel at the start of that week, and for his eloquent speeches to the whole school on the importance of a global perspective and the need to celebrate diversity. Vincent assisted with College promotion events, as well as Arts Week and he played a vital role in the student-led “De-stress the Mess” workshop in the September holidays. He has been an outstanding role model in his positivity, his commitment to the school and the respectful and considerate manner with which he treats all students and staff.”

Christ’s College Interhouse Competition Trophy The trophy goes to the House which has amassed the most points in interhouse competitions, both sporting and cultural. This was won in 2017 by Harper House. Somes House was second and Julius House was third.

Christ’s College Canterbury

Louis Beckert

Senior Sportsman of the Year

“This year's recipient has had a very successful year in his chosen sport at school, provincial, and national level. Louis played an integral part in the success of the College 1st XI hockey side. After the team’s victory in the Melbourne Grammar School international school hockey tournament in April, Louis helped College win the Christchurch Premier Schools’ League and New Zealand Schools’ Rankin Cup. Remarkably both competitions were decided by a penalty shootout and, as the team goalkeeper, he produced a winning performance. Outside of school, he was a member of the national winning Canterbury U18 team and has been selected to attend the New Zealand U18 development training camp.”

Zach May

Junior Sportsman of the Year

“Zach is a multi-talented sportsman who has excelled in three sports. In summer, Zach is a talented cricketer who was awarded the Year 10 batting prize and 2nd XI bowling prize at the Cricket Club prize-giving. He is a member of the 2nd XI team and has played Metro cricket at U15 and U17 levels. In winter, he was a member of the 1st XI hockey side that won the Rankin Cup. Outside the two seasons, Zach is also a very accomplished golfer. This year he was a member of the Canterbury U16 side that won the South Island title and a member of the U19 team that won the national title in Cambridge.”

College Issue 34 2018

Senior prize-giving

Christ’s College Canterbury

College Issue 34 2018

Christ’s College Canterbury

LEADERSHIP Head and Deputy Head Prefects 2018

Max Goodwin – Head Prefect

staff, parents and boys who make our College community. I think one of the main things that sets College apart is its House system. Right from the start every boy is welcomed in and becomes a valued member of his House. Vertical organisation within the Houses makes it easy to make friends across all year levels and create many mentoring and leadership opportunities. Housemasters and other House staff get to know every boy in their care and are available to give valuable advice and support. The House becomes a hub of activity, as well as a place where you can regroup and relax.

College has long had a reputation for academic excellence. Small class sizes and passionate subject specialist teachers ensure everyone gets plenty of individual attention. Yes, results matter and there’s a clear expectation that we should always aim to do our best, but it’s more than that. College teachers have a genuine interest in their students’ personal and character development. That, and new programmes such as Immerse & Inspire for Year 10 students and MANifesto for Years 12 and 13 do much to get us thinking about the type of men we want to become. Alongside a busy academic programme, College offers a wide range of sports, cultural and co- curricular activities. I love sport – particularly rowing and rugby – and, as in every aspect of College life, it’s as much about life lessons as it is about the competition. I always play with an attitude to win, but through sport I’ve learned the value of hard work, fair play, managing disappointment and moving on from defeat. “ I'd advise all boys to seize opportunities, especially in the junior years before the pressures of exams .” Max Goodwin

When I started College in Year 9, I looked up to the older boys in the House and thought they were the kind of leader I aspired to be. Now, here I am, in my final year – and what a journey it’s been. Time at College really does fly. There’s something special about College. Our history, heritage and traditions form the bedrock of the school, and our campus and facilities offer an amazing learning environment. These are important facets of College life, but the vital ingredient is people – the teachers,

College Issue 34 2018

There’s always something going on and something for everyone, there are so many opportunities at College. I’d advise all boys to seize those opportunities, especially in the junior years before the pressures of exams. You’ve got more time than you think, and it’s always good to try new things and get involved in the life of the school. I feel honoured to be a student leader at College and lucky to be working with such a great Prefect team. College is a place where the more you put in, the more you get out. Make a commitment to do your best, create your own definition of excellence, and let’s all enjoy a fantastic year. Boys change greatly between when they arrive at College and when they leave five years later. I know I have, and I haven’t even left yet. I’m one of only a few Aucklanders who board at College and, like many others, came here because an older sibling had gone before. In Year 9, I was academic and not very into sport, but I was interested in getting involved in the drama productions. At that stage, I saw my time at College as being purely an academic time and imagined I would keep a low profile until I left. Obviously, a lot has changed. In Year 11, I picked up rugby at the insistence of my friends and have never looked back. Rugby now plays a large role in my life and will continue to do so throughout this year – however, it hasn’t come at the expense of my involvement in drama or my academic work. This year, I was fortunate enough to be offered the position of Deputy Head Prefect. My principal roles are to organise the ball committee, and assist Max in leading the school and the Prefect team. We have a fantastic group of Toby Brooker-Haines – Deputy Head Prefect

Prefects in 2018, capable of leading in all aspects of College life. We are committed to introducing the boys to the many opportunities College offers, from the senior production West Side Story to inspiring them to be the best they can be in their chosen academic or sporting activities. The key thing about College is that it teaches you many things that may not be immediately obvious. Involvement in sport not only gives you skills in that sport, but also gives you an appreciation of the importance of being fit and focusing on wellbeing. Similarly, the academic side of College life aims to guide seniors through NCEA, but equally importantly helps students develop habits and skills that will allow them to go on learning throughout their lives. Personally, rugby has changed the way I care for my body, in the same way my teachers have changed the way I learn, which will allow me to continue my academic success into the future. Boarding has also added another valuable set of experiences to my time at College. Living away from home in a House with 50 other boys can be difficult, but the end result is that boys learn to live with those who are different from them and, in the process, develop lifelong friendships. In saying all this, it still feels as if the year has only just begun. There are many opportunities to be taken. Make the most of them. “ The key thing

about College is that it teaches you many things that may not be immediately obvious .” Toby Brooker-Haines

Christ’s College Canterbury

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.

Each boy at his best.

www.christscollege.com

ACADEMIC AWARDS NZQA Scholarship Awards for 2017

Congratulations to those students who gained NZQA Scholarship in 2017. Christ’s College students were awarded 39 scholarships, including four outstanding scholarships.

Jacob Banks Drama Hugo Beale Drama Simon Brown English, History Sam Cameron-Dunn Statistics Kelvin Gong Biology, Chemistry, Statistics Kevin Guttmann German (Outstanding) Harry Hartstone Music William Ju Biology, Statistics Sam Julian Design and Visual Communication (Outstanding) Chris Jung Biology, Calculus, Chemistry, Physics, Statistics

Ben Marshall-Lee Economics Francis McGurk Chemistry Robert Palmer Biology Mitchell Sammut Statistics Henry Seaton Chemistry, Statistics Seungmin Seok Calculus Cameron Stevenson Physics (Outstanding), Biology, Calculus,

2017 NCEA Results

In NCEA, Christ’s College boys consistently out-perform students in other decile 8–10 schools, with results that are well above national averages. All College students in each year group sit NCEA. Below is a comparison of combined Merit and Excellence endorsements for Christ’s College compared with other decile 8–10 schools.

Chemistry, Statistics Fawzan Sugarwala Design and Visual Communication Nuku Tau Art History, Classical Studies William Wynn Thomas Calculus, Statistics

EXCELLENCE ENDORSEMENT Christ’s College

LEVEL 1 34.2%

LEVEL 2 25.8%

LEVEL 3 30.3%

Decile 8–10 schools

LEVEL 1 28.3%

LEVEL 2 22.9%

LEVEL 3 20.2%

Vincent Kenworthy Drama (Outstanding) Sam Mackay Drama

MERIT ENDORSEMENT Christ’s College

LEVEL 1 44.7%

LEVEL 2 44.5%

LEVEL 3 29.4%

Decile 8–10 schools

LEVEL 1 41.5%

LEVEL 2 34%

LEVEL 3 34%

Christ’s College Canterbury

CENTRE FOR TEACHING EXCELLENCE & RESEARCH Empowering teachers through coaching and mentoring

It follows that if Each boy at his best is the College mission statement, then each teacher will need to be at his or her best.

From left: Katie Southworth, Warren Lidstone, Nicole Billante, Graeme Swanson and Joe Eccleton

As part of the evolving and developing school community, and as an outcome of the 2016–17 curriculum review, College has established the Centre for Teaching Excellence & Research, which aims to support and empower teachers through a coaching and mentoring model. The Centre, under the direction of Assistant Principal – Curriculum Joe Eccleton, is tasked with the continuous improvement of teaching and learning at College through collaboration and leadership, action research, coaching and mentoring. “We have exceptional teachers at College, teachers who are prepared to make significant personal

sacrifices to ensure that our boys have every opportunity to succeed. And I am aware that it will be our teachers’ skills, institutional knowledge, and motivation that will be the key factors that will enable better outcomes for our boys. “One of the results of the curriculum review was that our staff wanted more time to collaborate with their peers. It’s for this reason that we’ve set up the Centre and within it established four Heads of Teaching & Learning, each carrying responsibility for a specific area of the curriculum,” says Joe. Science, Physical Education and Health is the domain of Graeme Swanson; Humanities and English

fall to Nicole Billante; Warren Lidstone is head of Arts, Technology and Modern Languages; and Katie Southworth is head of Mathematics and Commerce. Joe says that the first goal for the Centre will be identifying what best practice looks like at College and then to develop a common understanding of best practice among the staff. This will entail the Heads of Teaching & Learning observing classes, running think tanks with staff and students, visiting other schools and analysing the most current and relevant international theoretical research. “It’s about growth mindsets and ensuring there is self-awareness; it’s

College Issue 34 2018

I’m from a family of teachers and always tried to steer away from the profession, but have found great enjoyment and satisfaction from teaching and igniting others’ interests and passions so they can pursue and succeed in their goals and aspirations. Before coming to College in 2017, I worked for nine years at Cashmere High School – as Head of Commerce for five years and Head of Faculty for Social Sciences for two years – and I'm enjoying the special character of a boys’ school. Boys are very “straight up”, and this creates a very honest and authentic environment in which to teach. University in north west England, working in Operations Management for Northern Foods before emigrating to New Zealand 15 years ago where I retrained, completing a Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning. Landscaping our new home is taking up a lot of time outside of College. I also enjoy food, I studied a BBA Business Management at Lancaster

about questioning and supporting and encouraging. It’s about laying the foundations for a long- term vision, where the ability to collaborate as a group enhances the capacity for innovation and excellence.” If teachers become better role models, are enabled to become more engaging in class, and recognise the need to be lifelong learners, the work of the Centre will be moving along predicted lines. “It’s early days,” says Joe, “but the buy-in of staff and their willingness to be part of the process, bodes well for the future.” Meet the team

and solidifying the top quality teaching at College. Already one of the best parts has proven to be observing a range of teachers and seeing colleagues in their classroom interactions with the boys. The structure of the Centre is unique and having four Heads of Teaching & Learning and Joe as the Assistant Principal – Curriculum means we have a team working towards our goal of developing a strategic vision as well as working with individuals. I’ve been teaching since 2005 and at College since part way through 2015. I have worked at three Christchurch schools and spent four years at an international school in Taiwan. I teach English, although I thoroughly enjoyed my two years in Learning Support working with our English as a second language students. My roles in schools have included pastoral, Head of Department, senior leader in charge of operations, What I love about teaching is seeing the boys making progress and gaining a sense of achievement. I’ve always been at co-ed schools before, and the nature of a boys- only classroom is really special. As an English teacher, I have seen more comfortable and authentic thinking from the young men about literature than you tend to see in a co-ed environment. Not to mention, they’re just great including examinations officer and timetable. young men and seeing them grow up is a real privilege. Time outside school is about to become more complex as I start a PhD looking at Positive Organisational Scholarship as it relates to an educational context. I have an MA in Political Science from the University of Canterbury and worked in client communications and research before studying for a postgraduate diploma in English Literature and training as a teacher.

cooking new recipes and trying new places to eat.

Katie Southworth

Commerce and Mathematics

I feel that the new role is about celebrating what we do well at College and providing a platform from which to continue to provide excellence in teaching and learning, as well as supporting colleagues in their ongoing professional development. The creation of the Centre of Teaching Excellence & Research with a team to work within it, is unique. No other school is doing this in quite the same way. I’m especially looking forward to the coaching and mentoring aspect of the role, having done some of this in my previous roles.

Nicole Billante

Humanities and English

This is one of the most exciting roles I’ve held within a school. I see it supporting teachers on their professional journey

Christ’s College Canterbury

my first trainee placement and this led to a teaching position in the Biology department immediately after graduating. I have been HoD of Biology for just over five years, taking over from Graeme Worner in 2012. Outside of school I love being active in the outdoors. It doesn’t matter whether that is road biking, mountain biking, running, tramping or simply walking – as long as I am out there!

are never the same and I enjoy trying to challenge each boy, no matter what the circumstances. There can be hilarious moments, frustrating moments, moments when a boy suddenly understands. Sharing these makes teaching rewarding and exciting. I have been teaching at College since 2001. Before that I spent five years in south Auckland and four in another Christchurch school. Between my first two schools I spent two years working at the Christchurch YMCA, an experience that convinced me teaching was the career I wanted. Since being at College I have been HoD History, acting Senior Master, and Deputy Boarding Housemaster. I have also coached the 1st XI cricket team for 13 years and the famous Youth White Hockey “Academy” for over a decade.

Graeme Swanson

Science, PE and Health

This new role is very much about celebrating what we do well at College and supporting colleagues in their ongoing development as teachers and learners. The new coaching and mentoring programme has already begun delivering results in our learning area. We are also in the process of developing a shared understanding of best practice at College, which will be informed by the staff, students, parents and wider research. Once this has been completed it will act as a reference point for ongoing professional development. Personally, the most rewarding part of my Biology teaching role is having the daily opportunity to cultivate an enthusiasm for the subject I love and one I feel is incredibly important. There is nothing better than those “lightbulb moments” when it all starts to make sense for a student! I studied in Scotland at Edinburgh University, gaining a BSc in Ecology and a PhD in Ecological Genetics. After university I ran a consultancy company for five years providing deer management advice to landowners and managers. In 2004 I emigrated to New Zealand with a young family and trained to be a teacher at the NZ Graduate School of Education in Christchurch. College was

Warren Lidstone

Languages, Arts and Technology

It’s a privilege to be able to freely walk into a classroom and observe a colleague in their own environment, teaching and guiding young people so professionally. It’s a privilege second-to-none. All teachers are different; each possesses their own individual personality traits, strengths and techniques, and to be able to see them working in an area about which I’m not an expert, has certainly made me think about the key attributes that make them, and all teachers, successful. This has allowed me to gain a better understanding of the teaching process, and it has also made me think about ways in which some of these skills can be incorporated into other teaching areas. What stimulates me in teaching is walking into the unknown every day. Boys and classes

College Issue 34 2018

ADVANCED LEARNING Extending skills, widening horizons

Seeking exciting opportunities for bright students to shine occupies Chloe Harland’s time both in and out of College as she scours the internet for innovative programmes worldwide.

Chloe stepped into the role of Head of Advanced Learning in 2018, following on from Warren Lidstone, and is focused on extending the boys’ interests in ways which suit them. Chloe is the right person in the right job, highly driven, a self-confessed perfectionist, and a teacher who is happy to invest her time in seeking opportunities for her students which may sit outside the box. And best of all, she understands perfectly how they operate and what they need. “I can say this quite honestly, because I was one of those students

when I was at school. That was me. I was always looking for something beyond just extension studies. I get the need to be perfect. To set really high standards and to feel absolutely challenged by new initiatives. “This programme at College is about enrichment. It’s about questioning how we can make the students’ school experience challenging and fun, without having to advance them from their peers. We put a lot of time into our academic approach for these boys, but the pastoral component hasn’t always kept pace. It’s about recognising not only the intellectual capacity of a student, but also their maturity, and their

emotional development. That is all part of the equation. And achieving a nice balance is pivotal to the success of this programme.” “That’s why boys whose speciality subjects might be Mathematics or Science who anticipate a career in medicine, for example, could expect to be taken to the Art Gallery and invited to make a whole range of discoveries for a different perspective entirely. “In a way that kind of enrichment is about trying to create a little tribe of Renaissance men,” she says. Head of Classics as well as of the Advanced Learning Centre, Chloe

Christ’s College Canterbury

teaches four senior classes and is delighted class sizes have doubled from a year ago. “I came here from Westlake Boys’ High School in Auckland, where from a roll of 2300 we were achieving 52 scholarships a year. Four years later, when I left, we were at 167, and one of the top performing secondary schools in the country. “I’m very aware that Scholarship is viewed as a measurement of a school’s success, and I strongly believe, although it is not a qualification but an award, that our boys at College are absolutely up to the academic challenge. New Zealand and international universities now understand the concept of Scholarship and there is no doubt that achieving it gives our boys an edge and will set them apart.” In 2017, Christ’s College was awarded 39 Scholarships, and was the top performing school in Canterbury and although hard to confirm due to the nature of data available, likely to be within the top five schools (based on roll size) in the country. Improved statistics are achievable, she says, and to start the process she has facilitated an “Appreciative Enquiry”. This involves working with all Scholarship teachers, getting them round the table and openly assessing how the current process is working, and assisting Heads of Departments in delivering enrichment programmes. “We know we’re already doing well, but we don’t want to be complacent.” The second part of the enquiry involves speaking to the students, led by Head of Academic Wills Wynn Thomas, and finding out what they want, what they like, and how things are working from their perspective. Schools historically tend to put their pastoral focus into the tail end of learning, with the view that the top end will be fine, says Chloe. “My passion is in looking after the top end, I see my role growing to that of an academic dean, making sure these

What does the Advanced Learning Centre offer?

Here’s a taster of the opportunities available.

Brainbee is an exciting competition for Year 11 students to learn about the brain and its functions. College boys looking at neuroscience research are engaged in the event, which is organised by the New Zealand Brain Bee Challenge. They’re discovering the latest findings in neuroscience research, dispelling misconceptions about neurological and mental illnesses, and finding out about the exciting career opportunities in brain research. Model United Nations (MUN) is a great way for students to learn how the UN operates, discover the art of diplomacy and understand the importance of international relations. At MUN events students participate in workshops and committees, learning how to debate, negotiate and find ways to resolve issues of significance to the global community. MUN runs a range of regional, national and international events each year. The World Scholar’s Cup (WSC) which has both regional and international levels of competition, aims to motivate students to discover new strengths and practice new skills, celebrate higher learning, and inspire a global community of future scholars and leaders. The WSC annual Tournament of Champions takes place at Yale University in November.

high achievers who set such high standards for themselves, are coping with the additional focus. “The motivation is to offer them academic challenge and rigour and to enrich their overall academic experience.” Chloe has created a drop in space at the Advanced Learning Centre – a comfortable spot with an open door policy, bean bags, and coffee – a place for boys to come and talk through their future plans. In the future, she would love to see a Scholars’ Lounge, where the boys working at this level can enjoy a bit of mana and profile. “The boys are keen and a lot of them are intrinsically motivated; they’re searching for a challenge. They love the opportunity for extension, and it’s really cool to be around that level of energy.”

“ This programme at College is about enrichment. It’s about howwe canmake the students’ school experience challenging and fun,without having to advance them from their peers .” Chloe Harland

College Issue 34 2018

LEARNING CENTRE Literacy trial becomes mainstream subject as Learning Centre grows

So successful was the 2017 Year 9 literacy trial that the Learning Centre has rolled it over as a subject option for Year 10 students.

Fifteen of them are already enrolled, receiving four periods a week of intensive work on literacy skills in two separate classes. “It’s early days but we’re sure it will be successful,” says Head of Learning Centre & ESOL Lesley Anderson-McKenna. “This intensive study will result in a real improvement for those boys.

here for that reason. They need to buy into it, and they have. They’re generally more than happy to be here and regard it as a comfortable place to be. “The work that we’re doing together enables each boy to be his best – exactly what the College mission states. And it is enabling us to even out the playing field

Last year’s trial was very, very successful and a number of the boys were asking to carry on, so we decided to introduce it in a subject line at Year 10. This is a big thing, because it means the boys have consciously opted to take literacy as a subject. They recognise how important it is to make a real commitment and they are demonstrating that they want to be

Christ’s College Canterbury

“ The work that we're doing together enables each boy to be his best – exactly what the Collegemission states .” Lesley Anderson-McKenna

focus is the Year 9 students and the Year 10 literacy classes, Gill Kilpatrick, who looks after both Year 10 and senior students, and Alex Robertson, whose focus is English as a second language. Annie Smith performs the task of reader/writer administrator. The Learning Centre has made another change too, with educational psychologists now coming into College to conduct full diagnostic assessments for boys who are struggling. Historically, boys have always had to go out of the school for this to happen. “Now the psychologists come in, and can liaise with parents and staff, and that’s a positive thing for the boys,” says Lesley. Boys come to the attention of the Centre through information from primary schools, the department’s own testing, and sometimes

referrals from classroom teachers. Occasionally a student may come and ask for assistance, recognising that he is struggling in the classroom. International students, for whom English is a second language, are also catered for by the Centre. “As much as we can, we identify those boys needing help early in the year. That way we can be sure they are getting the best assistance possible to help them succeed at College.”

a little bit,” says Lesley, with a nod to a poster above her desk. It shows an elephant, a monkey and a goldfish standing beneath a tree, and the words “To take this exam, everyone needs to climb that tree”. With well over 100 boys catered for by the Learning Centre, Lesley says their individualised programmes ensure every opportunity is provided for each student to succeed in his studies. And succeed they do! Just recently an Old Boy dropped in to share the news that he had just graduated from Lincoln University with a B grade average. “A number of our learning support students are with us for the duration of their secondary studies, and many of them end up at university.” Teaching them is a talented team of specialists – Kate Morris, whose

College Issue 34 2018

ACADEMIC New faces

before coming back to New Zealand to teach at Darfield High School, where he developed the FLAMES (Fostering Learning and Motivation in Education through Sport) initiative for boys struggling in mainstream classes. He based his PhD thesis, gained through the Graduate School of Education, University of Queensland, Australia, on this project. Mike then worked for the Ministry of Education, before becoming general manager at Cholmondeley Children’s Home. His next step was to lead the Canterbury Youth Development Programme, and from there he moved to the tertiary sector, as manager of the CPIT Trades division. Then Mike branched out and, along with his wife Julia, bought the New Zealand and Pacific Island rights for the ToughGuard range of automotive, marine and aviation products. His foray into the business world was rewarding, but ultimately unsatisfying – and, before long, Mike got “caught by the education bug again.” It might not be a traditional teaching pathway, but the breadth of Mike’s experience is perfect preparation for his current roles. He knows education, understands the “real world”, and is passionate about teaching skills that will see the boys thrive. “The ability to influence a young person’s life in a positive direction underestimate the power teachers have; they make a real difference,” says Mike. “As Housemaster, my primary responsibility is to look after all the boys in Julius House and, as both a Housemaster and a is a huge responsibility and a huge privilege. You can never

teacher, my job is to make sure the young men in my care become the best they can be.”

Mike Field

After “testing the water” in 2017 and working at College as a part-time Physical Education and Mathematics teacher, Dr Mike Field decided he had finally found his niche and was ready to return to full-time teaching. So, this year, it is all on … Mike is thoroughly enjoying his role as Julius Housemaster, as well as being teacher in charge of College’s new Agribusiness programme and taking a Year 10 Commerce class. “ The ability to influence a young person’s life in a positive direction is a huge responsibility and a huge privilege .” Mike Field Mike started his teaching career overseas, working in Samoa, Papua New Guinea and the Philippines,

David Newton

Physics Head of Department (HoD) David Newton is a big fan of practical, experiential learning, helping the boys understand and apply the fundamental concepts of physics as they learn by doing. “Physics is fantastic and every student deserves an enthusiastic introduction to the subject. Bringing props into the classroom or taking the boys outside to do hands-on experiments, ramps up the excitement and makes physics more accessible.” Old Boy David says he always wanted to come back to College as a teacher, but was happy to wait for the right time. After a satisfying 20-year career at Shirley Boys’ High School, and having seen his sons Michael and James through their College journey, he jumped at the opportunity to take on the role of HoD.

Christ’s College Canterbury

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