The privilege of connection: What our boys teach me
One of the greatest privileges of serving as Executive Principal of Christ’s College is the daily opportunity to interact with our boys. What makes these connections so meaningful is the unique culture and size of our school. In a smaller school, connections aren’t just encouraged – they’re inevitable. Far from being one-way exchanges of knowledge and guidance, these interactions are, for me, a constant source of learning, inspiration, perspective, and humility.
While I certainly enjoy holiday breaks, there’s an unmistakable energy that returns when the boys flood back onto the campus for the start of the term. Their curiosity, honesty, and enthusiasm remind me daily of education’s true purpose. They teach me resilience when they bounce back from setbacks, creativity when they approach problems in unexpected ways, and the importance of humour when they remind me not to take life too seriously. Their perspectives – often refreshingly unfiltered – challenge my assumptions and keep me grounded.
When older generations criticise today’s youth, attributing society’s ills to them, I find myself genuinely perplexed. Through the lens of our College, you would encounter articulate, intelligent young men with a perceptive understanding of the world around them. You would witness generosity of spirit and genuine empathy for others. They are, of course, far from perfect – but then, who among us is?
Last week, I was discussing the complexities of conflict and the justification of violence with a group of boys. What struck me during this conversion was their profound sense of humanity. No matter how hard I pushed them – even playing devil’s advocate to provoke debate – their compassion never wavered. I’ve often considered ‘empathy’ to be a glib compliment, but these boys taught me its true weight.
Empathy is a meta-value: it calls us to care for others, underpins the world’s major religions, and fortifies our communities. Wellbeing isn’t just about self-care; it’s found in outward generosity, in thinking of others. Kindness is hardest when we’re under stress – yet it’s perhaps the most powerful remedy for it. Without empathy, our communities would be irrevocably diminished.
Our boys are the heartbeat of this school – a place where every young man is seen, valued, and known. The lessons they teach me extend far beyond academics; they are lessons in leadership, joy, and the lifelong practice of empathy. For that, I am endlessly grateful.
Katie Southworth
Acting Deputy Principal – Teaching & Learning
NCEA co-requisites
As many parents know, the NCEA changes have also brought new co-requisites for literacy and numeracy. Students must pass these to gain any NCEA qualification.
There are three digital assessments – numeracy, reading, and writing. In passing all three, students gain 20 credits that contribute to their NCEA qualifications in Years 12–13.
Students can take these co-requisite assessments multiple times from Years 9–13. They only need to pass each once. Students have two opportunities – in May and September – to sit the co-requisites.
Last year, having taken part in the trial the previous year, we opted for our Year 10 students to complete the numeracy co-requisite, and our Year 11 students to complete the literacy (reading and writing) co-requisites. This was successful, with 94% of Year 10 students passing numeracy on the first attempt and 98% of Year 11 students passing literacy by the end of the year.
It is important to note that boys may not pass on their first attempt, and this is not always an indication of their skill level. Understanding the assessment and attention to detail also play a part and, as a result, it is designed so that it can be attempted multiple times.
This year, the assessments are again being held in May and September. All Year 11 students will sit at least the literacy assessment in May (with some also resitting the numeracy). Some Year 10 boys will attempt the numeracy assessment in order to provide the earliest opportunity. This will be determined by the boys’ standard of work in Core Mathematics. If your son is not attempting numeracy in May, they will attempt the co-requisite in September.
We met the Year 11 group at the end of Term 1 and will meet the Year 10 students at the start of Term 2 to explain the assessments in detail. It is important to note that the literacy and numeracy skills are embedded in courses from the start of the boys’ time at College and it is only the nature of the tasks that needs explanation.
Further information on the co-requisites can be found on the Ministry of Education site and via the NZQA ‘tile’ in the parent portal. Sample papers are available on the NCEA Education website (reading, writing, and numeracy). These are public versions, so the copyright information has been redacted. Boys can access digital practice (including the copyright information) by logging into their NZQA accounts. We encourage boys to do a practice paper before the assessment.
Year 10 numeracy assessments: Monday 19 May–Tuesday 20 May
Year 11 literacy assessments: Tuesday 27 May–Thursday 29 May
*Students usually sit in House groups which will be advised closer to the time. Boys with special assessment conditions will complete their assessments at different times (to be advised through the Learning Centre).
Registrations are open for the New Zealand Physics and Mathematics Competition. The first part of the competition is held online, with those who qualify invited to attend the finals at the University of Canterbury. Additionally, students who register can access in-person workshops to develop their STEM skills. The competition is split into a Years 9–11 division and a Years 12–13 section. Last year’s senior College groups did very well, so we would love to see some junior competitors step up to the challenge this year.
Senior Philosophy Day and Junior Stretch
I will shortly be taking registrations for the Senior Philosophy Day. Boys who attended last year found the event inspiring and challenging. It is an opportunity to hear from world-class speakers on diverse topics. Junior Stretch offers a similar programme for Years 9–10 students. I encourage anyone interested and curious to attend. Please monitor student notices for further details.
Christ is risen alleluia. He is risen indeed alleluia.
Dearly beloved, a great Easter hymn of the 17th century trumpets:
The strife is past, the battle done Now is the victor’s triumph won: Now let the song of praise be sung, Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!
Although theologically accurate, some Easter triumphalism does leave one wondering – what now? What next?
Much as we gathered for our Anzac Service to remember those who served and died in ‘The War to End All Wars’, we know that there are wars still. If the strife is over, the battles done, someone really ought to let civilisation know.
Perhaps it is, as the quote from the recent, and now decidedly relevant film, Conclave (2024) has the character of Archbishop Woźniak suggest: “We're mortal men. We serve an ideal. We cannot always be ideal.”
The Christian Hope of Resurrection is that in Christ all is reconciled to God, delivered from the suffering, anxiety, and all that assails us, even death. If you are at present suffering, anxious, or facing serious challenges, this may appear soft soap to hard grease. Hope is the prospect of things future, the anticipation of joy to come. However, hope does not stand alone; it is carried by faith and perfected in love. Not the Hallmark card love – but rather the love that pays the price. Easter is about that love, Anzac remembrance is about that love. The risen Christ is this love.
Whether this message finds you in rude health or altogether coming apart at the seams, I do pray with St Paul that hope, faith, and love abide with you this Eastertide. Perhaps, it is you who are called to bring that message of Easter hope to another – you will quite probably do better than me.
Now by your stripes our wounded King, Your servants free from death’s dread sting, That we may live in you, and sing. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!
Shakespeare in Love enters final stages of rehearsal
Our much-anticipated senior production of Shakespeare in Love is in its final stages of rehearsal, and the excitement is building.
Over the past week, our dedicated cast and crew have come together to prepare for the all-important technical rehearsals. With 60 students on stage and 30 working tirelessly behind the scenes, this has been a truly collaborative effort between Christ’s College and Rangi Ruru Girls' School.
Many people will remember the wonderful film that hit the big screens in 1998. It is a celebration of theatre and tells the story of a young Will Shakespeare as he struggles to write his latest comedy, Romeo and Ethel the Pirate's Daughter. However, things change when he meets Viola De Lesseps, falls in love, and is newly inspired.
The phenomenal cast has been working since early in Term 1 to bring this joyful and demanding play to life. We are proud to be presenting the New Zealand premiere of Shakespeare in Love (High School Edition), and we warmly encourage our community to come along and support our talented students. This is a production not to be missed.
Snap up your seats and revel in all the romantic drama of Shakespeare in Love from Tuesday 20 May–Saturday 24 May at the Christ’s College Auditorium.
Sarah Davidson
International Student Manager & Round Square Representative
Reaping the rewards of care and connection
At the 175th celebrations for College, I have had the opportunity to chat to several Old Boys who have been caregivers for our international students over the years. They have all highlighted the immense reward of supporting a student from overseas during their time at Christ’s College and the significance of that connection leading to enduring friendships.
One of our Old Boys from Thailand, who was in Jacobs House from 1973–1976, travelled to Christchurch to be part of the recent celebrations. He was thrilled to reconnect with his ‘College family” after many decades and relive those memories.
You can read more about the many rewards of being a caregiver as our College families share their stories.
Victoria University of Wellington scholarship applications open
5 June
UC Year 12 Discovery Day, voluntary, need to register, 9am–2pm
5 June
Victoria University of Wellington – Architectural Event, Tūranga, 5–7pm
5 June
Waikato University Information Evening, 5.30–7pm
10 June
Christchurch Aviation Evening, Christchurch Boys’ High School, 7–9pm
14 June
Chiropractic Open Day, Auckland
18 June
Otago University Information Evening, Addington Events Centre, 6.30pm
18 June
Chiropractic career talk, Distinction Hotel, 7pm
19 June
UC scholarship presentation, 8.15am
18 July
Lincoln University Open Day
1 August
Victoria University, accommodation applications open
6 August
Massey University (Palmerston North) Open Day
15 August
Massey University (Auckland) Open Day
22 August
Massey University (Wellington) Open Day
22 August
Victoria University of Wellington Open Day
30 August
University of Auckland Open Day
30 August
AUT (Auckland University of Technology) Open Day
4 October
Chiropractic Open Day, Auckland
University of Canterbury Year 12 Discovery Day – 5 June
All boys who wish to attend Discovery Day need to make their own way to UC, and wear their school uniform. Boys must register and choose their sessions.
Victoria University of Wellington – Architectural Event
Students can visit Tūranga, Central Library, on Thursday 5 June for an Architectural Event from 5–7pm.
Waikato University Information Evening
Waikato University will host an information evening in Christchurch on Thursday 5 June at the Sudima Christchurch Airport from 5.30–7pm. Boys can register here.
Any boys interested in a career in aviation can hear from IAANZ, CHC Helicopters, Airways NZ, CHC Engine Centre, Garden City Aviation, and Air Force representatives at an Aviation Evening in the Christchurch Boys’ High School hall on Tuesday 10 June from 7–9pm. Representatives of the Pauwels Flying Scholarship will also be present.
NZ College of Chiropractic – career talk
Learn more about a chiropractic career on Wednesday 18 June at 7pm at the Distinction Hotel in Cathedral Square. The NZ College of Chiropractic is also hosting Open Days on Saturday 14 June and Saturday 4 October at its Auckland site.
University of Otago Information Evening
Learn more about the University of Otago on Wednesday 18 June at 6.30pm at the Addington Events Centre. The session will cover residential colleges, admission, scholarships, costs, and support, along with study options such as the Arts, Law, Business, Sciences, and Health Sciences.
University scholarships for Year 13 students
MoneyHub has compiled a comprehensive guide to scholarships for students planning to start university in 2026. The MoneyHub Scholarship Guide lists scholarships from all universities, along with opportunities for Māori, Pacific, and international students.
University of Auckland – Engineering and Design Information Evenings
University of AucklandEngineering and Design Information Evenings provide a detailed overview of programmes, including course highlights, structure, entry requirements, scholarships, and the support services available to enhance a student’s study journey. Boys can register to attend.
College families can choose from an array of supporters’ gear at the Uniform Shop in Gloucester Street. From scarves and jerseys to caps and beanies, and bucket hats, you can show your support for Christ’s College and your son’s team by donning our special gear. They are also ideal birthday presents for wider members of our College family.
Please call in to our Uniform Shop on Mondays 10–4pm, Tuesdays 10.30–4pm, or Wednesdays 10–4pm to view the range of supporters’ gear, or email the Uniform Shop Manager directly at uniformshop@christscollege.com.
The gift of the last poppy bowl to Christ’s College
A hand-carved poppy bowl featuring a stunning piece of pounamu has been gifted to Christ’s College during a special Anzac service, marking both the sacrifices of Old Boys and the 175th anniversary of the school.
In remembrance of ‘true service’ tradition at Christ’s College
Students have been urged to “lead with courage, act with integrity, and never underestimate the impact you can have” during a special Anzac service in the Chapel.
Most of our international students at Christ's College live in one of the three boarding Houses, and – like our domestic boarders – are required to have a local caregiver.
College swimmers have set the pace at the National Age Group Championships in Hawke’s Bay, with Rylind Wheeler and Luke Manderson in record-breaking form.
Christ’s College athletes set title pace at SI championships
Year 11 student Jake Boyd has been in outstanding form at the South Island Secondary Schools Track and Field Championships in Nelson, dominating the U15 grade in hurdles, discus, javelin, and shot put.
Orchestral Extravaganza – a high note for trio of schools
Championing a wealth of talent at Christ’s College, St Margaret’s College, and Rangi Ruru Girls’ School, the Orchestral Extravaganza celebrates the remarkable range and depth of student music changemakers.
Rissoles, rationing, and riots – Dining Hall’s 100 years
The College Dining Hall and staff, 1920s
The opening of the Dining Hall. Guests enter via the east door, 1925 CCPAL/16/35
When entering the College Dining Hall, many must wonder, if these walls could talk, what would they say? Few probably realise to what extent the College archives hold a treasure trove of objects, records, stories, and photos of the happenings over the past 100 years.
Many often recall the famous food riot of 1961. Recently, College held a 60 Years On Reunion and much discussion erupted at the mention of it as the Old Boys dined at those same tables.
For many students and Old Boys, the Dining Hall is more than a place to eat – it is where stories are shared, friendships forged, and traditions passed down. However, its origins are rooted in places less comfortable. From 1915–1921, College had a sharp rise in the number of boarders, climbing from 155 to 194.i With no central dining area, meals were managed by Housemasters' wives and served in House dining rooms. Parson Hare’s House became a temporary dining space, but eventually proved to be inadequate.
Conditions deteriorated to the point where 134 boarders took the bold step of signing a letter to the Warden, voicing concerns about fly-blown meat and insects. While some claims might have been overstated, the message was loud and clear. College needed a solution.ii And so, after five years of makeshift arrangements, a lasting one was built. On 23 April 1925, Archbishop Julius officially opened the Memorial Dining Hall – a space that would become a cornerstone of College life for generations to come.iii
Food
The Dining Hall staff have provided many delicious and nutritious meals over the past 100 years and the quality is often praised by current students and Old Boys alike. However, the earlier offerings were not as desirable as recent memory describes. George Burdon (2710), 1913–1918, recalled that the food was “pretty edible if you were hungry enough”, though stale bread used to be smuggled down to the end of the room and thrown out the window to the ducks so that a fresh supply had to be provided.iv
Other accounts described bread and jam for five lunches out of seven, greasy utensils, bland, colourless tea, and strikes because of inedible sausages. One argument undermined that complaint as the boys enjoyed and devoured the rissoles, made from those same leftover sausages.v
The current long-serving Dining Hall staff have also shared some interesting tales. Cherie Foster recalled overhearing a conversation outside the Dining Hall window in the early 1980s. When a boy answered a visitor’s question on whether the food was good, he replied, “it's good, but as we have nothing else to complain about, we complain about the food”.
Executive Chef Rex Quigley reflected on how the September 2010 earthquake resulted in a power cut. Being the first person in the Dining Hall at 6am, he realised the gas was still on, so he made hot chocolate. He opened up all the doors so that the boarders could see the Dining Hall was open for business. As the boys huddled together, they sat at the tables sharing their experiences of the quake in the night, and enjoyed the hot chocolate and cereal.
The 1961 Dining Hall riot
The ‘riot’ kicked off on a Sunday evening, on 22 October in 1961. In Headmaster Hornsby’s absence, after much dissatisfaction regarding the quality and quantity of food, one of the boys flung a slice of bread lathered in honey which landed on the north wall
David Holderness (6765), 1958–1963, remembered food flying everywhere, feet stamping, and water spilling. The Prefects did not intervene and were suspected of knowing all along that it was going to happen. Eventually, the Head Prefect calmed things down.
One student later recounted that boys were hauled out of bed and brought before the Headmaster. While being told off by Hornsby, he could feel the sweat running down his back.vi
Further mischief was inevitable, especially one memorable incident when Bishop Cole’s portrait was accessorised with tomato sauce – close to a Year 9 table – and was sent away for restoration.
Thanks to the efforts of former College archivist Jane Teal, the portraits are now safely shielded behind museum-grade Perspex.
Tucking in, 1950s CCPAL/18/6/1
A further glimpse into history provides different experiences due to world events. A recent interview with Old Boy Arthur Northcote (5341), 1944–1948, revealed the harsh reality of food rationing during World War II. Arthur recalled that there was certainly no food wastage in the Dining Hall.
“How College fed 150 boys from the boarding Houses? Quite a Herculean task. There was major meat and butter rationing. The food was much the same, week by week, very monotonous. You knew what you’d have on a Tuesday and the same breakfast every day.” vii
If you have a father or grandfather who attended College, take the time to talk about their school memories. What were their favourite dishes? Who was their favourite cook? Were seconds always served? Were dietary needs catered for, and were polite manners adhered to?
i Hamilton, D. The Buildings of Christ’s College 1850–1990, 1991 pg. 58 ii Hamilton, D. College! 1996 pg. 308 iii Hamilton, D. College! 1996 pg. 350–351 iv Hamilton, D. College! 1996 pg. 307 v Hamilton, D. College! 1996 pg. 307 vi Hamilton, D. College! 1996 pg. 572 vii Interview with George Arthur Northcote, 2 April 2025
