Celebrations and awards

The Annual Boarding Awards Dinner was held earlier in the term and it was again a chance to celebrate the opportunities and successes that have taken place in boarding this year.

The guest speaker for the evening was Tyler Koning. Tyler is an Old Boy of Flower’s House, having arrived at College as a Year 12 student at the beginning of 2009. In 2010 he was Head of Flower’s House. Tyler also had two years in the 1st XV and was captain in his final year.

He talked about his memories of College and the skills he was able to identify and develop in his time here that have helped him in life beyond College. He summarised this in three main areas where he continues to challenge himself today – being present, being connected and being bold.

Several awards were presented during the evening:

Most Promising Year 11 Agricultural Student
Charlie Burdon (School House)

Most Active Boarders in the Boarding Programme
Tom Hodges (Flower’s House)
Robert Kidd (Richards House)
Wills Ockwell (School House)

Head of Boarding Awards
Awarded to boys who, in the eyes of their Housemasters, have stood out, either, throughout the year or in a specific activity during the year.

Ollie King (Flower’s House)
George Simpson (Richards House)
Daniel Qi (School House)

Rutherford Cups
Awarded to one boy in each boarding House who has made a difference this year, based on citizenship and service in their House.

Tom Smith (Flower’s House)
Nathan McKenzie (Richards House)
Ben Davis (School House)

Finally, Henry Briscoe (Flower's House) was announced as Head of Boarding for 2021.

Last Sunday saw a reversal of roles, and the end of an era when the Year 13 boarders hosted the Dining Hall staff for a “thank you” lunch. With the support of School Housemaster Arthur Wood, the boys prepared a barbecue lunch in appreciation of the work of the Dining Hall staff over the last five years.

With my character and leadership hat on, earlier in the term I had the pleasure of spending three days with the Year 10 boys on their Adventurous Journey camp at Boyle Lodge. We tramped up the Nina Valley to Nina Hut and it was a great opportunity to see the boys in action and excelling in areas outside the classroom. The final group of boys are currently spending their last week living in Jacobs House and I am thrilled that despite the interruptions of Covid-19 all Year 10 students have still managed to complete two weeks in residence at Jacobs House; the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Adventurous Journey with Boyle Lodge; Lab5 Supercharged – a three-day social entrepreneur course with the Ministry of Awesome; and a three-day incursion involving sessions on biculturalism, careers, wellbeing, study skills and planning and leadership. The opportunities and experiences gained by the boys' involvement in these activities will further develop them in ways that will benefit them in their senior years at College and beyond.

Boarding Programme

After a break over Labour Weekend, the boarding programme was back into full swing last weekend with the boys having an opportunity for some rock climbing at Uprising Bouldering on Saturday evening and a mystery activity on Sunday – a boat cruise in Akaroa to see the dolphins. The workshop was also open on Sunday afternoon. The remainder of the programme for Term 4 can be viewed here.

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Perseverance pays off

Over the last few days we have been furiously triple-checking student results for NCEA assessment. The final Internal results will be sent through to NZQA as soon as the boys have completed their check at the end of the week. To date, I am exceptionally proud of the results we have been processing. Many have already achieved their qualifications and are close to endorsement thresholds. It shows how well the students and teachers have adapted to the numerous challenges that have come their way this year. The biggest challenge now is to keep the momentum going through the examination period. Fatigue can set in, especially for Year 13 students who are already looking ahead to life post school. But, that is the time they have to dig deepest and ensure that they finish their high school education on the highest possible note.

I have been using this time to catch up with students who may have concerns about how they are placed heading into final exams. What has been achieved? What is still possible? And where should study energy be focused? These are useful conversations and I would strongly encourage all parents and sons, irrespective of how confident students may be, to sit down together during study leave and consider these very questions. They are most useful for helping to create a plan of attack for study leave. It is timely to mention again that our teachers are available for help through the exam period, and past experience tells us that boys who utilise this help, reap the rewards in their results.

The above are also useful questions for our junior students to discuss at home. While the high stakes of NCEA may not be present for them just yet, establishing academic goals and taking stock of achievements, is a positive habit to form. Final junior assessments for the year are also looming and we expect all boys to approach these with their utmost effort. From next week, it will just be Year 9 and 10 boys in class, so this is the time to step up and show they can be leaders in learning, too.

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Old Boy training for priesthood

I am delighted with the announcement by Bishop Peter Carrell that Old Boy, Eddie Bijl (13222, Corfe 2004­–2008) is heading to St John’s College, Auckland, as part of his training and formation for the priesthood. We wish him all the best and send our prayers with him.

You may be interested to know that Eddie Bijl is an actor and married to Ripeka (also an actor). One project they are working on, before moving to Auckland, is a production of Shakespeare's much loved comedy As You Like It, which will be performed from 9–13 December at Mona Vale. Tickets are obtainable through Eventfinda, https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2020/as-you-like-it-by-william-shakespeare/christchurch.

Chapel Services
As I write this, the Choir is preparing for the special All Saints (1 November) Choral Eucharist as a frame for Messe Solennelle by Louis Vierne, scored for choir and two organs. It was published in 1900.

On Sunday 29 November at 7pm, the Advent Carol service will be held. Then, on Thursday 3 December at 6pm we will have Carols on the Quad for everyone. The Leavers’ Service this year is on Friday 4 December at 7.30pm.

Yours in Christ.

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Upcoming careers dates

10 December	Closing date for 2021 first year applications to Universities
10 December	Otago University – closing date for Summer School applications
14 December	University of Canterbury – apply to enrol by this date
5 January–17 February 2021	Auckland University Summer Start Programme
11 January 2021	Otago University Summer School

Christ's College CareerWise

Click here to see recent posts on our CareerWise website. Click here to subscribe to our CareerWise website and receive weekly updates about careers events, news and job opportunities.

Study Link – Student Loans and Allowances

If any boys are intending to apply for Student Loans or allowances, they need to look at the StudyLink site and register. It does take time and the earlier they do so, the better. https://www.studylink.govt.nz/

Practical skills for life

The Ministry of Education has recently published a range of resources and advice for school leavers. For more information, go to https://school-leavers-toolkit.education.govt.nz/

University study – Having a Plan B

As boys leave College, they are usually confident the study or career decisions they have made are correct. In some cases, however, they may decide to change direction, during or at the end of their first year of tertiary study. For example, we recommend students who enrol in the Health Sciences first year have an alternative plan in place in case they do not get into their preferred degree programme. I heard that at a university where around 900 students had enrolled for a Bachelor of Engineering, 200 had moved to a different course within the first two weeks. There are many different options available, which lead in all sorts of interesting directions – and deciding to make a change is perfectly understandable and acceptable.

The Complete Student Jobs Guide

MoneyHub has updated its comprehensive directory of student jobs. With 50+ well-known employers listed and links to their student job application details, getting a part-time job is a lot easier with this guide: https://www.moneyhub.co.nz/student-jobs.html

Leaving School Magazine

Suitable for all students (hard copies available). Please click here to view.

In the magazine you will find:

• Jobs and Job & Career Profiles
• Finances - Balancing Your Budget
• Harnessing Performance Stress - Well Being
• Tips on Studying & Exam Preparation
• 7 Skills Employers want

University of Auckland

Applied Physics as a specialisation in the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) (BAdvSci(Hons))
The new specialisation in Applied Physics sits within the existing Bachelor of Advanced Science (Hons) degree. It is a four year honours degree with the same entry requirements and regulations as other BAdvSci (Hons) specialisations. The programme aims to equip graduates with both a strong base of core physics knowledge, and a broad range of additional interdisciplinary skills sought by both New Zealand industry and many areas of modern scientific research.

The programme targets five areas of applied physics, in which there is significant demand for graduates, and in which the Physics Department already has strong applied research programmes. These five areas are Computational Science, Medical Physics and Imaging Technology (MPIT), Nano and Materials Physics, Photonics, and Space Systems. Students choose which of these areas they wish to pursue either in Year 1, or the beginning of Year 2.

Computational Science
Computational science seeks to solve complex, real-world problems using tools from applied mathematics and physics. Students will be trained in the analytic and numerical techniques from both disciplines, and apply these to problems across the physical sciences, as well as to problems in economics and social science.

Medical Physics and Imaging Technology
This specialisation will train graduates who are proficient in the complementary areas of physics, biology and physiology, and skilled in the design and application of imaging, radiation and medical technologies. Graduates will work in either the biomedical industry, or engage in further training to qualify as registered medical physicists.

Nano and Materials Physics
Throughout history, people’s lives have been improved by efforts to make, understand and use new materials. Today, basic physics and chemistry are critical skills for making the materials which will build tomorrow’s computers, improve medical care, monitor and care for our environment, and support a sustainable economy driven by renewable energy. Materials innovation generates companies and technologies that have global impact, and has underpinned recent growth in New Zealand’s high-value manufacturing sector.

Photonics
Photonics is the science and technology of light. It is one of the key enabling technologies of the 21st century with applications across sensing, communications, manufacturing and health. A recent study by the Australian Optical Society estimated the total value of Photonics to the NZ economy to be 1.2 billion NZD. A combination of courses from Physics and Electrical Engineering will enable students to work in this exciting new area.

Space Systems
New Zealand is now a space-faring nation, with a burgeoning space economy valued by a recent report at 1.7 billion NZD. Space systems includes remote sensing, imaging, orbital dynamics, material science, mechanics, programming, fluid mechanics. This degree combines courses from Physics and Mechanical Engineering and will prepare students to work in a fast-evolving marketplace.

Young Old Boy Mentor – Australian Universities (Medicine)

Josh Ting (2014–2018) recently gave a very informative talk to interested Year 11 and 12 boys about his experience so far with universities in Australia. He is at present studying at Griffith University on the Gold Coast. His talk covered the different universities, methods of entry, the undergraduate degree and the time to complete study. Josh covered the requirements for entry from NZ schools where NCEA results at Year 13 are converted into an ATAR score. He gave the boys the different options in Australia and compared these with the two universities in New Zealand, the University of Otago and the University of Auckland. The boys asked excellent questions and are free to contact Josh at any time.

Thinking about University – A guide

Universities New Zealand have released an updated version of Thinking about University? A guide for New Zealand students, parents and whanau www.thinkingaboutuni.nz

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A celebration of 20 years – the Old Boys' Theatre

Robyn Peers’ report in the 2000 Register on the opening of the Old Boys’ Theatre – at the time of College’s sesquicentennial celebrations in October 2000 – begins, “How to launch a new theatre with aplomb”.

That’s indeed what happened; but first, it had to be built.

Building required some alterations to Richards House, a bit chopped off in the front and another layer added on top, and then the Theatre itself finally finishing the arch that had hovered on the end of Jacobs House since 1932.

Left photo: The construction of Richards House third floor
Right photo: The construction of the interior of the Old Boys' Theatre

The roof goes on the Old Boys' Theatre

With Phil Price’s masks on the exterior, the House windows in coloured glass, and the stage, donated seats, and Pamela Maling’s curtain and technical equipment all installed, it was time to see the Theatre in action. A carefully planned day-long programme displayed both the skills and abilities of the performers and the potential of the physical surroundings.

Left photo: Picnic on the Battlefield, directed by Mike O'Brien. (L–R) Sam Anderson, John Ussher, Steph Walker and Harley Bass

Right photo: Sam Neill with the cast of Magic Memories. Year 9 and 10 students from Christ's College and Rangi Ruru Girls' School

Over the past 20 years the Old Boys’ Theatre has proved that the donations of the Old Boys that enabled the building to be completed, were worth the size of the cheque.

The past Presidents of the Christ’s College Old Boys’ Association present a cheque for the Old Boys’ Theatre.

Drama has infiltrated every corner of College life. And the building is strategically placed within the College – you can’t miss it when you come through the gates. Whether a boy enjoys being on stage, or behind the scenes working on props, sound, lighting or in the orchestra pit – they all have an opportunity to be involved in the creative energy that flows through the doors. Add to that 20 years of audiences! It’s clear that the Old Boys’ Theatre has entertained and educated us all.

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The first 175 and a few more…

Preparations have begun for the 175th celebrations in 2025 and we’d like to know some more about the first 175 boys who attended Christ’s College. Just over 175 names are in the College List up to and including 1862, and there are also those who attended College in Lyttelton. So, over the next few issues of In Black & White, beginning with the A’s, there will be lists of those we’d like to make a connection with. We know that some boys did not have families, but they are included just in case there is a great, great, great, nephew or niece who can help us out. Perhaps you might draw up a family tree and phone the Old Boys’ Alumni Manager Lizzie Dyer (03-364-6862) or email it to her ccoba@ccoba.com, or email it to the archivist, jteal@christscollege.com or post it to the archivist at Private Bag 4900 Christchurch 8140.

Families are gathered together in the following list, except where the information we have is not clear about a family connection. If this is the case, names are listed separately.

Philip Boyle ABRAHAM

John ALLAN

Augustus Frederick Clark and Edward Bishop ALPORT

Albert Frederick ASHTON

George Noyes BAGGRETT

Frederick Arnold and Arthur Rossell BAKER

Richard Alfred, Samuel Delabere, Arthur Llewellyn and Francis Henry BARKER

Richard John BARTON

Arthur D’Oyley and Charles Lubbock BAYFIELD

Frederick BIGGS

Vallance Brenchley and Rookwood Comport BISHOP

Henry BOWLER

Alexander BOWLER

Morita BOWRON

Henry Eustace de Bathe BRANDON

Arthur Stanley, Joseph and Francis Henry BRITTAN

William Guise, Frederick George and Harry Lyttelton BRITTAN

Brittin BRITTIN

John Alfred, Edward Hatfield and Henry Samuel BROWN

Laurence Faber BROWN

Arthur Vawdry BUCHANAN

William Boyce, Charles Wesley and Joseph Fletcher BULLER

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CHRIST'S COLLEGE EVENTS

12 November	Greymouth Community Visit, 6–8pm REGISTER HERE
17 November	Blenheim Community Visit, 6–8pm REGISTER HERE
18 November	Nelson Community Visit, 6–8pm REGISTER HERE
3 December	Carols on the Quad Everyone's welcome

CCOBA EVENTS

6 November	Auckland AGM and Long Lunch, 12pm BOOK HERE
7 November	Wairarapa AGM and Long Lunch, 12pm BOOK HERE
20 November	Christchurch Long Lunch, 12.30pm BOOK HERE
26 November	Christchurch YOBs, 6–8pm BOOK HERE

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Memorable Farewell

On Monday 2 November the seniors led the school in a moving haka to farewell retiring staff members Peter Cooper and David Chambers. Click here to view.

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