Our Boarding Staff

Struan's educational journey is closely intertwined with his commitment to boarding. Starting as a Physical Education and Health Teacher and House Tutor at Timaru Boys’ High School, he transitioned to St Andrew’s College in 2003, becoming House Tutor at McGibbon House. In 2011, a move back to St Andrew's College allowed him the opportunity to play first-class cricket for Canterbury. In 2014 he assumed the role of House Manager at MacGibbon House. Recognising the transformative impact of boarding, Struan expanded his commitment in 2023, now also serving as the Assistant Director of Boarding.

As a devoted father of four boys, his personal commitment to boys' education is profound, emphasising the importance of keeping them engaged and active. His insights into the transition from home to boarding life are not only professional but deeply personal, with his eldest son recently embarking on a journey with the Air Force. Struan brings a wealth of experience and understanding to his multifaceted roles at St Andrew’s College.

Jean began in the role of Assistant House Manager, MacGibbon House, in January 2024. She is well-known in the Boarding and College community as she was previously the Assistant House Manager of MacGibbon House from January 2015 to July 2017. Most recently Jean has been working at St Margaret’s College as Head of Boarding and Middle School House Manager since 2017. Jean also has extensive previous experience abroad, working as a Senior House Matron in the UK.

Ian has been House Manager of Rutherford Boarding House for several years. He has a student-centred philosophy with a very good understanding of adolescents. He recognises the need for young adults to be given the opportunity of self-responsibility accompanied with structures that make them accountable, while developing a strong sense of independence.

Ian teaches Technology as well as Design and Visual Communication, having a variety of practical skills. Outside of boarding he has a wide range of interests and is presently involved in open water swimming in the summer and skiing in the winter. He enjoys travelling extensively and is known for undertaking spontaneous trips away overseas.

Laura took up the role of Assistant House Manager of Rutherford House in 2023, drawing on her extensive background in youth work, event management, and StrengthsFinder coaching. Her focus on pastoral care aligns with her passion for supporting students. Laura's previous involvement in an independent school enrolment team provides an understanding of the educational landscape, emphasising the significance of the family's investment in choosing a school like St Andrew's College. Connected to the College through her husband, Assistant Chaplain Ben Hughes, Laura balances work with family commitments. They can often be found on sports sidelines or attending dance rehearsals for their two daughters, Isla and Eden.

Having been a Dean for the last several years, in addition to being an English teacher and now Thompson House Manager, Liz is very familiar with effective learning and pastoral care processes from Middle School to Senior College. Liz takes theatresports for extra-curricular, as well as helping out with rowing camps. Prior to St Andrew’s, she taught English at Christchurch Boys’ High School, also formerly working in Drug and Alcohol education, and as a journalist.

Liz hails from Invercargill, attending Southland Girls’ High School, then later achieving her Bachelor of Arts (English) at the University of Otago. Liz’s son, Sam, recently finished his studies at St Andrew’s, and with three step-sons, Liz is very familiar with the highs and lows of raising teenage boys. It is at any of these low times her dogs, Ted and Alby, as well as her partner, Andrew, bring her much joy.

Jo joined Thompson House as Assistant House Manager in 2013. She came to St Andrew’s College with a background in theatre and film and has also worked with various social agencies. The development of confidence and inner strength is something Jo loves to see throughout a young woman’s boarding experience. She enjoys being an active member of a hugely diverse, warm-hearted and close extended family. She has a passion for film, theatre, art and music festivals and relishes spending time with her borrowed boxer dogs at the beach and on walks in the Port Hills.