St Peter’s, Cambridge head girl Alyssa Sherry-Middlemiss and head boy and Dominic Hedley share their experiences of school life and what they believe makes St Peter’s stand head and shoulders above the rest.
ALYSSA
This is a school with high expectations and has led me to engage and develop in ways that would not have been otherwise possible. St Peter’s is so unique because students recognise that everyone is here for the same reason: to become the best versions of ourselves.
The St Peter’s motto of ‘body, mind and spirit’ emphasises that we truly have every opportunity. I’ve been involved in netball, rowing and the productions throughout my time here, helping to develop my reason for being, and to create lifelong friendships and skills for life after school. Whether it’s service, sport, cultural, or academic desires, growth mindsets are nurtured, and the support offered to flourish.
Like any school, there are always challenges, but the St Peter’s leadership team and staff always put students first, ensuring we feel safe, cared for, and listened to. This takes many forms, like always being offered support and being informed first about things happening in and around the school. On top of this, 2022 has seen a big push in student leadership and voice. The school gives its students the opportunity to talk about and acknowledge what’s most important to us and allows us to deliver these messages or movements ourselves if we so wish.
St Peter’s is a truly special, accepting school whose enriching culture and values encourage all students to fulfil their potential. We look forward to welcoming you to see for yourselves.
DOMINIC
My first night boarding the homesickness hit so badly I was already planning my escape, but by my second week I was having so much fun my house director had to remind me to call home!
One of the many pull factors that led me to St Peter’s was the campus and facilities. The space to think, to learn, to grow. From the tech rooms to the Ag block, the science block to the auditorium and the velodrome, we pretty much have it all.
But what really separates St Peter’s is the option to board which offers a culture and community like no other. From summer evenings playing touch, soccer, or cricket and bombing at the pool, to the freezing winters eating supper in the common room while watching TV, there’s never a dull moment. Creating close friendships aside, we learn how to live with others and be organised and part of a community.
Every year there is an inter house competition which every border in every house competes in. Each house performs chants and skits that have been rigorously practised throughout the prior week, followed by a bunch of different events. Winners are announced during a barbecue at the end of the day. Unfortunately, my house Oliphant has been consistently second for the past few years – but there’s always next year!
Find out more about this exceptional school at stpeters.school.nz