Sport at our heart

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St Michael’s has a full sporting programme, focusing on both individual skill acquisition and team participation.

The Physical Education programme focuses on skill acquisition, balance, agility and body management, motor skills and conduct. As children develop the key skills appropriate for their age, they are introduced to a range of formal and informal sports, games and activities. As an essential component within St Michael’s tradition of preparation, the programme introduces pupils to some of the wider range of sports which will be on offer at secondary school.

The school has championships in swimming, cross-country and athletics, and from these events pupils are selected to compete in the Independent Schools’ Zone championships. Success at Zones can result in qualification for the Canterbury Primary Schools’ championships. Pupils also compete in the winter tournament and gymnastics events.

During terms 1 and 2, the school participates in a week-long block of daily swimming lessons at Taiora QEII and at Parakiore from Term 1, 2026.

Outdoor Education Outdoor Education takes place each term, often complementing a class unit study in Science, Geography or History.  Students participate in Beach Ed, Surf Safe, First Aid, Orienteering and Sailing.  They enter the Tough Kids' Challenge, participate in climbing, biking as well as High and Low Ropes at Orton Bradley Park. 

The Year 6 pupils participate in the Christchurch City Council's Cycle Safe programme. Here they learn road rules and gain confidence before setting out around Hagley Park and the neighbouring roads and cycle paths.

Independent Schools' Ski Racing

Each year, St Michael's team enter the Independent Schools' Ski Racing, a slalom event at Porters Heights.