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Collegiate Life
Selwyn is an independent university college which broadly follows the Oxbridge model, in which the key elements are tutorials, accommodation, food and pastoral care. Students study, live and eat in the same buildings, sharing learning and laughter, conversing with and challenging one another. Selwyn's extensive tutorial programme belies its smaller size. Students come to the College to make new friends and to enjoy academic success. Selwyn's food also enjoys a enviable reputation. In-house catering ensures quality of delivery, while a small kitchen means extra care and attention to detail.
All Saints' Church and Selwyn's Chaplain
Selwyn maintains its identity as an Anglican institution through formal links on its governing Board and through less formal links with the neighbouring All Saints parish. We sustain a strong connection with All Saints' Church, which forms part of Selwyn's campus as well as being the only church on University grounds. Historically the Vicar of All Saints' has also functioned as Selwyn's Chaplain. The presence of the Chaplain at mealtimes is a great asset to the College, providing support not only to students but also to the Welfare Team and College staff. The Chaplain also conduct the five or six church services we hold each year. These are not compulsory events but they are nevertheless well attended, being welcome opportunities for the whole College community to gather and reflect at important moments. Finally, a point of distinction: no other college at Otago has a dedicated chaplain.
Diversity
Collegiate living means learning to embrace and celebrate a range of backgrounds and a diversity of talents. To this end, we have embraced the emphasis on bicultural partnership that the Anglican Church has developed with the Maori community. In 2009, we hosted the Maori On-Campus Experience for the University; some of the best Year 13 students in the country stayed at the College. (You can read more about our format for a Mihi Whakatau.)
The front of Selwyn College