House System

The girls enjoy healthy and friendly rivalry between three Houses; Harewood, Newby and Beningbrough. There are regular House assemblies throughout the year, led by the House Captain, a Lower Six student, guided by the staff member who is Head of House. These are real team building sessions where the planning of how to approach, enjoy and win the next competition is the focus of everyone. The October half term is approached with vigour. The school has a truly memorable afternoon prior to breaking up; the House Music competition is held in the Performing Arts Centre and a professional musician is invited to judge the event. There are solo, ensemble and whole House Choir performances enjoyed amidst the buzz of three cheering Houses. Other events include netball, hockey, tennis and rounders matches, an annual swimming gala, quizzes and fund raising events, such as 'Just a Minute.' House notice boards are colourful. They encourage the support of their members and recognise those girls who have achieved bronze, silver and gold awards because their achievements and efforts, whether they be for academic progress or for their contribution to extra curricular activities, have earned the required threshold of house points. The House system gives opportunities for fun, interaction of girls from different sections of the school, recognition, creativity and working well together. It also encourages a sense of responsibility and develops leadership skills. There have been few sights more memorable than watching a House Captain quietly use her initiative and kindness when encouraging a soloist from the prep school who faltered in her public performance. The completion of the song was a credit to both girls and maintained the young pupil's self esteem and confidence.