What are the Benefits of a House System at School?*

When thinking about houses at school most of us are reminded of Harry Potters famous Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff. But what are the real benefits of a house system at a school? St Hildas School, a private girls school in Hertfordshire, has done some research to help us all learn more about it.

Credit

House systems work by dividing the pupils into a certain amount of teams each with their own team name. These can be based on anything including colours, names of trees, local landmarks and inspirational people. Each house has a leader and siblings are often kept in the same house when possible.  Pupils are then offered opportunities to win house points throughout the year for things like good behaviour, exceptional work, great effort or improved attendance.

A School House system can help promote team work amongst peers and encourage students to work harder together, this will help build vital skills that are needed in working life. Having their own house that they are part of can also give each pupil a sense of belonging which is extremely important when it comes to mental health.

Strong bonds and relationships are built as the whole team are working towards one end goal. This will help children learn how to create authentic friendships throughout their lives.

Students learn at an early age that working hard pays off and that if they put in maximum effort they can not only achieve their goals but also be rewarded for it. This instils a positive working attitude that will pay off through school and when they finish and move on to the next stages in their lives.

Does your child’s school have a house system? What do you and your children think about it?