The Havergal Houses and School Spirit Havergal's Houses, named after ten women who have made outstanding contributions to the life of the school, are distinctive features of Havergal and its history. Some have been principals of the school, some have been much loved staff members and others have influenced the growth of the school.
The House system is integral to the mission and goals of the school. Havergal is divided into 10 Houses and every student (Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12) and faculty member is assigned to one of these Houses when she/he enters the school. Each House has its own colours, motto, characteristics, mascot, prayers and hymn.
The purpose is to create smaller units within which girls can cooperate for the common good and thus develop qualities of initiative and leadership, as well as get to know students who are both older and younger than themselves. Each girl’s efforts and achievements in schoolwork, games and co-curricular activities credit her House. The system encourages cooperation and school spirit among girls of all ages. Each spring, students don their House colours and give their loudest cheers at a spirited House Shout.
Leadership opportunities are provided through the House system in many ways. Girls in the Junior School, for example, take on responsibilities for attendance and counting points earned within their Houses, as well as coordinating events such as Sports Day and House Prayers. Girls in the Upper School lead their Houses' community involvement program, sports and arts activities.
House Points House points may be earned by students who make progress, show improvement, perform special services, or take on leadership roles and additional responsibilities in areas of school life.The House which earns the greatest number of points during the academic year wins the House Banner. The announcement of the winning House is made at a year-end Prayers in the Upper School and at the June Closing Ceremony in the Junior School.
The House tradition is a distinctive characteristic of the Havergal community and is a point of pride within the rich history of the school. A lifelong membership, the House system not only recognizes the contributions of ten extraordinary women within the life of the school, it also provides an important link between students and Old Girls throughout the generations. Old Girls, fondly recalling their House colours and mascots, often sing the words to their House hymns at their 50th reunions.
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