House System
Introduction
The Seisen International School House Committee was set up to create and organise a wide range of Inter-House events and activities designed to build a ‘vertical and horizontal community within the school’. Students, teachers and staff members are organised into teams or houses ‘vertically’ across the school from K-12. The primary purpose of the House System is to create a sense of ‘spirit and belonging across the school and allow students to mix with girls at different grade levels during organised events. ‘It provides a chance for students to develop their leadership skills and creates a culture of positive role models within the school’.
Background
There are four house teams in Seisen International School, and they are named after Japanese mountains to acknowledge our host nation and honour Japanese culture. The analogy of challenging oneself and having the grit and determination to ‘climb mountains’ to attain our goals serves as a reminder of what being an active participant in House events is all about. In the past, students have participated in themed dress-up days, Global Mindedness Days, Sports Days, House Picnic Days and divisional student-led events. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which we currently face, many of these events will need to be reconsidered and relooked. To continue serving the purpose and fulfilling the mission and vision of the House System, the committee would like to propose new initiatives moving forwards for our students.
Mission Statement
The Seisen International School House System aims to foster a sense of belonging, diversity and inclusion, reflecting the ethos of the school. The House System engages all students and staff, empowering them to feel safe, positive and included on all levels through an inter-house community with ownership and leadership. Students are provided with opportunities to lead, build friendships and develop a strong identity as they pledge allegiance to their houses throughout their participation in a wide variety of competitions, events and activities. These initiatives address all individuals’ grit and determination to take on personal and team challenges, embracing a diverse culture across the school.
Aims and Objectives
- To build vertical and horizontal community within the school
- To align ourselves with the High School goals and focus on leadership development through student-led activities and initiatives
- To present opportunities for (physical, mental and social) well-being as stated in one of the Middle School goals
- To provide a platform for the Leadership in Action Groups (LIA) in the Elementary Section for action and collaborate with facilitators employing the Seisen Leadership Profile
- To regenerate the competitive and collaborative House System and design covid safe activities for all students to participate in from K-12
- To create a House Captains and Deputy House Captains Committee representing the four houses from K-12 (although there is still discussion about whether this is feasible for Kindergarten).