The House System, which helps to break down the school into more intimate and manageable units, is a defining feature and cornerstone of the school’s renowned pastoral care. The sense of community within each of the four Houses encourages a feeling of identity and belonging. It offers children the opportunity to work with younger and older pupils alike and children come together in their Houses to share assemblies, activities and sometimes, as on World Book Day, just a great story.
The role of House Captain is the one Prefect position that is elected by the children themselves, so giving them a feeling of ownership and togetherness. At the start of each term Prep 6 pupils go to the hustings where they make their case for election to this most prized of posts.
On entry to Highfield each pupils enters one of Nidderdale, Wharfedale, Wensleydale and Swaledale. Named after four of the most stunning of the Yorkshire Dales the children gain a huge amount from their activity within them. A typical year will see the children entering House competitions in pumpkin and Christmas decoration making, poetry and Easter Egg rolling (and dropping!). Competition allows for children of all ages to represent their House and compete for honours. House sports competitions are the keenest fought events of the year and none try harder than those wanting to win the cup for swimming, football and netball. All sports cups lie in the shadow of the trophy awarded for the most successful House at Sports Day.
The House system is also at the heart of our positive discipline and motivation ethos with children earning the reward of House points for great endeavours be they academic or social. At the end of the term our House Cup is awarded and all hold their breath to see whose ribbons will adorn this most treasured prize.