Our House System is a cornerstone of school life—nurturing teamwork, leadership, pride, and community across every year group. From K1 to P6, every pupil belongs to one of four houses and plays a role in shaping its success.

Our Four Houses

Each house promotes its own unique values and spirit:

• Centaur (Blue): “Unity in Wisdom, Strength in Harmony.”

• Dragon (Green): “Determination to Soar to New Horizons.”

• Griffin (Red): “Courage and Vision, Soaring Together.”

• Phoenix (Yellow): “Rise to the Challenge, Illuminate the Path.”

Earning House Points

Staff members award House Points throughout the school day for positive behaviour, contribution, and achievement. Points are totalled weekly, with results announced every Friday by our House Captains over the school tannoy. House Points are awarded for:

• Upholding school values and principles

• Exceptional dedication and commitment

• Acts of kindness, cooperation, and respect

• Positive leadership and role modelling

• Selflessness and service

Specific areas include:

• Outstanding classroom effort and academic achievement

• Participation in community service and projects

• Consistent positive behaviour

• Engagement in house competitions and team events

• Creativity and innovation in classwork and extracurriculars

• Teamwork and sportsmanship

• Efforts in sustainability and environmental action

• Promoting inclusivity and peer support

• Achievement in arts, languages, and music

Day-to-day behaviours also count:

• Uniform presentation

• Canteen, corridor, and classroom conduct

• Class participation and cleanliness

• Punctuality, helpfulness, and respect

Student Leadership

From P5, students are eligible for leadership roles in their house. Each house has:

• 2x House Captains

• 1x Vice Captain

These leaders support younger students at sports days, promote house spirit, and help with the collection and announcement of points. Leadership through the House System gives pupils a real voice and visible responsibility.

House Events & Competitions

Pupils take part in a variety of House Events throughout the year—from sports tournaments and art contests to spelling bees and STEM challenges. Events encourage friendly competition, team pride, and full participation.

Our House System is about more than points and prizes. It reinforces a culture of:

• Inclusion and belonging

• Positive behaviour and resilience

• Collaboration and leadership

• Celebration of every child’s strengths

It helps children form connections across year groups, encourages character, and reflects our commitment to a caring and respectful school environment.

For any queries about the House System, please contact:
Mr Stephen Ellis 
sellis@st-andrews.ie