Collège Champittet has introduced an innovative House System that creates lasting bonds among students from preschool through Grade 8. This exciting new tradition divides the student body into four distinct Houses—Eagles, Lynx, Wolves, and Bears—each represented by vibrant colors: yellow, red, green, and blue respectively. The system is specifically designed to foster solidarity between younger and older learners, creating meaningful connections across age groups that might not otherwise interact regularly.
The House System operates on a unique reward structure that emphasizes community values over academic performance. Throughout the school year, each House collects tokens for its House Chest by earning points for positive behaviors, acts of kindness, and active participation in school activities. This approach intentionally shifts focus from grades to character development, rewarding students for teamwork, engagement, and maintaining positive attitudes daily. The system creates an inclusive environment where every student can contribute meaningfully to their House's success, regardless of academic standing.
The implementation of this House System represents a significant cultural shift within the school community, providing structured opportunities for students to develop leadership skills, learn collaborative problem-solving, and build relationships that extend beyond their immediate classroom circles. By creating smaller communities within the larger school framework, students experience a greater sense of belonging and connection to their peers and the institution as a whole.
The official launch of the House System on September 4th marked a spectacular beginning to this new tradition. Students arrived at school dressed in their House colors, immediately creating a visual representation of the four communities. The day began with team-building workshops where students collaborated to create unique identities for their Houses, designing flags, developing slogans, and composing songs that would represent their team throughout the year.
Following the creative sessions, the school held a vibrant parade where each House proudly displayed their newly created identities. The celebration continued with friendly competitions where House members cheered enthusiastically for their peers during various races and events. The first House award ceremony saw students standing on podiums, experiencing the pride of representing their Houses in these initial competitions. As one parent observed, 'This was such a special and inspiring day—the House System is a great initiative. Well done, everyone!'
The community-building extended beyond competitions with shared lunches for each House, further strengthening the bonds between members. Throughout the day, students earned points for their Houses based on participation, creativity, team spirit, and athletic achievements. The system has already demonstrated significant benefits in helping new students integrate into the Collège Champittet community and strengthening every child's sense of belonging. This innovative approach to building school spirit creates lasting memories and establishes traditions that will continue to enrich the student experience for years to come at this distinguished institution.
