The house system is a whole school approach to self-motivation, team building, camaraderie and friendly competition.  Students in Year 7-13 are divided into Brunel, Churchill, Darwin and Shakespeare houses.  Within the house there is a Head of House (staff) and a House Captain and Vice Captain (student).

As members of their individual houses, students are encouraged to strive towards earning house points for their house, participate in spirit events and competitions, and play a part in social events; all of which are aimed at promoting a sense of team solidarity and inclusion.

House Competitions

Students can earn house points during inter-house competitions; they will earn points for first through fourth place in any particular event.  In addition, students can be awarded points for fair play and can lose points for poor sportsmanship.

House points may also be awarded through community service; spirit days and competitions; and for academic and pastoral achievements. Students earn both silver and gold merits for quality work, volunteering, community service or spirit.  Once they achieve a certain number of merits they will be awarded a certificate: Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum; these in turn will be converted into house points.

Having a competitive spirit is a fundamental part of the House System. Throughout the year, there are a number of competitions and events for students to participate.  These range from inter-house sporting events and debate to a General Knowledge Quiz.  The year ends with Sports Day and BSC’s ‘Got Talent’ competitions.

Spirit Events

In order to promote inclusion and solidarity within the houses, a number of social and philanthropic events take place throughout the year. These events encourage development of the student’s sense of belonging and social skills, as well as their moral and community awareness.

Spirit events take place throughout the last week of each term, as well as on some special days such as Homecoming and Halloween.  During the spirit weeks there are different themes for each day, and pupils are able to win house points for 'best dressed' or 'most creative outfit'.  In addition, the week will include a large spirit event in which pupils are involved in supporting their houses, peers and staff in a competitive activity.  These spirit weeks and events are designed to be thought-provoking, sociable and fun.  Students are encouraged to take part in these events and not only identify themselves as part of their house, but also identify themselves as a part of their wider community and the world at large, learning to appreciate their place within it and the role that they can play in making a worthy and positive contribution.