2 minute read
House Performing Arts
True Colours
From my first House meeting in Week 1 of Year 7, the House System at Ivanhoe Girls’ has been one of my favourite elements of school life, explains Year 12 student, Charlotte.
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From that first meeting we were in an environment where we were encouraged to have a go at something new, to make new friends and most importantly, to have fun.
We were truly welcomed into a new family; this was made abundantly clear as the House Captain and my Year 11 buddy knew my name and would say "hi" to me as I walked through the School. This established an incredible sense of belonging.
Our House System gives every student a chance to participate and to excel. We have everything from photography to softball, diving or music. No matter what your skills are, there is a place for you. You also don’t need to be the best to have a go. You can come last in a race or drop all your cue cards in a debate, and your House will still cheer you on. Whilst competition is great, and the House Cup is always the aim, ultimately it’s all about participation.
House also allows for girls in all year levels to be involved in leadership - there are plenty of opportunities to have a go, with a role for everyone. You can write a play, set up an art display, lead a soccer team or allocate students a race in athletics or swimming. Personally, I have been a Representative for a range of activities. My first position was debating Rep in Year 8 where I worked with a Year 9 student and we learnt how to motivate people to debate, run meetings and fill out point sheets.
Each Rep position from then on taught me something new. I learnt how to problem solve when issues arise, to communicate information effectively and to encourage students to have a go at something new. House allows you to lead in a positive environment, where you have the support of others.
Over the years we’ve had some amazing girls as House leaders. These were students who led by example, inspiring and encouraging us to have a go, while supporting us the whole way. Having positive role models through your Reps and House leaders further enhances the supportive nature of the School and gives you someone to aspire to be like, someone who will help you and encourage you. House activities, particularly House Performing Arts and debates, also require you to collaborate with other year levels and create great inter-year level friendships.
Through involvement in House activities you get the opportunity to try new things, make new skills and learn some new ones. It allows you to build new relationships with girls in all year levels and have lots of fun. I would strongly encourage everyone to get involved in all House has to offer. Try something new, cheer for your House and have fun! I have loved being a part of Ashby, and I hope that everyone can find the love for their House too!
Charlotte Year 12 Captain of Ashby
