In a school that nurtures students across such a broad age range, the house system is a powerful thread that weaves students together into a united and supportive community.
From the very first day of Prep, students are welcomed into their house — Buffalo, Cobbler, Feathertop, Hotham, Stirling or Warby — beginning a journey that continues throughout their entire schooling.
This early connection offers a sense of identity and security, giving even the youngest students a place where they are known, valued and included.
It fosters relationships across year levels, as older students become role models and mentors for the younger ones, helping to build confidence, resilience and connection.
Inter-house events such as house athletics, swimming, cross-country, master chef and the arts competition bring excitement, tradition, spirit and colour to the school year.
As importantly, however, houses provide a structure for pastoral care and leadership.
Through house meetings, service projects and shared goals, students learn about teamwork, integrity and responsibility.
They discover that belonging is not passive, it involves active participation and care for others.
Leadership opportunities are also present within the house system.
Students have the opportunity to be house captains in Years 5, 8, and 12, developing skills that will serve them far beyond their school years.
The leadership tasks involved with this valued role provide authentic opportunities to lead their house and school, including planning and hosting whole-school assemblies.
In a world where young people increasingly seek connection and purpose, the house system at Cathedral College Wangaratta provides both.
It creates a space where every student can belong, discover and achieve.
From their first footsteps into school life to their final farewells in Year 12, each student’s journey is enriched by the house they call home.
At its core, the house system is a celebration of community, one of Cathedral College’s core values — and that’s something worth belonging to.
