Our School Houses: Fostering Community and Values at Hampstead Parochial
At Hampstead Parochial School, our House system is a cherished tradition that helps build a strong sense of community, teamwork, and identity across all year groups, starting in Year 1. Houses bring children together in friendly competition and encourage the positive behaviors that reflect our core Christian values and support good learning for everyone.
Our Four Traditional Houses
Every pupil at Hampstead Parochial School is placed into one of four Houses, each named after a significant person from our school’s rich history. Children remain in the same House throughout their time at the school.
| House Name | Colour | Historical Connection |
| Ainger | Blue | Named for The Reverend Thomas Ainger (1799 – 1863), the vicar of Hampstead who was responsible for building the current school structure. He was also known for his extensive charity work with the poor, including building hospitals and a free dispensary. |
| Mitchell | Green | Named for Thomas Mitchell (1751 – 1799), who founded Hampstead Parochial School from the Sunday School of St John-at-Hampstead Parish Church. He also served as the school’s first master. |
| Newman | Red | Named for Blessed John Henry Newman CO (1801 – 1890), a highly influential priest, writer, and poet. He was an important figure in English religious history who preached the school sermon in the 19th Century and was later made a Cardinal. |
| Valentine | Yellow | Named for Susannah Valentine (1804 – 1830), who was the Mistress of the National School (which became Hampstead Parochial School) for over 10 years. She dedicated herself to the school from the young age of 14. |
Family Link: To maintain tradition and family connection, if you have an older brother or sister at the school when you join us, you will be placed into the same House as them.
Earning House Points and Rewards
The House system is designed to reward great behaviour and a commitment to learning:
- House Points are awarded throughout the week for demonstrating excellent behavior, such as following our Golden Rules, showing kindness, and making a great effort in your work.
- Weekly Winner: The House that earns the most points each week is announced on Friday. The members of the winning House get the privilege of eating first at the House Lunch on the following Thursday.
- Termly Champion: At the end of every half term, all the House Points are totalled. The House with the most points wins the prestigious House Trophy and is invited to celebrate their success at the House Party!
House Competitions and Events
Houses also compete in various exciting events and challenges throughout the year, giving every child a chance to contribute to their team’s score. The main competitive event is our annual Sports Day, where the Houses go head-to-head in a spirit of friendly sportsmanship and teamwork.
