The House System at the Cumballa Hill High School: Building Character, Community, and Legacy

At Cumballa Hill High School, the House System is much more than just a tradition. The house system is deeply embedded in the school culture. It creates a sense of identity, belonging, and pride that the students carry with them well beyond their time here.

Being a part of a house means more than wearing a colour or even earning points. It means being part of a supportive community within the school that cheers you on, picks you up, and helps you grow. From sports to debates, cultural fests to community service, every inter-house activity is a chance for students to develop teamwork, leadership, resilience, and empathy.

The House System unites students across grades into four houses: Keller, Tagore, Milton, and Forbes. Each house is named after an individual who represents resilience, creativity, intellect, or leadership which are key values we strive to instill in every student.

Keller House is inspired by Helen Keller, a remarkable woman who overcame deafness and blindness to become an author, lecturer, and activist. She was the first deaf-blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree and spent her life advocating for people with disabilities. Keller House teaches us the power of perseverance and the importance of inclusion, reminding students that determination can break any barrier.

Tagore House takes its name from Rabindranath Tagore, the legendary poet, writer, and philosopher. A Nobel Prize winner and founder of Shantiniketan, Tagore believed in education that nurtures the heart and mind. Tagore House encourages students to express themselves, explore their creativity, and think deeply about the world around them.

Milton House honours John Milton, the English poet behind Paradise Lost and Paradise Regained. A deeply religious and principled man, Milton continued to write and serve the public even after he lost his eyesight. His resilience and discipline inspire Milton House to value strength of character, intellectual curiosity, and moral conviction.

Forbes House is named after our beloved founder, Mrs. Dolly H. Forbes, who started CHHS in 1940 with just two students. Through her hard work, passion, and belief in every child’s potential, she built the foundation of the school we are proud of today. Forbes House stands for leadership, loyalty, and love for the CHHS community.

The House System also teaches invaluable life lessons such as winning with integrity and humility, losing with grace, and of course, to always play fair. It encourages students to push beyond their comfort zones and contribute not just as individuals, but as part of something larger.

At the Cumballa Hill High School, the House System is where friendships are formed, leaders are shaped, and character is built. It is a living tribute to the greats who came before us, and a way for every student to leave their own mark—one competition, one cheer, one moment of courage at a time.