As students transition into Sixth Form, they find themselves at a pivotal point in their educational journey. While top academic achievement remains a cornerstone of this phase, the Sixth Form experience at QEGS offers so much more than just grades. It is a journey filled with purpose, responsibility, and personal growth and provides a unique opportunity to develop leadership skills that extend beyond the classroom. By taking on roles like Head of House, students learn invaluable lessons in teamwork, responsibility, and communication. Below, we hear from our Heads of Houses about how their leadership roles have shaped their experiences and personal growth during this transformative time.

Head of Saville: “It was quite a move from QEGS Junior school, where the house system was an omnipresent part of everyday school life, to the Senior section, where there was (at that time) no house system at all. I know that many of the boys, myself included, heartily missed the camaraderie, competition, and excitement that the house system fostered in us. Therefore, when I first heard that the house system was being implemented in the Senior school, I jumped at the chance to be Head of House. There was an audible sigh of relief from the collective when we heard that, for those of us who had been in Junior school, we would be placed in the same house as we were in then. In all seriousness, the house system was welcomed back with much gusto and has only gone from strength to strength in the years following its introduction.”

Head of Bentley: “I think that initially, I wanted to be house captain as a challenge to myself. Something that would push me out of my comfort zone and challenge me with new responsibilities and experiences. But over the last year, the role has grown into so much more than that. Now it’s about encouraging other boys to push themselves further and further. It’s about cheering at an inter-house with a smile on our faces or explaining why Bentley (yellow house) is simply better than the other three, having an identity within QEGS. I guess that’s why I’d want to be Head of House now.”

Head of Cave: “I applied to be Head of House because I wanted to help change the house system to the point where all students want to get involved in house activities. I knew that this would be a challenge, and it still is, but that is part of the reason why I wanted to take this on. I also thought that it would be a good chance to show myself as a role model and inspire the younger year groups so that they can take part in and make the most of our house system that we are so lucky to have.”

Through their leadership, the Heads of Houses not only aim to enhance the house experience but also strive to inspire change and make a lasting impact on their peers.  Each Head of House has unique initiatives aimed at fostering engagement and supporting charitable causes.

Head of Bentley: “My favourite would definitely be the entrepreneurship (GEW) challenges, Time Commanders house competition, inter-house music, and Masterchef mystery box challenge. They all required lots of work and support but provided invaluable memories in return. The Masterchef mystery box was especially stressful as I was representing the entire house and not just my year. As always, the competition was friendly, and I triumphed with great humility (for the first year at least).”

Head of Saville: “I have been involved in brainstorming new ideas for the house system. The new rewards system, based on participation in house events, was an idea of mine, and we’re thinking up new ways to raise money for our chosen charities. There are few better feelings than beating opponents while contributing to good causes!”

Head of Cave: “Every year, each House has a week during which they try to raise as much money for their chosen charity as possible. While that is still to come this year, we have already been thinking about what we can do for our week. Recently, the idea for a House Song came up, and so many boys in Cave have entered themselves into taking part in this house song. Once complete, they will then put it on show during assembly and be judged, with the winner (most likely Cave) receiving a huge house point bonus.”

The Heads of Houses are dedicated to making a difference not only through charitable initiatives but also by creating opportunities for their peers to shine.

Head of Cave: “It is really important to stay committed to the role of house leader because the more effort I put into it, the more reward myself and others can get out of it. I think the way that I can truly make a difference is by ensuring that each boy gets involved enough in house activities that they end up wanting to participate instead of seeing it as something they must do.”

Head of Bentley: “I hope that I make a difference by allowing my housemates the opportunities they deserve. If fellow Bentleys in my year aim to start a new competition or activity, I am their first port of call. I’d like to think that I help create these opportunities for my housemates.”

Head of Saville: “The most important way in which I can make a difference is by introducing new students to all the wonders of the house system, especially the new students in Year 7. Coming into a new school can be incredibly daunting, and I know from my conversations with younger members of the house that they have found the house system to be a real lifeline in making new friends and exploring new hobbies.”

Through their dedication and commitment, the Heads of Houses at QEGS are also shaping a vibrant and inclusive community that encourages every student to thrive. We couldn’t be prouder !