Around 450 BC, the Greek philosopher Empedocles wrote that the world was comprised of four things: earth (Terra), air (Ventus), fire (Ignis) and water (Aqua). Plato referred to them as the four elements. These were not elements in the modern sense, but rather essences that gave everything their physical properties. In ancient Roman religion and myth, Tellus Mater or Terra Mater (“Mother Earth”) is a goddess of the earth. Therefore, Terra relates to Earth element. Similarly, Aqua, relates to the Water element. Ignis relates to the Fire element & Ventus relates to the Wind element.
In order to promote sports, games and co-curricular activities in an atmosphere of fine sportsmanship as well as excellent competitive spirit, the students of Carol Convent School are divided into 4 houses namely Terra, Ignis, Aqua and Ventus. Each house is guided by two teachers (mentors), a house captain and vice-captain. The houses have their separate uniforms and house flags. Different inter-house competitions are held all through the year and all the competitions climax to the Annual Sports meet.
The Motto of the Terra House is “The Earth doesn’t belong to us, we belong to the Earth.” This clearly states our resolve to inculcate in Carolites a respect for the Earth & Mother Nature.
The Motto of the Ventus House is “Sky is the limit.” Carolites are expected to aim high & exceed everybody’s expectations from them while staying humble at the same time.
The Motto of the Aqua House is an ancient Chinese proverb that says, “When you drink the water, remember the spring.” Carolites are taught to remember their roots and heritage & to remember where one’s happiness comes from. At the same time, they are taught to be thankful to the Mother Nature for this gift that forms a part of us all & sustains the planet or our Terra.
The Motto of the Ignis House is a quote by the famous Irish poet W.B. Yeats that says, “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” Carolites are taught to keep the fire in their bellies alive at all times in pursuit of knowledge and success.
The House system aims to give students an identity and sense of pride in a supportive, secure environment. The Houses provide for positive competition and a closer rapport between students and teachers. They also aim to help new staff and students adapt to the culture of Carol Convent School.
The Houses compete in a number of sporting, academic and cultural activities for points. We have an Academic Effort/Participation weekly record that also gains each House points. Each year the winning House receives the House shield and other prizes.
The House system is an integral and vibrant part of the school’s culture. The core values are explained as self-development, intellectual empowerment and life-long learning within the diversity and strength of our one community. The four ‘cornerstones’ of Carol Convent School are learning, tradition, respect and quality co-education. Together, these aspects make up the core values, philosophy, ideology of the school and they ‘give us our clear direction and pathway’.
Opportunities arise to:
The House with most points will win the school trophy at the end of March. There will also be a trophy for the House that wins Sports Day. Individual students will also be recognised for winning the most House Points.