The power of House 

At MLC, House activities are more than just a long-standing tradition—they are an essential part of our school culture that fosters community and connection. From the moment students join MLC, they become part of one of our five Houses.  

The Houses at MLC were first introduced in 1933 by Rev Grove. For five years, the Houses were simply numbered, but in 1937, at a special assembly, the names were announced as Berry, Cato, Fitchett, and Krome. Several years later, in 1959, Nevile was added.  

Since then, a variety of activities take place across the College within Houses, including cheerleading, athletics, performing arts, debating, lunchtime House sports, cross country, music, swimming and diving, chess and drama.  

The wide range of events cater to students' different interests, ensuring that each student can find something they enjoy. Participation can vary too; for example, at the House Performing Arts Festival, students can choose to perform, help with costume design or AV, and at the House Athletics and Arts Carnival, students can opt to create artwork inspired by their House. 

Principal Julia Shea often emphasises the importance of creating connection and belonging for each student, alongside providing opportunities to learn skills in leadership and teamwork. House activities such as the recent Junior School Cross Country and Years 7-12 Athletics and Arts Carnival are perfect examples of these opportunities. These events are memory markers, where students choose to be active participants, whether in the activity itself or through leading chants and encouraging teammates.  

These days are about far more than results. They are community builders, dissolving the boundaries between year levels and encouraging connection across the College. In our House system, we see true unity: older students inspiring younger peers, younger students cheering on their role models, and everyone contributing to a collective spirit of pride and purpose.  

House activities also offer numerous leadership opportunities, with House Captain positions held from Year 7 through to Year 12. There are 10 House Captains and our Head of Houses Prefect, providing students with valuable experiences in leadership and teamwork. 

The power of the House system at MLC lies in the opportunity for connection that being an active member of their House brings to each student. Let’s continue to celebrate these opportunities, not for the chance to win, but for the values they reinforce and the lasting memories they create.