Our House Spirit’s founders Ms Petrina Jones and Ms Karen Dimattina strongly believe that when students feel good, they do good. Their program is building connection — one House at a time.
Every child has a spark. Our mission? To give that spark room to grow. Since 2012, we’ve been transforming traditional House systems into modern engines for student voice, wellbeing, and belonging. Our programs don’t just create great leaders—they create proud communities and connected school cultures.
So how do we achieve our mission?
School Year Membership: 12 months that energises a tired House system
Think of it as a year-long launchpad for student connection. With our School Year Membership, schools receive 12 months of onsite workshops, inspiring resources, access to our dynamic House Library, and ongoing support that fuels student-led impact. Schools across Victoria—from the metro to the remote—are seeing substantial shifts in culture. As one principal told us: “Our students feel genuinely empowered to lead. It’s completely changed how we view leadership.”
School Day Workshops: Real leadership in real time
There’s something electric about an Our House Spirit School Day Workshop. These immersive, high-energy days equip senior students with the tools to design, lead, and run their own school events. It’s not about us leading—it’s about them. From Ivanhoe Grammar School to Orchard Grove Primary, Mordialloc Beach PS to St Thomas More in Mt Eliza, the results speak for themselves. One teacher shared: “It was the most authentic leadership training we’ve seen. The kids were absolutely buzzing—and ready to take the reins.”
The House Library: House resources, just a click away
Need some inspiration for your House system? The House Library is a digital treasure trove of practical tools, engaging video workshops, printable worksheets, teacher guides, lesson plans and fresh House activity ideas. Designed to lighten the load for busy educators and support student leadership teams, the House Library brings House systems to life. Everything you need to build a vibrant House culture, at your fingertips.
From here to everywhere: Our House Spirit goes national
In 2025, we’re hitting the road! Our House Spirit is expanding across Australia and New Zealand, bringing our hands-on workshops and digital tools to schools everywhere. From desert towns to coastal campuses, our mission is clear: to spark joy, pride, and leadership in every school we meet.
Come say hello in Melbourne
We’re thrilled to be part of the National Summit Education Show at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on 28–29 August. Come find us, have a chat, and see how your school can join our mission. Together, let’s build a generation of confident, connected students — one House at a time.
More reading: Getting into the spirit: the untapped potential of House systems
