At Hartland, the house system plays a central role in fostering teamwork, collaboration, and a strong sense of community. Students from all year groups are assigned to one of four Houses — Mushrif, Creekside, Safa and Zabeel — named after iconic parks in Dubai. This system encourages students to develop meaningful relationships, both within and beyond their immediate peer groups, while igniting a passion for healthy competition. House points are awarded for academic excellence, acts of kindness, and participation in a wide array of activities. Through the house system, Hartland ensures that every student feels a sense of belonging while celebrating their achievements. Through the house system we aim to:
The house system at Hartland is designed to cultivate a strong sense of community. Students from different year levels are placed in the same house, encouraging friendships that span across age groups. For example, events such as house assemblies provide an opportunity for students to come together, celebrate the achievements of their peers, and recognise the contributions of house members. Similarly, events such as the Teddy Bears Picnic for younger students encourage collaboration and shared experiences within their houses.
Siblings are always grouped in the same house, further strengthening family bonds. These initiatives promote inclusivity and create a support network where every student feels valued and connected.
Healthy competition is at the heart of the house system, with students participating in a variety of events and activities that highlight teamwork and individual excellence. Competitions such as the 30×30 Fitness Challenge, Sports Day, and Inter-House Chess Tournaments foster a spirit of collaboration and motivate students to excel. Additionally, academic challenges like the 1% Club and creative pursuits such as the Inter-House Art Competition and Hartland’s Got Talent allow students to showcase their diverse talents. House points are awarded for participation and achievement, creating a fun and engaging environment for all. These points are celebrated in assemblies and at the end of each term, inspiring a shared sense of pride and accomplishment.
The house system provides numerous opportunities for students to take on leadership roles, helping them develop confidence and responsibility. Older students assume roles as House Captains, Vice Captains, or Sports Leaders, guiding their peers during events such as House Assemblies, Earth Week initiatives, and community service projects like the Beach Clean-Up. Through these experiences, students learn to lead by example and work collaboratively to achieve shared goals. Leadership roles also help students develop essential skills such as organisation, communication, and decision-making, preparing them for future challenges.
The Hartland house system highlights and rewards students’ achievements across various domains, including academics, sports, and community service. Points are awarded for various reasons including acts of kindness, positive attitudes, demonstrating Hartland values and participation in activities such as the Cultural Awareness Day Art Competition or Primary and Secondary Hartland’s Got Talent. Special achievements are recognised during assemblies, ensuring students feel appreciated for their efforts. By embedding values such as kindness, respect, and diligence into the reward system, the House programme celebrates both individual and collective accomplishments while reinforcing Hartland’s core values.