A strong House system thrives on regular, varied competitions that bring pupils together and build team spirit. These events do not need to be complicated or expensive. They simply need to be meaningful, enjoyable and inclusive. The most important rule is that every competition must be fair. Results should be based on pupil effort, not adult involvement, and every House must have a genuinely equal chance to succeed.

If staff belong to Houses, competitions must be managed with particular care. Staff enthusiasm can be wonderful, but adults must never influence outcomes in favour of their own House. No member of staff should judge their House’s performance or set rules that could create an advantage. Fairness protects the integrity of the whole system and strengthens trust.

For the same reason, parental help should never give pupils an advantage. Tasks completed at home—models, costumes, research projects or artwork—must not decide competition outcomes or earn House points. All competitions should be completed in school so that every child, regardless of home background, competes on equal ground.

If you want to refresh an older system before introducing new competitions, you may find this helpful: How to Redesign an Outdated House System.

1. Handwriting Hero Challenge

A celebration of neatness, pride and improvement rather than perfection. Pupils focus on presentation for a short task, and teachers select winners based on progress and effort.

2. The Kindness Marathon

A week dedicated to spotting small acts of kindness around the school. Staff record acts, and Houses collect points for positive contributions. This links naturally with the Guardian value of Kebaikan (Kindness).

3. Problem-Solving Gauntlet

Pairs or small teams complete logic puzzles, riddles or practical challenges. Mixed-age groups work especially well for this competition.

4. Creative Arts Festival

Short creative tasks such as drawing, collage, poetry, or digital art. Events can take place in classrooms or in a larger shared space.

5. Mini Olympics

Quick, fun athletic challenges that work in any playground. Beanbag throws, shuttle runs and skipping races create excitement without requiring specialist equipment.

6. House Choir Challenge

Each House learns a short song. Points are awarded for teamwork, participation and enthusiasm rather than musical expertise.

7. The Grand Team Quiz

A mixed-age quiz that includes general knowledge, puzzles, music and picture rounds. This competition gives every child something they can contribute.

8. The Great Build-Off

Using LEGO, blocks or junk modelling materials, pupils work in teams to build a structure that meets a simple brief. Judging criteria can include creativity, stability and teamwork.

9. Spelling Showdown

A team-based spelling challenge with different tiers for different age groups. Every pupil can participate at an appropriate level.

10. Maths Treasure Hunt

Pupils solve clues hidden around the school. Each clue leads to the next, encouraging teamwork, resilience and problem-solving.

11. Sportsmanship Cup

A competition that celebrates fairness, teamwork and respectful behaviour during sports activities. This reinforces the value of Armastus (Love) in action.

12. House Debate Day

Short, simple debates on fun topics. Pupils earn points for clear speaking, respectful listening and thoughtful contributions.

13. Design a Mascot Outfit

Each House designs a costume or banner for their figurehead—Bear, Wolf, Tiger or Falcon. This competition works well when refreshing House identity, especially if paired with the Guardian System.

14. Eco-Challenge Week

Tasks linked to recycling, litter picking, energy saving or caring for the school grounds. Pupils earn points for environmental responsibility.

15. Puzzle Path Tournament

A mix of jigsaws, tangrams, sudoku, domino trails and pattern challenges. Older pupils can support younger ones, creating a true House spirit.

16. House Science Day

Simple experiments or STEM challenges such as bridge building, boat floating or paper plane aerodynamics. Judging criteria can include creativity, accuracy and teamwork.

17. Citizenship Champions

Points awarded for volunteering, supporting younger pupils or contributing positively to school life. This competition reinforces the values of Fedelta (Faithfulness) and Maluhia (Peace).

If you want help linking competitions to your whole House culture, you may like: How to Create a House System That Transforms School Culture.