House System
What is the House System in HCK?
Every student and staff member in Holy Child Killiney belongs to one of four Houses which celebrate our Cornelian legacy and values.
Students and staff are assigned a House and each House has members from each year group, encouraging students of all ages to mix and build an inclusive and welcoming environment.
Our History
The House System was established in to ensure the cherished Cornelian history of Holy Child Killiney remains a core aspect of the entire school community’s experience. The Houses are named after three SHCJ school Principals who were in attendance at the launch. The fourth House is represented by our Foundress, Cornelia Connelly. In consultation with Sr. Madeleine, Sr. Mary Hilary and Sr. Geraldine the House characteristics were assigned and their favourite colour was used for our House hoodies and t-shirts. The House System helps facilitate an environment where our valued history is a meaningful lived experience of each HCK student in a fun and inclusive way.
House Day September 2025
House Characteristics
Cornelia House - Trust & Gratitude
House Patron: Cornelia Connelly
(1809—1879)
Trust
Trust is the firm belief in a person's ability and reliability. It's about having confidence that individuals will thrive and reach their potential. At the heart of a Cornelian education is a spirit of trust and integrity, which encourages students to be honest and authentic, leading to excellence.
Gratitude
Gratitude springs from a natural awareness of our good fortune. It's a spirit of appreciation for the opportunities and people we are gifted with, countering the modern sense of entitlement.
Geraldine House - Joy and Courage
House Patron: Sr. Geraldine MacCarthy
(Principal 1976—1983)
Joy
Joy is a happy and joyful spirit that comes from a deep-rooted belief that we are loved and valued for who we are. It is expressed through openness, optimism, and warm connections with others.
Courage
Courage means being 'bold'—having the courage of your convictions to challenge injustice and speak up for what's right. It's a quality that fosters resilience and inspires a brave outlook on life.
Madeleine House - Generosity and Compassion
House Patron: Sr. Madeleine Mulrennan
(Principal 1968 —1976)
Generosity
Generosity is the readiness to help others and an awareness of what needs to be done. This selflessness balances the focus on 'I' and 'me,' challenging students to be practical and involved in making a difference through acts of service and charitable initiatives.
Compassion
Compassion is the kindness and thoughtfulness that inspire the heart to reach out to others, to feel what they feel, and to act to ease their suffering. It is a love that is freely given, born from a deeply sympathetic concern for others.
Hilary House - Perseverance and Respect
House Patron: Sr. Mary Hilary Daly
(Principal 1983—1996)
Perseverance
Perseverance is steady persistence in a task despite difficulty or delay. It's an essential quality for building resilience and navigating life's twists and turns. We foster an atmosphere where each person can embrace their individuality and never give up.
Respect
Respect is due to every person, regardless of position, age, race, or religion. It's a key value in our diverse community, where we listen to others' opinions and show harmony with those around us to help everyone fulfil their potential.
House Captains
Being a House Captain is a valued leadership role in Holy Child Killiney. Each House has two Fifth Year House captains who organise and lead House ceremonies and celebrations throughout the year.
House Awards
The Second Year House Award recognises continued commitment to Physical Activity, Service to Home/School/Community and the development of Personal Skill. Students who complete the House Challenge successfully are presented with a House Badge to acknowledge their dedication and for living out their House characteristics.
House Day September 2025
House Day Calendar
15 September - HCK Founding Day
15 October - SHCJ Founding Day
15 January - Cornelia Connelly’s Birthday
18 April - Cornelia Connelly’s Anniversary
The Colours of Actions not Words Prayer
Green is the colour of life and of growth, It shows us potential, it indicates hope.
Red is for courage, for energy and strength Which means we are able to go to great lengths.
Yellow brings laughter and fun to enjoy Cornelia's message we strive to employ.
Purple gives insight, making us wise Guiding us safely throughout our lives.
Blue creates calm, a peaceful air for all Helping us so that we can stand tall.
Pink is for love, unconditional and true- This is the gift which God brings to you. Six special colours we wear in HCK Bless all in our school each and every day, Amen.