The House System
At Auckland House School for Boys, each student is placed in one of four Houses—French, Matthew, Lefroy, or Durrant—honouring the first Bishops of Lahore: Thomas Valpy French, Henry James Matthew, George Alfred Lefroy, and Henry Bickersteth Durrant. These Houses bear the legacy of leadership, service, and scholarship, instilling in our boys the virtues that have stood the test of time.
The House System is not merely a mechanism for competition; it is a crucible for excellence. In sports, academics, and creative pursuits, boys are forged in the spirit of teamwork, loyalty, and camaraderie. It is here that friendships are solidified, sportsmanship is tested, and character is built, with each boy learning that true strength lies in unity. Each House plays its part in guiding our boys on their journey to becoming men of integrity, courage, and honor. Tradition, pride, and responsibility form the bedrock of our House System, shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
The House System is not merely a mechanism for competition; it is a crucible for excellence. In sports, academics, and creative pursuits, boys are forged in the spirit of teamwork, loyalty, and camaraderie. It is here that friendships are solidified, sportsmanship is tested, and character is built, with each boy learning that true strength lies in unity. Each House plays its part in guiding our boys on their journey to becoming men of integrity, courage, and honor. Tradition, pride, and responsibility form the bedrock of our House System, shaping the leaders of tomorrow
Matthew House
Neque Deditionem – No Surrender
Matthew House is named after Bishop Henry James Matthew, who was consecrated as the Bishop of Lahore in 1888. Bishop Matthew was a man of quiet strength and profound impact, deeply committed to the cause of education and the welfare of the community. He was a builder of institutions, not through force of will alone but through a deep understanding of the human condition. His work in promoting the education of girls through the Society of St. Hilda left an indelible mark on the Diocese, improving access to learning for those who had long been overlooked.
Bishop Matthew’s time in Shimla, where he spent much of his life, cemented his place in the history of the school’s community. His legacy remains visible in the beautiful chancel window of Christ Church, Shimla, erected in memory of his wife. This window, designed by Lockwood Kipling and his students, is an allegorical representation of the 'Te Deum,' a tribute to a life lived in service of others.
The motto of Matthew House, Neque Deditionem, or "No Surrender," embodies the spirit of self-awareness and inner strength. The boys of Matthew House learn that true courage comes not from overpowering others but from standing firm in one’s convictions and never surrendering to the pressures of conformity or defeat. The ability to know oneself and to remain true in the face of challenges defines the character of Matthew House.
French House
Sed Perseverantia – We Press On
French House takes its name from Bishop Thomas Valpy French, consecrated as the first Bishop of Lahore in 1877. Bishop French’s life was marked by an unwavering commitment to education and the empowerment of others. He was a man ahead of his time, understanding that the strength of any institution lay not in imposing foreign customs but in respecting and nurturing the culture in which it exists. Bishop French recognized the importance of adapting to the Indian context, and he sought to build bridges of understanding that would allow knowledge and wisdom to flourish.
He was instrumental in founding and developing institutions such as St. John’s College in Agra and St. John’s Divinity School in Lahore, institutions that continue to stand as beacons of higher learning. A keen visionary, he believed in the power of education to transform society. Even in his later years, as he took his message of hope to Muscat, he never ceased in his efforts to inspire and uplift those around him.
French House’s motto, Sed Perseverantia, or "We Press On," reflects the relentless pursuit of excellence, no matter the challenges. The boys of French House are encouraged to cultivate grit, determination, and confidence, knowing that setbacks are temporary and that perseverance leads to triumph.
Durrant House
Honorem Ante Honorem – Honour Before Honours
Durrant House is named after Bishop Henry Bickersteth Durrant, who became Bishop of Lahore in 1912. A man of introspection and scholarly pursuits, Bishop Durrant was deeply reflective and sought to understand the world through the lens of faith and learning. He spent a considerable part of his life in contemplation and teaching, serving as the Principal of St. John’s College, Agra, where his influence on education and intellectual discourse was profound.
His book, The Mind of a Master Builder, remains a testament to his deep understanding of theology and its practical application in everyday life. Bishop Durrant believed in the importance of honouring one's principles and living a life of integrity. His contributions to the intellectual and spiritual life of the community were profound, even as he chose a path of humility and quiet leadership.
The motto of Durrant House, Honorem Ante Honorem, or "Honour Before Honours," teaches the value of integrity over recognition. The boys of Durrant House are encouraged to seek honor not through accolades or external validation but through living with honesty, respect, and a deep sense of responsibility to themselves and others. In Durrant House, the pursuit of truth and the adherence to one’s moral compass come before all else.
Lefroy House
Ludere Ludum – Play the Game
Lefroy House takes its name from Bishop George Alfred Lefroy, who was appointed Bishop of Lahore in 1899. Bishop Lefroy’s leadership style was marked by his natural charisma and his unparalleled ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Fluent in Urdu, Lefroy was a man whose presence was felt far and wide. His commitment to the advancement of higher education in India was unwavering, and he stood as a stalwart advocate for the importance of intellectual pursuit.
Bishop Lefroy’s life was characterized by a sense of adventure and a passion for justice. His fearless dedication to his mission earned him the respect and admiration of all who knew him. He was a man of great compassion and determination, unafraid to challenge the status quo in pursuit of a greater good.
The motto of Lefroy House, Ludere Ludum, or "Play the Game," speaks to the spirit of resilience and integrity. The boys of Lefroy House are taught to face life’s challenges head-on, playing the game of life with fairness, courage, and an unwavering commitment to their values. Success, they learn, is not just about winning but about how one plays the game—with honor, respect, and a sense of purpose.