House System
Each child who joins Holmfirth High School is placed in a House. The four Houses are Barson, Paxman, Taylor and Wainwright. Where possible, children with older brothers and/or sisters already at Holmfirth normally join the same House.
Although each house has its own “personality” certain principles apply to all. It is hoped that each House provides pupils with an education of the highest quality so that they leave Holmfirth with the qualifications, skills and personal qualities they need to lead a successful life.
Our Houses
Heads of House
Mr Speat
Barson House
Mr Battye
Paxman House
Mr Widdall
Taylor House
Miss Geisel
Wainwright House
Len Barson
Barson House Patron
Len Barson worked at Holmfirth High school for over 40 years in many different roles including Deputy Head and Senior Administrator.
He is extremely well known in the community and described by many as a ‘legend’.
Glenn Paxman
Paxman House Patron
Glenn Paxman is a former pupil of Holmfirth High School. Glenn owns Paxman Coolers Ltd who have developed technology to help people going through treatment for cancer.
Lady Ann Taylor
Taylor House Patron
Lady Ann Taylor was the first ever female Leader of the House of Commons and Chief Whip of a major political party. Both Lady Taylor’s children attended Holmfirth High School.
She was Minister for International Defence and Security, based at both the Ministry of Defence and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, from October 2008 until 11 May 2010.
Sally Wainwright
Wainwright House Patron
Sally Wainwright is a writer and producer, best known for Happy Valley (2014), Last Tango in Halifax (2012) and Scott & Bailey (2011).
House Aims
All Houses aim to ensure:
A commitment to the highest academic standards
A caring and stimulating environment
A partnership with all pupils and parents
A wide range of House activities and competitions including Sports Day, and House assemblies
Through well-established systems each House demonstrates a commitment to the welfare of each pupil. As they progress through the school, older students are encouraged to support younger pupils. During Year 11 pupils in each house are encouraged to become student leaders. There are House Captains and Vice-Captains who form a senior body of pupils consulted from time to time on matters of school policy.
House Councils
Each house also has its own House Council which meets once every half term. Each form sends two representatives who raise issues which have emerged from discussions with the tutor group. The assistant head overseeing the pastoral structure, attends these as does the Headteacher.