At Lyceum we believe that teaching a sound value system is crucial in creating well-adjusted individuals who will uplift society and fulfill their duties as global citizens. Our house system represents our values and character, whilst also instilling a sense of friendly competition and victory amongst our students.
The four main houses are Ursa, Aquila, Cetus, and Cygnus. Taken from the ancient Greek pantheon of myths, each creature represents a constellation and symbolism that aligns with what each house stands for.
Ursa made up of the constellations Ursa Major (The Great Bear) and Ursa Minor (Little Bear), represents strength, guidance, and endurance. The story behind the constellation is a fantastical tale of mother and son being positioned in the sky by the Greek god Zeus to roam the night sky freely. Today a star in the constellation – the North Star – guides many to safety.
Much like the stars of the Ursa constellation, those that fall under the House Ursa always rise above the horizon. They are strong of mind and endure any storm, whilst being a guiding light that helps their peers stay on course.
Aquila is the Great Thunderbird of the Greek deity Zeus, the eagle is said to have retrieved the thunderbolts hurled by the King of the gods. Aquila represents power, victory, and freedom. Zeus is said to have an affinity towards eagles after a majestic eagle saved an infant Zeus from annihilation, after which the thunder god made the eagle his emblem.
Students who fall under the wings of Aquila have a strong will to win despite the circumstance, they are goal-oriented, and determined. They encourage the spirit of competitiveness amongst their peers and inspire others to reach their goals without giving up.
Cetus, the mythical sea monster, symbolises the depths of the unknown, the power of the subconscious mind, and challenges. The ancient Greeks believed giant sea monsters inhibited the oceans, and were faithful servants of the gods, namely Poseidon the god of the sea. Ptolemy even named a constellation after the mysterious sea monster.
Young scholars who fall into House Cetus, are brave in the face of adversity, in charge of their emotions, and resilient. Like the house sigil, the great whale-like Cetus, they remind their peers to face the unknown with courage and resilience.
The celestial swan of Greek myth represents grace, beauty, and transformation. Cygnus has significant symbolic ties to the powerful Greek god Zeus. The constellation of Cygnus is easily noticeable in the night sky and shines bright as the Northern Cross, placed close to the constellation of Aquila.
Those who are chosen to be in the house of Cygnus navigate challenges with grace and embrace change and transformation. Like the graceful swan, those under Cygnus soar high and inspire their peers to accept their inner selves and strive to grow positively.
