Pastoral Care

House System

The House System at NFLS BCA: Fostering Community and School Spirit
At the Nanjing Foreign Language School British Columbia Academy (NFLS BCA), our House System is a cornerstone of our school culture, fostering community, collaboration, and friendly competition among students. The system is built around four houses—Maritimes, Tundra, Shield, and Rockies—each named after iconic regions of Canada. These houses serve as a way to connect students to Canadian geography and culture while building a sense of belonging and pride within the school.

 

House Points and the CritterCoin Platform

To track and manage house points, NFLS BCA uses the CritterCoin platform. This innovative digital system allows students and staff to seamlessly award and monitor points, encouraging active participation and fair recognition of contributions. Points can be earned for a variety of activities, including academic achievements, sports competitions, community service, and class participation. Students also earn points for embodying the values of citizenship, teamwork, and school spirit.

 

Incorporating the House System Across School Life

The House System is deeply integrated into all aspects of student life at NFLS BCA. From Spirit Days to sports tournaments, house points are awarded to encourage enthusiasm and active involvement. Classroom participation is another key area where students can contribute to their house’s success, promoting collaboration and engagement in learning. Additionally, acts of citizenship—such as volunteering and supporting peers—are recognized and rewarded, reinforcing a positive school culture.


Fostering Healthy Competition and Unity

While the House System promotes friendly competition, it also emphasizes unity and collaboration. Students across grades work together to represent their house, forming connections that transcend age groups and creating a supportive, inclusive community. Whether it’s cheering on teammates during a sports event or collectively striving to win the House Cup, the system instills a sense of pride and camaraderie.


Celebrating Success

At the end of the school year, the house with the highest points is awarded the prestigious House Cup, a symbol of collective effort, achievement, and school spirit. The celebration recognizes the contributions of every student and staff member, showcasing the importance of teamwork and perseverance.

 

The NFLS BCA House System goes beyond competition—it creates a shared identity, strengthens relationships, and enriches the overall school experience. Through this system, students not only develop a sense of pride in their house but also learn valuable life skills that prepare them for success in school and beyond.