The House System
The Houses at Burgmann provide another place for students to belong, to connect beyond their friendship group and to contribute in meaningful ways.
In recognition of the First Peoples of the Gungahlin area, the Ngunnawal people, our Houses are named in Ngunnawal language. These names draw on elements of nature.
The Ngunnawal people were the first to make their homes here. The local stone was used to shape their axes and other hunting implements. The stream gave them water, the wind cooled them on hot days and the stars helped them navigate. The sun gave warmth and life and the plants grew, providing a living force to feed them all.
Healing on Country
by Richie Allen
The Six Houses
Initially the school had 4 houses, but in 2027 expanded to 6 houses. The first four Houses are Guraguma, the West Wind, Ngadyung, water, Gurabung, stone and Dhurrawang, light. These names were chosen through consultation with the Ngunnawal language group by staff member Mr Wes Goddison.
In 2026, in choosing the 2 new House names, a competition was run across the school to select names, colours and images. The principal consulted with Ngunnawal elders and language holders. Aunty Lynette Caroll, in partnership with Aunty Violet Sheridan, gave permission for the two new House names to be Dyurra, stars, and Mullangari, living.
Dhurrawang
Light
The path
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.
Psalm 119:105
Guraguma
The West Wind
The Word
The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 1:14
Gurabung
Stone
The Strength
The Lord is my strength and my shield. My heart trusts in Him and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.
Psalm 28:7
Ngadyung
Water
The Life
If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me .... streams of living water will flow within him.
John 7:38
Mullangari
Living
The Faith
God is not far from any one of us. For in God we live and move and have our being.
Acts 17:27
Dyurra
Stars
The Creation
Give thanks to the Lord of lords... who by His understanding made the heavens.... the moon and stars. His love endures forever.
Psalm 136:3, 5, 9
Helping students feel known, supported and connected
The House System in Senior School
In the Senior School, Houses are an important part of pastoral care and student wellbeing. Through their House and Pastoral Care class, each student is supported by staff who know them well and help guide their academic, social and personal growth.
This structure strengthens connection across Years 9 to 12, builds a sense of belonging, and ensures students have access to the right support as they navigate the senior years. As Burgmann expands to six Houses in 2027, Houses will continue to play a key role in helping every student feel known, valued and supported.
A Co-educational Independent School located in Gungahlin, ACT.
We acknowledge the Ngunnawal peoples as the traditional keepers on the land on which we gather. We recognise and honour their wisdom and education traditions. We commit ourselves to actively working towards reconciliation, stepping forward with grace, commitment and wisdom on this journey.