Feb 10, 2023
In this section, we'll describe the Lodges here at GSW, as well as how one finds their way to a Lodge.
Your Lodge assignment is based on the element associated with your astrological sun sign and age. Our youth Apprentices, those under the age of 18, are sorted into our Psyche Lodge while Adults are sorted into one of four Elemental lodges. The dates used for sorting are as follows: Astrological Signs and their Lodge Apr 21 - May 21 ( ♉︎ Taurus) Stones Jan 21 - Feb 19 ( ♒︎ Aquarius) Winds Mar 21 - Apr 20 ( ♈︎ Aries) Flames Feb 20 - Mar 20 ( ♓︎ Pisces) Waters Aug 24 - Sep 23 ( ♍︎ Virgo) Stones May 22 - Jun 21 ( ♊︎ Gemini) Winds Jul 24 - Aug 23 ( ♌︎ Leo) Flames Jun 22 - Jul 23 ( ♋︎ Cancer) Waters Dec 22 - Jan 20 ( ♑︎ Capricorn) Stones Sep 24 - Oct 23 ( ♎︎ Libra) Winds Nov 23 - Dec 21 ( ♐︎ Sagittarius) Flames Oct 24 - Nov 22 ( ♏︎ Scorpio) Waters To Learn More About your Lodge, click your Lodge's crest on the Forums Page! Choosing a Different Lodge Rarely, an Apprentice may feel that regardless of sorting, they would find a better fit in a different lodge. If this is the case, the Apprentice should discuss it with the Head of Lodges or the Dean of Students. In some (infrequent) cases, where the reasons are compelling, the school will allow the Apprentice to change Lodges.Note: we do not generally allow a change simply based on the Apprentice having a friend or family member in a different Lodge. The Lodges Our Lodges provide Apprentices with an opportunity to bond with other Apprentices and form a group identity within the larger Apprentice body. Each Lodge has a Lodge site/page and a forum for its members on the school website. Each Lodge is led by an Apprentice Prefect. The Lodges have a single faculty Head to moderate the forum and carry out other functions, this person is called the Head of Lodges. The Head of Lodges The GSW Lodges are led by a Head—a member of the Grey School staff or faculty. Along with the Apprentice Captain, the Head is responsible for the health, well being, and vitality of Apprentice leadership. The Head assists the Prefects in planning projects for leading the group, and also assures that all activities adhere to GSW policy. The Head of Lodges can also create challenges and award merits to deserving Apprentices. The Lodge Competition
Lodge Competitions have a long-standing tradition in educational institutions, particularly those with a focus on fostering a strong sense of community and personal development. Historically, such competitions have been used to encourage pupils to engage more fully with their studies and extracurricular activities, promoting both individual excellence and teamwork. The competitive nature of these events drives participants to push beyond their usual limits, fostering leadership, resilience, and a sense of responsibility. Academically, Lodge Competitions provide a framework for recognizing and rewarding achievement in a way that enhances the educational experience. By contributing to their Lodge, pupils gain a deeper connection to the school community and develop skills that are essential for success both within and beyond the classroom.
These Competitions, which are part of the broader "House System," have a rich history rooted in the educational traditions of British boarding schools, such as Eton College, Harrow, and Winchester. These institutions pioneered the use of house systems as early as the 1800s, with the aim of fostering a sense of community, loyalty, and goodly rivalry among students. Over time, this approach spread to other prestigious schools around the world, including those in the United States, where Harvard and Yale adopted similar systems in the 1930s to organize students into residential groups. The house or lodge system not only promotes camaraderie but also offers a structured environment that enhances personal and academic growth. Pupils who participate in these competitions often show improved academic performance, increased participation in extracurricular activities, and the development of leadership and teamwork skills. By offering a balanced mix of competition and collaboration, lodge competitions create a supportive community that helps students flourish both academically and socially.
Here at GSW, Our Lodge Competition carries on this noble tradition, embodying the spirit of camaraderie, excellence, and friendly rivalry that defines our school culture. Each pupil is assigned to one of our Lodges upon enrollment, and from that moment on, they are part of a team that strives for greatness. The Lodge Competition offers pupils countless ways to earn merits for their Lodge, including completing challenges, achieving academic excellence, attending events, and more. The merits you earn bolster your Lodge’s standing, driving the collective effort to claim the prestigious Lodge Cup. This coveted award is not only a symbol of victory but also a mark of honor that brings recognition and pride to the winning Lodge.
Winning the Lodge Cup at GSW brings with it several more tangible rewards that resonate throughout the entire term. The victorious Lodge’s VGSW Lodge is adorned with the Lodge Cup Trophy, and their Crest is prominently displayed on the Forum, along with an update to the Lodge Cup page, proclaiming their victory for all to see. The grounds of vGSW are draped with banners and buntings in the winning Lodge’s colors, ensuring that their triumph is celebrated far and wide. Whats more, The winning Lodge’s webpage is updated with an animated, elemental-themed background unique to that Lodge, and they enjoy the distinction of having their Lodge Cup Crest featured in that term’s newsletter. Additionally, special merchandise emblazoned with the Lodge Cup Crest is made available to members of the winning Lodge, allowing them to showcase their accomplishment to the world.
Beyond these rewards, winning the Lodge Cup enhances the reputation of your Lodge. The Lodge Competition is about striving to be the best, supporting your fellow Lodge members, and contributing to our school’s storied history.
With so much at stake, every apprentice should be inspired to contribute to their Lodge's success. Whether it’s through academic achievement, active participation in clubs, or taking on special challenges, every merit earned brings your Lodge one step closer to victory. The Lodge Competition is more than just a contest—it’s a celebration of the values that make The Grey School of Wizardry a unique and vibrant community. So, rally your fellow Lodge members, strive for excellence in all you do, and may the best Lodge win!