The House System
Four Houses. Cross-age teams. Values-based competition. This is where bonds are forged and character is revealed.
How It Works
Every MSA member is assigned to one of four Houses based on their birth month. This assignment is permanent—your House is your family throughout your entire MSA journey. Houses cut across age groups, creating bonds that transcend Squads and Units.
Cross-Age Relationships
In House gatherings, a 12-year-old Striver might lead a team that includes an 8-year-old Explorer. Natural mentorship happens without forcing it.
Belonging Beyond Squad
Your Squad is your primary group, but your House is your extended family. It gives every Troop multiple layers of connection within MSA.
Healthy Competition
Houses compete—but on values, not just skill. Recognition goes to those who demonstrate Mentorship, Strength, and Achievement. Character wins.
Long-Term Identity
Your House stays with you from Explorer to Mentor. By the time you're a Pioneer, you've accumulated years of House history and pride.
The Four Houses
Oak
"Strong Roots, Steady Growth"
Strength | Wisdom | Endurance
The Oak tree stands as a symbol of strength and stability. With deep roots and a spreading canopy, Oak represents those who provide steady foundation for others.
Known For:
- Mental and physical strength
- Wisdom in decision-making
- Endurance through challenges
- Reliability and steadfastness
House Chant
Oak stands strong, roots run deep,
Promises made are promises we keep!
Blue and mighty, wise and true,
House Oak, we stand with you!
Maple
"Through Change, We Thrive"
Growth | Balance | Generosity
The Maple tree transforms beautifully through seasons, symbolising adaptation and growth. Its sap provides sweetness—representing generosity toward others.
Known For:
- Embracing change and adapting well
- Maintaining balance in all things
- Generosity with time and skills
- Vibrancy and enthusiasm
House Chant
Maple red, blazing bright,
Growing stronger, reaching height!
Change and balance, we embrace,
House Maple sets the pace!
Willow
"From Fire, We Rise"
Resilience | Uniqueness | Courage
House Willow represents resilience and the courage to be unique. Like Australian natives that regenerate after bushfire, Willow members bounce back stronger.
Known For:
- Bouncing back from setbacks
- Courage to be different
- Facing fears with determination
- Emerging stronger from challenges
House Chant
Willow bold, purple flame,
Rising up, we stake our claim!
Through the fire, standing tall,
House Willow conquers all!
Cedar
"We Shelter, We Serve"
Protection | Legacy | Service
The Cedar tree provides shelter and is mentioned in sacred texts for its healing properties. Cedar represents those who protect and serve others.
Known For:
- Protecting and supporting others
- Thinking about long-term impact
- Serving without seeking recognition
- Creating safe spaces for others to grow
House Chant
Cedar green, standing proud,
Lifting others, never bowed!
Shelter, service, legacy true,
House Cedar, we serve with you!
The Competition Year
Points accumulate throughout the year, culminating in the Year-End Championship trophy.
Weekly Tokens
Awarded for demonstrating values. 1 point per token.
Monthly Challenges
Inter-house competitions. 10-50 bonus points.
Termly Carnivals
Major events. 50-200 bonus points.
House Captains
Each House has five Captains—one from each Unit. Captains lead their House members, run chants at ceremonies, coordinate during carnivals, and model MSA values. Being a House Captain is an honour earned through demonstrated character.