House Colour: Yellow
Feast day: 9th June

Columba was a Celtic monk and missionary, born in Donegal, Ireland. He was educated at the monastic school of Movie under St Finnian. In 560 a dispute arose over a copy Columba had made of St. Finnian’s book of psalms, resulting in Columba’s instigation of a rebellion by the Clan Neill against King Diarmait of Ireland. This culminated in the Battle of Cooldrevny in 561, at which three thousand men were killed. As penance, and with the support of 12 companions, he founded a monastery on the island of Iona, hoping to convert as many men as had died at Cooldrevny, specifically converting the Scots and Picts. After many conversions, and becoming a famous councillor to many kings, the monastery at Iona became Columba’s final resting place in 597. Pilgrimage to Iona increased; kings wished to be buried near to Columba. At it’s peak, Iona produced the ‘Book of Kells’ a beautiful medieval manuscript of the four new testament gospels, and one of Irelands greatest national treasures.

Columba House History:
2023/24 – 4th Place
2022/23 – 3rd Place
2021/22 – 6th Place
2020/21 – 4th Place
2019/20 – 5th Place
2018/19 – 3rd Place
2017/18 – 4th Place
2016/17 – 6th Place
2015/16 – 2nd Place
2014/15 – 2nd Place
2013/14 – 1st Place
2012/13 – 4th Place

Head of House: Miss Keely

I am delighted to have been appointed head of house for Columba and it is a real privilege to be a part of such an enthusiastic and talented team. I have some huge shoes to fill following on from Mr Leach and Mr Pritchard but I am so excited to see the students showcase their talents in the wide variety of house events we offer at Richard Challoner School. Having been a year 7 form tutor for a few years now, I have witnessed firsthand how the house events can help students feel like a ‘Challoner boy’ straight away, taking Mr Maher’s advice of ‘getting involved’ in all the school has to offer.
 

“I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot; together we can do great things” Mother Teresa
 

The beauty of the house system is that there is something for everyone and it is all about drawing together the unique strengths each individual brings to the team. I look forward to seeing the students in Columba House work together to combine their diverse range of skills to achieve something great together!

House Captain: Federico

I am so honoured to have been chosen as the new House Captain of Columba and to be given the opportunity to lead such an amazing house.

Since joining the school in 2019, I’ve spent the past six years growing up within the house system, and I find it extraordinary how involved our community is and how much everyone cares. Whether it’s House Football, House Drama, or even House MasterChef, I believe there’s something for everyone to take part in and enjoy. The House System is a perfect showcase of what makes our school special: a celebration of our diverse community all working together to achieve a common goal.

Holding this role reminds me that leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about being willing to serve, to listen, and to set a positive example every day. I’m excited for the opportunity to grow, to represent Columba, and to be a small part of Columba’s success story. 

As John Adams once said:

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” 

That is the kind of leader I aim to be; one who uplifts others and leads with passion, kindness, and purpose.