At Stowe, we believe that an outstanding education is about far more than academic success. It is about developing character, embracing opportunity, serving others and making a positive contribution to the wider community. These values lie at the heart of The Aurelian Cup, our new House competition that celebrates every Stoic who helps make Stowe a thriving and supportive community.
Named after the Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius, the Aurelian Cup draws inspiration from one of history's greatest advocates of integrity, self-discipline and service. Marcus Aurelius believed that true success comes not from personal recognition, but from fulfilling one's responsibilities with humility and contributing to the common good. His philosophy perfectly reflects the qualities we seek to nurture in every Stoic.
As Marcus Aurelius famously wrote: "Waste no more time arguing what a good person should be. Be one."
The Aurelian Cup encourages exactly that philosophy in action.
Every Stoic Matters
Unlike traditional competitions that often celebrate only a handful of high achievers, the Aurelian Cup recognises that the strength of every House is built through the everyday contributions of every pupil.
Whether representing Stowe on the sports field, performing in a concert, organising a charity event, mentoring younger pupils, demonstrating kindness in the classroom or simply attending lessons with commitment and pride, every positive action contributes towards House success.
Equally, poor behaviour, missed commitments and disciplinary issues affect not only the individual but also their House, reinforcing the importance of responsibility and accountability within our community.
How the Aurelian Cup Works
Throughout the year, pupils earn Aurelian Credits for making positive contributions to school life. Credits are awarded for academic effort and achievement, participation in sport, music and drama, leadership roles, volunteering, service, charity work, representing the School or House, organising events and, importantly, for the many acts of kindness and commitment that help strengthen our community every day.
Alongside this, Aurelian Deductions reflect the importance of accountability. Poor behaviour, repeated lateness, failure to meet commitments, missing activities or lessons, and more serious disciplinary matters reduce both an individual's score and their House's overall performance. The system reinforces that every choice - positive or negative - has an impact beyond the individual.
House competitions also play a significant role. Success in major Inter-House events, including sport, music, drama, debating and House Singing, contributes to each House's overall standing, celebrating collective effort as well as individual contribution.
To ensure fairness, the competition is calculated using the average score per pupil, meaning every Stoic has an equal opportunity to influence their House's success regardless of House size.
Termly Recognition
Throughout the year, termly league tables will celebrate:
This recognition keeps the competition engaging while celebrating positive contribution across the whole School.
Recognising Excellence
At the end of each term, the winning Junior and Senior Houses will be presented with the prestigious Aurelian Cup, alongside individual awards recognising the highest-scoring pupils, the most improved pupils and those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and service.
The Aurelian Cup is more than a competition. It is a celebration of the values that define Stowe and a reminder that character is built through consistent, positive choices made every day.
By recognising contribution as highly as achievement, the Aurelian Cup ensures that every Stoic has the opportunity to make a meaningful difference to their House, their School and the wider community, living out the timeless ideals of Marcus Aurelius and the enduring spirit of Stoicism.