On the 30th October 1936 the Homes received Rs.60,000/- from the Estate in Kotagiri of the late David Cockburn. The Rs.60,000/- was used for improvements to the Dining Hall and renovation of the new Kindergarten classrooms. Cockburn House has been named to remember this benefactor. The emblem for the House was designed by John Cox in 1982-83 for Oakshott House - the Eagle.
The motto of the House, decided again by the first students of Cockburn House is LOYALTY & SERVICE. It is a strange coincidence that on 25th February 1927, the Board of Management at a meeting discussed changing the motto of the school from SELF RELIANCE to LOYALTY AND SERVICE or LOYAL SERVICE. The matter was deferred and never taken up again.
As the motto indicates the House members are taught to be loyal not only to their House but also to the school, to their parents, society, state and the nation. They are taught the value of service. It is important to know the value of serving before one learns to lead.
Cockburn is renowned for its outstanding Athletes and their fighting spirit. They never give in without a fight. Effort is made on every front whether it be elocution, debating, singing, acting or any game. They have had their share of victories in every field and continue to inspire with greater efforts.
