Connect and collaborate…
Round Square schools collaborate, creating meaningful, real-world opportunities for students to develop global competence, character and understanding. Here are some examples of our work:
Nayantara Atal, Alumnus, The Indian School Al Gubra
Peter Willet, Teacher, Aiglon
Eric Niles, Head of School, The Athenian School
Ann Hansen, Director of Global Education, Herlufsholm Skole
Josceline Cluff, Alumnus, Cobham Hall
Round Square is an international network of 200 like-minded schools in 50 countries that connect and collaborate to offer world-class programmes and experiences that develop global competence, character and confidence in our students.
The Round Square approach is built around six core themes - our IDEALS - and 12 underpinning “Discoveries” that together provide a Framework to support schools in embedding Character Education within and beyond the curriculum.
Our world needs courageous and compassionate leaders, prepared to discover and embrace different cultures and nationalities in ways that promote meaningful and lasting understanding and respect. Today’s students are the leaders of the future: It is our responsibility to prepare them well.
Round Square schools collaborate, creating meaningful, real-world opportunities for students to develop global competence, character and understanding. Here are some examples of our work:
“Roots and Branches” was a global collaborative project developed by an elementary school writing teacher at Holy Innocents’ (HIES). The project encouraged students to explore traditions around the world and understand the role they play in creating both unique and universal cultures by fostering an exchange with their peers at other Round Square schools. Students’ learning outcomes were shared in a concluding paper and celebratory event.
Six schools in Australia have formed a ‘Cluster Group’ to introduce 11 and 12-year-old students to Round Square using the format of a mini conference. The events provide a taste of what Round Square is all about, using one day programs that are packed with activities and engaging speakers to inspire this age group.
Round Square schools innovate, designing new approaches to teaching and learning that broaden horizons, and challenge students to go beyond their comfort zone. Here are some of our ideas and initiatives:
The Global Goals Course at Latymer Upper School ties into the school͛s strategic aim to help pupils become active global citizens. The students identify a UN goal to research and devise a plan to realise this goal. Their resulting project is celebrated at a ͚Global Goals Festival͛.
Inspired by their investment in a new 3D printer, and having explored its many uses, students at the International School of Kenya taught themselves how to print 3D prosthetic hands. Maciej Sudra, one of the faculty leaders of the project, shares details on what it takes to produce a prosthetic hand, how they overcame concerns about the environmental impact of plastic waste, and the impact the project has made on patients and students.
Round Square schools motivate, compelling students into practical experiences, addressing real-world issues and inspiring them to become agents of positive change. Here are some of our recent challenges:
Vice-Principal, Cathy Jones, of UWCSEA shares information on an initiative to help students discover different cultures through studying dances around the world. Learnings are shared in the lead-up to and during a performance event called CultuRama.
Round Square Rep, Frances Cook, outlines how a change in format to the school’s Round Square Day has allowed students to better realise the spirit of the IDEALS, whilst helping embed Round Square deeper into the fabric of school life.
RSIS Projects bring together students from Member Schools all over the world to work in truly international teams in support of communities in need. They develop skills for leadership and global citizenship, self-confidence and a deeper understanding of the world’s challenges. Their horizons are broadened through working in a multinational team and immersing themselves in a country and culture that is often very different from their own.
Students in all RS schools have the chance at various ages to attend conferences and events at national, regional and global levels. Round Square Conference programmes offer a combination of guest speakers, group discussions, workshops, cultural visits, community service and adventure activities. They provide outstanding personal development opportunities, enhancing social and leadership skills, broadening intercultural understanding and forging lifelong friendships.
Round Square schools connect to create opportunities for students and teachers to develop international understanding, self-confidence and a range of interpersonal skills through studying or working on exchange at another school in our network. Exchanges are arranged flexibly between schools, often taking advantage of variations in academic timetables so that visits can take place whilst their own school is not in session.
Would you like to work at a Round Square School? Do you know someone that would be a great fit for our approach and ethos? Do you want to do more than teach-to-test? Click the link below to search positions currently available in Round Square schools.
