Round Square

Its origins come from the philosophy of Kurt Hahn, who taught that schools should have a greater purpose beyond that of preparing students for future study at University. He believed in educating young people for life in the fullest sense and much of this is embraced by the vision of Windermere School.

Round Square programmes help institutionally and culturally different schools work together through service projects, annual conferences, student exchanges and outdoor expeditions.


The IDEALS of Round Square
The six pillars around which the Round Square association operates are Internationalism, Democracy, Environment, Adventure, Leadership and Service.

Internationalism
As Round Square schools are situated worldwide, students share the opportunity to experience exchanges.

Schools organise several student exchanges per year. Most last a whole term, worked out on a school-to-school basis. Exchanges also bring young students interested in a career in education for gap year experiences, working as teaching assistants.

The Round Square network makes it possible to match an exchanged student or teacher to a school. As exchange is popular, each school is enriched by an annual flow of visitors bringing the views and values of other nations and cultures, and by returning students whose perspective on society, education and the world has been deepened through personal experience.

Democracy
Active participation in the democratic process is essential in Round Square schools. Students learn the importance of self-discipline, and are trained and obliged to share in the daily operation of the school. Each year Round Square schools are asked to nominate candidates for the Kurt Hahn Prize, given to one or more students who have acted courageously to serve mankind or preserve life.

Environment
Round Square schools are actively involved in maintaining a concern for all natural environments.

Adventure
Round Square students are also educated in the appreciation of physical exercise and moral fortitude.

The unique location of Windermere School, in the Lake District National Park, ensures that our pupils place great emphasis on this aspects of the Round Square philosophy.

Leadership
Students learn that true leadership is found in those whose convictions are rooted in personal responsibility, kindness and justice. Senior students' roles are substantial in every aspect of school life.

Service
Round Square prepares students for life by giving experience of the privilege and values of service.

Community service in schools and international projects in developing countries all educate students in the importance of serving others.