ROUND SQUARE NEWS December 2012 - Issue 13
October conference delivered an unforgettable conference ‘no existence without co-existence The second part of the 2012 African International Round Square conference took place with delegates from 60 Round Square schools gathering at Penryn College, Nelspruit , South Africa.
distributed to the many needy children in the surrounding community. Africa tends
It was another amazing celebration for Round Square and mirrored the success of the April Conference in Nairobi. Greg Theron, Allison Hay and the staff and students of Penryn College delivered and unforgettable conference. Certainly, it
This was the second of our split conferences for 2012 and proved to be very successful. Visit the website for photos http://www.round-square.co.za
remarkable and continues to underscore the huge impact the organisation has on young men and women. The keynote speakers were well chosen and all added insight into the theme of “no existence without coexistence” The conference introduced delegates to the rich and colourful mosaic of South African culture, wildlife and community. And as is always the case student participation was exceptional. During the conference all delegates were given the opportunity to spend a night in National Park and to visit some of the local tourist sites. In the spirit of Ubuntu (A person is a person through other people), the generous donations received from all delegates are presently being
the delegates left with a piece of Africa in their hearts.
INSIDE • General News • Alumni Update • New Members • Up Close • Regional News
GENERAL NEWS
Young Round Square Conference . There has been a steady increase in the growth of YRS worldwide, as well as several requests for an international conference for this age group. With a multi-national committee collaborating across the Round Square family, this is now coming to fruition in 2014. We have been planning and organising younger delegates and will be releasing the website and further information in the near future. Save the Date 4- 10 May 2014 If you have any queries contact Yvette Russell: yrussell@dainferncollege.
FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS - GOVERNANCE MATTERS During the two days of meetings prior to the October Round Square Conference, the Board of Trustees met and deliberated in particular on two important key elements of the operation of the organisation. The progress of the Governance Review was discussed in detail. have now been adopted unanimously by the Round Square Membership at the Annual General Meeting. The Board has been able to consider a draft form of the Rules of Governance which will be made available to Members for consideration at their Regional Meetings to be the Governance Review to be completed and implemented in 2013. An update was received from the conference task force, formed following the Business Manager) is working with experienced personnel from around the world to our growing organisation, the probability of moving to multiple Conferences each year Conference next year. The work of the Young Alumni Co-ordinators was reported on. In each Region a Coordinator has been appointed to identify and engender support amongst young people who, as a student, attended a Conference, a project or went on an exchange and after leaving school wish to remain engaged with Round Square. The Board resolved to take an important step of appointing a part-time Major Gifts Manager in order to increase the philanthropic efforts in support of Round Square so as to enable the Organisation to undertake initiatives, such as providing greater bursary support for Students attending projects, introducing appropriate Schools who subscription level, etc, without substantially raising subscriptions which the Board is, understandably, loath to do. The Major Gifts Manager will work with the Advancement
Roderick D Fraser, Chairman Round Square Board
Round Square Global Form - collaborative online global learning The Round Square Global Forum was the topic for a presentation at the recent online Global Education Conference, Wednesday, November 14. School, who is facilitating the forming of collaboration partners and the development of learning projects, was joined by Rob McGuiness (Appleby
A recording of the presentation may be viewed by clicking
.
Round Square school teachers should visit the or contact John Nordquist for further information E-mail: rsglobalforum@roundsquare.org
John Nordquist (RSGF). Round Square is piloting a collaborative online global-learning project for their network of more than 100 schools. In School and TakingITGlobal, RS schools are taking advantage of existing pedagogues and e-technologies to develop collaborative experiences among member schools, teachers, and students.
2 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012
GENERAL NEWS
Delegates Support A Stranger For the international conference each delegate was asked to “adopt a stranger”. Each delegate was given a list of items to bring for the “stranger” they adopted and they items were packaged and distributed. “Many families in our surrounding community live below the bread line, in child headed homes with little spare money for basic requirements. It is in this regard that we encouraged each delegate to “Support-a-Stranger” and bring items necessary to brighten lives a little. When registering for the conference each delegate was given the opportunity to “choose” the stranger whom they would like to support in terms of age and gender. The options were both male and female from 4 to 14 years. During the conference each delegate fabric painted an age appropriate T-shirt and helped with the packing process.” The packages went to schools and impoverished communities close to
Bar of soap Tube of toothpaste Toothbrush Facecloth Hand towel Underwear pack Singlet /Vest Sock pack A5 writing pad 12 pack of coloured pens/ markers or crayons
that they have received anything new.
How many secretariat can you get in a phone booth? On a recent visit to Bath for the secretariat meeting, the members of the secretariat thought they would see how many of them And surprisingly, nearly all of us. Well ok, Brian Dawson is hanging out the door,
Clare Coverdale, Julie Driver and Ann West
Our next meeting will in the New Year
Jane Howison and Brian Dawson
suggested that we try a sentry box outside Buckingham Palace to squeeze into. The secretariat meeting was a busy and productive meeting which we believe was very worthwhile. We were able to openly discuss past developments and future scenarios with a positive focus. A lot of us work remotely so having the face to face time that we shared was hugely valuable
3 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012
Nex
t Tim e?
GENERAL NEWS
Student Leaders International: free resource for all schools The an educator from Queensland Australia. It has been developed to be a tool to support teachers aiming to develop the leadership knowledge and skills of upper primary and secondary students. The
Friends of Round Square Australia have a new website
stories of leadership excellence, feature articles that prompt in-depth thinking, historical perspectives and a focus on youth leadership organisations globally. Teachers may use the resource formally within existing leadership programs, as an integrated component of your schoolbased curriculum programs, or informally within personal development, life skill and International is formally supported by the International Confederation of Principals (ICP) and is endorsed by the International Youth Council. Features of the e-zine include:
visit http://forsaust.org a school. You, the teacher, will make this choice depending on your needs and leadership program. The Teacher Module includes:
— A starting point for discussion drawn from current media, literature and curriculum updates.
a generic unit of work that teachers may adapt or adjust to suit the age of the students. The unit integrates articles from each edition.
— A short, provocative article that prompts students to develop their thinking skills and consider how quality
student activity sheets
— An overview of how an organisation is trying to improve communities through leadership actions. — A succinct look at a leadership theory and how it may apply to students in a school setting. — Focus on a famous or infamous leader drawn from world history. — Examples of secondary schools from around the world. share their leadership learning from the time they were in school. A series of blog articles which provide a range of Indigenous leadership views about leadership.
The e-zine is supported by a Teacher Module supplement that has black line master activities that relate to all stories and articles within the e-zine. The Teacher Module will also be a free resource in 2013. At the moment there is a small fee of AUD$10 to download. The module provides activities that program for selected student leaders and/or more broadly in terms of service leadership learning for all students within
activities that integrate with recent leadership research
Both the e-zine and module are published in English. Three editions each year. To cover the costs of development, research and publishing the ICP has the inclusion of advertising in the Teacher Module. Any advertising information is in keeping with the ICP document “School Health Promoting School”. There will never be any advertising in the e-zine which is the student publication. Educators are asked to encourage students to share their personal leadership journeys and challenges, and ideas for future editions of Student is very keen to respond to the needs of teachers and students interested in leadership. Educators are encouraged Director, if you have any ideas that can support your own leadership programs. International is available on the website http://www.leadersinschool.com.au Copies of the e-zine, teacher modules and other resources can be downloaded from this site. Visit the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/studentleadersinternational
4 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012
Gamesmaker At the end of August, I was fortunate to work as a Gamesmaker at the Paralympics. Initially I was taken on as a driver, despite the fact I informed
not wanting cabbies, they said, and said about this technology and the potential trouble into which it can guide you. However, there were too many drivers and not enough assistants at the Paralympic Village so I was transferred to there for the whole of the games to be an assistant for the Chef de Mission of the Saudi team. Basically the assistants helped the Chef de Mission of the team to organise the multitude of tasks, including driving, associated with events of this nature. One of the advantages was the odd free ticket now and again to go and see events - so the night when Peacock and Pretorius went blade to blade in the stadium. A fantastic experience, which has given me so much as well as all those who either went as spectators or worked as volunteers and paid staff. Immediately above the Saudi
alumna of Bermuda High School, and her mother who her Chef de Mission. Jessica, a wheelchair athlete, was the epitome of the Gordonstoun motto have been proud to see such a result of experiential education, which he advocated his life long. Tony Hyde, Honorary Member of Round Square & Reps co-ordinator for Europe Region
GENERAL NEWS
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: UPDATE FROM BRIAN DAWSON Once again, Suzanne has produced a really impressive newsletter which highlights the many facets of the organisation and provides clear insight into recent activities and current developments. I would encourage you to distribute the newsletter as widely as possible within your school community, to staff, students, parents and alumni.
The Chairman has already mentioned that we have appointed a Major Gifts Manager to increase the humanitarian efforts of the organisation. We are extremely pleased to announce the appointment of Rachael Westgarth as our Major Gifts Manager. Rachael has extensive experience in the position in February of 2013.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Greg, Allison, and the students, staff and parents of Penryn College for Delegates were warmly welcomed and treated to a taste of South Africa in a very special way. They will have returned home very precious memories of people, places, animals and most importantly, lasting friendships. Preparations for the 2013 conference at Saint Andrews are school in Boca Raton are also in advanced stages. We are all looking forward to be hosted by Nic Dorn and his team at the school and to engage with the waves of change that is the conference theme. After the Penryn conference, Guy, Joanne location of the 2014 YRS Conference. The venue certainly lives up to expectation with the potential for a really genuine African experience for younger delegates. I am delighted to report that preparations for the YRS 2014 conference are in the advanced stages.
The December Projects are underway and eager participants will be launching themselves into the challenges of a kaleidoscope of unfamiliar cultures, climates, languages and diets in We wish all those participating, good luck and look forward to the project the project leaders, deputy leaders and accompanying adults for giving up their time to make sure that we are able to offer safe but relevant projects to our
partnerships will soon be available to be shared with all our member schools and will also be posted on our website. We are working on using the TigEd platform to live stream elements of the 2013 conference with the wider Round Square family. We are hoping to have both John and Jennifer make presentations to the Heads and Reps at the2013 conference. Finally, as the year draws to an end, Angie and I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your families all the very best for the New Year. May it bring you everything you wish for. I would also like to express my thanks to all of you for your continued interest in Round Square and particularly to the Board and Secretariat for their support and hard work during the year.
Gray and Claire Coverdale in the project ensure that these projects take place. Post the conference at Penryn, 45 teachers have made contact with Jennifer of 15 partnerships which are currently operating. These involve schools from a wide geographic distribution (USA, Canada, Switzerland, Australia, and Denmark). Examples of these
Waves of Change RSIC - ‘Save the date’ The upcoming Waves of Change RSIC Boca Raton, Florida. The website has launched and continues
“In the interest of time and preparations, however, Round Square Representatives now have access to key dates, preconference information, and our letter of invitation for visa applications. Please click through the website and explore; we welcome feedback, requests, and constructive criticism.” Nick Dorn, Round Square International Conference Chairperson
to enact positive change in their commnunities and
For more information vist: WWW.RSIC2013.ORG Or Contact Nicholas Dorn E: nick.dorn@saintandrews.net T: 001.561.210.2092 Skype: DORN0817
5 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012
ALUMNI UPDATE
New Alumni Regional Coordinators Emily Hurst, Canada world cultures. My involvement with Round Square (RS) began in elementary school when I was chosen as one of from Fern Hill School to participate in a Young RS initiative to Costa Rica in partnership with Foothill Country Day School. Since then I have been a very keen follower of the organization and its a RS exchange with Aiglon College School in Switzerland and in my last year at Appleby College I was a delegate for the 2012 RS International Conference experiences with RS have been great experiences and have contributed to the person I am today.
further cementing my interest in
Ontario where I plan to major in Global Development Studies and Psychology. After which I am considering medical school, law school or other graduate studies. My other interests include adventure pursuits such as climbing, skiing and horseback riding as well as photography and travel. I love seeing new places, experiencing new cultures. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to climb incredibly privileged to have travelled to 15 countries on 3 continents and I plan to continue to enlarge this list in the future. Through the position of Alumni Coordinator for Canada I hope to further believe in and use my love of travel to connect the likeminded RS Alumni.
Faith Memmo, U.S. & South America I am extremely excited to be the Alumni Coordinator for the USA. I went to Chadwick School, a RS school in California. My participation in RS began in 9th grade when I went to Markham College in Peru on an exchange for three months. I had an amazing time, and I stayed with a host family and went to school there. Through my experience in Peru, I was able to discover another part of the world that was different from my own. Returning to Chadwick, I could not wait to become more involved in RS. After my exchange, I went to the international conference at Mayo College in India, and I went on a service project in Guatemala. During the international conference I had the opportunity to meet a ton of new people from around the world, and in Guatemala our group really bonded as we built fog nets for a village. Through these experiences, I fell in love with RS and its philosophy. At my high school, I became very involved in our RS program. I was on the RS board at my school, and head of the board when in my 12th grade year. One of the things I did on the board was fundraise for the program Free the Children. Free the Children is a program that builds schools in rural areas of the world, and my RS board was sponsoring it. My 12th grade year my main priority was publicizing RS and the RS opportunities to the students at my school. RS offers so many opportunities, and I wanted to help other students take advantage of them and gain the invaluable knowledge and experience that I had. I am currently a student at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and when I heard about the RS Alumni Initiative, I was eager to apply. I think that even though we have graduated high school, our involvement in RS should not have to end. I think it
6 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012
is important that the RS alumni stay in contact because it gives us a network and a group of people who we can connect with around the world. I am looking forward to helping the alumni connect and collecting information. RS has helped shape me into the person I am now, and I want to continue to be involved in the program and help it continue to grow and transform.
Jennie Martin, Europe I am very fortunate to say that I have a wonderful and memorable history with Round Square, working as the Round Square Representative for 10 years at Windermere School taking students on regional and international conferences as well as in 2002 setting up an international project with Wellington College and School in South Africa which still continues to date and gives students and staff a true round square experience When I left Windermere I was fortunate to work at Wellington College on their International Round Square Conference as their Conference Co-ordinator and loved the chance to work alongside the students, staff and Round Square team. I enjoyed watching the students who meeting and making friends and having a wonderful time. Being the Round Square Alumni Coordinator will allow me to stay involved with an organisation that I feel very passionate about and which has had a huge and positive impact on my life. I am looking forward to being part of a team of Co-ordinators around the world who feel as I do and are working towards the same goals of making sure the Round Square community continues to grow.
NEW MEMBERS
Schools accepted as members of Round Square The following schools were accepted as members at the March 2012 Board meeting held at Brookhouse School, formally acknowledged at the AGM of the 2012 Conference at Penryn College in October.
Hackley School in New York UWCSEA Eastern campus, Singapore
For more than a century, Hackley School has welcomed all with the words carved
Dainfern College, South Africa
a friend.” What brings us together on this hilltop is not just oustanding academics, but also friendship, and the belief that “character is higher than intellect.” Head Master http://www.hackleyschool.org/ default.aspx
The East Campus in Tampines provides a benchmark in design and innovation in international schools around the world. The East Campus has challenged traditional notions of school design and created a distinctive concept entirely suited to the unique UWCSEA ethos and educational style. http://www.uwcsea.edu.sg/page.cfm?p=1
South Africa
“Dainfern College develops skills for life required to unlock unique personal potential provision of an innovative, relevant and quality education.” College Principal http://www.dainferncollege.co.za/
The CheongShim International Academy was established under the philosophical the Nation” going beyond the individual competent people who can lead society towards a world of authentic love across the broad spectrum of educational domains. http://eng.csia.hs.kr/
“We strive to provide a nurturing educational environment for academically gifted girls who come from disadvantaged backgrounds. Our educational programmes are designed for girls who have demonstrated academic talent and leadership potential. We equip students with the intellectual and social skills necessary to assume positions of leadership in South Africa and abroad. http://www.owla.co.za/
7 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012
UP CLOSE
Up Close with Ann West, Guardian of Round Square with her family during the war. After her education at The City of Bath Girls School, Rochester Grammar School for Girls and Avery and 1966 and then went to teach at Cobham Hall, a Round Square school where she stayed for 28 years. During this time she was the RS Rep and Deputy Head, and Deputy Director of Round Square to three Directors.
Ann works part-time for Round Square as the Round Square Guardian assisting the Executive Director and Chairman in the execution of their duties and responsibilities. Ann deputises for the Executive Director when required and provides administrative support for the Secretariat. She co-ordinates the mentoring of new schools, mentors the host school for the International Conference, and collects and stores the Round Square archives. support for the RSIS Projects each year and administers the Prince Alexander Project Fund (PAPF). You have been involved in Round Square for some years, what’s the biggest change you have seen in the organisation over that time? The increase in the number of schools, the number of employed staff and the business like and professional way it is now administered. What’s the most rewarding part of your role as Round Square Guardian? Seeing students and adults enjoying/ working together as a huge family at international conferences and on RSIS projects.
What do you think are the biggest challenges Round Square is facing now or in the future? Making sure that we continue to keep sight of our criteria for membership as we grow very rapidly and to remain professional in all that we try to achieve. During your time at Round Square To adapt to the modern world. I had to
the history of Round Square to the fore, I like “in the past we did it this way”.
What has been the highlight of your involvement in Round Square? Becoming Guardian of Round Square. You still do quite a bit of travelling with Round Square, visiting schools that wish to become members. What do you enjoy most about those visits? Being able to share the RS ethos schools positive response. Which country would you most like to visit and why? I love visiting USA, Canada and Portugal as some of my children and grandchildren live in these countries. You were awarded the Round Square Gold Pin by Him Majesty King Constantine, what was that for? For service to Round Square as my role as Deputy Director.
You have met royalty and some very important people over the years, who was the most inspiring and fascinating person you have met? I have been very honoured to meet so
Majesty the Queen or a Young Round Square person. Tell us who you would still like to meet and why? As many Round Square students and staff as possible as they are all interesting and Round Square inspired people. What do you do when you are not working for Round Square? I am married (for 53 years), have four children, all married, seven grandchildren. Community Foundation and Rochester Medway Unitary Authority and British Red
8 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012
Ann at the Round Square International Conference at Penryn
REGIONAL NEWS - AUSTRALASIA
Young Round Square A Young Round Square meeting of representatives from schools in Ivanhoe Grammar in May 2012. This meeting was the catalyst for the Buckley House campus of Ivanhoe Grammar School to recently host visiting students and staff from The Regents School in Thailand. Nonie Adams, Head of the Junior School, The Regents School, was looking for a Young Round Square Melbourne school to replace Mowbray College in their annual exchange program. Whilst it is not an exchange at this stage, Ivanhoe Grammar was keen to help support the schools visit to Melbourne. Four students and their teacher, Mr Jamie Perrin, arrived in Melbourne on 11 October and have been enjoying time taking part in normal school activities and visiting some of
Radford College Exchanges With only one month (less by the time Radford start their summer holidays, we school camps & projects. This year we have had some 40 students engaging in national exchange. Radford College thanks all those schools who helped make our Exchange Program so successful & look forward to continued links in the new year. Our students enjoyed exchanges with St Phillips in NT, Ballarat, Ivanhoe, Billanook & Woodleigh in Victoria, Bunbury in WA, Scotch Oakburn in Tasmania, and the Armidale School in NSW. Feedback from our students pretty much sum up overall experiences.. “It is hard to say what the best
Olivia Plummer & exchangee Bryar Gaskill with friends (Woodleigh, Victoria) in Melbourne
And from Izzie, after attending Scotch Oakburn (TAS)…
They have been hosted by families from the Buckley House campus of Ivanhoe Grammar School. It has been an absolute delight hosting visitors from The Regent School and hopefully it is the beginning of a close association between our two schools.
Ben Carman & exchangee Darty ever trip to the snow We also celebrate our international
has proved to be amazing experience for both girls. December sees 3 students engaging in RSIS projects in India & Thailand… we look forward to hearing of Our Yr 9 students are currently on their Outward Bound camp in the Snowy Mountains, Buchan, Victoria. The rain began to pour as the buses pulled away, but we are sure that they too are enjoying themselves.
Alice Hartwig & exchange Sarah Stuart (Scotch Oakburn, TAS) set off for walk at Cradle Mountain
We wish our Round Square family a joyous and safe Christmas.
Izzie Antioch & friends at Scotch Oakbiurn (TAS) on school camp
9 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012
REGIONAL NEWS - AUSTRALASIA
ELICOS Menors Leading The Way In Internationalism introduced to Ivanhoe Grammar School in 2011 to provide our Year 11 students with the opportunity to demonstrate their leadership skills and enrich their understanding of other cultures. Year 11 mentors would assist our newly arrived International students with the transition from their country of birth to the Ivanhoe Grammar School community. would learn about Australian culture, improve their English speaking skills and form meaningful relationships with mentors program has enabled Year 11 students to attain credits towards the Round Square Ideals Award under the
risen to the challenge. The mentors consist of local and International Year 11 students, local students who have recently returned from living in China and have studied as International students, as well as Year 12 - IB International students who were been fortunate to have at least one Mentor sessions included: Race Around Ivanhoe Grammar School, expectations of the school, subject selections,
been informative and approachable. Their has been outstanding, especially when English and others are reserved. The program has a structured and set agenda. However, Mentors are encouraged to guide the sessions and utilise their leadership and problem solving skills.
responses included: developing communication and social skills, wanting to participate in more leadership programs, being a good friend, better understanding of other cultures and learning how to be a leader. When question their responses included: a good opportunity to make friends with local
information about school expectations, the sessions gave them someone to talk to about the transition into mainstream and provided them an insight into the lives of Australian students.
a smooth transition into mainstream, to feel knowledgeable and comfortable in the new learning environment enabling Mrs.Andreevski and Mrs.Young
Overseas Students. It prepares students for our mainstream secondary school programs over a 40 week course. The non Australian students involved
English, Mentors were a good source of
Regent’s Primary visits Orphanage letters to governments to encourage more spending on HIV prevention and medication. In January, a sustainable coconut planation will be established looks after children living with HIV. The year 4 children had collected donations of foods requested by the orphanage of sauce during the term. Apart from giving the donations of food, they also had the chance to paint a pestle and mortar
enjoyed by both parties with singing and breakdancing, football and games. Year 4 gained a good understanding about life in the Home, the antiretroviral drugs that have to be taken daily, and the chance to interact with the children. The visit formed part of the year 4 assembly and, also following the trip, the children are writing persuasive
Community Chest. There will be the Primary children to take part in this exciting service project. Christmas boxes and a joint art and pool party are in the process of being planned for the future. There was a great deal of appreciation for the parents who supported this worthwhile Community Partnership with donations of food, and permission for children to
out. Andrew Glenville, Year 4 Teacher
10 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012
REGIONAL NEWS - AUSTRALASIA
Clean up the world On Sunday, 16th of September, boarders and day students from The together to take part in a sustainable initiative. After years of tasks where they cleaned up their local environment
was going to take place on their very own campus. Separated into twelve discussion groups, students got to know each other better and played a game of Environmental Bingo which taught each other how many of them were
shopping bags. The main aim of the day was to educate the students about why it is important to be environmentally sustainable. This message became clearer after a scavenger hunt activity which took place around the outskirts of the school nuts, batteries and straws. Towards the end of the hunt students were led to the waste dump located behind the secondary campus. It served as a visual representation of how much waste has been accumulated as a school and how many recyclable materials were not being recycled. The students came to a conclusion: the ratio of litter to greenery was unacceptable. They explored this further by investigating why some countries were
better at looking after the environment than others and how the issue could be solved within Thailand. Some suggested awareness within the school before bringing it into the wider community. Others voiced the necessity to make recycling as convenient as possible, by perhaps, introducing more garbage cans. Their main priority for the day was to focus on making sure the whole school realise that we are all indirectly affected by littering as it makes homes, workspaces and public venues much less beautiful and kills small animals and destroys their habitats. Also, litter contaminates precious resources which can potentially lead to a struggle for
education they can create a long-term impact within their very own campus. By Mae Underwood, Year 12 student, Regent’s School, Pattaya
prevent this, by again, learning to be more sustainable and encouraging others While half of the team of students were led by Mae Underwood, year 12, and assigned to the task of categorising, labelling and redistributing bins around the Secondary building, environmental pillar leader, Paige Bryant, year 13, took the other half of the students around campus in order to pick up as much litter as possible. The message was clear and established by the students themselves: the school is a part of their home environment, and as their home they have the responsibility to look after it and keep it as clean and tidy as possible.
Green School Effort to Save Endangered Species from Extinction The Begawan Foundation along with Green School released four breeding pairs of Bali Starling birds in Bali, endangered birds from its breeding facility on the Green School campus. Bali province, has been registered as an endangered bird species by CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) since 1970, when both poaching and loss of habitat. Green School, an international preschool through high school with a held a special ceremony for the release of the birds. Green School students have been involved with the Bali Starling breeding program since 2010 by feeding the birds, monitoring breeding pairs, conducting fund-raising activities, and auditing previously released birds on the island of Nusa Penida.
“The Green School is committed to continue working with the Begawan Foundation to ensure that the wild population reaches a level where the Bali Starling is no longer at risk of extinction. We embrace projects like this as powerful learning opportunities for our children,” said Green School Facilitator Chris Thompson. Prior to their release into the wild, the birds were tagged in order to record their movements on a daily basis. Nest boxes placed in nearby large trees will provide homes for the released Bali Starlings to lay their eggs and begin a small new and water available within the breeding area, the birds are expected to stay close to home where they can continue to be observed and monitored by staff of the Begawan Foundation as well as byGreen School students, staff, and security.
11 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012
School with the expectation of more releases to come. In their efforts to Foundation and the Green School will continue to monitor Bali Starlings in the wild and also educate the local community about the importance of their conservation.
REGIONAL NEWS - AUSTRALASIA
Teacher from Feldsted heads to Fiji contacted Rod Summerton about her interest in doing some volunteer work at a school in a Fiji village where he runs a project. Anyway….she did and had a
“You were right the village was incredible. Ema and her family made me Ema my amazing host in the village I learnt so much from my stay here and I hope in the future that I will be able to help the village and be able to take students from my school to experience the Fijian life and have an experience of a lifetime like I did. I had the most incredible time, learning how Fijians live and how they enjoy life.
The children brushed their teeth twice a day in school, this time was to educate the students about oral health and ensure they cleaned their teeth
Everyone was asking after Rod Summerton and they all send their love and best wishes. I can not thank Rod enough for organising this wonderful experience for me”
For more information about this project please contact Rod Summerton Round Square Co-ordinator, Invanhoe Grammar School E-mail: rod.summerton@ivanhoe.com.a
Playing in the waterfalls and river, eating coconuts, drawing with rocks and collecting vegetables for our dinner.
Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School - Bali Service Project The Project was collaboration between Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School Melaka. In earlier negotiations with the Balinese school, it was discovered that there were very limited resources to teach English; the library was poorly stocked and worn, and no computer technology was available in the classrooms. Working alongside the Balinese teachers, the team helped the students learn some English and with the language resources that were left with the school, they will hopefully continue to expand their English knowledge.
The aim of this Project was to develop a relationship with a small Balinese community through working in the The Service Project team helped with English language skills through reading, music, art sport and games. The team provided educational resources including dictionaries, reading books, stationery, sports equipment, computers, and Internet access. This was an opportunity for the team to build a bridge between two cultures and two schools whilst being able to experience wonderful and memorable adventures.
12 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012
REGIONAL NEWS - AFRICA
Peace Ambassador Tegla Loroupe partners with Brookhouse Brookhouse students have engaged in Peace Foundation, a charity led by marathon athlete who has dedicated skills to promoting peaceful coexistence and socio-economic development for poor and marginalised tribes in northern Students at Brookhouse held a “Bare Foot Campaign” where they drew a shoes, which were donated to the Tegla Foundation. This will allow young children who walk many miles to school each day in the remote and harsh north
granted in our daily lives. They also raised kenya shillings 710,000 towards books, food stuff and clothing.
2012 Conference Service Project Partnership follow up Brookhouse students continue to work in partnership with the local community project. Many of the April 2012 conference delegates will remember visiting
The aim of this project is to ensure that in which they can read and do their homework in the evening. Brookhouse is still raising funds to complete the shelving, install solar lighting and stock the library with books. and Olosupuku Maasai School with books, Brookhouse recently invited a group called “Jazz 4 Books” to come to school and play jazz for our students at lunchtime. To mark the occasion our students brought books to school and so far we have managed to collect about 2300 books.
13 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012
Sixty Round Square Schools from all corners of the globe descended on Penryn College, South Africa at the end of September for a truly African experience. The theme of the conference “no existence without coexistence” focused on two of the pillars of Round Square, namely environment and community service. Through engaging key note speakers and visits to surrounding areas, delegates were given the opportunity to witness the problems which are so evident in Africa as a continent and to discuss possible solutions for our future generations. All the delegates were privileged to Park and to visit some of the local tourist sites. In the spirit of Ubuntu , the generous donations received from all delegates will be distributed to the many needy children in the surrounding community. There is no doubt that the delegates all left with a piece of Africa in their hearts.
REGIONAL NEWS - AFRICA
Welcome to Africa! Johannesburg to Penryn via Limpopo The second half of the 2012 International Round Square Conference was hosted by our sister school, Penryn College in Nelspruit. A week before the conference, thirty-six delegates arrived from six Round Square schools to embark on a pre-conference trip: Johannesburg to Penryn College a tourist in my own country hosting delegates from Canada, USA, Australia highlighted just a few of the beautiful places in our diverse country with its
wondering what would be next. The delegates experienced a true taste of South African cuisine: a braai and a potjiekos cooking competition. The following two days were spent delegates were instrumental in blessing the Marie Day Care Centre with a new roof, a party and a donation consisting of hats and blankets all the way from California. We headed northwards into the Mountains of the Silver Mist, arriving at the Magoebaskloof Adventure Centre to enjoy a canopy tour (zip-line) over the
rode on them, as they carried out their afternoon activities, before proceeding to Nelspruit for the start of the International Round Square Conference in the late afternoon. The welcoming dinner and opening ceremony at Penryn College with the Brookhouse School, “No existence without co-existence”, was a “big family affair” in true African tradition and culture. All too soon it was time to say goodbye to our visitors and return home. Mrs Christine Ashton, Round Square
College campus gave the visitors an nights saw the delegates sleeping in a tented camp in the Cradle of Humankind and experiencing their performance that lasted well into the
dig, the Ann van Dyk (De Wildt) Cheetah Centre and a game drive in
taking part in a 30-metre abseil or tubing on the river. beautiful Panorama Route with visits Window, before meandering down the escarpment to Hazyview. Here we joined a small herd of elephants at Elephant Whispers, where we walked trunk in hand, fed, interacted and
Our Journey to India smaller, situated at a higher altitude and less humid. As the bus was too wide for the small roads we carried our backpacks During June half term I embarked on a journey to India with 31 other students. It has honestly changed my outlook on life. Before we left, I thought we were realized was that the monks would in 10 days teach me more about their outlook on life than I ever could imagine. After arriving at Mumbai, we were would “freshen up”, go on a tour and then leave for Dharamsala. Due to
the real experience started. For the next few days we learned about Tibet, visited a monastery, took spiritual walks, learned about Buddhism, visited museums, met the exiled Prime Minister of Tibet, visited various schools, joined an activist group (called Students for Free Tibet), attended
taught multiple English lessons at the Hope Centre (a language school). The two aspects of Round Square that I believe are most applicable to my journey
we spent such an extensive period on terrible, but it was a perfect time for napping and socializing (I only knew 3 students before the trip). Finally we arrived in Delhi, only to be met by the most extreme weather I have ever
and took rickshaws through the chaotic and busy yet very exciting markets. The drive to Dharamsala took 13 hours and we had the opportunity to stop at a few interesting shops along the way. We arrived in the morning and though still chaotic, Dharamsala was notably
played key parts during the journey. Community Service was the main objective during the trip and we based most of our activities on it. People often think that when one does community service the organization or person that one helps is on the receiving end, but will receive much more emotionally than one had bargained for, because the best kind of happiness comes from helping others. That might have sounded clichéd, but I have no words to describe the joy that I experienced every time one of the
14 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012
students understood or enjoyed the lesson. Exposure to other cultures taught me to accept and respect others, and I found that it has enabled me to look beyond the cultural differences (as well as differences in race, gender enjoy the company of the that person, whereas before the obvious differences would have prevented me from fully accepting that person. I have enjoyed this experience and I hope to take part in another similar project in the near future as it has helped me grow as well as brought me immense satisfaction (through the act of helping others) and memories that will last a lifetime.
REGIONAL NEWS - EUROPE
Oman Environment Award for Box Hill School Teacher During the half term break, Head of Year 10 and 11 at Box Hill School, Edward Wightwick was pulled over whilst driving, by the Omani Department for Tourism and Culture, to have his photo taken and to be awarded a cap and T-shirt. Stunned Ted thought he was in trouble its headlights along the desert road between Masirah Island and mainland Oman.
any environmentalist knows, you take
Service lessons.” Mark Eagers, Headmaster says “Environment is one of our school using experiences like this within our teaching. ”
It turned out the current anti-litter campaign in Oman wanted to highlight good practices and the two ladies in Ted tying his rubbish bag to the outside of his car. Ted says “I had noticed the terrible
Box Hill School has become the
Music franchise within its own music department. new music block is transformed into an ACM centre, where aspiring musicians can learn modern music skills from industry experts. The project called ACM @ Box Hill School, was kick-started with a glamorous launch party at the Dorking-based education hub on September 27th
ACM understands and shares our passion, so we could not ask for a better partner in inspiring our students to develop their musical ability. We know our students will approach the
emerges.” James Connell, Operations Manager at ACM Commercial, said: “This project is about making music exciting and accessible, by losing the formality and offering an environment in which creativity
September 29th. For those who want to sing, the school will soon be adding ACM Choir to the programme, where students can perform contemporary rock and pop songs as part of a group.
about it. Box Hill School could even blaze the trail for similar schemes in schools across the country.”
The school believes the scheme, which has been developed in conjunction with ACM in Guildford, will make the very most of the new resources introduced as part of a recent £1.5m investment in its music department. Mark Eagers, Headmaster at Box Hill School, said: “Music encourages nurtures respect for others. It really is a skill for life.
15 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012
Mark Eagers, Headmaster at Box
REGIONAL NEWS - EUROPE Students Live Among the Animals in Botswana! In advance of the Round Square International Conference held at Penryn College, a delegation of Ermitage students ventured deep into the bush of Botswana for 6 days where they spent a week being challenged like never before. The delegation from StrathconaTweedsmuir School, Canada, also participated in this Pre-Conference and collaborated with the Ermitage students
how to track animal prints, interpret animal behavior and survive in the wild. With morning treks at 5:30am, the team hiked an average of 5 hours a day, often coming across elephants, hyenas, kudus, elands, impalas, warthogs, ostriches. Botswana was in the midst of a severe drought and animals covered many kilometers through dusty lands in search of water. On many occasions, the group followed fresh lion tracks.The group rotated between two campsites, where the animals roamed freely and lions, baboons and elephants could be heard deep in the night (or seen during meal where each member was responsible for standing watch for an hour and half, signaling the guide should any suspicious noises be heard or visitors come through the camp. With only a visits from brown hyenas, elephants conservationist played host to the Ermitage team, providing an authentic family experience. With the nearest store being two hours away, the group outside of the conservation team during the duration of the trip. With the only priorities being to explore and survive the wild, this return to nature was a reminder to disconnect from the demands of modern day society and reconnect with the real world heightening senses and challenging limits, this authentic experience required the trust and dedication of all involved, and was a true reminder that there is “no existence without co-existence,” which was the theme of the Round Square Conference 2012.
16 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012
New building named after founder Construction work has started on an ambitious new centre and classroom block at Box Hill School in Surrey. A dedicated centre for Year 12 & 13 pupils, the modern teaching block will also house the English and Maths departments and provide additional ICT suites. A special topping out ceremony is expected to take place in April 2013. The centre is due to be completed in September 2013, in time for the new academic year. The new block will be called the Winthrop-Young building in memory and honour of Jocelin WinthropYoung, who died in February 2012, aged 92. Mr Winthrop-Young was one of the founding directors of Round Square, an association of which Box Hill School is a founding member, along with Gordonstoun in 1966; and played a vital role in developing the organisation from the 1960s through to the 1980s. He was also a governor of Box Hill School. Sophie and Geoffrey, said: “We are very, very grateful that Box Hill has chosen to name its new classroom block and sixth form centre after our Father, Jocelin Winthrop-Young. “For almost half a century he enjoyed close ties to Box Hill, both to the school itself and to many who worked there, especially the late Roy McComish. Box Hill was one of the founding schools of Round Square, and it stands for the educational ideals our father cherished. He would be delighted and humbled to know that he is honoured by the school in such
and today it is a worldwide network of more than 80 schools that share a vision and commitment beyond academic excellence to personal development and responsibility through community service, work projects, adventuring and international exchange programmes.
REGIONAL NEWS - EUROPE written by Imogen Johnston, Scotch Oakburn College, Tasmania, Australia
“The whole experience was amazing and getting to meet all the new people was Great. I also got to defeat my greatest fear of heights and got to help others too”
In October 57 students and teachers Canada, India, Armenia, Germany, for a 5 day Round Square Conference hosted by Herlufsholm School in Denmark. The theme of the conference Everyone who attended the conference boarded at the school and we all became really close. We discovered things about the different cultures and countries: the Indian delegates introduced us to traditional yoga, the introduced us to traditional dances. The Australians gave us a lesson in slang words. England did a remake of the opening ceremony and amongst others we were taught some Canadian history. It was a great culture evening. “A great opportunity to learn a lot about different cultures from around the world” Connor Craib, St. Stithians Boys College, South Africa
We learned a lot about Denmark when we visited the Danish Parliament and Christiania, a self governing town on the outskirts of Copenhagen. It was interesting to learn about the Danish political system as well as the system of Christiania, which were very different. It was a great way to get a better understanding of how Denmark is governed. We learned a lot about democracy when we did our own conference version of Model United Nations, (MUN) which was run by the students of Herlufsholm. We debated topics like having a Dinosaur park in Japan to the legalization of Marijuana. The delegates were assigned a country and they were to debate from the point of view of that country. We had some interesting and heated debates. “MUN was a great way to see people open up and enjoy some debating” Mitchell Tieck, from St. Philips College, Alice Springs, Australia
The theme of the conference was taken quite literally when the delegates visited ropes course. Each delegate, though some afraid of heights geared up for the tutorial and although scared, with the support of everyone, I am proud to report that every single person completed a course. I personally encouraging words and support of everyone. As I tried to complete a challenging obstacle, I slipped and fell - thankfully being caught in my safety
Tammy Schooley, Samworth Church Academy, England
harness. Friends guided me back up to the obstacle, giving me instructions the course and resulting in a great sense of accomplishment. I am proud of myself for “exploring new heights”. it made everyone feel as though they had accomplished something worthwhile and lived up to the words the Chairman of the board Jens Moberg had shared with us at the beginning of the week: ”Because that there is no doubt that it takes passion, commitment, teamwork and hard work to reach heights in your life. This is true for academic heights, career heights and heights in your private life. And reaching these heights also requires some help from your friends.” ”An amazing opportunity not only to meet new people but to learn what your limits are. If you get the opportunity, take it because it will teach you a lot.” Elias Schmoelz, Windermere, England
beginning of the week was a chance for us to get to know the other delegates a lot better. We had numerous activities to complete such as go and see the museum, climb the stairs down and up to see the cliff face (990 steps), which was so incredible, bike riding and walks. It was a very physical and tiring day, but was a great way to kick off the conference. “It was such an amazing experience, I conqured my fears, made the most amazing friends and have the most incredible memories” Devina Puri, Bay View Glen, Canada
We had some incredible keynote about being a democrat and his beliefs. He told why he was a Democrat. Among other things, he said that he had never heard of a democratic nation declaring war against another democratic nation. On the last day, B.S Christiansen spoke to us about being the best version of ourselves. He supported the delegates in taking responsibility for their lives and told us that in order to achieve our goals, we here and now. He was truly inspiring.
17 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012
The conference came to an end and saying goodbye to the most amazing people I have ever met was so hard. I have made friends for life on this conference and I am so happy I was granted the opportunity to represent my school and attend such an incredible event. I would recommend a Round Square conference to anyone who is up for a challenge and meeting new people. Saying I had an amazing time would be an understatement. It was one of the best things I have ever done. ”I just can’t begin to tell you how enriching the conference has been to us. The kids have a renewed perspective of democracy and adventure and not to mention internationalism. Believe me we haven’t yet stopped talking about our visit to Denmark! And not to forget the amazing hospitality we underwent with your warmth and the children’s sincerity, this conference will easily stay as the best ever RS conference attended by us.” Citat: Manisha Nanda, DAIS/Dhirubhai
REGIONAL NEWS - EUROPE
European Regional Council Meeting at Felsted, Essex We wanted to thank everyone from the European Region for coming to Felsted and for making the European Regional Council Meeting such a success. We thoroughly enjoyed hosting you and
February newsletter. We are also keen to make a presentation to the Global Conference on our thinking relating to the Diploma in due course. In closing, a massive thank you to
Constantine visit us for such a long period of the Conference weekend. He enjoyed his time at Felsted very much indeed and commented that it was such a vibrant and exciting Conference. As those who attended know, our
fantastic organisation of the Felsted Conference, as well as to all those colleagues who worked so hard to create an interesting experience. We hope you enjoyed it and we look forward very much to continuing to work closely with you and to meeting in Marrakesh.
stimulated an interest in some of the activities that we put on, whether the Model United Nations (if your students enjoyed this experience, we still have places available for the full Felsted MUN on 3rd and 4th March 2013 and can accept entries up until Christmas), or the creativity of the dramatic arts, dancing, or indeed in implementing a charity project with such impact as that described by Sarah Brook on Sunday in her key note speech. We promised to follow with information about the Felsted Diploma as part of our creative thinking to embed the School fully, so that every student has
their experience at School. We believe very much that this is a way to integrate the Round Square fully into the life of a School so that the Felsted Round it is just what every student will do as a matter of course. We also are very keen that it is at our Speech Day and other major events in the year, and students have to work hard to earn the highest levels of award. We believe that this is a way
to democratic engagement, to public speaking, self-presentation, selfawareness, and all of those other qualities which combine to create not only great service to others later in life but also true leadership. This of course is alongside academic achievement in the classroom and has allowed us to co-ordinate everything we do into a meaningful design. There has been a lot of interest in the Felsted Diploma from schools all over the world, and Tom Vignoles, our Deputy Head (Co-Curricular), will be reporting on this in more detail in the
18 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012
(16 - 18 Nov)
REGIONAL NEWS - AMERICAS
Propelling Leadership Across Youth P.L.A.Y property, learning the basics of teamwork through experiential learning. Beyond camping, our conference will embrace
Our school is located in Rothesay, New Brunswick, Canada and is surrounded by the natural beauty of both land and sea. The theme of the conference is Youth and it is our sincere hope that delegates and reps will embrace the concept, in action and spirit. Conference delegates will experience everything that the East Coast of Canada has to offer, with a touch of culture, music and adventure. Our Conference Organizing Committee has been challenged with creating an ideal conference, focusing on outdoor experience to the delegates. Through the creation of a Global Village, delegates and reps will send 2 nights and 3 days camping on our 200 acre
core elements of the experience. We are fortunate to live in an area of the world that boasts beautiful coastlines and amazing scenery and we intend to showcase this through the lens of the Our conference website is live and we would encourage you to visit it often, as we will update it frequently. http://www.roundsquareconference2013.org
We would like to extend an invitation to all members of the Round Square Community to join us in May 2013. Understanding that this is a Regional Conference, we felt it important to open registration to all schools, as international diversity adds so much to the conference experience.
Registration for the conference went live on November 5th and you can register conference website. Rothesay Netherwood School, its staff and students, are very proud to host the Regional Conference in May 2013 and we look forward to showing you our piece of the world. Should you have any questions, please feel free to email our E-mail: kristin.read@rns.c E-mail: brian.murray@rns.cc
Bay View Glen attend the European Regional Conference Brown travelled to Denmark to attend a European Regional Round Square Conference hosted by Herlufsholm School. The theme of the conference was exploring Danish democracy and the reach of our personal limitations. Some of the red brick buildings on the beautiful campus date back to the 12th century. Together we faced the cold weather, frequent rain and our fears during our two days of adventuring. We explored nature and the countryside and searched for fossils (climbing up
We encourage our fellow students to experience a Round Square conference before they graduate. Not only can you make many new friends, but you can also learn a great deal about yourself and about many other different cultures. This conference opened our minds to new perspectives on democracy and how it is delivered in other countries. It was a great adventure for us and something that we will never forget. by William Gu Devina Puri
We challenged our physical range at only high ropes adventure course. We also enjoyed a fun evening when all the delegates performed comical skits which highlighted the cultures of each region represented at the conference. Each delegate also participated in a one day Model UN programme that gave each of us debating experience. We were also inspired by the two keynote member of the Danish parliament and a passionate advocate for freedom of speech; and, B.S. Christiansen, a NATO elite soldier and motivational speaker.
19 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012
Toilet Project
CGS Art Competition
Many girls in India do not go to school because schools have no toilets. FRS & RS (South Asia & Gulf) have decided to build toilets in neighbourhood schools. This will be a concerted effort by all RS schools and it is estimated that in the next two years we will collect and spend between BP 30,000 & 50,000 on this project.
We are delighted to inform you that the results of “CGS Art Competition 2012� has been published in our
Thank you to all the schools that sent in entries and thus making this art competition yet another successful one.
view the results: This time we wanted to acknowledge every school that entered and give one candidate from each school recognition - therefore this year our Art teachers made the selections.
The winner was Amaan Chandurwala from The Daly College, India.
Delegates to International Conference
http://www.chittagonggrammarschool.com/Art-Competition/cgs_art_competition.htm
Winner: Amaan Chandurwala from The Daly College, India.
Mahine Khan Penryn College in South Africa hosted the RS International Conference this year. CGS delegates pictured above attended the Penryn College in South Africa for the RS International Conference. In November we have invitations to Gwalior, Chandigarh and British School, Delhi.
Runner up: Rhea Goenka, Dhirubhai Ambani International School, India.
Suzanne Bookless, Marketing & Communications Manager E-mail: admark@roundsquare.org Registered Charity No.: 327117
Round Square News that is not currently being written about please let Suzanne know.
20 | Round Square News | Issue 13 | December 2012