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What makes a Round Square school unique?

Round Square schools in Canada are part of a worldwide association that gives students opportunities to travel, experience multiple cultures, engage in community service, and explore diverse learning environments. Many of Canada’s Round Square schools are private institutions listed in our directory. Students can even participate in exchanges to other Round Square schools abroad for a semester at a time.

These schools emphasize the IDEALS: internationalism, democracy, environment, adventure, leadership, and service. Community involvement is central, with International Service Projects that may include building infrastructure in underserved areas, creating fresh water systems, volunteering in soup kitchens, or supporting youth programs.

The name “Round Square” originates from a 17th-century building at Gordonstoun School in Scotland, one of the founding institutions. Influenced by Kurt Hahn’s educational philosophy, Round Square schools aim to develop the whole child. Hahn believed education should extend beyond academics to teach real-world values like generosity, bravery, creativity, and conflict resolution.

What should parents consider before choosing a Round Square school?

Before selecting a Round Square school, consider these key questions:

• Is your child ready to live away from home?
• How will your child adjust to cultural differences? Have you researched the local environment where the school is located?
• Does the school align with your child’s aptitudes, needs, and interests? Does it offer a specialty or match your expectations for an ideal learning environment?
• What are the school’s strengths and weaknesses? What is its average class size?
• Does the school have a positive reputation? Speak with parents, students, and alumni, and review Fraser Institute ratings, where Round Square schools often perform well.

For more information on Round Square schools, attend one of OUR KIDS’ annual private school expos.