1. Principles
Schools in Round Square should espouse and practise genuinely Hahnian principles and ideals of education. These have as their fundamental objective the full and individual development of every pupil into a whole person, that is the simultaneous realisation of the aspirations - academic, physical, cultural and spiritual -- of every member of the community.
This objective will be reflected in the curriculum of each school which, through its comprehensive nature, will enable and ensure that such development takes place.
2. Service
In striving to achieve balance between self-improvement and self-sacrifice in the interests of others, schools of Round Square should develop in their pupils qualities of skill and care. They should educate their pupils in the concept and practice of service to those in need in their local communities and in projects further afield. Much of this will be achieved internally through example and the experience of the spiritual dimension which should exist in every school.
At the same time all pupils, for a period of at least two years during their school career, should be involved in service to the wider community and those in need beyond the school.
Round Square schools should also demonstrate an active concern for the natural environment, appreciating proven environmental problems and playing a part in tackling these.
3. Challenge
Round Square schools are committed to train their pupils in the appreciation of physical health and moral fortitude through the challenge and adventure of outdoor pursuits. In this context graded 'Outward Bound' type activities should be central to the curriculum and the fostering of a spirit of adventure in all pupils an important aspiration.
4. Responsibility
Education in the value of - and active participation in - democracy is essential in Round Square schools. Pupils, particularly appreciating the importance of self-discipline, should be trained and obliged, through partnership with adults in the school community, to take an active share in the running of the school. A high level of responsibility will be devolved upon them both individually and collectively. Freedom of thought and speech should be encouraged, with appropriate forums and channels of communication existing to satisfy their aspirations.
5. Global Perspective
Schools of Round Square should be as comprehensive as possible in the composition of their student bodies and, in particular, they should aim to be international and welcome pupils of all nationalities, although circumstances may dictate that this is possible only on an exchange or short term basis. Pupils should learn to appreciate and value cultures, religions and languages other than their own and see themselves as genuinely international citizens.
6. Commitment
It is not for schools to be nominal or institutional members of Round Square. All members of member schools - Governors, staff and pupils - should embrace the philosophy and the values of the movement. Member schools must be prepared to submit themselves to periodic appraisal to ensure continued membership.
7. Specific Expectations
Furthermore, schools of Round Square should play a full part in the responsibilities and activities of Round Square. These, inter alia, include participation in Conferences (regular and occasional), international service projects (particularly RSIS), pupil and teacher exchanges, raising funds for Round Square activities. There is an expectation to be involved in the organisation of some of these activities, including the staging of conferences. Membership of Round Square involves an enriching of Round Square's corporate vision and influence.
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