Grammar News

Round Square

Round Square in Action:  Empowering Students Through Energy and Purpose

 

Round Square has been buzzing with activity across Oakleigh Grammar this term, as students and staff immerse themselves in the values, experiences, and global connections that define this extraordinary network of schools. From conferences to environmental action, it’s been a term filled with curiosity, courage, and compassion.

 

Footprints of Unity – Round Square Conference in WA

One of the major highlights this term was the Round Square "Footprints of Unity" Conference, hosted by Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School and Scotch College in Western Australia. Four Year 8 students, accompanied by two teachers, travelled to the event, which focused on the Round Square IDEALS of Adventure and Internationalism.

 

The theme, "What footprints do you want to leave?", resonated deeply with participants and challenged them to reflect on their personal impact on the world. The experience was transformative, offering students the chance to connect with peers from Australia, India, Bangladesh, and the USA, while navigating activities designed to develop leadership, empathy, and resilience.

 

One of the most memorable moments came during the physical challenges, where students participated in bushwalking and a rock-climbing course that culminated in a courageous "leap of faith." These moments brought the IDEALS to life, fostering a sense of trust, growth, and unity.

 

“During this experience, I really stepped out of my comfort zone. Meeting new people pushed me to be more open and confident. It was challenging at first, but it helped me grow both socially and personally.”— Emily Koutsovasilis, Year 8

 

From singing “We Are Australian” with Indigenous verses to making sandwiches for those in need and constructing possum boxes for local wildlife, the service element of the conference reinforced the power of small acts in building a better world. As our students were placed in mixed-school groups, initial nerves quickly turned into powerful friendships and connections that will last far beyond the conference.

 

“The most meaningful connections often come from unexpected circumstances. One moment that stood out was building a friendship with a student from India who attended the conference without any of his teachers. It reminded me that humanity and kindness are universal languages.”— Ms Inneke Smit, Middle School Teacher

 

The leadership of Year 10 and 11 students from the host schools also left a lasting impression, as they led activity groups with maturity, empathy, and clarity. Their example inspired all delegates to consider how they, too, can be leaders who serve with heart and purpose.

 

Earth Day: A Whole-School Commitment to Our Planet

Environmentalism was in full focus as the school marked Earth Day with a powerful display of unity and awareness. Classrooms limited their use of electricity, prompting reflection on how small daily actions can spark global change.

In the Middle School, a series of cross-curricular lessons—led by Mr Thomas Hore-Lacy and the Individuals and Societies team—encouraged students to connect with environmental issues both locally and globally:

  • Year 6 investigated Australian climate challenges
  • Year 7 explored Indigenous environmental practices
  • Year 8 investigated Japan’s approach to sustainability
  • Year 9 analysed the environmental impact of World War I

Meanwhile, in Year 9 Design, Ms Inneke Smit led a future-focused project where students built model solar houses, applying design thinking to tackle real-world environmental challenges.

 

 

Introducing Sustainability Suki

This term also saw the launch of Sustainability Suki, our Round Square Hero of Discovery. From ELC to Senior School, Suki is sparking conversations about environmental stewardship and inspiring students to see themselves as guardians of the planet.

 

 

Global Challenge: 100 Miles of Impact

Oakleigh Grammar is proudly participating in the Round Square Global Challenge: 100 Miles, a worldwide initiative that unites students through action and empathy. Each section of the school is interpreting this creatively:

  • Junior School students are walking laps in House colours to collectively cover 100 miles, promoting movement and team spirit.
  • Middle School students are crafting a collaborative handprint globe mural, symbolising global unity and responsibility.
  • Senior School is forming a chain of gold coin donations, representing 100 miles of generosity—funds will go toward Round Square International Service Projects.

These initiatives tie directly into our HARK values of Humility, Aspiration, Respect, and Kindness, showing that meaningful change is possible when we take small steps with purpose.

 

Students are kindly asked to bring a gold coin donation on the day of their activity.

 

Looking Ahead

Round Square continues to be a dynamic and powerful force in our school community—encouraging students to lead with heart, think globally, and act with purpose. We look forward to sharing even more stories of inspiration and impact as the year continues.

 

 

Rebecca Bettiol

Round Square Coordinator