Round Square schools share a commitment to character education, student leadership, and experiential learning, built around the six Round Square IDEALS: International Understanding, Democracy, Environmental Stewardship, Adventure, Leadership, and Service.

At Barker College, the formation of character has always been central to our educational purpose. We joined Round Square in 2023 to connect us with like-minded schools around the world, and to take the significant step forward in our journey of empowering students to make a global contribution. This decision has opened the door to new partnerships, global engagement, and transformative learning experiences that shape not only what our students know, but who they become.

Middle School and Senior School Round Square Committees are made up of students who voluntarily dedicate themselves to promoting the Round Square IDEALS within Barker. Meeting weekly, students develop democratic skills, cultural awareness, and a global perspective.

Currently, the Middle School Committee are focusing their attention on taking part in the Rund Square Day Global Challenge, while the Senior School Committee have been working hard on organising the World Leading Schools Association Conference, which Barker is delighted to be hosting in the first week of the holidays.

Additionally, students involved in Round Square have opportunities to build their character and leadership skills, and connect globally, by taking part in Zoom Postcards, attending Regional and International Conferences and immersing themselves in Student Exchanges. Round Square Conferences provide platforms for students to broaden their perspectives and engage with pressing topics in a supportive setting, while Student Exchanges offer opportunities to develop international understanding, self-confidence, independence and interpersonal skills, while experiencing life in another country.

Zoe Tamsett (Year 11 student) is the current Chairperson of the Senior School Committee, and had the opportunity to go on a student exchange to Gordonstoun in Scotland. She reflects,

“Round Square's impact on me has been positive, and being in the committee has given me the opportunity not only to grow my character; it has helped me to get a better understanding of who I am, who I want to be and my leadership skills."
Zoe Tamsett, Year 11

On the place of Round Square within the Barker student experience, Zoe continues,

"Round Square is not just a club. It is an opportunity for all students to be a part of to develop themselves, to grow as leaders and to have their eyes opened to exciting possibilities. It's a student-run committee that has so many opportunities for every student who joins. Whether it is growing character, going on exchange, learning leadership skills, going to conferences or participating in service-learning trips.”
Zoe Tamsett, Year 11

For Barker College, Round Square is an aspiration, typifying our commitment to preparing our students to live flourishing lives of purpose and hope, of courage and global mindedness, committed to kindness and service beyond the Mint Gates.

Samantha Blood

Samantha is a PDHPE Teacher at Barker College, where she also serves as the Assistant Round Square Coordinator.