Round Square - Ningbo Huamao International School

In 2015 NBHIS gained entry into the Round Square (RS) network of schools. Round Square supports the school in offering a holistic education that builds persistence, resilience, leadership and an international mindset focussed on helping others.

Students in RS schools can go on exchange to over 150 schools in more than 50 countries around the world, attend RS conferences with like-minded students and be involved in service projects. Our students are also regularly engaged in online projects with students from across the globe. These include Classroom Collaborations, Zoom Postcards, Language Labs, and History Labs. All of these activity share the same aim of building international understanding.

The pillars of the RS are Internationalism, Democracy, Environment, Adventure, Leadership and Service (IDEALS) and are embedded into every aspect of school life.

NBHIS has actively engaged in numerous Round Square activities, fostering global citizenship and personal growth among its students. The school has participated in several interschool collaborations, including the English Lab, History, and Climate Change projects. These initiatives have allowed NBHIS students to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds, enhancing their communication skills and broadening their perspectives on global issues.
In-house activities have also played a significant role in promoting Round Square ideals. The UN Day Fashion Show celebrated cultural diversity, while whole school awareness campaigns focused on various global challenges. Parents Day briefings have kept families informed about the Round Square program and its benefits.
Through these activities, NBHIS students have gained valuable skills aligned with Round Square ideals:
1. Internationalism: Developing global awareness and cross-cultural understanding
2. Democracy: Learning to voice opinions and respect others’ views
3. Environmental Stewardship: Becoming conscious of ecological issues
4. Adventure: Stepping out of comfort zones and embracing new experiences
5. Leadership: Taking initiative and guiding peers in collaborative projects
6. Service: Contributing to community welfare and understanding social responsibility
Based on the Round Square activities mentioned, NBHIS students likely achieved several specific outcomes:
1. Enhanced Cultural Competence: Through the UN Day Fashion Show and international collaborations, students gained a deeper appreciation for diverse cultures, customs, and perspectives.
2. Improved Language Skills: The Inter-school English Lab collaboration likely strengthened students’ English language proficiency, including writing, speaking, and listening skills.
3. Heightened Historical Awareness: The History collaboration probably deepened students’ understanding of global historical events and their interconnections.
4. Environmental Consciousness: Climate change collaborations and awareness campaigns likely resulted in increased knowledge about environmental issues and motivated students to adopt more sustainable practices.
5. Public Speaking Confidence: Participating in fashion shows, awareness campaigns, and collaborative projects helped students develop their presentation and public speaking abilities.
6. Research and Analysis Skills: History and climate change projects likely required students to conduct research, analyze data, and draw conclusions, enhancing their critical thinking abilities.
7. Digital Literacy: Inter-school collaborations probably involved using various digital platforms, improving students’ technological skills.
8. Leadership Development: Organizing and participating in school-wide events and campaigns allowed students to take on leadership roles and develop associated skills.
9. Global Network Building: Students likely formed connections with peers from other schools, both locally and internationally, expanding their global network.
10. Increased Self-awareness: Engaging in diverse activities helped students discover their strengths, interests, and areas for personal growth.
11. Enhanced Teamwork Skills: Collaborative projects fostered better communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution skills among students.
12. Improved Time Management: Balancing regular academics with Round Square activities likely enhanced students’ ability to manage their time effectively.
13. Greater Empathy and Social Responsibility: Service-oriented activities and awareness campaigns probably cultivated a stronger sense of empathy and social responsibility among students.
14. Increased Global Awareness: Exposure to international issues through various collaborations broadened students’ understanding of global challenges and interdependence.
15. Improved Problem-solving Skills: Tackling real-world issues in projects and campaigns helped students develop practical problem-solving abilities.
These outcomes collectively contribute to developing well-rounded, globally-minded individuals prepared for future academic and professional challenges. Students have also honed crucial 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, teamwork, adaptability, and digital literacy. The Round Square activities have empowered NBHIS students to become well-rounded, globally-minded individuals prepared for future challenges.