Round Square Talking Heads

Cory Lowde from Box Hill school in the UK takes us on part THREE of a three-part journey through teenage brain development, offering insights into some of the challenges faced by teens, and how we might support them in navigating adolescence. He explains, with examples, how neurological changes can impact behaviour, emotional regulation, and learning, and how the 7 Cs (Consistency, Calmness, Confl...

David Mindorff, Principal of Lyford Cay International School in the Bahamas talks about the transformative impact of adventure, and the effect that the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has had on his school community.  David reflects on the skills his students have developed through expeditions, the long-lasting impact of their experiences, and the opportunity the Award provides for growth across the who...

Arti Chowdhary from KC Public School in India draws inspiration from Daisaku Ikeda and Soka Humanism (believing in the infinite potential of others) to discuss the role that empathetic leadership plays in building a happy world. Arti discusses how capable leaders are fostered with conscious effort, and the importance of developing in young leaders a deep understanding of the problems of the world,...

Dr Charles Yeboah from The International Community School in Ghana shares his work with the Minister of Education and education experts in establishing the National Education Leadership Institute leadership programme. The training programme aims to provide accessible online resources and coaching for school leaders, without requiring them to leave their schools, through four courses that focus on...

Dr Alec O'Connell, Headmaster of Scotch College in Western Australia, outlines how his school fosters ethical behaviour in the school community through the themes of Respect and Consent. He talks about bystander intervention, and how this plays a critical role in promoting positive values and avoiding toxic masculinity. Alec also shares some of the approaches implemented at the school to enco...

Sara Rubenstein from Carrollwood Day School in the USA shares how Rutger Bregman's 'Humankind, a Hopeful History' inspired her to maintain optimism and idealism during the pandemic. She discusses how Bregman's call to question negativity bias and employ critical thinking skills can help us believe in the innate goodness of humanity, and encourages us to embrace optimism, courag...

Vanita Uppal from the British School New Delhi draws inspiration from Thich Nhat Hanh's expression 'No Mud, No Lotus' and connects it to effective leadership. She discusses how examples of extraordinary leadership and Andy Hargreaves' insights can help us become authentic leaders, fired by passion, agility, empathy, and compassion. Vanita talks about the importance of getting i...

Chris Shannon from Lower Canada College shares his inspiration for Black History Month from 1960s actor Sidney Poitier. Chris discusses how Poitier chose roles that addressed injustice and overcame racism, and challenges us to honour him by hosting a mini-film festival in our own homes. Chris suggests we can gain a deeper appreciation of the progress made in racial equity since the 1960s through e...

Cory Lowde, Headmaster of Box Hill School in the UK, explores the interconnectedness of the Round Square IDEALS, and how our interaction with these themes adapts and changes in different contexts. He takes us on a journey through the six Round Square IDEALS, and their foundations in Kurt Hahn’s educational principles, considering how they contribute to, and cultivate, a school's identity and...