Round Square schools share a commitment to character education and experiential learning built around six themes – known as IDEALS – International Understanding, Democracy, Environmental Stewardship, Adventure, Leadership, and Service. The greatest benefit is the opportunity for Cate students and adults to experience life-changing experiences around the world.
Cate typically sends delegations of five students and two adults to two conferences per year and participates in 2-3 reciprocal exchanges. Around three students per year also get the opportunity to go to Round Square International Service (RSIS) projects.
Exchanges are the longest of the three Round Square opportunities and the best way to immerse oneself in another school, culture and country. They typically last four to six weeks either during the school year or during Cate’s summer break.
Students have a host family or live in a dormitory depending on the school. While on exchange, students participate in all aspects of school life including academics, athletics, and extracurriculars.
Round Square conferences and RSIS projects typically cost around $3,000 per student delegate whereas the costs for an exchange are a plane ticket and spending money.
Financial assistance is available for all three of these opportunities depending on the level of FA each student receives from Cate for tuition. Round Square also offers some bursaries for the various programs.