Why Internationalism matters at Gordonstoun
Internationalism was central to the ideals of School founder Kurt Hahn and remains a dominant theme today.
To think, believe and act as an international citizen is a fundamental objective.
We promote internationalism:
The Student body
Set in Scotland, with a broadly British educational background, Gordonstoun has, at any one time, students of over 40 nationalities: approximately a third of the School population.
This broad mix of people and cultures promotes acceptance, tolerance and appreciation of difference.
This ethos is further enhanced and fostered by the Gordonstoun International Summer School, which attracts over 250 students from many countries each year.
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In the Classroom
Internationalism is reinforced through the curriculum. All Lower School students take the specially designed Gordonstoun course in International Citizenship (IC).
It combines spiritual development, health education, environmental issues, civics and life skills in an international context.
If required, we provide academic support in English as a Second Language at all levels, leading to certificated exams required by universities throughout the world.
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Round Square
In 1966 Round Square was founded in, and named after, the fascinating circular building at Gordonstoun.
Round Square is a worldwide association of over 60 schools, sharing a commitment to personal development and responsibility through:
- Internationalism
- Democracy
- Environment
- Adventure
- Leadership
- Service
It provides opportunities for students to participate in global and regional conferences and helps students to undertake exchanges and projects. Underpinning its philosophy are:
Learn more about the Round Square organisation.
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Exchanges
Gordonstoun has an extensive exchange programme.
In any year we welcome 20-30 visitors from all five continents. A similar number of Gordonstoun students take part in exchanges.
Some will visit Europe to brush up on language while others undertake a broader educational experience in Africa, North America, India and Oceania.
Most exchanges are with other Round Square Schools. Most exchanges are in the Spring Term of year 10.
Read what students have to say about their exchange visits:
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International service projects
For most senior students the international service project is a highlight and a hallmark of their time at Gordonstoun.
The projects enable students to build on the personal benefits fostered by the School.
Students work hard in a team, with people of other nationalities, in a different environment, toward wholly worthwhile objectives. This is an experience without equal.
Gordonstoun is the world leader in organising such projects. Recent projects have taken students to:
- Thailand (irrigation);
- Sinai (food production and irrigation); and
- Romania (humanitarian and nursing).
Round Square also organises projects, which provide students with an alternative, equally valuable experience.
Students' views on International Service Projects
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Conferences
- Students have opportunities at various age levels to attend gatherings of their fellows at national, regional and global levels.
- Participation in conferences helps to develop social skills and provides opportunities for broadening international experiences.
- Each conference has a theme based on the IDEALS of Round Square, and the outcomes are invariably significant.
- In 2006 over 60 schools attended the global Round Square Conference at Gordonstoun, where the theme was "Plus est en vous".
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