AFTER a rigorous, two-year process Rockport School in Holywood has been announced as the first and only school in Ireland — north or south — to be accepted into the Round Square worldwide association of schools.
At Rockport’s annual Founder’s Day, Simon Reid, headmaster of Gordonstoun School in Scotland, a founding Round Square school and the home of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme, joined Rockport’s headmaster, George Vance, to officially mark the affiliation.
Through the Round Square network, Rockport will now be connected to over 120 Round Square schools in 14 countries.
Created in 1966 by educator and philosopher Kurt Hahn, who also established Gordonstoun, Round Square schools share a commitment beyond academic excellence, to the personal development and responsibility of their students.
Explaining Rockport’s unique educational and learning experience for pupils headmaster George Vance said: “We are the only truly independent school in Northern Ireland and our aim has always been to prepare for our students for life after school.
We offer a more holistic approach to education whereby every student’s talents are uncovered and encouraged.
“I could see how becoming part of the Round Square Association would deliver international opportunities for both our students and staff. Membership was a goal for the school and one which I felt would add a global dimension to our students’ learning.”