The IDEALS

Respecting difference: Promoting understanding

Cobham Hall has been a member of Round Square for 40 years and the education experience we offer is based firmly on the six pillars which form the Round Square IDEALS:

Internationalism

Our international diversity is celebrated in annual events such as the Cultural Festival. Students of all Round Square schools are encouraged to go on exchange to another Round Square school across the world, for between three weeks and one term. We currently have two visiting students with us, and a Cobham Hall student has just returned from an exchange to Melbourne, Australia.

Democracy

Cobham Hall has a democratic process for election to all school offices: from Group Leaders to our Head Girl (known as The Guardian). Within the Round Square committee, all decisions are made through a democratic process.

Environment

We have a commitment to care for our own local environment through Saturday mornings spent in the grounds, and we take a keen interest in global environmental issues. A new Environmental Committee was created last term and we gained the Eco Schools Bronze Award only two weeks after our application! This year we are already working towards the Silver Award.

Adventure

In line with Kurt Hahn’s belief that children should face life ‘head on’, we encourage participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, camping weekends, and adventurous activities such as kayaking and climbing.

Leadership

Right from the very beginning, girls are expected and encouraged to take on positions of leadership. This may be as a Group Leader or as organiser of a fundraising event. Elected students from every Year Group sit on the School Council.

Service

Service is very important indeed. All Sixth Formers take part in a community service programme. Younger students are involved in planning and running fundraising events throughout the year. The students also run a recycling programme as part of their service.