Oakleigh Grammar celebrated its participation in the 2025 Round Square International Conference (RSIC) in Dubai during the past school holidays, marking an exciting milestone in the school’s commitment to global learning, leadership, and service.
The school was represented by Principal Mark Robertson, Round Square Coordinator Rebecca Bettiol, Senior School Pastoral Coordinator Manoj Patel, and eight students.
The delegation returned with a wealth of experiences that extended learning beyond the classroom, strengthened leadership skills, fostered global friendships, and inspired innovative thinking on local and international challenges.
The conference, themed “Beyond the Dunes”, brought together students and educators from Round Square schools worldwide.
Delegates took part in environmental workshops, adventure challenges, Baraza discussions, and community service initiatives, applying the Round Square IDEALS of Internationalism, Democracy, Environmentalism, Adventure, Leadership, and Service in practical and meaningful ways.
Reflecting on the experience, Year 11 student Nefeli said, “Dubai was an experience I never thought I’d have. It opened my eyes to the opportunities the world offers, allowed me to connect with like-minded students, and taught me how leadership can create ideas that change the world, all while building unforgettable memories and friendships.”
Year 11 student Dimitrios added, “The trip to Dubai broadened my understanding of different cultures and showed how something as significant as environmentalism can unite people from diverse backgrounds, creating connections that can last a lifetime.”
Reflecting on the conference as a whole, Principal Mr Robertson commented: “It was an honour to chaperone our students, who were exemplars and fine young ambassadors for Oakleigh Grammar. Beyond the Dunes was an extraordinary experience for our students and staff, a melting pot of multicultural and highly intelligent young minds.”
A highlight of the visit was the presentation of the Round Square flag to Oakleigh Grammar, symbolising the school’s official status as a fully-fledged Round Square member school. This achievement reflects the School’s commitment to providing students with powerful opportunities to lead, serve, and connect – nurturing confident, compassionate, and globally minded individuals.
