A Round Square world of connection and culture – that's the foundation of a student-led, week-long celebration of diversity at Christ’s College.

From a multilingual Chapel Service to all the high – and off-key – notes of a lively karaoke, a global quiz night, and the tantalising smells of international food-truck fare, Round Square Week has fostered fun and greater understanding.

A network of more than 280 like-minded schools in 50 countries on six continents, Round Square collaborates to deliver a range of programmes and experiences, helping to develop character and confidence in students. It emphasises the six IDEALS of Internationalism, Democracy, Environment, Adventure, Leadership, and Service.

Christ’s College Head of International and Round Square Yannis Zhang says it has “been rewarding to see so many students from all year levels getting involved in a great week”.

“Round Square Week is a special opportunity to bring all the many cultures at College together to jointly experience learning activities and connect with other students from different backgrounds.” Yannis says.

“It was also great to have such strong support from our Senior Round Square Committee. We have enjoyed working together as a group and ensuring our events throughout the year run smoothly. I have learnt more about leadership, communication, and the importance of working together during my time on the committee. These are brilliant opportunities for me to develop my own skills as I move towards the end of my education at Christ’s College.”

With a reading in German and prayers in Samoan, followed by an Odyssey-inspired homily in Chapel, and later an IDEALS-inspired scavenger hunt, it was a busy start to the week. School House was up for the scavenger challenge, staying in the hunt to claim the win from Flower’s House and Condell’s House.

And the ‘full house’ sign was posted at the Old Boys’ Theatre as a highly entertaining karaoke contest drew a big crowd and plenty of noise – both on and off the stage.

Oliver Sloan took the honours with La Bambola by Madonna, sung in Italian, while Casper Talbot was the runner-up with Kirari by Fujii Kaze, sung in Japanese, and Ollie Trollip and Tyming Kijpalakorn were 3rd with Human Nature by Michael Jackson. The fan favourite award went to Dominic Johnston for his rendition of Cruella de Vil.

Meanwhile, the Prefects also took the stage for a Q&A, answering wide-ranging questions from students – from what were their biggest challenges at school to what would they take away from their Christ’s College days as they walked through the gates for the final time.

Students sharing their international exchange stories, and reflecting on the rewards of a children-focused service project in South Africa were among the highlights of the Round Square-run Assembly. Meanwhile, Old Boys joined in with personal videos, noting the impact of the Round Square IDEALS on their journeys to date, and fondly recalling their best memories of a busy week during their Round Square time at Christ’s College.

Showing their support for Internationalism, the Ovation staff decorated the Dining Hall, and planned a daily menu that showcased the cuisine of different continents, with some even donning costumes to match.

The annual Quiz Night brought together students from Christ’s College, Rangi Ruru Girls’ School, St Margaret’s College, and St Andrew’s College for 10 rounds of questions.

Wrapping up the week, a lunchtime Kahoot! united the boys in intense competition.

Thank you to committee members James Bandasak, Hugh Davis, Augustus Elworthy, Mun Chi Jager, Bruno Kearney, Paddy Laidlaw, Ali Mann, Alfie McLean, Angus Sharpe, Louis Sharr, Charlie Syme, Ollie Trollip, Sebastian Wynn Thomas, Sasha Young, Lucas Zhang, and Lucas Zhong.