Growth and Expansion

The normal route for membership requires that a school become a Regional Member first and then at some point (after a minimum of three years) apply for Global Membership. Global Membership is determined by the current distribution of Global Member schools at the intended pursuit of geographic and demographic diversity. The reason for this is outlined below.

Schools may apply to become Associate Member or approach the Regional Director for consideration as a Partner School.

The 2008 International Conference in Canada incorporated a consideration of the question of growth of the organisation. The topic was discussed at length by Heads and Governors and consensus reached on the way forward. It was agreed that the continued growth of Round Square in terms of its member schools and influence should be supported and that the challenges presented by this (e.g. Conferences) should be addressed as required but should not be seen as a barrier to continue further expansion.

Whilst there is much work to be done in evaluating the type of growth that should take place, the speed at which it should occur and in particular the need for addressing the issue of diversity with membership, (however this is defined), the notion of continued expansion was unequivocally supported by all in attendance.  It is interesting to note that the Governors in a separate meeting arrived at the same conclusion.

Essentially the plan is -

• To grow strategically (‘intelligently’) over the next two to three years, emphasising growth in unrepresented or under-represented areas as a means of extending our diversity.
• To follow strategic plan that addresses the issue of longer term growth and which is endorsed by the current membership.

This will mean that Global Membership in over represented regions will be limited whist the question of underrepresented regions and less resourced schools is addressed. However, Regional Membership still remains an option in the over represented regions and I would urge you to consider this. It is likely that in the fullness of time, such regional members will become global members.