Round Square is a unique educational philosophy, spearheaded by a world-wide association of 90 schools on five continents who come together to enrich the student experience through international learning and exchanges. Through Round Square, Ermitage is able to further its students' awareness of the world community and their place in an ever-changing global society. Round Square is founded on six pillars, or IDEALS, which are reflected in Ermitage's academic curricula: Internationalism, Democracy, Environment, Adventure, Leadership and Service.

These pillars are an extension of the ethos of Ermitage, encouraging students to become global citizens by offering them enriching and dynamic experiences in and outside of the classroom. Ermitage students of all ages benefit from a wide-range of character-building activities, including global exchanges, leadership conferences, student government committees and service projects around the world. This commitment to the IDEALS, coupled with academic excellence, provides Ermitage students with an unparalleled resume of meaningful experiences and a network of lifelong international connections.

Ermitage students have the extraordinary chance to work together with fellow international students, discussing important world issues and building a global network of friends.  International and regional conferences are held annually, with the international conferences focusing on one main pillar of the organization and being held on a different continent each year.  For a complete listing of recent Round Square conferences and upcoming opportunities, please visit our Leadership Conferences.

Through Round Square, Ermitage students have a wide network of schools to choose from should they want to go on an academic and linguistic exchange. Similarly, new faces are always joining us from abroad, sharing their home culture with our students, while developing their understanding of French language and culture. Students are welcome to participate in exchanges beginning in 6th grade (6ème). For more detailed information, please visit our Student Exchanges.

Are you a recent high school graduate seeking an enriching work experience in another country? Gap students who are over 18 years of age are welcome to apply for fall and spring semesters at Ermitage. Our most recent Gap Students have joined us from Australia, Colombia, Scotland, Mongolia, Canada, and the UK.  Please contact roundsquare@ermitage.fr for more information.