Here’s What to Know About the Philly Area’s Most Exciting Schools and Programs

Presented by: Philadelphia magazine

It goes without saying that parents want the best for their children—and that often begins in the classroom. Fortunately, Pennsylvania is home to some of the finest independent schools and academic programs in the country, offering challenging and enriching courses, extracurricular activities, global experiences, and much, much more. Navigating these options, however, can be overwhelming. Whether you’re looking for an elementary, middle or high school program, we’re here to help. Read on to discover some of the most exciting schools and programs the region has to offer.

Getting Started

When you’re looking for the right private school for your child, academics are important—but they aren’t the only factor. Finding the best school means discovering an environment where your child can make lasting friendships, develop hobbies and passions, and flourish both in and out of the classroom. Ultimately, the key to finding the right school is asking questions. Here are some essential topics to discuss with a school’s admissions team during the application process.

What is your school’s philosophy?

Every school offers a unique experience, and different institutions have distinct approaches to learning. Your child’s learning style and interests might be best suited to a specific educational vision, so it’s important to consider the environment that a school provides. Some philosophies to consider include Montessori, which encourages holistic development; STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math); or Waldorf, which integrates art and imagination into academics.

What type of extracurriculars do you offer?

Exposing your child to a wide range of social, athletic, creative and service-based activities can help enhance their education, and it’s important that they feel a sense of community with their school even when they aren’t in the classroom. For example, consider what kind of service events a school offers, what creative experiences and showcases students can participate in, what kind of social outings there are for students and their families, and what kind of sports teams they offer.

How involved are parents and families in the school’s community?

For many parents, an open line of communication with the administrators and educators at your child’s school is crucial for multiple reasons. An understanding of how and what your child is learning can help you foster a supportive and enriching environment at home, so they can build on and exercise the skills they’re developing in the classroom. Plus, knowing your child’s teacher can help you feel more comfortable with and confident about the environment you’re sending your child into every day. And when it comes to social outings and events, you’ll want to make sure there are ample opportunities for you to connect with other parents and families and deepen the sense of community that the school can provide.

How do you cater to learning styles and differences?

Every child learns differently, so it’s important to ask the school how it supports varied learning needs and if there are resources or programs for those who need extra help or challenge. If your child has an IEP (Individualized Education Plan), be up front with the admissions team so you and the school can be certain the school can meet your child’s specific needs and goals.

How does your school prepare students for college?

school, college is probably already on your mind, and understanding how a school prioritizes college prep will be a top concern for you. Talking to administrators about how the school views college and what kind of college experiences alumni have had can help inform your perspective and can help you find the best resources so your child can get into their dream university.

2025 School Resource Guide

Benchmark School

Since 1970, Benchmark School has led the region in transforming the educational trajectories of children with learning differences such as dyslexia and ADHD. Benchmark’s unique, research-based approach helps students in grades 1-8 gain tools and strategies to turn their challenges into opportunities for growth. It enables students to get to know their own learning styles intimately and advocate for their own success. Benchmark’s proven approach leads directly to increased confidence and competence in learning.

Media, PA | 610-565-3741 | benchmarkschool.org | IG: @benchmark.school

Camp Waukeela

Waukeela is a magical summer camp in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, nestled by Crystal Lake. For over 100 years, girls ages 7-17 have spent two, three-and-a-half, or seven weeks build- ing confidence, friendships and lasting memories. Campers explore arts, theater, archery and outdoor adventures while connecting with nature through hiking and lakeside fun. Waukeela fosters leadership, teamwork and self- discovery in a supportive, inclusive community. More than just activities, Waukeela instills values of kindness, respect and individuality that last a lifetime. Here, girls learn to love who they are—and that kindness is cool!

Eaton, NH | 603-447-2260 | waukeela.com | IG: @camp_waukeela

Center School

Center School specializes in educating students in grades 1–8 with language- based learning differences, including dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia and ADHD. As the only school in the tri- state area offering over 500 hours of literacy instruction annually, Center School provides a curriculum tailored to support each learner. Using proven methods like the Wilson Reading and Orton-Gillingham programs, the school focuses on building strong literacy skills. Center School’s mission is rooted in nurturing confidence, resilience and academic excellence, ensuring every student thrives in a supportive and enriching learning environment.

Abington, PA | 215-657-2200 | centerschoolpa.org | FB: CenterSchool

Church Farm School

Church Farm School is an all-boys boarding and day private, college pre- paratory high school in Exton rooted in the Episcopal tradition. Since 1918, CFS’s mission has been to ensure young men of character receive a world-class education at an affordable price. Located on 150 bucolic acres in the heart of Chester County, the school emphasizes leadership, curiosity and good sports- manship, along with the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity and brotherhood. All graduates go on to the nation’s leading colleges and universities, and CFS ensures their persistence through a unique Alumni Success Program.

Exton, PA | 610-363-7500 | gocfs.net | IG: @churchfarmschool

Friends School Haverford

Guided by Quaker principles since its founding in 1885, Friends School Haverford provides an intellectually rich program in a diverse school community. They promote academic scholarship, creativity, respect, integrity and play-based learning with a commitment to create a culture of stewardship and kindness. Friends School Haverford graduates are uniquely prepared to move forward in the world with confidence and the ability to use their voice for good.

Haverford, PA | 610-642-2334 | friendshaverford.org | IG: @haverfordfriends

Hill Top Preparatory School

Hill Top Preparatory School educates and empowers neurodiverse students in grades 5–12 with learning differences such as autism, ADHD and anxiety. With a focus on self-advocacy, social connection and independence, Hill Top collaborates with families to ensure students thrive academically, socially and emotionally—preparing them for success in college, careers and life.

Bryn Mawr, PA | 610-527-3230 | hilltopprep.org | IG: @hilltopprepschool

Germantown Academy

Germantown Academy was founded in 1759 as a school for the community of Germantown. Today, GA in nearby Fort Washington sits on 126 acres and is comprised of more than 1,200 students in grades pre-K through 12, learning and growing in a non-sectarian, coeducational college preparatory environment. GA’s mission to inspire students to be Independent in Thought, Confident in Expression, Compassionate in Spirit, Collaborative in Action, and Honorable in Deed is a daily part of educational life. With talented and caring faculty, honest and curious students, and a beautiful environment, Germantown Academy is where Anything is Possible Starting Here.

Fort Washington, PA | 215-646-3300 | germantownacademy.net | IG: @germantownacademy

Gladwyne Montessori

Preparing Students to Thrive in Middle School: At Gladwyne Montessori, serving infant through 6th grade, learning is a joyful natural process. Their mixed-age elementary program cultivates curiosity through exploration. Concepts are introduced early and revisited in depth each year. With the perfect blend of freedom and structure, students build confidence, develop critical thinking, and truly enjoy learning. Graduates emerge with a strong sense of self, a foundation of academic excellence, and the executive functioning skills needed to thrive in middle school—public or private—with many gaining admission to top-choice schools. Visit today to find out if Gladwyne Montessori is right for your elementary learner!

Gladwyne, PA | 610-649-1761 | gladwyne.org | IG: @gladwynemontess

Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School

Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School has developed The Flight Plan, a visionary academic strategic plan designed to elevate and inspire students’ educational journey through a four-year roadmap: Explore, Engage, Lead, Launch. With specialized concentrations like Global Connections and Innovation & Invention, entrepreneurship programs, and professional preparedness and networking opportunities, students gain real-world experience through internships, mentor- ships, and dual enrollment options. From AP coursework to competitive athletics, service immersion and 70-plus clubs, GMAHS empowers young women to lead with confidence. Discover the possibilities at Open House on March 30, 11 AM – 2 PM—where she is the future.

Lower Gwynedd, PA | 215-646-8815 | gmahs.org | IG: @gmahighschool

The Montessori School

Situated on a seven-acre campus complete with nature trails, The Montessori School in Dresher, PA provides an authentic Montessori education to children 18 months through 6th grade. The program educates using a multi-sensory curriculum and individualized instruction, accompanied by experiential learning, to challenge children at their own pace. Students develop academically, socially and emotionally through the guidance of our highly trained teachers in a culturally diverse community. For over 50 years, TMS has been encouraging students to become self-motivated, intellectually engaged learners who will serve their communities as leaders of the future, stewards of the earth and ambassadors of peace.

Dresher, PA | 484-872-2300 | discovertms.org | IG: @themontessoripa

Malvern Preparatory School

Malvern Preparatory School is an independent Augustinian School for young men in grades 6-12. As students explore their passions and interests in the school’s exceptional programs and state-of-the-art facilities, they also follow in the footsteps of St. Augustine, Doctor of the Church, as they learn to listen to the wisdom of their inner teacher. Beyond regular classroom work, the school’s rich offering of co-curricular experiences helps young men at Malvern deepen their expanding understanding of the world, their growing community ties, and their maturing faith.

Malvern, PA | 484-595-1100 | malvernprep.org | IG: @malvernprep

Perkiomen School

As an independent, coed, boarding and day school for students in grades 6-12/ PG, Perkiomen School is a place where people show up, dig in and branch out. From packed bleachers to sold-out shows, students are involved—not just in their own activities, but in cheering each other on. Perkiomen’s cutting-edge Institutes—focusing on Artificial Intelligence, Design, Entrepreneurship, and Medicine—offer students the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world problems while deeply exploring a potential career path. Thanks to the supportive community, students feel comfortable trying new things and living the motto: Risk Becoming Your Best.

Pennsburg, PA | 215-679-9511 | perkiomen.org | IG: @perkiomenschool

The Waldorf School of Philadelphia

The Waldorf School of Philadelphia provides the right learning experiences at the right time. Their joyful and time-tested early childhood and elementary school curriculum mirrors children’s development, and the Waldorf approach uniquely supports the growth of preschool and Kindergarten children, while creative, substantive, interdisciplinary academics engage students in 1st-8th grades. They’re a small school by design. On an expansive campus, students are immersed in experiential learning, surrounded by warm community and challenged to become their best selves: intellectually, socially and emotionally.

Philadelphia | 215-248-1662 | phillywaldorf.com | IG: @phillywaldorf

Waldron Mercy Academy

Waldron Mercy Academy, a co-ed pre- school through 8th grade Catholic School sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, is a diverse, faith community rooted in the gospel values of mercy and justice. It is a school where the joy of discovery inspires serious study, social responsibility and strong faith. Guided by the Mercy Core Values, students grow into thoughtful leaders with a deep commitment to making a difference. Their distinctive service learning program empowers students to turn empathy into action, ensuring they develop both the academic and moral foundation needed for success in high school and beyond.

Merion Station, PA | 610-664-9847 | waldronmercy.org | IG: @waldronmercy

Woodlynde School

At Woodlynde School, learning differences aren’t just accommodated— they’re celebrated. The school is dedicated to supporting students with learning differences while providing personalized instruction in a nurturing environment. Specializing in dyslexia, ADHD, Autism Level 1, executive functioning challenges, and other learning profiles, Woodlynde ensures every student receives the tools and strategies they need to thrive. The school offers research-based instruction, integrated support services and small class sizes. Beyond academics, students engage in arts, athletics, travel, leadership, and extracurriculars, fostering personal growth and confidence. Woodlynde’s college counseling program helps students find the right fit for their future, while its Diagnostic & Assessment Center extends support to the broader community. Learn more at woodlynde.org.

Strafford, PA | 610-293-6555 | woodlynde.org | IG: @woodlyndeschool

Philadelphia magazine is compiling a list of the area’s finest learning institutions. Read our 2025 guide here.