Progressive Education at Far Brook

At Far Brook School, we believe that even the smallest child is capable of big things.  Our progressive approach preserves a child’s natural curiosity and joy and challenges them to take intellectual and creative risks that build confidence and lead to high academic achievement.

Central to our approach are the following principles of Progressive Education: 

• Theme-based curriculum: Teaching through themes emphasizes depth over breadth, allowing students to become experts on that topic.
• Hands-on learning: Learning is experiential and active. Students construct their own knowledge through meaningful experiences, guided by passionate educators. 
• An appreciation for nature: Far Brook’s unique wooded campus provides many opportunities for learning without walls. At Far Brook, a bird’s nest discovered in a tree becomes a science lesson; a sound heard in our Wetlands Habitat becomes a poem.
• Collaboration: Collaboration is emphasized. Students learn to work with others from diverse grades, experiences, learning styles, and thinking, whether solving a problem in Algebra, acting on stage, building a bench in woodshop, or passing the ball on the soccer field.
• Learning through the arts: Integrating the arts with academics, technology, and physical education has been at the heart of Far Brook’s philosophy since 1948.  Experienced faculty spark curiosity about our world and challenge students to examine complex questions and make connections across disciplines.
• Social justice: A Far Brook education teaches children to not only be excellent learners, but excellent people. Students find their voice and the confidence to become changemakers, compassionate leaders, and ethical citizens.

By the time a Far Brook student graduates from Eighth Grade, they are prepared to stand out at the wide variety of high schools they attend. They are responsible, creative, and curious. They are risk-takers who advocate for themselves and others – both in and out of the classroom. They have a strong sense of empathy and are drawn to academic challenges. They can positively influence others, are capable of making a difference in the world, and are able to live life wisely and with great joy. 

If you want to give your child an education whose impact lasts a lifetime, take a closer look at Far Brook.