Exploring Boston's Top Private Schools

Boston is home to some of the finest private schools in the nation, offering exceptional educational experiences for students from preschool through high school.

These institutions are renowned for their rigorous academic programs, dedicated faculty, and supportive communities that foster both intellectual and personal growth.

From historic institutions like Phillips Academy Andover to innovative schools like The Cambridge School of Weston, discover what makes these schools stand out and how they prepare students for success in college and beyond.

In this article, we feature the top 50 private schools in the Boston area, highlighting their unique strengths and educational philosophies.

1. Phillips Academy Andover

Phillips Academy, also known as Andover, is a prestigious co-educational boarding school located in Andover, Massachusetts. Founded in 1778, it boasts a rich history of academic excellence and notable alumni, including U.S. presidents and Nobel laureates. The school offers a rigorous curriculum with a wide range of AP courses and unique programs like the Independent Project and the Tang Institute for student-driven learning. Andover's beautiful 500-acre campus provides students with state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities for athletic and artistic endeavors. Learn more.

2. The Roxbury Latin School

Founded in 1645, The Roxbury Latin School is one of the oldest private schools in the United States. Located in West Roxbury, Massachusetts, this all-boys school is renowned for its rigorous academics and commitment to character education. With a low student-to-teacher ratio, Roxbury Latin provides personalized attention, fostering intellectual growth and moral development. The school emphasizes public speaking, community service, and a classical education, preparing students for leadership roles in society. Learn more.

3. Buckingham Browne & Nichols School

Buckingham Browne & Nichols (BB&N) is a co-educational day school in Cambridge, Massachusetts. BB&N offers a comprehensive and challenging curriculum from kindergarten through grade 12. The school is known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovative teaching, and a diverse community. BB&N's urban campus provides access to the cultural and intellectual resources of Cambridge and Boston, enhancing students' learning experiences. Learn more.

4. Concord Academy

Located in Concord, Massachusetts, Concord Academy is a co-educational boarding and day school known for its rigorous academics and strong sense of community. Established in 1922, the school offers a flexible curriculum with a focus on individual student interests and interdisciplinary learning. Concord Academy is renowned for its arts programs, innovative teaching methods, and commitment to diversity and inclusion. Learn more.

5. Middlesex School

Middlesex School, situated in Concord, Massachusetts, is a co-educational boarding and day school with a strong emphasis on academic excellence and personal growth. Founded in 1901, the school offers a balanced curriculum that includes extensive AP courses, athletics, and arts programs. Middlesex prides itself on fostering a close-knit community where students are encouraged to take intellectual risks and develop leadership skills. Learn more.

6. Milton Academy

Milton Academy, established in 1798, is a co-educational day and boarding school in Milton, Massachusetts. The school is known for its rigorous academics, diverse student body, and commitment to character development. Milton offers a wide range of courses, including advanced placement and honors classes, and places a strong emphasis on the arts and athletics. The school's picturesque campus provides a supportive environment for student growth and learning. Learn more.

7. Noble and Greenough School

Noble and Greenough School (Nobles) is a co-educational day and five-day boarding school in Dedham, Massachusetts. Nobles is dedicated to academic excellence, ethical leadership, and a supportive community. The school offers a challenging curriculum, numerous extracurricular activities, and a strong commitment to public service. With small class sizes and a low student-to-teacher ratio, Nobles ensures personalized attention and a nurturing learning environment. Learn more.

8. St. Mark's School

St. Mark's School, located in Southborough, Massachusetts, is a co-educational boarding and day school known for its academic rigor and strong community values. Founded in 1865, the school offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes advanced courses, arts, and athletics. St. Mark's emphasizes character education, leadership development, and service, preparing students for success in college and beyond. Learn more.

9. Winsor School

The Winsor School, an all-girls day school in Boston, Massachusetts, is renowned for its academic excellence and commitment to empowering young women. Established in 1886, Winsor offers a challenging curriculum with a focus on critical thinking, creativity, and leadership. The school's supportive environment encourages students to pursue their passions in academics, arts, and athletics. Winsor's urban campus provides access to the cultural and intellectual resources of Boston. Learn more.

10. Boston University Academy

Boston University Academy (BUA) is a co-educational day school located on the campus of Boston University. Founded in 1993, BUA offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum that allows students to take university courses for credit. The school's small class sizes and close-knit community foster strong relationships between students and faculty. BUA emphasizes intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Learn more.

11. The Cambridge School of Weston

The Cambridge School of Weston (CSW) is a progressive co-educational day and boarding school located in Weston, Massachusetts. Founded in 1886, CSW offers an innovative curriculum based on the Mod System, allowing students to take immersive, intensive courses over short periods. The school emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and community engagement, providing a diverse range of arts, athletics, and extracurricular activities. Learn more.

12. Dana Hall School

Dana Hall School is an independent boarding and day school for girls in grades 5-12, located in Wellesley, Massachusetts. Founded in 1881, Dana Hall is committed to fostering academic excellence, leadership, and personal growth. The school's rigorous curriculum is complemented by extensive arts and athletic programs, as well as opportunities for global travel and experiential learning. Dana Hall's supportive environment encourages students to become confident, independent thinkers. Learn more.

13. Lawrence Academy

Lawrence Academy, founded in 1793, is a co-educational boarding and day school in Groton, Massachusetts. The school offers a challenging curriculum designed to foster intellectual curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Lawrence Academy's extensive arts, athletics, and experiential learning programs provide students with opportunities for personal growth and leadership development. The school's close-knit community and dedicated faculty support students in achieving their full potential. Learn more.

14. The Newman School

The Newman School is a co-educational day school located in the Back Bay neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts. Established in 1945, the school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with a strong emphasis on international education through its International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Newman School's urban campus provides students with access to Boston's cultural and academic resources, enhancing their educational experience. Learn more.

15. Cathedral High School

Cathedral High School, founded in 1926, is a co-educational Catholic college preparatory school located in Boston's historic South End. The school serves students in grades 7-12, offering a challenging curriculum that emphasizes academic excellence, faith formation, and community service. Cathedral High School's small class sizes and dedicated faculty ensure personalized attention and support for every student. Learn more.

16. The Advent School

The Advent School is an independent co-educational elementary school located in Boston, Massachusetts. Founded in 1961, the school offers a progressive education program for students in preschool through sixth grade. Advent School emphasizes hands-on, experiential learning, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and social responsibility. The school's diverse and inclusive community provides a nurturing environment for young learners. Learn more.

17. Kingsley Montessori School

Kingsley Montessori School, located in Boston's Back Bay, offers a comprehensive Montessori education for students from toddler through sixth grade. Founded in 1986, Kingsley Montessori emphasizes individualized learning, fostering independence, and developing a lifelong love of learning. The school's curriculum integrates academic subjects with hands-on activities, promoting intellectual, social, and emotional growth. Learn more.

18. The Croft School - South End

The Croft School is a co-educational independent elementary school located in Boston's South End. Founded with a mission to provide a nurturing and academically rigorous environment, The Croft School focuses on personalized learning, character development, and community engagement. The school's curriculum combines strong academic foundations with opportunities for creative and physical development. Learn more.

19. St. John School

St. John School is a Catholic elementary school located in Boston's North End. Established in 1895, the school serves students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. St. John School offers a strong academic curriculum grounded in Catholic values, emphasizing faith formation, community service, and academic excellence. The school's dedicated faculty and supportive community create a nurturing environment for students. Learn more.

20. Beacon Hill Nursery School

Beacon Hill Nursery School is an independent early childhood education center located in the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood of Boston. Founded in 1955, the school offers programs for children aged 2-6, focusing on play-based learning and social-emotional development. Beacon Hill Nursery School's experienced teachers and small class sizes provide a supportive environment that fosters curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning. Learn more.

21. Boston Children's School

Boston Children's School is an early childhood education center located in the West End of Boston. Founded in 1965, the school serves children from ages 2.9 to 7 years old. The school focuses on creating a nurturing environment that promotes the social, emotional, and cognitive development of young children. With a curriculum that balances structured learning and play, Boston Children's School aims to foster a love of learning in its students. Learn more.

22. Cooper Community Child Development Center

Cooper Community Child Development Center is a daycare and preschool located in Boston's South End. The center offers programs for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, focusing on holistic development through a play-based curriculum. The Methodist-affiliated center emphasizes a caring and supportive environment, helping children develop social skills, emotional resilience, and cognitive abilities. Learn more.

23. Frances Jacobson Early Childhood Center

The Frances Jacobson Early Childhood Center is part of Temple Israel of Boston and provides early childhood education to children from 18 months to 5 years old. The Jewish-centered curriculum incorporates values such as community, kindness, and respect while offering a rich educational program that includes arts, science, and Hebrew language instruction. The center focuses on developing each child's unique potential in a warm and inclusive setting. Learn more.

24. John Winthrop School

John Winthrop School, located in Boston's Back Bay, is a preschool offering programs for children aged 2.9 to 5 years old. Established in 1966, the school provides a nurturing environment that emphasizes play-based learning and the development of social skills. The curriculum is designed to foster creativity, curiosity, and a love of learning, preparing children for a smooth transition to kindergarten. Learn more.

25. The Learning Project Elementary School

The Learning Project Elementary School is an independent K-6 school located in Boston's Back Bay. Known for its rigorous academic program and commitment to character education, the school emphasizes small class sizes and individualized attention. The Learning Project aims to develop well-rounded students who are not only academically strong but also socially responsible and empathetic. Learn more.

26. Mercantile KinderCare

Mercantile KinderCare, situated in downtown Boston, provides early childhood education and care for children from six weeks to five years old. The center offers a curriculum that focuses on early literacy, math, and social skills development through play-based learning. KinderCare's experienced teachers and nurturing environment help prepare children for a successful transition to kindergarten. Learn more.

27. Park Street School

Park Street School is an independent Christian school offering programs from preschool through grade 6. Located in Boston's historic Beacon Hill, the school integrates faith-based education with a strong academic curriculum. Park Street School emphasizes character development, community service, and a nurturing environment, helping students grow intellectually, spiritually, and socially. Learn more.

28. Maimonides School

Maimonides School is a co-educational Jewish day school in Brookline, Massachusetts, serving students from preschool through grade 12. Founded in 1937, the school combines rigorous secular academics with comprehensive Judaic studies, promoting a strong Jewish identity and values. Maimonides offers a supportive community and a curriculum that prepares students for both college and lifelong learning. Learn more.

29. German International School Boston

The German International School Boston is a bilingual, co-educational day school offering a German-English curriculum from preschool through grade 12. Located in Boston's Allston neighborhood, the school emphasizes language proficiency, intercultural understanding, and academic excellence. Students graduate with both American and German diplomas, prepared for higher education in either country. Learn more.

30. Dexter Southfield

Dexter Southfield is an independent day school in Brookline, Massachusetts, serving students from preschool through grade 12. The school offers a challenging academic program that includes advanced courses, arts, and athletics. Dexter Southfield emphasizes character education, leadership, and community service, preparing students for success in college and beyond. The school's supportive environment and small class sizes ensure personalized attention for each student. Learn more.

31. Bradford Christian Academy

Bradford Christian Academy is a co-educational college preparatory school located in Haverhill, Massachusetts. Serving students from kindergarten through grade 12, the school emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and character development. Bradford Christian Academy offers a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for higher education and leadership roles. The school’s small class sizes and dedicated faculty provide personalized attention and support for each student. Learn more.

32. Clark School

Clark School, located in Rowley, Massachusetts, is an independent co-educational school serving students from preschool through grade 12. Founded in 1978, Clark School offers a nurturing environment that promotes academic achievement, creativity, and social responsibility. The school's curriculum is designed to meet the individual needs of each student, with a focus on experiential learning and critical thinking. Clark School's small class sizes ensure personalized attention and a supportive community. Learn more.

33. St. Mary's Lynn

St. Mary's Lynn is a Catholic co-educational school serving students in grades 6-12, located in Lynn, Massachusetts. Established in 1881, the school offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes advanced placement courses, athletics, and arts programs. St. Mary's emphasizes faith formation, academic excellence, and community service, preparing students for success in college and beyond. The school's diverse and inclusive community provides a supportive environment for student growth. Learn more.

34. Nazarene Christian Academy

Nazarene Christian Academy is a co-educational private school in New Bedford, Massachusetts, serving students from preschool through grade 12. The school offers a Christ-centered education that emphasizes academic excellence, character development, and spiritual growth. Nazarene Christian Academy provides a supportive community where students are encouraged to reach their full potential in a nurturing and faith-based environment. Learn more.

35. Bethany Christian Academy

Bethany Christian Academy, located in Mendon, Massachusetts, is a co-educational private school serving students from preschool through grade 12. The school offers a rigorous academic curriculum grounded in Christian values, promoting intellectual, spiritual, and social development. Bethany Christian Academy emphasizes small class sizes, personalized attention, and a supportive community, helping students achieve academic success and personal growth. Learn more.

36. Commonwealth School

Commonwealth School is an independent co-educational day school located in Boston's Back Bay. Founded in 1957, the school serves students in grades 9-12. Commonwealth School is known for its rigorous academic program, small class sizes, and strong sense of community. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and intellectual curiosity, preparing students for success in college and beyond. Learn more.

37. The Rivers School

The Rivers School, located in Weston, Massachusetts, is an independent co-educational day school serving students in grades 6-12. Founded in 1915, the school offers a challenging academic program that includes advanced placement courses, arts, and athletics. The Rivers School emphasizes character development, leadership, and community service, providing a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and personally. Learn more.

38. Groton School

Groton School is a private co-educational boarding school located in Groton, Massachusetts. Founded in 1884, the school serves students in grades 8-12. Groton is known for its rigorous academic program, small class sizes, and close-knit community. The school emphasizes intellectual curiosity, character development, and service, preparing students for leadership roles in college and beyond. Learn more.

39. Belmont Hill School

Belmont Hill School is an independent all-boys day school in Belmont, Massachusetts, serving students in grades 7-12. Founded in 1923, the school offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes advanced placement courses, arts, and athletics. Belmont Hill emphasizes academic excellence, character development, and leadership, fostering a supportive community where students can achieve their full potential. Learn more.

40. Thayer Academy

Thayer Academy, located in Braintree, Massachusetts, is an independent co-educational day school serving students in grades 5-12. Founded in 1877, the school offers a challenging academic program that includes advanced placement courses, arts, and athletics. Thayer Academy emphasizes character development, leadership, and community service, providing a supportive environment where students can excel academically and personally. Learn more.

These schools are committed to providing high-quality education, fostering personal growth, and preparing students for future success.

41. Brimmer and May School

Brimmer and May School, located in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, is a co-educational day school serving students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. Founded in 1880, the school offers a rigorous academic curriculum complemented by strong arts and athletics programs. Brimmer and May emphasize global citizenship, creativity, and critical thinking, preparing students for success in college and beyond. The school’s supportive community fosters intellectual curiosity and personal growth. Learn more.

42. Gann Academy

Gann Academy is a co-educational Jewish high school located in Waltham, Massachusetts. Founded in 1997, the school provides a challenging college preparatory curriculum that integrates Jewish studies with secular academics. Gann Academy emphasizes critical thinking, ethical leadership, and community service. The school’s small class sizes and dedicated faculty ensure personalized attention and a supportive learning environment. Learn more.

43. Chapel Hill - Chauncy Hall School

Chapel Hill - Chauncy Hall School is an independent co-educational day and boarding school in Waltham, Massachusetts, serving students in grades 9-12. Founded in 1828, the school offers a personalized education that focuses on the unique needs and strengths of each student. The curriculum includes advanced placement courses, arts, and athletics. Chapel Hill - Chauncy Hall fosters a supportive community that encourages intellectual curiosity and personal growth. Learn more.

44. Cambridge Montessori School

Cambridge Montessori School, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, provides Montessori education for students from toddler through middle school. Founded in 1963, the school emphasizes individualized learning, fostering independence, and developing a lifelong love of learning. The curriculum integrates academic subjects with hands-on activities, promoting intellectual, social, and emotional growth. Cambridge Montessori School’s supportive environment nurtures each child's unique potential. Learn more.

45. Lesley Ellis School

Lesley Ellis School is an independent co-educational day school located in Arlington, Massachusetts. The school serves students from preschool through grade 8, offering a dynamic and inclusive curriculum that emphasizes academic excellence, creativity, and social responsibility. Lesley Ellis School’s small class sizes and experienced faculty provide personalized attention and a nurturing environment, helping students develop into confident, independent thinkers. Learn more.

46. Pingree School

Pingree School, located in South Hamilton, Massachusetts, is an independent co-educational day school serving students in grades 9-12. Founded in 1961, the school offers a rigorous academic program that includes advanced placement courses, arts, and athletics. Pingree School emphasizes intellectual curiosity, ethical leadership, and community service, preparing students for success in college and beyond. The school’s supportive community fosters personal growth and a commitment to lifelong learning. Learn more.

47. The Meadowbrook School of Weston

The Meadowbrook School of Weston is an independent co-educational day school located in Weston, Massachusetts, serving students from pre-kindergarten through grade 8. Founded in 1923, the school provides a challenging and nurturing environment that promotes academic excellence, creativity, and social responsibility. Meadowbrook’s curriculum includes strong arts and athletics programs, fostering well-rounded students who are prepared for future success. Learn more.

48. Shady Hill School

Shady Hill School is an independent co-educational day school located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, serving students from pre-kindergarten through grade 8. Founded in 1915, the school offers a progressive education that emphasizes experiential learning, critical thinking, and social responsibility. Shady Hill’s integrated curriculum includes arts, sciences, and humanities, fostering intellectual curiosity and a love of learning. The school’s supportive community encourages students to become thoughtful, engaged citizens. Learn more.

49. Fay School

Fay School, located in Southborough, Massachusetts, is an independent co-educational day and boarding school serving students from pre-kindergarten through grade 9. Founded in 1866, the school offers a rigorous academic curriculum that includes advanced courses, arts, and athletics. Fay School emphasizes character development, leadership, and community service, preparing students for success in secondary school and beyond. The school’s supportive environment fosters intellectual curiosity and personal growth. Learn more.

50. Park Street School

Park Street School is an independent Christian school offering programs from preschool through grade 6. Located in Boston's historic Beacon Hill, the school integrates faith-based education with a strong academic curriculum. Park Street School emphasizes character development, community service, and a nurturing environment, helping students grow intellectually, spiritually, and socially. Learn more.

These schools provide a variety of educational philosophies and environments, all committed to fostering academic excellence, personal growth, and community engagement.

Whether you're seeking a traditional or progressive education, these schools provide diverse learning environments to suit every student's needs.

 Find Fun Things to Do in Boston

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Stacey Sao has been the Managing Director of the family-friendly events and activities website, BostonCentral for well over 20 years.  She continues to enjoy discovering and exploring new places in the Greater Boston area.