Courses/Programs offered
event_available Wilmington Friends Summer Camp
event_available Learning Lab
Wilmington Friends is pleased to host a free morning program on Thursdays for children 18 months to 36 months old and their parents/caregivers.
event_available Preschool
Beyond its blending of established best practices with current research, our preschool is guided by Quaker values and draws from complementary components of the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education. Our program emphasizes community and responsibility, with respect for each individual, through practices that encourage student-initiated exploration.
event_available Lower School: Pre-K through Grade 5
The Friends lower school program is designed to encourage student voice and full participation, as individuals and as members of a community, in the learning process. Interdisciplinary themes (like insects, which involves science research, art work, web page design, and Spanish) encourage our elementary school students to think and inquire globally, beyond any one discipline. In our “Singapore Math” curriculum, Math in Focus, students are asked to articulate their reasoning in a way that develops perseverance and confidence as it deepens learning. In the STEM Lab and in robotics, students are encouraged to experiment with designs that might not work. Class structures both allow homebase teachers to develop greater expertise and give students the opportunity to work with a more varied group of peers. Integrated with classroom practices, service learning, a structured conflict resolution program, and respect for all voices in Meeting for Worship, help to develop habits of empathy and responsibility to others. It is an approach to learning very much rooted in the Quaker traditions of inquiry and of commitment to equality, peace, and community.
event_available After-School Program and Child Care
Families may enroll in the After-School Program (ASP), with a choice of 4:45 or 6:00pm pick-up, either by contract (for the same days each week) or as needed on a drop-in basis. ASP is organized into three age groups: early years students (PS and PK), grades K-5, and grade 6. In addition to ASP, all-day child care is available during many school vacations, excluding federal holidays. Pre-registration for child care is required.
event_available WFS Laptop Program
Duke University Professor Cathy N. Davidson argues that digital technologies give us “the potential to collaborate and work together in new ways that collectively make us smarter than any one individual can possibly be....in the digital age, that’s our best mechanism for learning how to work together to make a better world.” That view aligns with both the Quaker belief in collective wisdom and with the commitment of Quaker schools to prepare and inspire students “to make a better world.” It also aligns with research demonstrating that technology within a quality curriculum deepens student engagement, supporting both independent learning (including differentiated instruction) and collaborative problem solving.
event_available Middle School: Grades 6 through 8
As part of the necessary growth toward independence, middle school is a time of some uncertainty, when taking risks and trying new things inspire both excitement and worry for students. Within our approach to education, there is room for failure as sometimes these situations provide the deepest teachable moments. Students are guided to a place of self-discovery and are empowered to find the solutions. Teachers help them frame their own questions when solving problems, implicitly stating that they believe in students to push themselves, and ultimately, students begin to understand their own personal learning style and what works best for them.
event_available Upper School: Grades 9 through 12
The upper school at Friends engages students in an unsurpassed high school academic program, including the International Baccalaureate (IB). As we guide students in developing their talents and passions, we also continue to encourage a process of discovery, in and outside of the classroom. Students are able to participate broadly if they choose—and can take on multiple leadership roles—in competitive athletics, performing arts, and clubs and committees, from Robotics and Science Olympiad to Random Acts of Kindness to Eco Club.
event_available Arts at Wilmington Friends
At Wilmington Friends School, arts education is central to upholding our high standards for intellectual engagement and teaching students relevant skills for the 21st century.
event_available Athletics at Wilmington Friends
Interscholastic athletics at Wilmington Friends School are co-curricular, an integral part of the overall program for grades 7-12. Physical education for preschool through 6th grade is also an integral part of our students’ learning and central to the foundation of a healthy lifestyle.
