Read more details about The Putney School on their 2025 profile page.
Reflections and Advice:
1.) What do you think makes your school unique relative to other boarding schools?
Hands on discussion based learning as well as a focus on the individual. Relationships between students and teachers were much my friendly. Also real working experience (cooking food, working in the barn)
2.) What was the best thing that happened to you in boarding school?
Putney helped me become the man I am today. They put you in situations that make you grow and become a leader. I was fortunate enough to sit on many high positions including head of the barn (oversaw a crew of 12 student) Head Tour Guide, and captain of several sports teams.
3.) What might you have done differently during your boarding school experience?
I tried to party too much and ended up getting in trouble, which was one of the best things that ever happened to me.
4.) What did you like most about your school?
How alternative it was. And how it allowed you to be yourself. You also got to pick very funky activities and classes.
5.) Do you have any final words of wisdom for visiting or incoming students to your school?
Take a walk in some of the 500 acres. Its so beautiful and I miss it
Academics:
1.) Describe the academics at your school - what did you like most about it?
The academics are much more like classes at a liberal arts college. You foster excellent relationships with the teachers and are on first name bases with them all. Also its very hands on and discussion based.
Athletics:
1.) Describe the athletics at your school - what did you like most about it?
It was competitive but also the most important thing was fun. I was captain my senior year of both the soccer team and the lacrosse team. Much less competitive then other boarding schools.
Art, Music, and Theatre:
1.) Describe the arts program at your school - what did you like most about it?
It was well funded and students participated in all levels of it. Putney is know for its student driven arts program that teaches everything from stained glass, to blacksmithing.
Extracurricular Opportunities:
1.) Describe the extracurriculars offered at your school - what did you like most about it?
Snowboarding, woods crew, hiking, biking. SO many to chose from!
Dorm Life:
1.) Describe the dorm life in your school - what did you like most about it?
Very relaxed compared to other schools. You really become family with the students you live with.
Dining:
1.) Describe the dining arrangements at your school.
Very healthy food. 20% of the food comes straight from the farm and garden.
Social and Town Life:
1.) Describe the school's town and surrounding area.
The town of Putney is quant but lots of fun. And the bigger town near by Brattleboro is very hip with lots of cool shops.
2.) Describe the social life at your school - what did you like most about it?
Students are very alternative. I spent most of my time exploring the woods.
Read more details about The Putney School on their 2025 profile page.
Alumni Reviews Review School
Review
Description
In addition to a progressive education, two of the most unique aspects of Putney are the work program and arts program. The work program has students working in the kitchen, on the farm, and in. . .
Putney is a vibrant community where teachers and students are actual friends. It’s conducive to personal growth and a place where I and other students found our passions. Everyone is excited and working on something. . .
The unique thing about Putney is that there is a fully working dairy farm on campus. There is a big work program than instills work ethic and responsibility in the students and this includes working. . .
Show more reviews (12 reviews)
Recent Articles

A Glimpse into Boarding School Life at Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy
One of the most common questions families ask when exploring boarding school options is: What does a typical day look like for a student? Beyond academics, they want to understand how students live, learn, and grow within the community—how daily routines shape not only their education but also their independence, friendships, and character.

Corporal Punishment is Still Legal in Many States
As amazing as it sounds, corporal punishment is still legal in over 20 states. Fortunately private schools banned the practice many decades ago.

5 Tips for Applying for a Boarding School Job
Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting your teaching career, these tips will help you navigate the competitive landscape of boarding school job applications. Discover the strategies that can make your application stand out and increase your chances of landing a job at a boarding school.