Read more details about Buxton School on their 2024-25 profile page.
Reflections and Advice:
1.) What do you think makes your school unique relative to other boarding schools?
Buxton is a small and special school. They focus on the arts but are not technically an art school. It’s set on an old property and is very pretty. One of the special things, is the relationships that form between students and teachers.
2.) What was the best thing that happened to you in boarding school?
I always say high school changed my life. I would be a different person. I think the biggest impact was on myself as a person, my reasoning, my thought process and my relationship with the world. Buxton taught me to be more trusting and risk taking. I definitely gained a lot of confidence in myself and my academic work. I didn’t win any awards or have any traditional achievements to mention.
3.) What might you have done differently during your boarding school experience?
I was gifted a big basket of dorm supplies and I would say that came in handy- big time. It was great to have snacks to share and posters to put up. Just make the space your own. I made friends the first week through music. Leave your door open, play your favorite tunes and see who pops by. Boarding school gets a bad reputation but I loved it.
4.) What did you like most about your school?
I like that it is more than a school. It feels like a part of my home. I will always connect with the people and the place. I am even thinking about going back as a teacher. I also received full scholarship and this was life changing. Also they like to help families, so aside from myself, all 4 of my siblings received scholarships as well.
5.) Do you have any final words of wisdom for visiting or incoming students to your school?
Go for a walk in the woods. There’s some cool hiking paths and things to see. Also, it’s just nice to see a new spot.
Holidays and special days are the absolute best and everyone goes all out.
Invest in some good headphones in case your roommates snore.
Academics:
1.) Describe the academics at your school - what did you like most about it?
My teachers had a different perspective that my previous teachers at previous schools. They really encouraged me to do my own research, question textbooks, see how certain subjects coincide with each other.
It was also very nice to choose my own schedule, university style. During high school I took: psychology, intro to journalism, history of Africa, intro to film photography and so many other cool and interesting classes.
Athletics:
1.) Describe the athletics at your school - what did you like most about it?
There isn’t much of an athletics department at this school. There’s soccer in the fall, along with alternative sports like hiking, frisbee and mountain biking. In the winter there are dance classes and winter sports. The basketball team was growing while I was there as well.
Art, Music, and Theatre:
1.) Describe the arts program at your school - what did you like most about it?
Love loved the arts and dance classes at Buxton. They really encourage you to do your best. They also allowed me to try art mediums I would never consider previously. They are extremely promotional of students finding their own artistic voice. They have added a new art building as well as a music building since I was there.
Extracurricular Opportunities:
1.) Describe the extracurriculars offered at your school - what did you like most about it?
I think the poetry club was my favorite. We would all sit in silence in the billiard room for an hour or so. Afterwards, the director would ask who wants to read aloud. It was always exciting to hear everyone’s different writing. I would read my work in front of the parents each year. It was nerve racking but very enjoyable. I also would go to a yoga class in town with the director as well. That was super fun.
If you want to start a club, you have every opportunity. I started a Peace club while there. I got the idea from looking at old yearbooks.
Dorm Life:
1.) Describe the dorm life in your school - what did you like most about it?
The girls dorm is an old mansion and the rooms are all different sizes. You switch room every term and change roommates as well. You can have 1-3 roommates depending on which room you’re in. I liked switching rooms each term because it’s nice to live with different people. There is no tv and there was no wifi when I was there but I’m sure there’s wifi now. Laundry is in the basement, along with a dorm store that sells snacks and such.
Dining:
1.) Describe the dining arrangements at your school.
There’s a big main dining hall where everyone eats. Maybe a dozen or so big round tables, you sit whenever you want. I think maybe there’s one teacher at each table.
The meals are good and kitchen staff is awesome! Every Saturday, students cook and plan the menu. It’s very fun to see what your friends may cook up. On Sunday there is brunch and I remember it being my favorite. Brunch is a rolling buffet with eggs, bagels, waffles, cereal, yogurt, fruit, etc.
If you are sick, your roommates will get you a sick tray and pack up some food for you and bring it to the dorms.
Social and Town Life:
1.) Describe the school's town and surrounding area.
Williamstown is a small college town. It has just enough to do, a cinema, some shops and restaurants, a park or 2 and a couple cafes. One thing I liked was to watch the college basketball games. You can go to any of their sporting events, which is quite nice.
You are not allowed to drive or have a car, so everyone walks to town. I don’t remember exactly but it is not a long walk. You can also ride a bike to town.You can also organize trips to Northampton on the weekends and there’s a bit more going on there.
2.) Describe the social life at your school - what did you like most about it?
I had a lot of friends at school. Buxton is so small, I feel you end up friends with almost everyone. Your friendships can be very deep, since you are all living together. I think Buxton prepared me for socializing and problem solving in the university setting for sure. I recall my peers feeling very immature when I actually got to college. I feel like I already made those silly mistakes while in high school. I am still very good friends with many people from high school.
Read more details about Buxton School on their 2024-25 profile page.
Alumni Reviews Review School
Review
Description
The all school trip to a city in the U.S. or foreign country for a week to ten days during which students put on a play for the public and complete a project relevant to. . .
Buxton is a small and special school. They focus on the arts but are not technically an art school. It’s set on an old property and is very pretty. One of the special things, is. . .
For me, Buxton school felt like home away from home. I was a day student my first year, and was surprised at how quickly I realized that I wanted to board there. The feeling of. . .
Show more reviews (1 review)
Recent Articles
5 Reasons to Choose a Boys' School
Uncover the benefits of boys' schools, including tailored teaching methods, reduced social pressures, and opportunities for personal growth. Learn how these institutions foster an environment where boys can excel academically, explore diverse interests, and develop into well-rounded young men without gender stereotypes.
Military Schools Demystified: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents
This in-depth article explores the world of military schools, addressing common misconceptions and highlighting their unique benefits. It provides parents with valuable insights into why they might consider a military school, debunks prevalent myths, and offers a realistic view of life in these institutions. Whether you're just beginning to explore educational options or are seriously considering a military school for your child, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Teaching in a Boarding School: A Comprehensive Guide for Educators
This in-depth article explores the unique aspects of teaching in a boarding school environment. It provides valuable insights for educators considering this career path, covering the multifaceted nature of the job, qualifications required, and practical tips for securing a position. Whether you're a seasoned teacher looking for a change or a new graduate exploring career options, this guide offers a realistic view of life as a boarding school educator.
