Upper School

From the Head of Upper School

The Upper School at Spence has a unique energy, which is demonstrated by the excitement of teenagers approaching adulthood who are absorbed in learning. Spence, as an all girls’ school, fully subscribes to the idea that this educational environment is the most powerful way for girls to gain and maximize the scholastic leadership and voice they will need once they graduate. Spence students are taught by a highly qualified faculty, who truly understand the challenges of adolescence. All of our teachers are masters of their subjects, and this, combined with the creative approach they bring to the classroom, encourages strong trust and connections between students and their teachers. These connections are reinforced by the advisory system in which students meet regularly with a faculty member who oversees her progress throughout Upper School. The four grade deans enhance the faculty-student connection by managing the overall academic and extracurricular life over the course of each Upper School year.  

Upper School students take a mix of required courses and electives, with added choices as they advance through the grades. In-depth courses often rely on primary source material and require research by students, preparing them for the kind of work that will be expected in college.

In small classes taught in a supportive atmosphere, students learn to express themselves with confidence, to think analytically and creatively and to form sound independent judgments. A wide range of choice in academics and in extracurricular activities allows each student to explore new interests and discover their unique talents. Whether they are discussing a poem in an English elective, or conducting authentic science research under the guidance of a professional mentor, students are asked to challenge their assumptions about what they know and are encouraged to articulate their own ideas.

Sometimes students want extra academic support. The Resource Center is an option for students who seek it, and for those students who need specific advice on an issue, academic or not, there is a Health Support Team in place.

Outside the classroom, students have ample opportunity to indulge their curiosity and pursue their interests, whether it is writing for the school newspaper, participating in athletics, being on the Student Council, or doing community service. At Spence, community service is not a requirement, but it is nonetheless integral to the student experience -- something that helps students gain perspective about the larger world, their place in it, and the obligation we all have to try and make it better.

Denise Philpotts
Head of Upper School