Holderness School
33 Chapel Lane, Holderness, NH 03245
(603) 536-1257
Holderness School fosters equally in each student the resources of the mind, body, and spirit in the creation of a caring community, inspiring all to work for the betterment of humankind and God’s creation. Motto: Pro Deo et Genere Humano – For God and Humankind
Holderness is more than a boarding school; It’s an elevated experience. We are a dynamic community of learners, adventurers, artists, advocates, and athletes in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. At Holderness, students are respected, known, and challenged. Whether you’re interested in epic outdoor experiences, serving the community in our leadership program, or exploring your intellectual passions, Holderness is committed to the growth and success of each student.
FAST FACTS
Head of School:
John McVeigh
Director of Admissions:
David Flynn
Gender:
Co-ed
Religious Affiliation:
Episcopal
Total Enrollment:
300
Percent Boarders:
90%
Percent International:
14%
Application Platorm(s):
SAO
Testing Plan:
Optional
Curriculum
At Holderness, the focus isn’t just on grades, or how well you perform on a test. Our broader goal is to help students develop a lifelong passion for learning. With small class sizes, interdisciplinary learning, and endless opportunities for real-world lessons in New Hampshire’s lakes and mountains, a Holderness education fosters the growth of mind, body, and spirit.
Programming
Each year students are engaged in specific programming for their grade, these include programs such as Project Outreach, Artward Bound, Out Back, and Capstone.
Activity/Sports Requirements
Holderness seeks to be the model for the high school athletic experience by providing our students with the opportunity for broad participation in our athletic and outdoor programs, as well as focused development within their primary sport. Multi-sport participation instills in our students the values of teamwork, leadership, and lifelong fitness while also providing the physical, mental and emotional resilience to ensure their success in all future endeavors.
Dress Code
Slacks, dress, or a skirt of appropriate length, and a collared shirt, blouse, or sweater. If you are uncertain what to wear, most of our kids will wear business casual attire. Saturdays are “This is Me” Day! You can wear whatever you want to express who you are.
Seated Meals
Several times each week, the entire school gathers for family-style meals together. It’s a decades-old tradition that brings students, faculty, and their families closer together.
Study Hall
Does not specify
Saturday Programming
Many planned weekend activities or excursions, explore local trails and visit regional museums and festivals as part of regular weekend activities.
Residential Life
We are committed to building a welcoming and inclusive community, and that begins with a vibrant residential life program. With an 8:1 student to dorm parent ratio and seventeen dormitories, our campus feels like a neighborhood – a home away from home – where common rooms, hallways, and even dorm parent kitchens come to life with the sounds of laughter and friendship.