Instructional Format

The School recognizes that in order to promote scholastic excellence it is imperative to develop a curriculum that engages young minds. Carlbrook does this through the utilization of a variety of teaching formats that require the student to take an active role in the learning process, e.g. Harkness Table discussions, the Socratic Method, academic seminars, intensive writing workshops, and the employment of innovative academic scheduling and self-direction to simulate a more collegiate atmosphere. Such formats encourage a lively exchange of ideas among students and faculty and allow each student significant input in his or her academic development.

These objectives are further enhanced through the use of small classes (average 8-10 students) and an overall student/faculty ratio of 3:1. Of the school’s 46 full-time professional faculty members (which excludes administrative and support personnel), 80% hold advanced (post-baccalaureate) degrees. Combined with an advanced curriculum and rigorous schedule, this controlled learning environment delivers qualitative benefits increasingly hard to find in schools of all types.