The Cambridge School of Weston

The Cambridge School of Weston has been at the forefront of educational innovation since its inception in 1886. Our progressive pedagogy is built upon the student-centered philosophy of John Dewey, who advocated active, experiential learning within a curriculum designed to accommodate the interests and experiences of individual students. In Dewey’s eyes—and ours—the purpose of education goes beyond the acquisition of content and skills to the realization of one’s full potential and the ability to use those skills for the greater good. With teachers as guides, students take ownership of their learning and their lives, preparing them to become informed, engaged and effective participants in a democratic society. Our dynamic program develops students’ ability to explore and engage with ideas—and people—with curiosity, courage, self-awareness, discipline, open-mindedness and a sense of personal responsibility. Purposeful classroom experiences and assessments allow students to develop and practice independent thinking, critical analysis, imaginative problem-solving, productive collaboration and constructive risk-taking. Our curriculum incorporates primary resources and multiple perspectives, and emphasizes our commitment to human rights and social justice. Creativity is intrinsically infused into every corner of our curriculum, from class projects to the studios to the playing fields. Teachers challenge students to push beyond perceived limitations and to make all of their work personally meaningful. Our students are skilled in making connections—across disciplines and between people—and are already engaged in their community and the globalized, complex world they inhabit. Through participation, leadership and service, they develop a sense of who they are and what they can accomplish.