Established in 1850, The Gunnery is a renowned boarding and day school for boys in grades 6-12 located in the picturesque town of Washington, Connecticut. With a rich history and a commitment to academic excellence, The Gunnery has consistently ranked among the top boarding schools in the country.
Academic Excellence
The Gunnery’s rigorous academic program emphasizes critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and a deep understanding of core subjects. The school’s small class sizes, with an average of 10 students per class, allow for personalized attention and individualized instruction.
According to the 2023 National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) Survey, The Gunnery’s students consistently score well above national averages on standardized tests. In 2023, the school’s graduating class achieved a median SAT score of 1350 and a median ACT score of 32.
Extracurricular Activities
Beyond academics, The Gunnery offers a wide range of extracurricular activities to foster students’ personal growth and development. The school’s athletic program includes 24 varsity sports, including football, soccer, basketball, baseball, and lacrosse. The Gunnery also has a thriving arts program, with opportunities in music, theater, and visual arts.
Residential Life
The Gunnery provides a supportive and nurturing residential environment for its boarding students. The school’s dorms are modern and comfortable, and each dorm has a faculty resident advisor who provides guidance and support. The Gunnery also offers a variety of weekend and evening activities for boarding students, including movie nights, dances, and cultural excursions.
Character Development
Character development is a central focus at The Gunnery. The school’s Core Values Program emphasizes five core principles: integrity, respect, responsibility, compassion, and honor. The Gunnery also has a strong honor code, and students are expected to uphold high moral and ethical standards.
College Counseling
The Gunnery’s college counseling program is designed to help students navigate the complex college admissions process. The school’s college counselors provide personalized guidance and support, helping students identify their strengths and interests, and develop a competitive college list.
In 2023, The Gunnery’s graduating class was accepted to a wide range of top colleges and universities, including the University of Pennsylvania, Yale University, Duke University, and Georgetown University.
Tuition and Financial Aid
The Gunnery’s annual tuition for boarding students for the 2023-2024 school year is $62,500. The school also offers financial aid based on need, and approximately 30% of students receive some form of financial assistance.
Conclusion
The Gunnery is a premier boarding and day school that provides boys in grades 6-12 with an exceptional education. The school’s rigorous academic program, diverse extracurricular activities, supportive residential environment, and emphasis on character development have consistently ranked it among the top boarding schools in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at The Gunnery?
The student-to-faculty ratio at The Gunnery is 8:1, which allows for personalized attention and individualized instruction.
What percentage of graduates go on to college?
Nearly 100% of The Gunnery’s graduates go on to college.
What is the average SAT score of The Gunnery’s graduating class?
The Gunnery’s graduating class achieved a median SAT score of 1350 in 2023.
What is the average ACT score of The Gunnery’s graduating class?
The Gunnery’s graduating class achieved a median ACT score of 32 in 2023.
Tips for Applying
- Apply early, as The Gunnery has a rolling admissions process.
- Visit the school and interview with the admissions team.
- Submit a strong transcript and test scores.
- Write a compelling personal essay that highlights your unique qualities and interests.
- Get involved in extracurricular activities and demonstrate your leadership skills.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Rigorous academic program
- Small class sizes
- Diverse extracurricular activities
- Supportive residential environment
- Emphasis on character development
Cons:
- High tuition cost
- Small school size may not be suitable for all students
- Located in a rural area, which may not appeal to all students
