Academics
Elementary School
Discover a private elementary school in Newtown, PA, where young learners are known
At this stage, you recognize that your child is more curious and independent than they’ve ever been. Perhaps they’ve just begun tying their shoelaces or memorizing the solar system's planets. And you’re starting to witness how their minds — and hearts — are developing to learn more about the world.
Here at Newtown Friends School, we understand this special stage of growth and focus on what works best for young learners. As a private elementary school in Newtown, PA, committed to excellence, all of our Grades 1-5 students are well-known by their teachers and equipped with a curriculum that fosters a strong academic foundation.
Newtown Friends School is a Candidate School* for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program and is pursuing authorization as an IB World School. These schools share a common philosophy — a commitment to high-quality, challenging, international education that Newtown Friends School believes is important for our students.
International Baccalaureate (IB) Mission Statement:
“The IB develops inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through education that builds intercultural understanding and respect.”
*Only schools authorized by the IB Organization can offer any of its four academic programs: the Primary Years Program (PYP), the Middle Years Program (MYP), the Diploma Program, Career-related Program (CP). Candidate status gives no guarantee that authorization will be granted. For further information about the IB and its programs, visit www.ibo.org.
Explore how your child can thrive in NFS.
A nurturing, inclusive atmosphere that aligns with your values
As you consider schools, maybe you’re worried about class sizes or academic preparation. There can be so many students that it’s challenging for your child to be truly known and taught. How can you make sure that they don’t get lost in a crowd? How can teachers guide them to reach their full potential?
Newtown Friends School cultivates a tight-knit community, so your child will receive personalized attention, all while being equipped through a dynamic curriculum that’s designed to foster a love of learning.
Enriched Learning
At NFS, your child will be immersed in experiential learning, whether it’s solving a math problem using blocks or observing plant life. Our teachers specializing in different subjects collaborate with one another to create lesson plans that are sure to excite and engage young learners.
Positive Values
Our culture is grounded in the Quaker foundations, often called SPICES (simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship). We embody these values as a school by teaching students to respect one another through daily interactions. Plus, students are encouraged early on to contribute to the community, whether it’s collecting items for an animal shelter or selling pretzels to raise money for charity.
Prioritizing Safety
Physical and emotional safety is highly emphasized at NFS. Aside from open communication with families, we implement security measures such as locked doors, visitor check-ins, and yearly staff training to keep our campus grounds safe. In addition, we have a full-time school counselor, a nurse, and a social-emotional curriculum where students learn to understand compassion, kindness, and how they can be a light to others.
Program Details
Our elementary students experience being fully known and cared for through our smaller 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio. The classes run from 8:20 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., but students may arrive as early as 7:45 a.m., and extended care options until 6:00 p.m. are available as well.
Come see our learning environment for yourself.
Considering private schools in Newtown, PA? Schedule a visit to Newtown Friends School to meet our teachers and get a glimpse of our engaging spaces.
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Engaging Core Subjects
Language arts (reading & writing), math, social studies, science, and Spanish are taught with the right balance of challenge and support for every student.
Exciting Enrichments
Your child will be learning beyond core subjects — enrichments such as art, music, library, and PE help students discover unique interests.
Distinct Clubs & Activities
Unique clubs are available for your child to participate in, such as robotics, design, yoga, nature, art, cooking, athletics, and more. Throughout the year, we have 40+ clubs available for students to explore.
Connected Community
At NFS, students are surrounded by a connected community. We have “buddies” for different grades, doing science projects together or watching a performance by another class.
“Newtown Friends School provides a space where my child can try new things, learn science in fascinating ways, and bring home new perspectives on other religions. Also, they give my child the opportunity to make mistakes and be accountable.”
- NFS Elementary Parent
Get to know elementary teachers at NFS
Name: Connie Brady
Degree: BS & MS in Education
Years Taught: 42 years, 37 at NFS
What is your favorite student quote?
“There have been too many student quotes to have a favorite throughout the years. One incident that made me smile was when a student told me their swim lesson instructor asked, ‘What's going on at school?’ They responded, ‘I'm learning about Black History, and my person was Frederick Douglass.’ An entire conversation followed. It makes my heart full knowing that the things we teach make an impact on children’s lives.”
“I love seeing the excitement in students' faces when they learn something new, and it really clicks for them. I also love learning new things along with my students. It's so authentic.”
- Michele L., Elementary Teacher
“Each school year is like a new family that you help grow in many ways. The reward is seeing them succeed throughout their years here. Being a teacher is not just a job; it is a lifestyle.”
- Kate F., Elementary Teacher
We look forward to hearing from you.
Do you have any questions about our private elementary school? We’re happy to answer them! Please feel free to contact Rebecca Niszczak, our Director of Enrollment Management, at admissions@newtownfriends.org or (215)968-2225.
Newtown Friends School
Located In Newtown, Pennsylvania, Newtown Friends School is a Private School For Grades Pre-K-8th Grade.
