At Friends’ Central School in Wynnewood, learning extends beyond textbooks and classroom walls. Small, discussion-based classes and close relationships with teachers give students the freedom and opportunity to explore ideas, ask questions, and take intellectual risks.
From debating global policy in civic leadership programs like Model UN and the World Affairs Council Model Senate to analyzing pollinator biodiversity and presenting independent research findings at the annual Natural Sciences Conference, Friends’ Central students immerse themselves in hands-on, independent work that extends far beyond the classroom. These experiences reflect a culture that values curiosity and initiative.
Senior Project Gives Students a Chance to Explore a Potential Career or Passion
Independent, student-driven learning takes many forms at Friends’ Central. In the spring of their senior year, for example, students participate in Senior Project, a long-standing, five-week capstone where students receive mentored, hands-on experience – either testing the waters to see if this may be an ultimate career choice or simply exploring a new area of interest outside the familiar bounds of the classroom. Guided by faculty advisors, students design projects that challenge them to take initiative, reflect deeply, and produce meaningful outcomes, culminating in a Senior Showcase presentation. Among last year’s projects, two students organized a vocal and guitar concert where they performed their favorite songs. Bill Kennedy, Upper School English Department Chair, shared a few other recent project examples: “My favorite senior project was a student who worked as a lifeguard and EMT at the Jersey Shore. He wound up saving someone’s life during his first week of senior project! A 12th grader curious about, but not committed to, a career in law, shadowed a defense attorney and decided, ultimately, to look at law school down the road. And we have had at least two seniors whose extensive volunteer work at animal shelters guided them to careers as veterinarians.”
Distinguished Visiting Lecture Series Brings Leading Experts, Scholars, and Artists to Campus
Students throughout the Upper School grades have the chance to engage in meaningful discussions with world-class experts through the Friends’ Central Distinguished Lecture Series, which brings renowned scholars and professionals to campus. Students who choose to participate in “Core Teams” prepare in advance by studying the work of the visiting speaker and then have the opportunity to engage directly with the speakers when they spend the day on campus prior to delivering an evening lecture which is open to the public. This year’s Distinguished Visiting Scientist, Sara Seager – astrophysicist and a Professor of Physics, Professor of Planetary Science, and a Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics at MIT – will deliver her lecture on the evening of April 23, 2026, giving students an extraordinary opportunity to hear about her ground-breaking research on exoplanets.
Arts Performance Opportunities
Arts and performance opportunities thrive at Friends’ Central as well. Along with the myriad performance and theater opportunities, each year, Upperclassmen direct the Grade 9 & 10 Play, mentoring younger students through every stage of the creative process. Last May, the production Bad Auditions by Bad Actors was directed by Samantha Smith ’26 and Jules Barrial ’26. These productions give student directors a chance to lead, collaborate, and bring a creative vision to life while fostering confidence and teamwork among performers.
From independent research to performance, civic engagement, and mentorship with leading scholars, Friends’ Central Upper School provides a dynamic learning environment where students take ownership of their education. These experiences – and the relationships that make them possible – prepare students to get the most out of college and help foster a lifetime of curiosity, creativity, and purpose.
Visit Friends’ Central this spring at an Admissions Open House event. For more details and to register, click here.
