History and Prestige of Phillips Exeter Academy

Founded in 1781, Phillips Exeter Academy is one of the oldest and most prestigious private schools in the United States. Established as a classical school to prepare young people for university education, its reputation has only grown over the years.

Founding and Early Years

The academy was founded through the efforts and financial support of John Phillips, a wealthy merchant and philanthropist whose goal was to create an institution that would provide high-quality education to students, regardless of their social background. In its early years, Phillips Exeter was a small school with a limited number of students. However, thanks to its academic excellence and strong reputation, it quickly gained recognition and began to expand.

Initially, the school followed a strict classical curriculum, focusing on Latin and Greek languages, as well as the fundamentals of literature and philosophy. This rigorous academic foundation prepared students for university studies and remained a cornerstone of the academy’s education for centuries.

The 20th Century and the Harkness Method

In the 1930s, a transformative change occurred with the arrival of Edward Harkness, a renowned philanthropist who made a substantial financial contribution to the academy. He introduced a revolutionary teaching approach — the Harkness Method — which reshaped traditional educational practices and positioned Phillips Exeter as a model institution for other schools.

This method, based on discussion-based learning, replaced conventional teacher-led lectures with roundtable discussions, encouraging critical thinking, active participation, and intellectual engagement. The Harkness Method created a more interactive and dynamic learning environment, which remains a defining feature of Phillips Exeter Academy to this day.

Prestige and Achievements

Throughout its history, Phillips Exeter Academy has earned a reputation as one of the leading academic institutions in the U.S. Its alumni include influential politicians, scientists, business leaders, and artists, reinforcing its status as an elite educational institution. Some of its notable graduates include George H.W. Bush, Margaret Atwood, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and many others.

Additionally, the academy maintains exceptionally high academic standards, reflected in its students’ outstanding results on entrance exams for top-tier U.S. universities such as Harvard, Yale, and Princeton.

Impact on Education and Culture

Today, Phillips Exeter Academy remains one of the most prestigious schools in the world, attracting students not only from the United States but also from around the globe. Its curriculum spans a wide range of disciplines, from STEM subjects to the arts and humanities, offering students unique opportunities for intellectual and creative growth.

With its commitment to academic excellence and discipline, the school takes pride in the achievements of its alumni, who continue to make significant contributions to global culture and science. These accomplishments solidify Phillips Exeter Academy’s position as not only an outstanding educational institution but also an integral part of the intellectual elite of America and beyond.

Educational System and the Harkness Method

Phillips Exeter Academy is renowned for its unique approach to education, known as the Harkness Method. Introduced in 1930 through the funding of Edward Harkness, an American philanthropist, this system was designed to revolutionize traditional teaching methods.

How the Harkness Method Works

At the heart of the Harkness Method is a discussion-based learning format: students sit around an oval table (known as the Harkness Table) and actively engage in discussions. The teacher does not stand at the front of the class giving a lecture; instead, their role is to facilitate dialogue rather than dominate it.

Practical application:

• Small class sizes (no more than 12 students) ensure that everyone participates.
• Students prepare in advance, studying materials and formulating their own ideas.
• Classroom discussions focus on exchanging opinions, analyzing information, and drawing conclusions collaboratively rather than passively absorbing content.
• Teachers do not dictate “right answers” but instead encourage critical thinking, structured arguments, and independent reasoning.

This approach enables students not just to memorize information but to truly understand and apply it in practice.

Subjects Taught Using the Harkness Method

The Harkness Method is used across nearly all disciplines, but it is particularly effective in humanities subjects such as literature, history, and philosophy. However, at Phillips Exeter Academy, it is also successfully implemented in STEM fields:

• Mathematics. Students discuss problem-solving strategies, exploring different approaches.
• Science. Hands-on research, group experiments, and collaborative problem-solving are emphasized.

Advantages of the Harkness Method

Development of Critical Thinking — Students learn to analyze, ask thoughtful questions, and construct well-reasoned arguments.

Preparation for University — Many top U.S. colleges (Harvard, Princeton, Yale) use similar discussion-based learning approaches.

Social and Communication Skills — Students gain experience in teamwork, respecting diverse perspectives, and engaging in intellectual debate.

Phillips Exeter Academy is one of the few schools in the world where the Harkness Method is systematically applied, making its educational model unique and highly sought-after among prospective students.

Campus and Facilities

Phillips Exeter Academy is located in Exeter, New Hampshire, covering an area of over 2 km². It is one of the most picturesque and well-equipped school campuses in the United States, blending historic architecture with state-of-the-art academic and athletic facilities.

Academic Buildings and Classrooms

Exeter’s core educational philosophy is interactive learning, so classrooms are designed to support the Harkness Method:

• Harkness Tables in every classroom encourage small-group discussions and collaboration.
• Science labs are equipped with cutting-edge technology for experiments in biology, chemistry, and physics.
• Innovation centers feature 3D printers, robotics, and programming tools for engineering and digital projects.

Phillips Exeter Library

Phillips Exeter Academy boasts the largest secondary school library in the world, designed by the renowned architect Louis Kahn.

• Over 160,000 books and digital resources.
• Dedicated spaces for individual and group study.
• Unique architectural design with natural lighting and quiet zones for deep concentration.

Residential Life and Student Housing

As a boarding school, Exeter provides on-campus housing for most of its students, fostering a strong sense of community.

• 25 dormitories, each creating a close-knit student environment.
• Most rooms accommodate two to three students.
• Resident advisors in every dorm support students and help with adaptation.

Athletic and Recreational Facilities

Exeter places a strong emphasis on sports and physical activity, offering 60+ athletic programs and an outstanding infrastructure:

• Stadiums and fields for football, baseball, and field hockey.
• Modern fitness centers with state-of-the-art equipment.
• An Olympic-size swimming pool.
• A rowing facility on the Squamscott River.

Arts and Culture

Phillips Exeter Academy is dedicated to fostering creative development alongside academic and athletic excellence.

• A theater center with a professional stage and production studio.
• Art studios for painting, sculpture, and design.
• Music classrooms and rehearsal spaces for instrumental and vocal training.

Phillips Exeter Academy’s campus seamlessly integrates academic excellence, athletic opportunities, and a thriving arts scene. The well-rounded environment ensures that students receive comprehensive preparation for university and beyond.

Admission Requirements

Applying to Groton School is a competitive process that requires thorough preparation. The school seeks talented, motivated students who aspire to academic excellence, leadership development, and active participation in school life.

Admission Criteria

To be considered for admission to Groton School, candidates must demonstrate strong academic performance, outstanding personal qualities, and a willingness to engage in school activities.

Key Selection Criteria:

• Strong academic record (grades, teacher recommendations).
• Well-developed communication and critical thinking skills.
• Interest in science, arts, sports, or community service.
• Participation in extracurricular activities (volunteering, leadership programs, etc.).
• Competitive entrance exam scores.

Admission Process at Groton School

1. 01.Application Submission Applicants must complete an online application through the Gateway to Prep Schools platform. The application includes personal details, academic achievements, interests, and extracurricular activities.
2. 02.Entrance Exams To apply, students must take the SSAT (Secondary School Admission Test) or ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam). International students may also be required to submit TOEFL or Duolingo English Test scores to verify English proficiency.
3. 03.Essay Writing Groton School values not only academic excellence but also a student’s personality and motivation. The essay is an opportunity for candidates to express their passions, goals, and reasons for applying.
4. 04.Recommendation Letters Applicants must submit teacher recommendations (typically from math, English, and one additional subject teacher). These letters help the school assess the student’s contribution to the learning environment.
5. 05.Interview A personal interview is a crucial part of the selection process. It can be conducted either on-campus or online. During the interview, the admissions committee evaluates the candidate’s confidence, ambitions, and ability to adapt to boarding school life.
6. 06.Financial Aid (if needed) Groton School offers financial aid to talented students who may need assistance covering tuition costs. To apply for aid, families must submit financial documents.
7. 07.Admission Decision After completing all steps, applicants receive their admission results. If accepted, they must confirm enrollment and submit a deposit to secure their place at the school.

Student Support and Adaptation

Enrolling in a prestigious boarding school is a significant transition that can be both exciting and stressful. Groton School provides various support systems to help new students integrate smoothly.

Each new student is assigned a mentor (advisor), who can be a teacher, senior student, or residential counselor. Their role is to help newcomers settle into school life.

Adaptation Programs:

• Orientation Week. A comprehensive introduction to school policies, campus facilities, and academic expectations.
• Peer Mentoring Program. Senior students help freshmen adjust and share their experiences.
• Individual Counseling. School psychologists and academic advisors offer support for any challenges students may face.

Academic Support

Groton School emphasizes an individual approach, ensuring that each student can reach their full potential and succeed academically.

Additional Academic Assistance:

• Teacher Consultations. Students can request extra help to clarify complex topics.
• Tutoring Sessions. The school provides tutoring for those needing additional academic support.
• Academic Resource Center. A dedicated space where students receive assistance with essay writing, exam preparation, and study skills improvement.

How American Butler Can Assist with Admission

Applying to Groton School is a demanding process that requires careful preparation. American Butler offers comprehensive support to families looking to secure the best educational opportunities for their children.

Our Services Include:

• Organizing personalized campus tours. Experience school life before applying.
• Admission consulting. Guidance on completing applications, writing essays, and preparing for interviews.
• SSAT, ISEE, TOEFL test preparation. Private tutoring and practice tests.
• Document preparation and submission. Assistance with deadlines, recommendations, and financial aid applications.

Groton School offers a rigorous academic program, but admission is highly selective. The school evaluates not only grades but also personal qualities, leadership potential, and extracurricular involvement. To increase the chances of acceptance, students should excel academically, participate actively in school life, and demonstrate clear goals.

If you want your child to become part of this prestigious institution, American Butler can guide you through the entire process — from school selection to successful enrollment.