Our Approach
OUR PHILOSOPHY
We believe the future will be characterized by:
- Change—social, cultural, environmental, and technological–on an unprecedented scale, at an unprecedented pace.
- An economy that is ever more globalized and highly diverse.
- A high degree of conflict and opportunity.
We believe that to be successful students will need:
- Confidence.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Intellectual acuity and flexibility.
- Love for the natural world and the humans who inhabit it.
- Commitment to work for peace—local, regional, and global.
- Moral and spiritual centeredness.
- Familiarity and ease interacting with many cultures.
- Understanding of technology as a practical tool and wisdom about its use.
The ISW Philosophy:
The Independent School of Winchester (ISW) provides academic challenges for young people with a curriculum built upon the work of progressive educators including:
- Maria Montessori
- John Dewey
- Reggio-Emilia
- Howard Gardner
- Alfie Kohn
- Sir Ken Robinson
In an environment grounded in strong spiritual values from a multiplicity of traditions, our school incorporates the latest research on how the young brain functions. ISW students develop critical thinking skills as well as solid relationships—with self, with family, with peers, with community members of all ages, and with nature. Teachers and parents play significant roles in this process. Together, we affirm the school’s mission, to create a learning environment where young people discover and develop their own unique abilities: to think logically and critically, to effect positive change in the world, and to approach life with an open heart.
Education, therefore, is a process of living and not a preparation for future living.John Dewey
