Admissions Blog
Salisbury School’s All-Boys Environment is Designed for Boys to Succeed
Sarah Scoville
What does it take for boys to succeed? It’s a question an all-boys preparatory school in Northwest Connecticut has been answering successfully for the last 125 years. Salisbury School consistently produces young men of character and academic excellence by providing an immersive environment dedicated to doing everything right for boys.
Salisbury School’s all-boys environment on the Hilltop is designed for boys to succeed by tapping into the resounding relevance of the all-boy academic advantage. Research indicates that single-sex education, particularly at the high school level, can provide several advantages for male students, with single-sex schools outperforming their co-ed counterparts. Here’s why.
The All-boys Academic Advantage
Schools that focus on the intellectual, physical, social, and emotional lives of boys can prioritize young man’s academic and developmental needs. Because boys mature differently and at different rates than girls, Salisbury focuses solely on their development, leveraging a single-sex boarding school environment tailored to their success.
Academic engagement tends to increase in all-boys environments, as students feel more comfortable participating without fear of judgment or showing academic enthusiasm. Studies have found male students are more likely to engage in class discussions and ask questions when female peers are not present.
The learning environment can be better tailored to typical male learning styles, with opportunities for movement, competition, and hands-on activities integrated into lessons. Salisbury’s faculty can employ pedagogical approaches that work particularly well for boys, such as incorporating physical activity and healthy competition. With flexible classroom spaces and 725 acres for outdoor teaching and exploration, Salisbury students remain engaged and inspired to extend themselves inside and outside of the classroom.
Research seems to suggest that single-sex environments reduced social pressure and anxiety for boys, particularly during adolescence. At Salisbury, boys can focus more on academic and personal development without the social dynamics and pressures present in co-ed schools. This often leads to stronger focus on academics, athletics and extracurricular activities, which are abundant on the Hilltop.
“It's easy to find your place at Salisbury. Our vibrant community thrives on the concept of brotherhood, evident through our character-based approach to everything we do.” - Director of Campus Life Jennifer Siff
Don’t Underestimate The Power Of Brotherhood
Salisbury School’s inclusive culture allow boys to be themselves and embrace the values and interests of others. For many Salisbury graduates, the friendships they developed with their peers and with faculty are among the most important relationships they carry with them upon leaving the Hilltop.
At an all-boys school, fostering a commitment to integrity, empathy and respect are the School’s first priorities, and educating students on how to be good men informs every aspect of the day.
Finally, leadership development opportunities expand significantly. In all-boys schools, male students must fill every leadership role. At Salisbury, the opportunities to be mentored as a leader abound, from student government to The Collaborative Leadership Initiative to Big Brother.
To secret to helping boys succeed isn’t a great mystery. Salisbury School’s tradition of excellence is proof. Learn more at salisburyschool.org.