Why Haverford

The Haverford difference is evident in our extraordinary educators who know how to teach and reach boys at all stages of development. It is exhibited in our remarkable boys, who explore the “why,” who examine themselves and their world, and who look out for one another. It is carried in our nearly 5,000 alumni who are government ambassadors and Broadway actors, financial analysts and international aid workers, symphony conductors and tech entrepreneurs, all paving the way for future generations of Fords.

Why Haverford?

Academic Excellence

Haverford students attain academic excellence at every level. High standards in and out of the classroom cultivate well-rounded young men who accomplish their goals. The boys thrive in a culture of healthy competition, while supporting and protecting each other.

Leaders in Educating Boys

Every decision at Haverford is made with best practices for boys’ education in mind. Our extraordinary educators, experts in their fields as well as in the art and science of teaching boys, connect with and mentor each student, providing powerful learning experiences. Faculty speak annually at the International Boys’ Schools Coalition Conference, develop curriculum grounded in an understanding of male brain development, and employ best practices in teaching and reaching boys in the ways they learn best.

Men of Character

Our boys learn self-discipline, an ethical framework for sound decision-making, and solid leadership qualities. They study the 24 core virtues etched in stone along the School’s Walk of Virtues beginning in pre-kindergarten, and aspire to understand and exhibit those virtues upon graduation. Programs in service learning, leadership, global studies, and community develop young men of strong character and citizenship.

Philadelphia’s CBS 3 interviewed Haverford School Germination Project Fellows on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Photo courtesy of The Germination Project.

Bonds of Brotherhood

Haverford’s brotherhood is an authentic bond among a diverse group of classmates, from the star athlete to the soft-spoken artist. Whether it’s a kindergartner reading to his third grade buddy, seniors escorting kindergartners through the Walk of Virtues, or Upper School Chinese students teaching younger boys how to write Chinese characters, our boys stand by each other and learn from each other. A brotherhood 5,000-alumni strong stands ready to extend a hand to every young man as he graduates and embarks on life beyond Haverford.

Extraordinary Educators

Faculty, who also act as coaches, advisors, and mentors to our boys, realize that each boy has unique needs and interests. They develop a sense of trust with each boy that allows him to take risks, and even to fail. Haverford’s relational teaching model creates connections that make boys feel safe in these failures, and helps them develop self-awareness, reflection, and resilience. The community supports each boy as he forges his own path, identifies talents and passions, and develops the confidence to soar.

Exceptional Outcomes

Haverford prepares students for a lifetime of success. Graduates attend elite colleges and universities, enter premier arts programs, and lead NCAA Division I programs. They gain unparalleled academic preparation, a strong sense of identity, and solid character. The ability to think critically, solve problems, and communicate well serves our alumni in their personal and professional lives.

In a survey of students who graduated five years ago:

• 93% graduated from the college to which they originally matriculated
• 85% said Haverford prepared them “exceptionally well” or “very well” to take a leadership role
• 75% are working in their intended field