A Love For Learning

Academic programs at Besant Hill School emphasize our school motto, “Aun Aprendo, I am still learning.” We aim to instill a lifelong love of learning. Besant Hill School is a rigorous college preparatory school offering curriculum balanced with experiential learning and arts programs.

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Learn How to Think
Not What to Think

Within a framework of Universal Design, our teachers employ multiple best practices in the classroom. Teachers use the Socratic Method, Mastery Teaching, and Cooperative Learning. We value and encourage creativity and a creative mindset in all classes, teaching how to think, not what to think. Academic classes, including art and physical education, are all valued equally in the pursuit of educating the whole person.

Portrait of a Graduate

Our graduates will:

Think critically and synthesize knowledge.
Honor their individual strengths and be resilient.
Engage in their creative and artistic passions.
Model global citizenship.
Embody the ideals of environmental activism.

We demand our students take full responsibility for their own education in every class. We offer honors and AP classes in the junior and senior years. Instructors in our ISP (Instructional Support Program) help students better understand their own learning styles and utilize strategies and techniques in support of their academic success.

The foundation of our curriculum is based on the University of California A-G class requirements. Our courses are approved through the University of California System. This, along with our WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) accreditation, ensures our classes are of the highest academic level.

Graduation Requirements

The basic graduation requirements at Besant Hill School are as follows:

English4 years
Science3 years-including 1 year Biology and 1 year Chemistry
Foreign Language2 years of the same language / 3 years highly recommended
Math3 years, through Algebra II
Social Sciences3 years-including World History and American (U.S.) History
Arts3 years (visual or performing)-at least one year of the same art
FitnessEach year while attending Besant Hill School
ElectivesAt least 3 classes, one must be Senior Capstone

Our graduation requirements surpass both the University of California and the California State University systems, preparing graduates for admission into American colleges and universities.

At Besant Hill School, we believe our learning community embraces our motto, Aun Aprendo. To that end, we offer a curriculum that inspires students while demanding excellence and his or her best effort. We teach students to use their knowledge to become thoughtful, ethical members of the world community. We truly believe the boarding school experience offered at Besant Hill is unparalleled.