Read more details about West Nottingham Academy on their 2025 profile page.
Reflections and Advice:
1.) What do you think makes your school unique relative to other boarding schools?
At West Nottingham Academy the campus has a very "close knit" feeling. When attending WNA you get to know your peers, teachers and their families very quickly. I was a day student for two years and have boarded for one going on two next year. As a day student you still get to enjoy all of the weekend activities that boarders have. At WNA we are required to attend two Culture Credits a trimester. I have not heard of Culture Credits any where else other than West Nottingham. The school provide fun and unique trips to places near the school (even New York City). As a boarder you really grow close to everyone on campus. I feel right at home when I am at school and trust that I am being cared for. Having children riding their bikes and sitting around the tables at the dining hall is a comforting feeling that I really enjoy.
2.) What was the best thing that happened to you in boarding school?
When I first found out I was no longer able to skate, everyone was so comforting and welcomed me into their everyday activities. I now am enjoying what most teenagers do on a regular basis. All my friends are showing me the ways and I don't feel like I have missed a beat.On an academic level, I have achieved honors multiple times and I can thank the teaching staff for all their efforts to get the material across.
3.) What might you have done differently during your boarding school experience?
While I was skating, I was pretty disconnected from the school. I had my friends and new everyone but rarely got out on the weekends or during the week due to my vigorous schedule. I wish I had allowed myself more social time my first two to three years. Jump right into the action! It's a lot of fun! Don't be afraid to take a breather sometimes! That's my best advice. You can still get your work done and have fun too!
4.) What did you like most about your school?
I love the community that comes with it!
5.) Do you have any final words of wisdom for visiting or incoming students to your school?
All places on campus are great! Take in the scenery and the welcoming feeling that you get upon visiting our unique school! I love being here and I love the people that are her also!
Academics:
1.) Describe the academics at your school - what did you like most about it?
I love how the class sizes are small and personable. If someone has a question it is not a problem. The teachers don't hesitate to individualize a students needs. Multiple occasions I have needed one on one attention or a different way of learning the lesson. WNA offers that to all the students.
Athletics:
1.) Describe the athletics at your school - what did you like most about it?
From what I have seen it seems great! Being a small school we don't have the bigger sports but the school tries to accommodate every ones interests.
Art, Music, and Theatre:
1.) Describe the arts program at your school - what did you like most about it?
WNA is very strong in the arts. This year we have had three different artist in residence join us each trimester to teach a class on their specialty. We also display their artwork in the gallery. Each artist joins us from the New York City Art Academy.
Extracurricular Opportunities:
1.) Describe the extracurriculars offered at your school - what did you like most about it?
I love that our school offers so many service learning opportunities on the weekend. Relay for life is always a big hit. I had so much fun with it the past year and can't wait to attend next year. The administrators try to make the service projects fun and exciting for the students which is great!
Dorm Life:
1.) Describe the dorm life in your school - what did you like most about it?
The dorms can be both quiet and rambunctious at times. Everyone pretty much looks out for each other. The common room is kept clean and everyone goes to the other dorms to hang out with their friends as well.I had a roommate issue. I tried to brush it off and hold out for the rest of the year until I was feeling unsafe. I contacted my counselor right away and within three days I had a new roommate. I love my current situation and stay on campus a lot now!
Dining:
1.) Describe the dining arrangements at your school.
The cafeteria hours are decent. Lunch can be pretty crowded with not a lot of time to eat. However the teachers at school are aware of that and normally let us out a little early to get in line for lunch. There are always multiple options: health, not so health, simple, fancy and snacks. I typically stick with salads and the health bar. I can't complain :)
Social and Town Life:
1.) Describe the school's town and surrounding area.
We are located in a pretty rural area so there isn't a whole lot to do. However it is absolutely beautiful and open. I love running outside everyday.
2.) Describe the social life at your school - what did you like most about it?
The social life at school is great, most the boarders go down to the student lounge; watch TV, play pool, ping pong or order food for dinner.
Daily Schedule:
Weekday
7:45 AM
Home Room
8:00 AM
English 11
8:45 AM
8:50- Studio Art 1
9:45 AM
9:40 break
10:00 AM
French II
10:45 AM
10:50 AP. U.S. History
11:45 AM
11:40 AP. Bio
12:30 AM
Lunch
1:00 PM
Study
2:45 PM
Gym-dinner-relax-study hall-sleep
Read more details about West Nottingham Academy on their 2025 profile page.
Alumni Reviews Review School
Review
Description
Small classes helped me out tremendously. All teachers made sure you were involved. No hiding in the back like other schools.
An all male freshmen dorm was very big towards gaining independence as a 14. . .
West Nottingham was where I went to school and lived while I was growing up. I have returned to work here this past year (2021). My parents worked here and credit this place with making. . .
West Nottingham had a lot of international students-- WNA was in a very white county in Maryland, and I had the opportunity to meet people of all different backgrounds while I was there. Also, the. . .
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