Join us on Saturday, September 28, for a day of endless fun! The excitement kicks off at 10:00 a.m. with a kids' carnival, a free community barbecue, athletic events, and much more. This all-day celebration promises something for everyone—don’t miss out!
We’re happy to offer this event free of charge to all community members! Philanthropic support of Shipley’s sister school in Uganda, The Brain Tree Primary School will be available at the event. We encourage all families to support a great cause. (Read more below)
What Lurks Beneath the...
ALL EVENTS ARE LOCATED ON UPPER CAMPUS
Additional parking may be available in the Montgomery Avenue Lot (825 Montgomery Ave)
9:30 - 10:30 AM New Family Event (Coffee & Donuts)
Piltch Commons
10:00 - 10:30 AM Lower School Fun Runs (MORE INFO BELOW)
Outdoors - Rain or Shine
10:00 AM - 12:30 PM Carnival & Karaoke
Yarnall Gym
11:00 AM Girls’ Field Hockey vs Bristol
Outdoors - Rain or Shine
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM Community BBQ Piltch Commons
12:00 - 12:30 PM Affinity Group and Heritage Club Meet & Greet Piltch Commons
12:00 PM Girls’ Tennis vs Merion Mercy
Outdoors - Rain or Shine
1:30 PM Boys’ Soccer vs O'Hara
Outdoors - Rain or Shine
4:00 PM Girls’ Volleyball vs Valley Forge Baptist
Yarnall Gym
4:30 PM Alumni and Distinguished Former Colleague Social
6:30 PM Girls’ Soccer vs Germantown Academy Outdoors - Rain or Shine
We invite all new Shipley families to come and start your Super Saturday in the Piltch Commons. Meet our Interim Head of School Steve Lisk, mingle, meet new friends, have a donut and some coffee.
Lower School Fun Run Races 9:50 AM - 10:15 AM Every participant will receive a medal. Please arrive at 9:50 am to gather on the Upper School turf. The Pre-K & under race will start at 10:00 am, and then move up by grade level, and conclude with the 5th grade race at approximately 10:15 am. No need to sign up in advance; just show up and have fun!
School Store Hours
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Want some new merch? Come check out some of our brand-new items for this year in the school store and show off your school spirit!
Affinity Group & Heritage Club Meet & Greet
12:00 - 12:30 PM
Piltch Commons
Join us on Super Saturday for an Affinity Group & Heritage Club Meet & Greet! The Alumni and DEI offices invite Shipley alumni, families, and students to mix, mingle, and learn more about Shipley’s affinity groups and heritage clubs. Meet us at Piltch Commons (by the BBQ lunch) from 12:00 to 12:30 pm.
Fundraising for Brain Tree Primary School
Carnival Bracelet – “Give What You Wish” to purchase a bracelet to access the carnival. Proceeds from the event will provide resources for Brain Tree to accommodate their growing classroom needs.
The Brain Tree School started in 1994 as a nursery school for children living in poverty or who had been orphaned due to malaria or AIDS. The school has since grown, providing housing and education to over 250 children a year. Our past fundraising campaigns have helped to build the school's infrastructure, technology and even a scholarship fund to help some students continue their secondary education after leaving Brain Tree. We appreciate this partnership with Brain Tree as this relationship broadens our understanding of the global community.
When the Flannellys relocated to Philadelphia, they sought a school where all four of their sons could thrive. Shipley stood out—not just for academics and activities, but for the deep, personal support that would shape their confidence and growth.
In Gator Congregation Storytellers and Middle School’s 5 Minutes of Wisdom, students and faculty share personal, heartfelt stories—moments of growth, courage, and connection. These programs foster empathy, trust, and belonging, strengthening the relationships that make Shipley’s community so special.
The Shipley School is proud to celebrate the achievements of our 2025 Alumni Award recipients—three distinguished individuals who embody the values of excellence, leadership, and service in their respective fields.
For over 20 years, Shipley’s partnership with alumna Paige West ’86 and the West Collection has brought world-class contemporary art to the Speer Gallery, inspiring students to think boldly and engage with real-world ideas.
Shipley’s Speer Gallery, led by art teacher Julia Staples, is a vibrant hub for learning and connection, showcasing thought-provoking exhibits that spark conversation and inspire collaboration across subjects like History, Science, and English.
Read about how Shipley changed life for Sissy ffolliott ’70 and why she supports the Centennial Society—ensuring future generations receive the same transformative education and encouragement she experienced over 55 years ago.
Middle School Science Teacher Ace Schwarz recently presented an education-focused project at the prestigious American Astronomical Society (AAS) Conference. Learn how Mx. Schwarz brings NASA research into Shipley’s classrooms, empowering students with authentic data projects and cutting-edge astronomy lessons.
To celebrate Black History Month, Shipley was proud to host Carlotta Walls LaNier, the youngest member of the Little Rock Nine, on Monday, February 3. Carlotta spoke to students and faculty about her story - for the right of every child to learn and grow without discrimination. She also spent time with the Black Student Union.
Congratulations to Aarik ’28 and Rohail ’26 for their creativity and award-winning excellence in the CMU CS Academy Fall 2024 Creative Task Competition, hosted by Carnegie Mellon University’s School of Computer Science.
Shipley’s Finance Club, hosted Tim Buckley, former CEO of Vanguard, for a discussion on career development, leadership, and the power of curiosity. Buckley shared practical advice on building a fulfilling career, the importance of asking thoughtful questions, and how purpose can drive lasting success.
Shipley’s dynamic history curriculum challenges students to think critically, engage deeply with diverse perspectives, and connect the past to today’s world. Explore how innovative electives and passionate educators bring history to life in 11th and 12th grade classrooms.
Shipley’s Middle School history classrooms are alive with creativity, immersive projects, and hands-on learning. From muckraking magazines to trench art, students don’t just study history—they experience it, making meaningful connections to the past and present.
The Shipley School Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Ian L. Craig as the next Head of School, effective July 1, 2025. Mr. Craig brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in independent schools and a strong commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and program innovation.
Over the past five years, Shipley’s Cross Country program has surged forward, blending competitive success with a vibrant culture of personal growth and team spirit. This rise has been powered by an engaged community of runners, dedicated coaches, and a program spanning Lower, Middle, and Upper School.
On display in Shipley's Speer Gallery from January 27 - April 4, 2025, an exhibition of paintings and sculptures addressing the urban landscape of Philadelphia.
Ranked #6 in the nation for U15 squash players, Kate reflects on her journey—from her first lesson with Coach Chris to joining Shipley's varsity squash team. Learn how the Shipley Squash Academy shaped her skills, mindset, and love for the game as she continues to tackle new challenges and reach for new heights.
It's easier than ever to stay connected and in the know about all things Shipley with our new mobile app. From calendars and lunch menus to photo galleries, directories, and ShipleyNet, the app keeps everything you need right at your fingertips. It also brings you content from Shipley’s main social media accounts.
Shipley’s annual Swamp Night is on January 24! Bring your family for food and fun with the entire Shipley community. Wear your favorite Shipley gear and join the Shipley Swamp to cheer on our basketball teams!
The Shipley School is a private, coeducational day school for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students, located in Bryn Mawr, PA. Through our commitment to educational excellence, we develop within each student a love of learning and a desire for compassionate participation in the world.