Academics

Upper School | Gr. 9–12

At Shipley, your choice and voice shape an Upper School experience that will challenge you to grow—in knowledge, skill, and character—in order to help you be and become your best self.
Our Upper School is a place where your ideas, identity, and individual dreams matter. Through a careful balance of academic rigor and personal support, you’ll develop the confidence to take bold risks, the curiosity to explore the world, and the compassion to make it better.

Every step from Grade 9 through graduation is designed to prepare you—not just for college, but for a meaningful, fulfilling life. Through thought-provoking classes, unique opportunities, and meaningful relationships with peers and teachers, you’ll become the person you’re meant to be, in a place that’s meant for you.

Our Curriculum

Designed for You—to Empower You

Shipley’s Upper School curriculum is about more than just meeting requirements. It’s designed for you to explore your passions, challenge yourself, and grow at your own pace. 

Upper School academics start with a strong foundation in critical skills and knowledge, then expand to provide personal choice. You’ll have the chance to take major courses that go deep into a subject and minor courses that allow you to try something new. 

Maybe you'll take a dynamic elective like Modern American Women or The History of the Modern Megacity. Perhaps you'll explore neuroscience or molecular biology, or you’ll create something extraordinary in our makerspace. There are no rigid paths; only the course you chart to reach your own goals.  

Your learning will go beyond the basics. You’ll generate questions and solve problems through deep, critical investigation. You’ll connect ideas across disciplines to address real-world situations. And you’ll engage more thoughtfully with material, preparing you for real-world challenges, creative pursuits, and exciting future opportunities.

Beyond Academic Preparation

Explore our course catalog and planning guide to begin charting a course that’s truly yours.
  • Upper School Course Catalog Upper School Course Catalog
    Dive into the full range of Shipley’s Upper School courses—from foundational subjects to advanced electives that spark curiosity and deepen understanding. Each class is designed to challenge, inspire, and help you grow into a confident, independent learner.
  • Course Requirements & Planning Course Requirements & Planning
    Use this guide to explore your options and map out a path that aligns with your goals, interests, and aspirations. You’ll find tips, sample pathways, and insights to help you make the most of your Upper School experience.

CO-CURRICULARS

More Space to Shine (During the School Day!)

We believe that growth happens everywhere, not just in class. That’s why Shipley’s 50+ co-curricular activities are built right into the school day, ensuring you have the time and freedom to pursue what excites you. 
Whether you want to start a club, plan a school-wide event, or get involved in the community, there’s space here for your passions and many opportunities to take the lead. Our no-cut athletic and theater programs ensure there’s a place for everyone. 
At Shipley, these moments aren’t “extra”—they’re essential. They help you connect, expand, and experience the joy that comes from pursuing what lights you up. 

Opportunity Everywhere

At Shipley, learning doesn’t stop when class ends.  It expands into every field, stage, and studio. From arts and athletics, to student government and clubs, every opportunity helps you discover your strengths, find your voice, and connect with something bigger than yourself.

    • Athletics

      Compete in one of more than 20 varsity programs—or earn your Athletics credits through fitness classes, intramural sports, or by becoming a Team Manager or Student Athletic Trainer. With a no-cut policy and flexible PE paths, every Gator finds their way to Growth, Teamwork, and Resilience.

    • Music

      Perform in one of Shipley’s vocal or instrumental ensembles—or fulfill your Performing Arts requirement through courses in music theory, composition, or global music traditions. With options from Glee Club to Jazz Band to Shipley Singers, every musician finds space to explore, collaborate, and grow.

    • Theater

      Take the stage—or work behind it—in one of three annual productions: the Fall Plays, Winter Musical, and Spring Shakespeare. You can also earn your Performing Arts credit through courses like Studio Theater, Technical Theater, or Public Speaking. In Shipley’s Theater Program, all students have an opportunity to take the spotlight.

    • Visual Arts

      Learn to create, experiment, and express yourself through drawing, painting, ceramics, photography, or digital design. With required Art Foundations in Grade 9 and advanced studios through senior year, you’ll build technique, confidence, and your own artistic voice—culminating in exhibitions that showcase your growth.

    • Student Government

      You can take the lead in shaping life at Shipley. From planning spirit weeks and major events to serving on the Honor Council or leading a committee, Student Government gives you a voice—and a chance to make a lasting impact on your community. In Shipley’s Upper School, there are many opportunities to lead—at every grade level and in many different areas.

    • Activities & Clubs

      You can choose to participate in over 50 clubs and activities that meet during the school day, giving you dedicated time to lead, collaborate, and pursue your passions. From debate and yoga to the arts and entrepreneurship, there is literally something for everyone, and a chance to create something new!

    • Service Learning

      Service learning is at the heart of Shipley’s mission of compassionate participation in the world. You’ll complete at least 40 hours of service through local volunteer projects, grade-level service days, and schoolwide events. As a senior, you’ll take it a step further with a three-week Service Project, partnering with a nonprofit to make a meaningful impact beyond Shipley.

    • STEAM

      You’ll put curiosity to work in Shipley’s STEAM program, where science, technology, engineering, art, and math come together in hands-on, creative problem solving. Whether you’re coding, building, or designing, you’ll learn to turn ideas into innovation. You’ll also have access to cutting-edge spaces like the MakerSpace and Python Lab—collaborative hubs where imagination meets invention.

    • Global Experiences

      Broaden your world at Shipley. Each year, you’ll have the chance to travel abroad on cultural and language immersion trips that bring classroom learning to life. Maybe you’ll practice your Spanish in Salamanca, explore biodiversity in Costa Rica, or discover history and innovation in China. At Shipley, you’ll gain perspective, confidence, and connection that extend far beyond campus.

COLLEGE COUNSELING

Preparation Beyond the Application

Your time in Upper School marks an important part of your life’s journey. But that journey isn’t just about building a college list or perfecting your application. It’s about helping you discover what you love, what inspires you, and what path feels right for YOU. 
That’s why Shipley’s approach to college counseling focuses on finding schools that are your best match—whether a medium-sized research university, a small liberal arts college, or a large flagship university—as well as building life skills that will serve you beyond higher education. 
You'll work closely with your counselor to understand your strengths, interests, and goals; explore opportunities that align with who you are and what you want to achieve; and gain essential skills, such as writing professional emails, practicing interviews, and navigating big decisions. 
At Shipley, college counseling is a process designed to help you grow into a capable, self-assured, confident individual. 

Discover Yourself, Discover Your Path

With personalized guidance, you’ll explore your strengths and interests, find colleges that fit who you are, and gain the confidence and skills to take your next step with purpose.
  • Class of 2025 Class of 2025
    Discover how the Class of 2025 found inspiration, connection, and confidence at Shipley—and where they’re headed next. These reflections offer a glimpse into the many paths of discovery and growth that define Shipley's Upper School experience.
  • Shipley College Profile Shipley College Profile
    Want a closer look at Shipley’s academics and outcomes? The Upper School Profile outlines our curriculum, graduation requirements, and honors and advanced courses, along with a list of colleges and universities where Shipley graduates have continued their journeys.
  • Many Paths to Success Many Paths to Success
    Shipley’s approach to college counseling is designed around you—your strengths, interests, and goals. This article highlights how our counselors guide students to discover their best-fit schools while building skills and confidence that prepare them for life beyond graduation.

CHARACTER EDUCATION

Becoming Your Best Self

Who you become at Shipley is just as important as what you achieve. We know that every day is an opportunity to grow, and we’re here to support you in discovering who you are. 
Our Pre-K to Grade 12 SEED (Social, Emotional, Ethical Development) program provides space for you to focus on well-being, build confidence in your values, and develop the resilience to take on challenges—not just in school, but in life.
In addition, service projects, leadership opportunities, and one-on-one conversations with trusted advisors will ensure you leave Shipley academically prepared and personally empowered.

Compassionate Leadership Starts Here

Develop the confidence, empathy, and awareness to live and lead with courage and grace.

    • Social, Emotional & Ethical Development (SEED)

      SEED Classes help you recognize your strengths, build healthy relationships, and lead with confidence. In junior year, the program connects with college counseling, guiding you to use what you’ve learned about yourself to plan your next steps.

    • Growing Through Connection

      Through real conversations and shared experiences, you’ll learn how to communicate with empathy, navigate challenges, and understand different perspectives. Each lesson helps you build stronger relationships and a deeper sense of belonging within your community.

    • Compassionate Leadership & Real-World Application

      In Grade 12, students put SEED principles into action through the Senior Service Project—connecting personal strengths with social purpose. They graduate ready to lead with integrity, care, and confidence in a complex world.

OUR COMMUNITY

A Place of Compassion & Connection

At Shipley, you’re not just preparing for college or a career; you’re preparing for life as a compassionate, capable, and engaged member of the world. 
This is a place where relationships matter and where every student is seen, known, and valued for who they are. From teachers who know your name and dreams to peers who cheer you on, there’s always someone by your side. 
Our culture of compassion helps you understand the importance of being part of something bigger than yourself. From the thoughtful student leadership of the Honor Council to gathering as a division for weekly story sharing, care and accountability are the foundations of our daily lives. Whether learning together during advisory meetings or connecting over lunch in our dining hall, Shipley is a community of mutual respect where you know you belong.

Upper School Spotlight

Discover What’s Possible

In Shipley’s Upper School, you’re not just a student. You’re a creator, a leader, a thinker, and a part of something bigger. This is your time, your experience, and your opportunity to shine. Come see for yourself. Schedule a tour to explore our classes, meet our teachers, and envision your future.
814 Yarrow Street
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010

Phone: 610-525-4300
Fax: 610-525-5082
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.