Admission FAQs

Bancroft's exceptional faculty utilize the Learning Laboratory Method of teaching and learning. The learning laboratory method is an educational approach that emphasizes active, experiential, inquiry-based learning through hands-on exploration and experimentation. 

Hands-on activities: Bancroft students actively participate in experiments, simulations, problem-solving tasks, or real-world applications of their age-appropriate curriculum. They work directly with class materials, equipment, and data to gain a deeper understanding of concepts and develop practical skills.

Exploration and discovery: Our students of all ages are encouraged to explore and discover knowledge through firsthand experiences. They are given opportunities to formulate hypotheses, design experiments, collect data, analyze results, and draw conclusions. This process promotes critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the development of scientific inquiry skills.

Collaboration and reflection: The Bancroft learning laboratory method often involves collaborative work among students. They may work in small groups to share ideas, discuss findings, and collaboratively solve problems. Reflection on the outcomes and processes is encouraged to enhance understanding and metacognitive skills.

Guidance from faculty: While the learning laboratory method emphasizes student-centered learning, Bancroft teachers play a crucial role as facilitators and guides. They provide guidance, support, and feedback to students throughout the learning process. They help students connect theory with practice, clarify concepts, and ensure safety.

Integration of theory and practice: The learning laboratory method aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and its practical application. It allows students to apply theoretical concepts in real-world or simulated contexts, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the subject matter.

The learning laboratory method promotes active engagement, critical thinking, problem-solving, and the development of practical skills. It encourages students to be active participants in their education and fosters a deeper understanding of concepts through firsthand experiences. By providing a hands-on, interactive learning environment, the method aims to enhance retention, motivation, and the transfer of knowledge to real-life situations.

Bancroft School is a Pre-K to Grade 12 independent day school. 

Although certain grades and classes vary in size year to year, the current average class size at Bancroft is 12 with a 6:1 student to teacher ratio. The small class sizes allows for a more individualized and personalized experience for our students.

Bancroft is an academically rigorous institution. It is important that prospective students show evidence of strong academic performance and achievement in school. It is also important that an applicant has pursued interests outside of their academic life and will contribute to extracurricular opportunities available at Bancroft. We care very deeply that an applicant is eager to join our school and become an active part of our school community; there is no one “mold” of a student that we are looking for. We strive to build a community that represents diversity in the broadest sense.

Our diverse community comes from 63 different cities and towns throughout central Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. We also welcome international students who work with partner agencies and stay with host families. 

Participation in team sports is not required but strongly encouraged. Many Bancroft students participate in more than 1 sport or extracurricular activity throughout the year.

Yes. Bancroft offers AP and Advanced level courses in the Upper School. 

Upper School: We have 3 tiers of support. About 10% of the students qualify for support. 

Middle School and Lower School: We offer the Hope Graham Program for students with Language-Based Learning Differences.