Darlington School is a vibrant community of parents, educators, students, and alumni who value post-secondary education and work together to create an environment rich in discussion and exploration. Throughout their time in the Upper School, students are encouraged to think deeply about their futures and explore college options in meaningful ways.
As a college-preparatory institution, Darlington offers students many opportunities to develop the academic, time management and social skills necessary for a smooth transition to higher education. Students are encouraged to take the most challenging courses in which they can be successful. The school’s rigorous curriculum includes 22 Advanced Placement courses, allowing students to experience the depth and pace of college-level work. Small class sizes allow teachers to provide personalized help and equip students with the tools to succeed on college placement tests. In addition, seniors may choose Math or Reading SAT Prep as an iPeriod. Standardized test preparation begins early, with all freshmen, sophomores and juniors taking the PSAT. Juniors take the SAT on campus each spring, followed by a second opportunity during the fall of their senior year.
Exposure to colleges begins early as well, with all Upper School students participating in our annual College Fair (featuring more than 150 colleges each year) as well as private visits with college representatives. Seniors’ college acceptances are read aloud in assembly weekly. When the time comes for students to find the college that is the right fit for them, they have heard of boundless options!
Darlington’s rotating schedule mirrors the pace and structure of a college environment. Classes meet on alternating days, free periods are built into student schedules, and the absence of bells fosters independence and time management skills. For our boarding students, the nightly study halls reinforce devoting some time each evening to their college academics. Daily Office Hours give students access to extra help and build confidence in self-advocacy and communication with teachers. After-school activities and iPeriods provide balance, teaching students the value of self-care and pursuing interests outside of academics.
Formal college preparation begins in earnest during the spring of junior year. Each student is matched with a college adviser in a small group of about 10 peers. On Tuesdays, students engage in lessons on topics such as application types, strategies for completing the Common App, financial aid and interpreting admission decisions. Fridays are reserved for hands-on application work and collaboration with counselors and peers. Juniors request letters of recommendation from two teachers who will write on their behalf. Advisers also meet individually with students to create a personalized list of colleges and address concerns about the process. During this time, students begin drafting college essays in their English classes and receive summer assignments designed to reduce the workload during the application season.
Senior year kicks off with College Boot Camp, where students receive detailed feedback on their summer work, refine their applications and meet with college admission representatives. College advisory sessions continue to focus on application support, decision review and guidance on selecting the right college fit. This season is full of hope, excitement and often disappointment, but we work to help each student find the college fit that best meets their needs. One of the most rewarding parts of this process is witnessing students’ milestones—whether it’s the relief of submitting their first application through the Common App, the joy of an acceptance, or the confidence that comes from knowing they are making meaningful progress toward their future.
Click here to learn more about college guidance at Darlington.
