Woodside Priory School
Woodside Priory School: A Benedictine Education in Silicon Valley
Introduction
Nestled in the hills of Portola Valley, California, Woodside Priory School—often simply called “The Priory”—is a coeducational, college-preparatory, day and boarding school serving students in grades 6 through 12. Founded in 1957 by Benedictine monks from Hungary, the school integrates the ancient values of Benedictine spirituality with a modern approach to academics, leadership, and innovation.
With a serene 50-acre campus located just minutes from the heart of Silicon Valley, Woodside Priory blends a commitment to rigorous academics with a spiritual and ethical foundation rooted in the Benedictine tradition. This article explores the many facets of life at Woodside Priory, including its history, academic programs, student life, boarding experience, arts and athletics, and the values that make it one of the most unique independent schools in the United States.
1. A Legacy of Benedictine Values: Woodside Priory School
Woodside Priory was established by five Hungarian Benedictine monks who sought to build a school that emphasized scholarship, character, and spirituality. The Benedictine monastic tradition, which dates back over 1,500 years, emphasizes the values of community, hospitality, integrity, stewardship, and balance. These principles serve as the guiding philosophy of the Priory and are integrated into all aspects of school life.
Even as the school has grown and modernized, it remains deeply committed to these core values. Whether through morning prayers, community service, or the respectful tone of daily interactions, Benedictine spirituality remains a quiet but powerful presence on campus.
2. Academic Excellence and Personalized Learning
Woodside Priory offers a challenging and comprehensive academic program designed to prepare students for top-tier colleges and universities. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, and intellectual curiosity.
-
Middle School (Grades 6–8): The middle school provides a balanced curriculum including humanities, science, mathematics, languages, visual and performing arts, and physical education. The goal is to build academic foundations while fostering confidence and independence.
-
Upper School (Grades 9–12): The high school curriculum includes rigorous college-preparatory courses, including over 20 Advanced Placement (AP) offerings in subjects like Biology, Calculus, Literature, U.S. History, Chemistry, and Computer Science.
-
Student Support Services: Small class sizes and a strong advisory system ensure that each student receives personal attention. Learning specialists and counselors are available to support diverse learning needs and academic goals.
The academic calendar follows a semester system, and assessment is holistic, balancing tests, projects, presentations, and class participation.
3. Spiritual and Ethical Development: Woodside Priory School
Unlike some religious schools that focus heavily on dogma, the Priory uses its Benedictine heritage as a foundation for moral development and reflection. While rooted in the Catholic tradition, the school welcomes students of all faiths and fosters a culture of spiritual openness and inclusivity.
-
Daily Reflection: School days often begin with reflection or a short prayer, setting a peaceful tone for the day.
-
Retreats and Service: Students participate in annual retreats, community service projects, and spiritual development programs that encourage reflection, empathy, and gratitude.
-
Ethics Curriculum: Courses and discussions that explore ethics, philosophy, and civic responsibility are integral to the school’s mission.
The goal is to cultivate students who are not just academically accomplished but also spiritually grounded and socially responsible.
4. The Boarding Experience: Woodside Priory School
Woodside Priory offers a vibrant boarding program for students in grades 9–12. The boarding community is small and diverse, drawing students from across the U.S. and more than 15 countries around the world. This diversity creates a rich environment for cross-cultural exchange and lifelong friendships.
-
Dorm Life: Students live in modern, comfortable residence halls supervised by trained dorm parents and faculty members who live on campus.
-
Structured Routines: Evening study halls, weekend activities, and communal meals create structure and support.
-
Weekend Activities: Trips to local attractions, museums, beaches, and San Francisco are regularly scheduled, along with on-campus events like movie nights and talent shows.
-
Support System: Boarding students benefit from daily check-ins, academic advising, and a warm, family-like atmosphere.
The boarding program is designed not only to support academic success but also to promote independence, self-discipline, and personal growth.
5. Arts and Creativity: Woodside Priory School
The Priory views the arts as essential to a well-rounded education. Students are encouraged to explore their creativity through music, visual arts, and performance.
-
Visual Arts: Courses include drawing, painting, photography, sculpture, and digital art. Student work is regularly exhibited on campus.
-
Performing Arts: The theater program includes acting, directing, and stagecraft. Productions range from Shakespearean plays to modern dramas and musicals.
-
Music: Students can join band, choir, or smaller musical ensembles. Private lessons and AP Music Theory are also offered.
-
Dance and Movement: While not always part of the formal curriculum, dance classes and clubs are available for interested students.
The school’s performing arts center features a modern stage, sound system, and seating for the entire school community, reflecting the school’s commitment to artistic excellence.
6. Athletics and Wellness: Woodside Priory School
Athletics are an integral part of student life at Woodside Priory. The school’s sports programs aim to promote fitness, sportsmanship, teamwork, and resilience.
-
Fall Sports: Cross country, girls’ volleyball, and boys’ soccer
-
Winter Sports: Basketball (boys and girls), soccer (girls), and wrestling
-
Spring Sports: Track and field, tennis, baseball, and golf
The school competes in the Central Coast Section (CCS) of the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF). Many Priory athletes continue to compete at the collegiate level.
In addition to organized sports, the school offers:
-
Physical Education classes
-
Mindfulness and yoga sessions
-
Outdoor education and hiking programs
Health and wellness are emphasized across all grade levels, promoting balance in students’ lives.
7. Global Learning and Study Abroad: Woodside Priory School
With its proximity to one of the world’s most globally connected regions, Woodside Priory offers several opportunities for international travel and study abroad.
-
Global Exchange Programs: Partner schools in Europe, Asia, and South America offer exchange programs where students can study abroad for a semester or participate in cultural immersion trips.
-
International Student Integration: International students receive ESL support if needed, along with cultural orientation sessions and global citizenship workshops.
The school's emphasis on global thinking prepares students to understand and navigate an increasingly interconnected world.
8. Technology and Innovation: Woodside Priory School
Located near Silicon Valley, Woodside Priory embraces educational technology while promoting responsible digital citizenship.
-
1:1 Laptop Program: All students use laptops in the classroom for research, writing, and collaboration.
-
STEAM Curriculum: Integrated science, technology, engineering, arts, and math projects encourage creativity and innovation.
-
Robotics and Coding Clubs: Students interested in programming and engineering can join competitive teams or independent study tracks.
However, the school also emphasizes balance, encouraging students to unplug, focus on real-world relationships, and reflect on the ethical implications of technology.
9. Student Life and Leadership: Woodside Priory School
The Priory offers an enriching student life program that fosters leadership, initiative, and responsibility.
-
Clubs and Activities: From Model UN to sustainability clubs, students can join or start any club that aligns with their interests.
-
Student Government: A structured leadership body allows students to plan events, represent peers, and participate in school governance.
-
Retreats and Class Trips: Each grade level participates in annual bonding experiences that combine fun, reflection, and group-building.
Students are encouraged to take ownership of their school experience and leave a lasting impact on the community.
10. College Counseling and Alumni Success
Woodside Priory provides personalized college counseling beginning in 9th grade, with more intensive support starting in junior year.
-
College Advising Team: Counselors meet with students and families to develop application strategies, select colleges, and craft personal statements.
-
Workshops and College Fairs: Students attend mock interviews, application workshops, and presentations from visiting college representatives.
-
University Placements: Graduates have gone on to attend Ivy League universities, top-tier liberal arts colleges, and renowned institutions around the world.
Priory alumni stay connected through an active alumni network, returning to mentor students, share experiences, and celebrate reunions.
11. Admissions and Application Process: Woodside Priory School
Admission to Woodside Priory is selective and based on a holistic review of each applicant’s academic record, personal character, and potential for growth.
Application Components:
-
Academic transcripts and standardized test scores (optional in some years)
-
Teacher recommendations
-
Student and parent questionnaires
-
Personal interview (in person or virtual)
-
Writing samples or essays
Deadlines: The school follows a typical independent school admissions calendar, with priority deadlines in early winter and notifications in March.
Financial Aid: Woodside Priory offers need-based financial aid and limited merit scholarships to ensure access for qualified students.
12. Why Choose Woodside Priory School?
There are many reasons why students and families choose the Priory:
-
Balance of Tradition and Innovation: Benedictine values meet forward-thinking education
-
Community Atmosphere: A nurturing environment where everyone knows your name
-
Academic Rigor: College-preparatory curriculum with robust AP and honors offerings
-
Spiritual Growth: Reflection and character development integrated into daily life
-
Global Diversity: International student body and cross-cultural experiences
-
Stunning Location: A beautiful, peaceful campus in the heart of Silicon Valley
At Woodside Priory, students don’t just prepare for college—they prepare for life, developing the intellect, heart, and moral compass needed to lead in a complex world.
Conclusion
Woodside Priory School stands out among independent schools for its rich spiritual heritage, commitment to academic excellence, and vibrant community life. Rooted in Benedictine values and located in one of the most dynamic regions in the world, the school offers students a rare combination of tradition, innovation, and personal attention.
For families seeking a holistic and transformative education in a nurturing and intellectually engaging environment, Woodside Priory represents not just a school—but a way of life.
In case, if you need help with Homestay and Guardianship for students in order to study in Woodside Priory School or other schools in the US, please fill in application below or contact us directly.