Located just minutes from historic Boston, Fessenden is the oldest boarding school for boys ages 11-15. Fessenden emphasizes academics, character education, and the pursuit of passions. It provides a nurturing environment that allows boys to develop the skills, independence and self-esteem needed to thrive in the multicultural, technology-driven world they are poised to inherit. The Fessenden boarding experience is specifically-designed to provide the academic, social, and emotional support boys need during the critical pre-teen/teen years. During the week, boys work hard in the classroom and play hard on the sports fields, but weekends are reserved for fun with friends and faculty. With 20-25 different activities offered each weekend, it is no wonder that Fessenden’s weekend program is considered one the best in the country. Boys from the US and around the world thrive in Fessenden’s diverse, inclusive and nurturing community and graduate well prepared for secondary school and beyond.
Unique Characteristics
The Ciongoli Center for Innovation is a 2,400-square-foot collaborative and experiential learning space situated at the physical and ideological heart of campus is equipped with 3D printers, laser and vinyl cutters, an array of technological and fabrication tools and it encompasses three expansive maker-spaces, a machine room—known as “The Shed”—and a collaboration space. The CCI is adjacent to Fessenden’s Wheeler Library, creating an impressive addition to the School’s 21st century learning resources and providing an inspiring space for faculty and students to advance research, design thinking, and project-based learning.
The Fessenden School is unique in that we have a robust day student population across the full school and we introduce boarding in Grade 5. This gives Fessenden a unique cross pollination between the boarding and day community. The Fessenden School are also one of only a handful of NuVu satellite sites. NuVu is an innovative engineering and design program that works in collaboration with MIT.