The Oldfields Humanities Department offers courses that are both rich in content and rigorous in their expectations. Through the study of English, History, and World Languages, our departmental mission is to awaken a deep respect and passion for the learning process and the human experience. Students study the language, literature, culture, and history of various countries in English, French, and Spanish, depending on the course. Humanities classes emphasize critical analysis of written work and encourage the expression of concrete and abstract thinking through thesis-driven compositions. Our classes focus on students achieving proficiency in writing analytically, and our teachers use unique, engaging methods to help them reach this goal. By the end of each year, students will have become increasingly perceptive readers, deeper thinkers, and more persuasive communicators.

The Oldfields approach to math and science is based on the philosophy that problem-solving in all areas requires students to become logical thinkers. From Elements of Algebra and basic Physical Science to Calculus BC and Honors Physics, students are equipped with the skills necessary to achieve a balance between mathematical structure and the process of creating and testing hypotheses through laboratory experiences. By developing fluency in the language of math and science and reinforcing basic mathematical skills, students develop an understanding and appreciation for fundamental scientific processes while learning to make informed decisions about scientifically related social issues.

Our personalized combination of mathematics and science ensures that every girl with a thirst for knowledge is prepared to pursue the additional challenge and enrichment of courses in technology and engineering. Numerous enrichment opportunities in STEM-related activities such as field trips, May Programs, guest speakers, and special projects are designed to foster our girls’ natural curiosity and further expose them to career paths in the STEM field. The goal is for all to become creative thinkers who can apply their knowledge to real-life problem solving through systemic, measured, and informed analysis and reflection.

The arts are vibrant at Oldfields School and are an integral part of our Academic Program. Our courses support artists of all levels, whether brand new to the arts or experienced pre-professionals. We provide individualized instruction based on previous experience and learning needs while establishing a safe space for creativity and discussion. We embrace art not only as a means to capture history, but also to respond to history while encouraging adaptability and problem-solving. Students enrolled in these year-long courses have numerous opportunities to showcase their work in venues both on and off-campus throughout the year.

Students must earn 22 academic credits. The credits must be distributed as follows:

• Four years of English

• Three years of a World Language (minimum: two consecutive years of the same language)

• Three years of Social Studies (one must be US History and one a non-American history course)

• Three years of Mathematics (minimum: Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry)

• Three years of Laboratory Science (minimum: Biology and Chemistry)

• Two years of Fine Arts (performing or visual arts).

Other requirements for graduation:

• Three seasons of athletics or co-curricular activities

• Successful completion of Winter and May Programs or Independent Project each year

• A passing grade in all senior courses

• Senior Presentation

• Twenty hours of approved community service during each year enrolled at Oldfields School in grades 9-12