2024 Best Private K-12 Schools in the Raleigh Area

• Durham, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  105 reviews

Parent: We are blown away by the quality of teachers at DA. Our kids have experience middle and upper school at DA and they are always sharing what they are learning about with great enthusiasm. Even in lower grades, students are challenged to use their critical thinking skills and to go deep on subject matter. The teachers take time to really get to know their students - reading report cards makes it’s clear that the truly “see” your children and understand both their gifts and areas where they need to grow. The advisory model is a great system for parents and students as you always have one person who knows what is happening with your child and has the big picture view. The arts and athletics programs are top notch - the only problem is there is not enough time in the day to take advantage of it all. The course offerings are diverse with a big emphasis on learning about people from all different walks of life and cultures. It is exciting to see my children grow at DA!... Read 105 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,237

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Raleigh, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.46 out of 5  127 reviews

Senior: I attended Ravenscroft from middle school to now. I am a senior and I will say the academics, teachers, and college readiness are unmatched. The work is very challenging depending on the classes you take, but if you have good time management skills, it shouldn’t be that overwhelming. Teachers are very supportive and get to know you. They want you to succeed and invite every student to come during tutorial time for help. The school puts a great emphasis on leadership and character. Ever since day one, I remember Lead From Here lessons in which we learn all the values and attributes that will help us lead ourselves effectively and lead others in the real world. Hence, it is very easy to start a club, and there are tons of opportunities for students to develop and share their passions with others. I cannot say that socially this a great school for everyone though. Unfortunately, I was not really able to build friendships with the other students.... Read 127 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,239

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Durham, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  63 reviews

Senior: Great academic environment with amazing teachers! The upper school is a highly close-knit community and faculty are consistently supportive and are willing to do anything for students and the humanities classes at Trinity are highly thought-provoking and academically challenging. Trinity does often lack diversity however and could work to be more welcoming and supportive of minority students (LGBTQ+ and poc students).... Read 63 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 583

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Durham, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.86 out of 5  7 reviews

Parent: GREAT school! The small, individualized classes are always engaging. Students are challenged and encouraged to think and share ideas. This is a school that meets the needs of ALL students in a safe and welcoming environment. The faculty, staff and students are like a big family. Excellent academics, electives, clubs, & team sports opportunities, too! Students graduating from Camelot are prepared for college and life!... Read 7 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 148

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Raleigh, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.09 out of 5  43 reviews

Parent: My daughter started St. David's this year and we both have been thrilled with the school. Her teachers are invested, encouraging, challenging and very responsive. More than once, my daughter has stated how supported she feels by both the teachers and fellow students. I switched her from public schools as I worried she was not getting the academic instruction she needed. St. David's has been the perfect fit. One item to note, the school is Christian faith based and that doctrine is evident in school communications, parent groups and the values instilled in students.... Read 43 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 606

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Durham, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  28 reviews

Senior: I love, love, love Carolina Friends School! It has been truly life-changing for me. Many say that it's an "easy" school--I entirely disagree. To outsiders, it may seem hard to fail, but that is only because the staff is so loving and supportive of their students.... Read 28 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 514

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Raleigh, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.35 out of 5  23 reviews

Parent: Our children have attended this school since 2012 and we could not be more happy! The staff and faculty are engaged and responsive. Everything from volunteering their time to host bible studies for students to partnering with parents in monthly prayer meetings. The academics have prepared our children well as they matriculated to top tier colleges and transitioned from one grade to the next. And while all of these things are fantastic and we are grateful for them, the most endearing quality of Trinity is that the community really cares. We lift one another up when needed and celebrate alongside one another when life calls for celebration. Love seeing this school be the hands and feet of Jesus!... Read 23 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 609

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Chapel Hill, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.3 out of 5  20 reviews

Parent: As a mainstream teacher, I sought for something other than public school for my own child. Her experience at EWS has put her right on track for college. The arts are integrated across the curriculum, and there is rigorous work in the High School akin to AP level coursework elsewhere. The faculty works together to help foster independent thinking and social responsibility, and they are perpetual learners themselves. As with any other method, Waldorf Education is not right for everyone, but it's worth checking out!... Read 20 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 273

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Cary, NC•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  78 reviews

Parent: We have fallen in love with CCS! We never predicted we would send our kids to private school, and it is the best decision we have made for them. The quality of teaching is night and day from public school. The teachers all have a true gift, and all lessons are well thought out. The teachers actually teach rather than using a computer program to do their job and babysit the class. All subjects are taught from a biblical world view and all students are held to a high standard. CCS is everything we wished for our kids' education and more!... Read 78 reviews

• grade A

• Students 785

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Durham, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.57 out of 5  42 reviews

Parent: This is an amazing school with teachers that care. They focus on what your child strengths are and build a desire to learn. It is truly a family atmosphere and my kids are safe. We tried public school in Durham and it was very bad. The religious aspect helps them with moral values and a healthy base. The most important thing to me is my kids are happy and learning. I highly recommend you take a look at this school. Tim Blancett... Read 42 reviews

• grade A

• Students 215

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Durham, NC•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  13 reviews

Alum: Liberty Christian School strives to give its students a great education in a God-fearing manner. I was privileged to attend LCS for my four high school years and I loved my time there! In my spiritual life, I was challenged in my walk with God to grow closer to Him everyday. In academics, I was pushed to learn as much as a could and to develop character through my schooling. Although I still had learning to do, I was not lost when I got to college. In academics, I was able to participate in volleyball and cheerleading- both of which taught me how to be a team player, to encourage others, and to work hard. In my social life, I had teachers and classmates with whom I built lasting relationships. Just as any other place, LCS is not perfect, but its administration continually strives to improve so its students receive a great education and a God-centered foundation for life.... Read 13 reviews

• grade A

• Students 237

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Raleigh, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.26 out of 5  46 reviews

Parent: We decided to send our 2 children to Friendship Christian School during Covid. We felt that they were at risk of a huge loss of learning in their current schools. We also thought this would be a short-term plan. Once they experienced Friendship Christian School, we knew it was the right fit for them. They were able to learn in a healthy & positive environment. They thrived academically, made great friends, played several sports and learned so many great Christian values. Our short-term plan turned into a 4-year plan! I would highly recommend checking out Friendship Christian School if these things are important to you!... Read 46 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 268

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Raleigh, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  51 reviews

Senior: As I have attended GRACE since I was five years old, I have called it home for 12 years. I have been blessed with kind teachers, and have made friends that will last a lifetime. I have been given an amazing education, and have received personalized help in any area I need. I will miss it when I leave, and will be back to visit often.... Read 51 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 713

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Raleigh, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  152 reviews

Senior: I just started my first year as a senior at North Raleigh Christian Academy this year. I was nervous about coming in so late in the game that everyone would already have their "cliques" and "friend groups". Thankfully I was very wrong. From the first day, every interaction I had with students and teachers alike was encouraging. The other kids were so welcoming and friendly, and the teachers were so kind and helpful. The staff at NRCA has created such a powerful and positive environment and I felt at home instantly by inviting me to hang out with them often. The biggest difference between NRCA and my old schools is that the students actually seem to want to be there! They ask questions and take eager notes in class. This paired with professional, engaging teachers makes for a challenging, yet fun atmosphere. I highly highly recommend this school to any families who need a change and are looking for a strong, loving, Christian family to join!... Read 152 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 1,574

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Clayton, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  10 reviews

Senior: I love going to Southside Christian School because I get to be in a community that not only cares about me academically, but that cares about my spiritual well-being. The teachers and staff at Southside Christian School see the students more like their own children rather than students that they are just supposed to teach information to. From an academic standpoint, I know that I will be more than prepared for college because of my time at Southside Christian School. The classes are rigorous and I have had the opportunity to take honors and AP classes and be involved with dual enrollment. Despite being a small school, I would not trade going to Southside Christian School for anything.... Read 10 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 340

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Durham, NC•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  5 reviews

Niche User: Well, when I got to fellowship I was a bit skeptical and unsure if this place was good for me, but I was surprised that many people encourage me and being part of the group. I learn many things from this school. It showed me a different perspective of life and altered my way of thinking and goals. I'm grateful for this school. God Bless... Read 5 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 139

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Raleigh, NC•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  22 reviews

Parent: We moved our two kids out of public schools and never looked back. The smaller classes at Neuse allow the teachers to be more attentive with their learning needs. The curriculum can be more rigorous and challenging but I feel my students will be better prepared for college and/ or the workplace. The staff is approachable, caring and attentive, to not only the kids, but their families also. The administration is very transparent in their communications which helps the parents engage easier in daily school life. I personally appreciate the Christian influence in all subjects and feel like my kids have grown in their own faith since God and His Word are discussed daily. As a smaller school, sports opportunities are somewhat limited, but there is no lack of school spirit! We are happy with our investment in NCA and would do it all over again.... Read 22 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 355

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Raleigh, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.42 out of 5  26 reviews

Alum: I attended Raleigh Christian Academy from birth until I graduated. Being at this school for such a long time I was able to really see the emphasis the school puts on faith, leading, and equipping every student. Every single teacher was and is willing to share their faith with the students and answer with the best of their abilities any questions students might have concerning faith. The teachers at RCA is one area that makes them stand out. The teachers have a genuine concern with helping the students. There were a few teachers that helped form me into the young man that I am today and I will forever remember that. The extra-activities outside of the class room are exceptional. The music and athletic programs are outstanding. The music department has dozens of 1st place finishes and even some national places. The athletics department is another amazing department that can empower students to become athletic leaders and teach them to balance school and athletics.... Read 26 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 274

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Raleigh, NC•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  13 reviews

Parent: Word of God Christian Academy promotes an environment suitable for spiritual growth and healthy learning. My grandson has been a student there for his high school years and have been able to excel and maintain honor roll status the entire time. The Academy also promotes a strong physical development for students by encouraging them to participate in school sports. Many of my grandson classmates have received offers to colleges and athletic scholarships. Our family has been extremely pleased with the Academy and the nurturing it provides to each member of the student body.... Read 13 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 191

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Raleigh, NC•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  60 reviews

Senior: I have attended Wake Christian Academy since kindergarten and have had the opportunity to participate in sports. The coaching staff is short, so that is one downside of a small private school; However the relationships between coach and player are built stronger. Throughout my years of education I have had teachers who were not so willing to teach, and teachers who gave it their all every single day. There is not a perfect school, so it is expected for there to be faults wherever somebody chooses to go, but how the administration keeps an optimistic attitude reduces such faults. My favorite part of Wake Christian Academy is in it's name... Christian! I have been a religious person my whole life and having the opportunity to go to a school that worships the Lord is amazing. The teachers are very serious about helping us students grow in our spiritual walk, especially during senior year when college is approaching.... Read 60 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 935

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Durham, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.5 out of 5  2 reviews

Parent: My son has been at the school since he was in the daycare and I love it. There is a small student to teacher ratio and he can get the attention that every child deserves. Unlike many Christian Academies my son is actually taught the Bible daily and how to apply it in life. I believe that foundations like that help mold him for later challenges that may arise in life. One thing that I would desire to change which I see is improving this year is communication or assignments and expectations. They now use an online portal and text service to communicate and it seems very effective so far.... Read 2 reviews

• grade B

• Students 45

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Durham, NC•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  11 reviews

Alum: I’m a 2020 alumna of Mount Zion Christian Academy. I recently graduated with honors and was my class’s Valedictorian. The school is awesome, not perfect, but awesome. Not only do the teachers teach you from the books and all but they connect to your overall life. At Mount Zion, there’s no sugar coating but there’s complete transparency. You have a question about life itself guaranteed it will be answered. If you’re looking for a place to connect with God and learn more about Him, Mount Zion is your place.... Read 11 reviews

• grade B

• Students 204

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Fuquay Varina, NC•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.78 out of 5  9 reviews

Senior: There are many good things that could be said about Hilltop! The teachers are very nice and care about your education. They strive to be their very best and teach their best. Hilltop was and is a very important role in my education!... Read 9 reviews

• grade B minus

• Students 345

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Raleigh, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-5

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  11 reviews

Parent: We have all three of our children at CBA, starting with our eldest child over 7yrs ago - they have always loved their time at CBA! The school is small, diverse, caring and safe which is exactly the environment we wanted our children to be in and they are thriving because of this. The class room sizes and student/teacher ratio has ensured our kids have all the help they need in order to learn and grow. We couldn't wish for a nicer school, teachers or staff, our family has benefitted profusely from Chesterbrook Academy Elementary School.... Read 11 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 154

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Cary, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-8

• •
  Rating 4.92 out of 5  13 reviews

Works Here: In 2016, I was given the opportunity to teach at Chesterbrook Academy: I took that opportunity and have never regretted my decision. I was welcomed into a small community of educators and students where rigorous academics and character development were at the heart of everything we did. That tradition continues today. Because of my small class size (12:1), I am able to personalize instruction and meet the needs of a widely diverse community of learners. With the small class size, I am also able to develop meaningful relationships with individual students that allow me to understand and appreciate each student’s personality, learning style, strengths, and areas in need of improvement. By knowing each one of my students so well, I am able to provide highly effective instruction, engage students in their learning, and support the social-emotional needs of each student, paving the way to future success.... Read 13 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 204

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1