2024 Best Private Schools in the Hartford Area

• Windsor, CT•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.3 out of 5  145 reviews

Freshman: I like the welcoming environment and sense of belonging from going to this school. Loomis’s emphasis on the Best Self and Common Good is present throughout the school‘s culture and social life, and hence the school is very open and accepting. The diversity at the school made me feel welcome and accepted, and Loomis’s programs to raise awareness for groups like the LGBTQ+ community were reaffirming and a nice action for National Coming Out Day. The school’s academic programs are beneficially challenging as well, with flexibility in advancing in courses such that students are able to take sufficiently challenging courses. The music, arts and after school activities all have an abundance of applicable resources. The Loomis Chaffee School is a great place for students who are willing to take initiative and seek resources to advance their learning and skills.... Read 145 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 736

• Student-teacher ratio 4:1

• Farmington, CT•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.36 out of 5  124 reviews

Freshman: Really like the school’s atmosphere! It is such a warm and inclusive community. Nice people, close connections here. The academics is challenging but definitely not overwhelming. There are a lot of really fun traditions waiting for Newgs to explore which makes the school days super fun.... Read 124 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 335

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Avon, CT•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.62 out of 5  260 reviews

Parent: Avon Old Farms (AOF) provides outstanding education for boys in a caring community. Every person who works at AOF "gets" boys and wants them to be their best, to try things, to discover new parts of themselves, to achieve academically, and to reach their potential. Boys love AOF and truly experience the brotherhood that is the school's philosophy of the school community. There is always something happening on campus that is fun, including excellent sports. Communication between the school and parents is very strong with mutual trust and regard.... Read 260 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 406

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• West Hartford, CT•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.67 out of 5  61 reviews

Parent: All three of my children attended Kingswood Oxford for all 7 years of middle school and high school, and I couldn't be happier with their experiences there! From the caring teachers and advisors, to the coaches, to the support services, I always felt that my children were "safe" - no one slips through the cracks at KO. Additionally, the facilities are beautiful, and my kids loved the food options served in the dining hall! Aside from the quality education and life-long friendships they made, all three have mentioned at one point or another that one of the greatest skills they emerged with was the ability to write and to put a research paper together. They noticed that some of their friends at college often struggled with this, and they all felt confident about it; KO requires that all of their seniors complete a Senior Thesis project before graduating, and this really strengthened the already strong writing and research skills the kids had developed during their time at the school.... Read 61 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 501

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Simsbury, CT•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  87 reviews

Parent: As an alum of Westminster, I was open to the possibility of sending our 2 children to the school. First, we were interested to learn more about how the schools' curriculum, faculty and extracurricular activities have evolved over the years to keep pace with the ever-changing world. I was invited up to the school to engage in an in-depth multi-day look into the inner workings of the school and its future goals (under new leadership in Elaine White). I was pleased with its direction and strides it has made to ensure all children have a positive experience at the school. Of course, there is always more work that can be done to keep pace with the diversity of the student population (and its families), but I believe they are on the right path! I'm proud of my alma Mata.... Read 87 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 435

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Simsbury, CT•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.3 out of 5  103 reviews

Senior: Senior here, and I loved my experience... mostly! Some teachers are better than others, but the majority of my teachers are intellectually engaging and really care about their students. The student body isn't particularly diverse, but there is an effort being made to mitigate that and to better support out BIPOC students. The best thing about Walker's is unquestionably the way that we've been encouraged to speak our minds and challenge the system. For this empowerment alone I have to recommend the school. Of course, there are downsides, administration can be stuck in its ways, and one often feels powerless to change our school. COVID management has been very successful and distance learning went as well as possible.... Read 103 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 228

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Hartford, CT•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.79 out of 5  141 reviews

Parent: I'm so thankful that my son has had the opportunity to attend this wonderful school! He moved to the Unites States from Mexico in the middle of the pandemic- needless to say, we were a little nervous about the transition. At Watkinson both the teachers and students have been incredibly welcoming and have made my son feel at home. There's tremendous support for each and every student, ensuring success for everyone, no matter what their strengths and challenges. The LSP program helps students learn strategies to improve academically. The Creative Arts Program is fabulous! My son has become more sure of himself, has developed close friendships quite quickly, and has become a better student, and a happier person, at Watkinson. I highly recommend this school!... Read 141 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 220

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Middletown, CT•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.34 out of 5  243 reviews

Parent: This school is what everyone in America needs right now. It is full of teachers who are committed to the kids and their learning, and who go above and beyond to challenge them, and provide extra help. They’re is no grade inflation, unlike at Public schools. Your kids must earn their grades, and this helps develop confidence and pride in the kids. The curriculum is not only challenging, but also is offering a lot of different classes for the kids to try, such as aerospace engineering. There are a lot of AP and College DE classes which helps with college costs if your kids take them. My son feels that the teachers care deeply about his education, and respects the administration. The kids are disciplined, and standards and rules are made known. This makes a great learning and social environment for the kids. My son spends time after school every day in clubs, sports and many activities that the school offers. The sports programs are next level. This is the best high school in CT!... Read 243 reviews

• grade A

• Students 590

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• West Simsbury, CT•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.35 out of 5  75 reviews

Parent: TMS is an excellent school! It provides a well-rounded education - where your student will be 'well-known and well-loved'. My sons have been at TMS since kindergarten and are now Juniors. The support they have been provided throughout their time has been amazing! And now at this critical time where they are exploring college options, I've found the College Placement office to be exceptional! They are coming alongside my sons and we as parents, to demystify this process and ease us through this coming transition. Phenomenal faculty, academics, athletic program, spiritual and social life! Simply the best school we could have chosen for our sons!... Read 75 reviews

• grade A

• Students 251

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• West Hartford, CT•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  195 reviews

Junior: Northwest Catholic High school holds a special place in my heart. It's a time of self-discovery, growth, and unforgettable experiences. The diverse range of subjects and extracurricular activities offer endless opportunities to explore my interests and talents. I relish the camaraderie formed with classmates, creating lasting friendships and shared memories. NWC fosters personal development, teaching me important life skills like time management, critical thinking, and teamwork. The guidance of dedicated teachers and mentors encourages my intellectual curiosity and ignites a passion for learning. Moreover, the vibrant atmosphere, spirited events, and school traditions add an exciting dimension to my daily routine. NWC is where I thrive, creating cherished memories that will shape my future... Read 195 reviews

• grade A

• Students 490

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Middletown, CT•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.31 out of 5  236 reviews

Alum: Fifteen years ago at the ripe age of 13, I made the choice to better my education, and Mercy was at the top of my list. This to date was the best decision I have made in my life. Mercy was more than just a high school, it was a community of classmates that became sisters, and teachers who continue to be there and mentor us way past graduation. Even after all these years, I am always running into people in my life who went to Mercy and it is so much fun to reminisce on all the good old times. Mercy was such a positive impact on my life that I have found myself back on the same lacrosse field where I once played as the coach. The best part of coaching at Mercy is hearing my players talk about events that I still remember doing when I was there. They love hearing that I had the same teacher or how my grade won Cake-A-Thon. At Mercy, you will always find a place to be yourself and it is highly encouraged, you might wear the same uniform but there are many ways for you to be yourself!... Read 236 reviews

• grade A

• Students 397

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Manchester, CT•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  108 reviews

Senior: East Catholic high school is a very good college prep school that will definitely prepare students for the next step. I am a current senior in the class of 2023 and have enjoyed my experience greatly. The best way to make sure your child is getting the best experience is to take the highest classes possible for them. There are three normal levels, CP (or college prep), then our advanced classes, then finally our Honors courses which are the highest level available to freshman and sophomores. In junior year students can also take AP or UConn level courses which are both college level courses. The better the class the better the teacher has been my experience but some of the best teachers also teach lower courses so every student can benefit from the best. Overall I have found East to be a great school and would not hesitate to send my own kids here as long as they can make the grades.... Read 108 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 477

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• West Hartford, CT•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  24 reviews

Alum: The school is very small (40-60) kids 9-12th grade, so you get a very personal experience when it comes to classmates and teachers. The teachers and staff truly care about the students and they are role models to me as well as teachers. The head of school is not the best, but the school runs well and the opportunities that such a tight knit community offers makes up for it.... Read 24 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 101

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Newington, CT•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  34 reviews

Works Here: Emmanuel Christian Academy has such a welcoming atmosphere. I am a newer staff member, but the staff already here completely welcomed me in. I can already see how much the students love their teachers and how they are thriving in this school environment. I was a public school student myself, and I would have loved to an experience like ECA instead! They offer so much, from a strong educational program to sports to music classes and lessons to teaching the Bible. Education, emotional and spiritual wellbeing, and readying the students for the next steps of life are all valued here at Emmanuel. I feel lucky and excited to be part of this staff and can't wait to work alongside the students even more!... Read 34 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 294

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Manchester, CT•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.34 out of 5  38 reviews

Parent: These teachers care deeply! They get involved when students misbehave or mistreat one another. They intervene and even pray with the students. My son has been attending from Kindergarten to 3rd grade and will continue through to 12th grade. The pledge of allegiance is said every morning. Respect for all people is taught and modeled. Homework is kept to a minimum to prioritize family time. While my son is only in 3rd grade, I've still seen academic rigor proportional to the grade. Some students were reading independently in 1st grade and others had extra reading sessions with a volunteer! There is music, art, and chapel weekly. There is a student band that leads worship! My son sometimes tells me when students misbehaved and caused his team to lose during PE. In each story, I've found the teacher response to be refreshingly appropriate and personal. I give my highest recommendation for this school! You and your kids will love it!... Read 38 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 184

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Bristol, CT•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  118 reviews

Senior: I was a transfer student coming into Saint Paul my senior year and their community welcomed me with open arms. Ever since I was accepted I've experienced many aspects the school has to offer by playing on the basketball team, watching the award-winning musical theatre program, and meeting many of the wonderful and kind faculty. Even though the commute to school for me is longer than any of my years before, going to Saint Paul is worth the trip. The new friends I have made in the classroom and one on the basketball team are relationships that I will remember for a lifetime.... Read 118 reviews

• grade B

• Students 433

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Southington, CT•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 2.09 out of 5  11 reviews

Alum: I am a graduate of Central Christian Academy. The staff is devoted and loving. They put a lot of time into my classes, and always went the extra mile for me -- giving practical advice, writing thoughtful recommendations, etc. Each teacher is high school teacher was willing to help me find the right college. While this school does not prep you for certain fields, it is very flexible. They offered alternatives or extra classes to help you succeed. The music staff is very talented and well educated. The coaches are great also! I would absolutely recommend attending.... Read 11 reviews

• grade B minus

• Students 121

• Student-teacher ratio 9:1

• Windsor, CT•

• Private School•

• K-11

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  3 reviews

Senior: I stayed here for 7 years and it was great. I am a student from 5 - 12 grade and I never had any problem with this school.... Read 3 reviews

• grade A

• Students 135

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• West Hartford, CT•

• Private School•

• PK, K-8

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  18 reviews

Parent: Renbrook School will far exceed any requirement you have for a learning experience for your child. My daughter is in her second year now, she is in first grade. She truly loves and enjoys school. She’s encouraged to learn, and the path she is currently on, there's no limits. If you desire your son or daughter to go to an elite school in the future, they really have to enjoy the learning process. They can’t attach any stress or stigma to their educational journey, and I believe that’s where Renbrook really excels. They teach your little one that learning is just as much fun as running around your local playground or jump-rope. The community of parents and teachers are genuine and strong, and the curriculum is engaging and attentive. The difference between Renbrook and public school is the difference between Atari and artificial intelligence, it’s night and day.... Read 18 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 360

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Middlefield, CT•

• Private School•

• PK, K-8

• •
  Rating 4.67 out of 5  12 reviews

Parent: We were initially attracted to IDS because of the small class size and the attention to “soft skills” such as kindness, respectfulness, and embracing one another’s differences. We knew that our child would be exposed to curricular opportunities that were not available to us in our local elementary school, such as Spanish language instruction in the early grades, as well as science education, in general, and experiential learning, in particular, with the school’s on-site nature trail and its commitment to using the natural wonder of the outdoors to teach various age appropriate scientific concepts. Our child also has the opportunity for after school activities such as on-campus music lessons, enrichment programs (Legos were a big favorite), and, in the summertime, there are several weeks of camp for students of all ages. IDS has a faculty of engaged and enthusiastic teachers who are committed to educating the whole student. We love being part of this community!... Read 12 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 153

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• Middletown, CT•

• Private School•

• PK, K-8

• •
  Rating 4.93 out of 5  15 reviews

Parent: My 3 sons all attend St. John Paul II School in Middletown. I'll be very honest; the relief I have felt over the last two years has been immeasurable. The school has always been wonderful with a strong, tight community of families, parents, educators and administrators. Here, everyone is always on the same page...trying to do right by the kids. However, after the last two years with Covid, quarantines and distance learning, I have fallen in love with the school again and again. The teachers pivoted, over a weekend, into distance learning. It was challenging for all of us, but the teachers and admin were always on the other side working with us to do the best for our kids. I am so grateful for the care and education my sons are receiving. The school is safe, driven by their mission and they nurture our children with compassion, care and a sense of obligation. Lions forever!... Read 15 reviews

• grade A

• Students 212

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Wethersfield, CT•

• Private School•

• PK, K-8

• •
  Rating 3.31 out of 5  13 reviews

Parent: I have two children that attend Corpus Christi School and it has been a great experience for them. The school community is amazing and they truly love going to school every day. The academics are second to none and students are always pushed by the challenging curriculum and great teachers!... Read 13 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 325

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Manchester, CT•

• Private School•

• PK, K-8

• grade unavailable

• Students 377

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Kensington, CT•

• Private School•

• PK, K-8

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

Middle School Student: I am an 8th grade student a St. Paul School, and even though I transferred schools for my 8th grade year, I did highly enjoy my 1 year here at St. Paul's. The academics are certainly very good, as well as the teachers and other staff, which highly prepares you for high school and beyond. The student-teacher ratio is good, helping you to learn at a high rate. The sports succeed at a high level, but there is no baseball/softball, due to the size of students at the school. It's a well-organized school, and I would recommend coming to this school through middle school (it's K-8), especially if you're looking for a Catholic school near you.... Read 1 review

• grade unavailable

• Students 239

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• West Hartford, CT•

• Private School•

• PK, K-5

• grade unavailable

• Students 205

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1