Winchester Thurston is not just an average, everyday school. WT is one of the very best private schools in Pittsburgh. We are a community committed to nurturing the intellect and character of every single student. We prepare our students for challenges of all kinds, using a forward-thinking and rigorous curriculum.

Our dedication and commitment to our students go far beyond learning. Equity and diversity are fundamental principles of the WT community, and our staff and faculty create an enriching environment where every student is supported, valued and encouraged to become not only a great and compassionate leader but a thoughtful member of society.

Join the Winchester Thurston community. We inspire a love for learning, foster strong relationships, and empower our next generations to break boundaries and create positive change.

Our Mission

As a leading private school in Pittsburgh, Winchester Thurston strives to cultivate not only academic excellence but also the development of individuals with unwavering character, valuing the well-being and rights of others above all else, just as envisioned by our founder. As one of the best private schools in Pittsburgh, we take pride in our role as pioneers of educational innovation, delivering a curriculum that is both rigorous and forward-thinking, equipping our students with the necessary skills to navigate a rapidly evolving world. Our commitment to providing an exceptional learning environment has propelled our students towards gaining admission to the most prestigious colleges across the nation.

A Focus on Diversity and Equity

Since its establishment in 1887, Winchester Thurston has grown into a distinguished independent, coeducational, college preparatory private school in Pittsburgh that has garnered national recognition within Pittsburgh and beyond. With a student body of 674, we take pride in fostering a diverse and inclusive community where more than 36% of our students represent a wide range of cultural backgrounds. Our unwavering commitment to equity is evident through our annual financial aid program, which awards over $3.8 million to deserving students, as well as the availability of 18 scholarships specifically designed for students entering grades 6-12.

Our Philosophy of Learning

We are dedicated to actively engaging each and every student in a stimulating and empowering learning journey that fosters their intellectual growth, ignites their motivation to excel, and cultivates their character to become compassionate contributors to society. As a premier Pittsburgh private school, our educational philosophy revolves around a deep passion for learning, fostering a tight-knit community, embracing the richness of diversity, pushing beyond conventional boundaries, and effecting positive transformations. Join us at our esteemed private school in Pittsburgh, where we blend intellectual development with heartfelt empathy, molding the leaders who will shape a brighter future.