Early Childhood and Lower School

A Joyful, Active Learning Environment for Students Age 3 and a Half Through Grade 5

Tapping into each child's natural curiosity and excitement for learning happens when the curriculum emerges from the children's passions. Bears? Airplanes? Gardening? Physics? No matter your child's affinity, the teachers at our private elementary school guide students to develop important skills and habits of mind by exploring topics in depth.

Our Pittsburgh private elementary school faculty uses technology intentionally to enhance core learning that focuses on identifying and solving problems, understanding systems, and fostering creativity. And they use purposeful play to help children blossom as collaborative, empathetic, independent thinkers, and engaged citizens.

With Winchester Thurston ideally located in Pittsburgh's educational, cultural, historical, and medical hub, students are in the heart of our city’s resources and experts. This proximity allows them to easily leverage the resources of our City as Our Campus partnerships as an integral part of their curriculum.

At Winchester Thurston, the Early Childhood and Lower School programs don’t just focus on academics—they’re all about creating a fun and active environment that nurtures both the mind and character. The curriculum for our private elementary school is designed to tap into students' natural curiosity, while also providing a strong academic foundation in subjects like language arts, math, science, and social studies. What really sets this private elementary school apart, though, is the chance for kids to learn Mandarin and Spanish from an early age, and even get a head start in computer science.

Moral development also plays a major role in this private elementary school. The Lower School makes it a priority to instill values like empathy, integrity, and community. With the Responsive Classroom® approach, kids get to participate in Morning Meetings, where they pick up essential social skills like cooperation and responsibility. By fifth grade, they’re stepping into leadership roles, running these meetings and leading other initiatives, which helps build a strong sense of community early on.

WT’s rich traditions also add something special to the learning experience. Events like the Pumpkin Fair, Winter Performances, and the Art Show are all about encouraging creativity, bonding with friends, and making lasting memories. These experiences, paired with strong academic accomplishments, help shape students at this private school in Pittsburgh into confident, curious, and compassionate lifelong learners.

Want to learn more about WT? Request information and discover why our students thrive. Apply to Winchester Thurston today!