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Who We Are

The Future Grows Here

Consistently recognized as one of the best private schools in Pittsburgh, at WT, we define success not only by our academic standards, but also by our commitment to developing individuals of strong character who embrace our founder’s command to “Think Also of the Comfort and the Rights of Others.”

We lead the way in educational innovation, rigorous academics, scholarly standards, and a learning environment that better prepares students for the challenges of a rapidly changing, complex world - and admission to the most selective colleges in the nation.

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What Makes WT One of the Best Private Schools in Pittsburgh?

As one of the best private schools in Pittsburgh, our learning environment is dynamic and engaging, and students are excited about achievement as they become intellectually confident critical thinkers, able researchers, knowledgeable problem solvers, and individuals of strong character.

Want to learn more about Winchester Thurston, one of the best private schools in Pittsburgh? Request Information to receive our Admission e-packet, or contact the Admissions office at 412-578-7518 or admission@winchesterthurston.org.

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The School

Established in 1887. Junior Pre-K – 12, nationally recognized independent, coeducational, college preparatory day school in Pittsburgh.

National Recognition

WT’s unique City as Our Campus initiative was recognized by the Edward E. Ford Foundation with a coveted Educational Leadership Grant.

This accolade came on the heels of WT’s designation as a Malone Scholars School by the Malone Family Foundation. WT is one of only five schools among the approximately 1,400 members of the National Association of Independent Schools to earn both of these distinctions.

Enrollment Facts

690 students

Lower School: 240
Middle School: 140
Upper School: 310

  • More than 44% of students are students of color.
  • Over $5.3 million in financial aid awarded annually.
  • 18 scholarships awarded for students entering grades 6–12.
  • Students come from 69 zip codes and 39 school districts.
  • Average class size: 15
  • Student-to-teacher ratio: 7.5:1

Accreditation


WT is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools and is accredited by the Pennsylvania Association of Independent Schools.

 

Mission

Winchester Thurston School actively engages each student in a challenging and inspiring learning process that develops the mind, motivates the passion to achieve, and cultivates the character to serve.

Philosophy of Teaching and Learning

The Philosophy of Teaching and Learning is our Mission in practice. At Winchester Thurston School, we offer an equitable and inclusive learning experience that is grounded in our credo to “Think also of the comfort and the rights of others” and that is guided by our commitments to:

Learn Passionately: We empower all individuals to drive their own learning through a relevant and immersive experience.
Foster Community: We embrace strong relationships as a critical component for powerful learning.
Embrace Diversity: We enable individuals to understand their own identity while honoring multiple perspectives.
Break Boundaries: We support deep learning that happens across disciplines and in non-traditional settings.
Create Change: We nurture learners to be active and engaged citizens who challenge inequities, address real problems, and make an impact in our school and our city.

Equity and Inclusion Statement

As a means to fulfill our credo, “Think also of the comfort and the rights of others,” Winchester Thurston will be an inclusive community and will pursue the social and pedagogical benefits that diversity brings. We will place the highest value on enabling students to understand their own identity and those of others. It is our moral imperative to be courageous and intentional in promoting understanding, addressing bias, identifying and honoring qualities of justice, respecting multiple perspectives and contributions, and valuing the dignity of all.

 

Frequently Asked Questions