Prep School

Beginning in the eighth grade, the Wakefield Country Day School student embarks on a systematic preparation for entry into college or university.

The core prep school (also called the Upper School) program leading to the Classical Diploma consists of 28 credits: two hours each day of English: grammar, vocabulary, composition, and literature; two years of an ancient language; two years of a modern foreign language; four years of mathematics; four years of history; two years of laboratory science; plus art and physical education. Courses in the core curriculum are carefully chosen to convey the sweep of history and the breadth of human achievement from prehistoric to modern times. The curriculum furnishes an historical and cultural benchmark to which the student may constantly return for reference.

Students add classes to these core subjects, designing a course of study appropriate to their personal academic goals. The list of options is rich. Up to five years of French, Spanish, or Latin; advanced courses in history, literature, art, music, mathematics, and religion, and several Advanced Placement (AP) courses are offered. Most seniors, and many juniors, take AP examinations each year.

A diploma from Wakefield Country Day School isn't easy to earn, but it does not require rare or exceptional talents. Motivated students of varying abilities all do very well, and graduates overwhelmingly testify that it's worth the effort. The benefits last a lifetime.

Diploma Requirements

Classical Diploma - 28 Credits

8	Credits of English ~ Literature, Composition, Vocabulary, Grammar
4	Credits of Mathematics ~ Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus
3	Credits of Science ~ Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or an AP Science
4	Credits of History ~ World History, U.S. History, U.S. Government, and either European History or Comparative Government
2	Credits of Modern Foreign Language ~ French or Spanish
2	Credits of Ancient Language ~ Latin IA, Latin IB, Latin II
1	Credit of Fine Arts ~ Art History, Music Appreciation, or Studio Art
1	Credit of Electives ~ Religion, Philosophy, Greek, or an additional Fine Art
3	Credits of Physical Education ~ Credits may be earned by playing or managing a sports team, ½ credit per sport, up to 1 credit a year

Advanced Classical Diploma - 32 Credits

8	Credits of English ~ Literature, Composition, Vocabulary, Grammar
5	Credits of Mathematics ~ Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, Calculus
4	Credits of Science ~ Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and an AP Science
4	Credits of History ~ World History, U.S. History, U.S. Government, and either European History or Comparative Government
3	Credits of Modern Foreign Language ~ French or Spanish
3	Credits of Ancient Language ~ Latin IA, Latin IB, Latin II, Latin III
1	Credit of Fine Arts ~ Art History, Music Appreciation, or Studio Art
1	Credit of Electives ~ Religion, Philosophy, Greek, or an additional Fine Art
3	Credits of Physical Education ~ Credits may be earned by playing or managing a sports team, ½ credit per sport, up to 1 credit a year