The Best Private Schools in Bedford, New Hampshire
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Bedford. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Elizabeth Seton School
Roman Catholic Diocese of Manchester
St. Elizabeth Seton School is a premier Catholic elementary school located directly in Bedford, serving students from pre-kindergarten through grade 8. The school provides a strong academic foundation integrated with Catholic values and faith formation. Features include dedicated technology integration, modern STEM facilities, comprehensive arts programs, and competitive sports teams. The school maintains small class sizes with highly qualified teachers and offers extensive extracurricular activities. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, academic excellence, and strong community spirit that characterizes this well-established institution.
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The Well School
Independent Progressive School
The Well School is a respected independent progressive school serving students from preschool through 8th grade, drawing families from Bedford and surrounding communities. Located about 40 minutes from Bedford in Peterborough, the school offers a unique educational approach that balances academic rigor with creative expression and environmental stewardship. The campus features extensive outdoor learning spaces, modern classrooms, art studios, and science labs. The school emphasizes project-based learning, social-emotional development, and community engagement. With a strong focus on individualized attention and holistic education, The Well School prepares students for success in high school and beyond while fostering lifelong learning skills.
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The Derryfield School
Independent School
The Derryfield School is a highly-regarded independent college preparatory school serving students in grades 6-12. Located just minutes from Bedford in Manchester, Derryfield offers a rigorous academic program with small class sizes and personalized attention. The school features exceptional faculty, state-of-the-art facilities including science labs and performing arts spaces, and competitive athletic programs. Known for its strong community values and comprehensive college counseling, Derryfield consistently sends graduates to top-tier universities. The campus spans 84 acres with modern academic buildings and extensive athletic facilities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Bedford, New Hampshire
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Bedford, New Hampshire?
While Bedford itself is primarily served by its highly-rated public school district, families seeking private education often look to nearby institutions. Notable options include The Derryfield School in Manchester (a co-ed, college-preparatory day school for grades 6-12), St. Elizabeth Seton School in Bedford (a private Catholic school serving Pre-K through grade 8), and The Well School in Peterborough (a progressive, independent day school for Pre-K through 8th grade). Many Bedford families also consider other schools in the Greater Manchester and Southern New Hampshire region. It's important to note that New Hampshire's Town Tuitioning program is not widely available, so most private school costs are borne directly by families.
How does the tuition for private schools near Bedford, NH, compare, and are there financial aid options?
Tuition for private schools in the Bedford area varies significantly by grade level and school type. For the 2024-2025 academic year, St. Elizabeth Seton School (in Bedford) has a more modest tuition, typically ranging from approximately $6,000 to $8,000 for parishioners and slightly higher for non-parishioners. In contrast, The Derryfield School's tuition is around $45,000 for upper school students. The Well School's tuition is approximately $20,000. Most of these schools offer need-based financial aid, and New Hampshire has the "Education Tax Credit" program, which provides scholarships for middle-income families to use at private schools, though funding is limited. It's crucial to apply for financial aid early, as deadlines often precede admission decisions.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Bedford, NH, area offer that differentiate them from public schools?
Private schools near Bedford often provide specialized programs that may not be as readily available in the public system. The Derryfield School is renowned for its strong college preparatory curriculum, extensive arts programs, and competitive athletics. St. Elizabeth Seton School offers a faith-based education integrated with core academics and a strong community focus. The Well School emphasizes experiential, place-based learning with a focus on environmental science and social-emotional development, set on a 40-acre campus. These schools typically have smaller class sizes, allowing for more individualized attention. Bedford's public schools are excellent, so the choice often comes down to a specific pedagogical approach, religious education, or specialized program focus.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Bedford, New Hampshire families?
The enrollment process for most private schools in the region begins in the fall, about a year before desired entry. For example, The Derryfield School and The Well School generally have application deadlines in January or February for the following fall, with decisions released in March. St. Elizabeth Seton School may have a more rolling admissions process but encourages early application. Key steps include: attending open houses (often held in the fall), submitting an application with fees, providing teacher recommendations and transcripts, and completing a student visit/interview and any required entrance assessments (like the SSAT for Derryfield). Siblings and legacy applicants often receive priority. Given the competitive nature, especially for middle and high school entry, starting the process early is highly advised.
For a family moving to Bedford, what are the key considerations when choosing between the Bedford School District and a private school?
This is a significant decision, as the Bedford School District is consistently ranked among the top public districts in New Hampshire. Key considerations include: **Educational Philosophy:** Do you prefer the standardized, comprehensive approach of a large public district or a specific private school's mission (e.g., religious, progressive, college-prep)? **Class Size:** Bedford public schools have favorable ratios, but private schools often have even smaller classes (e.g., 12-15 students). **Cost:** Public schools are tax-funded, while private tuition is a direct, substantial expense. **Logistics:** Bedford's public schools are neighborhood-based, while private schools require transportation, often to Manchester or Peterborough. **Programs:** Assess specific strengths—Bedford High School offers robust AP programs and athletics, while a school like Derryfield may offer more niche arts or advanced independent study opportunities. Many families in Bedford choose the public system, creating a high-achieving peer environment.
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