My student loved Concord Academy and it helped her to meet all kinds of people. her teachers were just so outstanding. It is a very diverse and accepting environment with students from all different backgrounds and perspectives living and learning in peer groups that have impressive range. The academics are superior and truly compelling. The passion for learning in campus is palpable. The social structure is relaxed, free and accepting. My daughter went through four years working incredibly hard but it never felt like a grind. She went on to her first choice college and all of her friends were admitted to similar high level schools. CA sports are fun but less intense than at other prep schools. They all work really hard and have a lot of fun in a safe but free spirited environment. The students are allowed to work from campus into the beautiful little town and they do so often.
Several friends and family members have attended Nobles. It is very different from Concord Academy. From what I’ve observed Nobles culture is more traditional and I would even say conformist, very sports oriented and a lot of the families have connections which plays heavily into both their college matriculation and the social structure. Students self segregate and it is not a fun place to be “different.” I personally know of several students who struggled there because they were not a fit. If you are thinking Nobles it is probably a good idea to see if your student is a fit for that particular environment it’s a well funded school with beautiful resources and a great place for the right student.