Private Schools in Brooklyn: What Makes Brooklyn Friends School Different

Families searching for private schools in Brooklyn often encounter a wide range of options. At Brooklyn Friends School (BFS), families discover something distinctive: a nationally recognized independent school grounded in Quaker values that educates the whole child from Early Childhood through 12th Grade.

Located in Downtown Brooklyn, BFS blends academic excellence with a deep commitment to community, belonging, and global citizenship — preparing students not only for college, but for meaningful lives of purpose.

Founded in 1867, Brooklyn Friends School is guided by Quaker principles that emphasize integrity, peace, equity, and the belief that there is “that of God” — or Light — in every person. These values are not abstract ideals; they shape daily life on campus.

Students participate in regular Meeting for Worship, a silent gathering that encourages reflection, empathy, and listening. This practice cultivates emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and respect for diverse perspectives — skills that are increasingly essential in today’s world.

BFS offers a rigorous, inquiry-based curriculum designed to challenge students intellectually while supporting their growth as collaborative thinkers.

In the Upper School, students pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, one of the world’s most respected college-preparatory curricula. IB students at BFS engage in interdisciplinary learning, original research, and community action, developing the analytical and communication skills demanded by top universities.

Across all learning communities, classrooms emphasize:

Critical thinking and problem solving

Project-based learning

Writing across disciplines

Scientific inquiry and research

Ethical decision-making

Graduates leave BFS not only academically prepared but confident in their ability to navigate complex global challenges.

Brooklyn Friends School reflects the diversity of New York City itself. Families come from across Brooklyn, Manhattan, and surrounding areas, representing a wide range of cultural, racial, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Belonging is a central pillar of the school’s mission. Students participate in identity-affirming programming, affinity groups, and community initiatives that foster understanding and empathy.

Rather than treating diversity as a statistic, BFS integrates it into daily learning — helping students develop cultural competence and the ability to collaborate across differences.

What distinguishes BFS from many private schools in Brooklyn is its commitment to educating the whole child. Arts, athletics, service learning, and experiential education are woven into the program at every grade level.

Students can explore:

Visual and performing arts programs

Competitive athletics

Student leadership opportunities

Service and social impact projects

These experiences build confidence, creativity, and resilience — qualities that colleges and employers increasingly value.

Brooklyn Friends School encourages students to see themselves as changemakers. Through service partnerships, environmental initiatives, and social justice projects, students learn that education carries responsibility.

Programs focused on global citizenship help students understand interconnected challenges such as climate change, public health, and equity. By graduation, BFS students have not only studied these issues — they have taken action.

Unlike schools that only serve a single age group, BFS offers a continuous educational journey from preschool through high school. This structure allows educators to nurture students over many years, building strong relationships and a deep understanding of each child’s strengths and needs.

Small class sizes and dedicated faculty ensure that students receive individualized attention. Advisors, counselors, and learning specialists work collaboratively to support academic success and well-being.

Families often describe the community as warm, welcoming, and deeply connected — a place where students feel known and valued.

College placement at Brooklyn Friends School is consistently strong, with graduates attending highly selective institutions across the United States and around the world. More importantly, alumni report feeling prepared to thrive independently, think critically, and contribute positively to society.

BFS measures success not only by admissions outcomes but by the character and impact of its graduates.

For families exploring private schools in Brooklyn, BFS offers a compelling combination:

Rigorous academics and IB curriculum

Values-based education grounded in Quaker tradition

Diverse, inclusive community

Strong arts, athletics, and experiential learning

Commitment to social responsibility

Preschool through Grade 12 continuity

In a city filled with excellent educational options, Brooklyn Friends School stands out for its balance of intellectual challenge and human connection — preparing students to be thoughtful leaders in an increasingly complex world.

Families interested in private school options in Brooklyn are encouraged to explore Brooklyn Friends School’s programs, visit campus, or connect with the admissions team to discover whether BFS is the right fit for their child.