
Hillside School
Founded 1901
Updated July 2026
Hillside School is a junior boarding and day school for students in grades kindergarten through nine, dedicated to providing a transformative educational experience. It is the only junior boarding school in the United States authorized as an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
Hillside School is committed to maximizing the potential of every student in mind, body, and spirit within a structured, inclusive, and supportive environment. The school is guided by core values of compassion, determination, honesty, respect, and brotherhood. It emphasizes inquiry-based learning, international-mindedness, and the development of Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills.
Programmes
The school offers a co-ed day program for grades K-3 and an all-boys boarding and day program for grades 4-9. As an IB World School, it implements the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for students in grades 6-10. The curriculum covers subjects including English, History, Mathematics, Science, Visual Arts, Music, World Language, and Leadership.
Outcomes
Graduates are prepared for a seamless transition into secondary school, with alumni attending institutions such as Phillips Academy Andover, St. Paul's School, Concord Academy, and Pomfret School. The school emphasizes the development of confident, independent learners who are capable of self-advocacy.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides academic support through a 7:1 student-teacher ratio and specialized tutorial programs. Available tutorials include Foundations of Language, Executive Function, Math, and Social Skills. Additionally, the school offers English as a Second Language (ESL) and Advanced Transitional English instruction.
Frequently asked questions(6)
- What curriculum does Hillside School offer?
- Hillside School offers IB MYP.
- How much is tuition at Hillside School?
- Annual tuition at Hillside School is $42K–$83K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- Is Hillside School a day or boarding school?
- Hillside School is a day and boarding school.
- What accreditations does Hillside School hold?
- Hillside School holds accreditations including IB.
- Is Hillside School co-educational?
- Hillside School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Hillside School located?
- Hillside School is an international school in Worcester, United States.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Grades 4-9 (Day Student) | 9–15 | $42K |
| Grades 4-9 (Day International Student) | 9–15 | $46.6K |
| Grades 4-9 (5 Day Boarder) | 9–15 | $59.9K |
| Grades 4-9 (5 Day International Boarder) | 9–15 | $68.9K |
| Grades 4-9 (7 Day Boarder) | 9–15 | $71.5K |
| Grades 4-9 (7 Day International Boarder) | 9–15 | $83K |
Other fees(9)
| Boarding· Laundry Fee (mandatory for 7 Day Boarders, 5 Day International Boarders, and 7 Day International Boarders; optional for 5 Day Boarders) | $1.5K |
|---|---|
| EAL· English as a Second Language (ESL) | $8K |
| EAL· Advanced Transitional English | $6K |
| EAL· Foundations of Language Tutorial | $9K |
| Materials· Executive Function Tutorial | $5.2K |
| Materials· Math Tutorial | $3.1K |
| Materials· Social Skills Tutorial | $3.1K |
| Deposit· Non-refundable deposit required upon enrollment | — |
| Materials· Allowance fee used for Shades of Blue system, weekend allowance, and funding various student activities | — |
Admissions
The admissions process begins with an inquiry, followed by an application. The school provides secondary school guidance to assist students in their transition to future institutions. Financial aid is available for approximately 30% of the student body, with applications processed through School & Student Services (SSS).
Calendar
The school operates on a traditional academic calendar, with the school year running from September through May. Summer programs are also available during the months of June through August.
Facilities
About the campus
Located on a 150-acre campus in Marlborough, MA, the school features an Innovation Lab, six dormitories, and a dedicated Lower School building. Athletic facilities include soccer fields, tennis courts, an outdoor pool, and a six-lane track. The campus also incorporates a farm used for curriculum integration and provides dining services for students.
Co-curriculars
Students participate in a variety of activities, including athletics, student leadership roles, and community service. Specific offerings include a math club, global club, and various team projects. The school also hosts events such as the "Spring Fling" and maintains a student-led chapel program.
- Ed ChaseHeadmaster
Ed Chase was appointed as the 10th headmaster of Hillside School in October 2015.
- Adnrew BatesAssistant Director of Admissions & Director of Hockey Operations
Adnrew Bates serves as the Assistant Director of Admissions and the Director of Hockey Operations.
- Michael BrownDirector of the International Student Program, ESL Teacher
Michael Brown is the Director of the International Student Program and also serves as an ESL teacher.
IB MYP