Purnell School is the premier boarding and day school for girls with learning differences.
Our mission is to educate young women, who learn differently in grades nine through PG within a creative, reflective, and supportive classroom and boarding community.
We offer seven- and five-day boarding as well as day programs. Purnell also offers a PG year program that encourages study and exploration.
Our campus is located on 83 acres in rural, equestrian New Jersey.
Safe, peaceful yet close to the vibrancy of New York City and Philadelphia.
Students discover their unique strengths in preparation for college and the world.
School Overview
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 9-12
Offers Post-Graduate Year
Yes
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia, ADHD, Executive Function Challenges, Auditory Processing Disorder
Year Founded
1963
Summer School Offered
Yes
Student Body
Total Students
46 students
Student Body Type
% Students of Color
37%
State avg.: 39%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
16 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
3:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
10 students
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Everyday uniform: dark wash jeans, white button-down or polo and Purnell sweater. Formal uniform includes a blazer and a kilt or khaki pants.
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Admissions Director
Kate Davis
Admissions Associate
Meghan Coates
Sports
Total Sports Offered
7 sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
14 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Adlibbers-Acting GroupArt Club
Big SistersChoir
Community Service ClubDance Synthesis
Environmental ClubEquestrian
Floor LeadersSchool Tour Guides
Shoots and Strawberries Singing GroupStudent Council
Technical TheaterYearbook
School Notes
- Purnell School, established in 1963, is the premier boarding and day school for girls with learning differences. We are at the forefront of education for girls from across the globe with different learning styles. We use a highly individualized approach tailored to the precise learning style of each student. Girls in grades nine through twelve learn within a creative, reflective, and supportive classroom and boarding community and thrive in academics, the arts and athletics. We offer seven and five-day boarding as well as day programs. Purnell also offers a Post Graduate (PG) year of study and exploration. Each year Purnell graduates attend the college of their choice.Purnell is located on 83 acres in rural, equestrian New Jersey. Safe, peaceful yet close to the vibrancy of New York City and Philadelphia. Students discover their unique strengths in preparation for college and the world. Purnell students learn to be ethical, independent, and self-confident working with faculty who act as mentors, teaching to the individual needs of the student.Purnell`s founding beliefs continue to guide the school over 50 years later: Consideration of Others, Truthfulness in All Relations, Use of Common Sense.Purnell successfully serves girls with the following learning differences: Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia, ADHD, Executive Functioning Challenges, Auditory Processing Disorders.School accreditations: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
What sports does Purnell School offer?
Purnell School offers 7 interscholastic sports: Ballet, Basketball, Dance, Equestrian, Soccer, Softball and Tennis.
When is the application deadline for Purnell School?
The application deadline for Purnell School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
Related Schools
Show me:
People that viewed Purnell School also viewed these schools: Morristown Beard School, The Wardlaw+Hartridge School, The Montclair Kimberley Academy, The Pingry School and Mount Saint Mary Academy.
The nearest high school to Purnell School is Montgomery Academy (3.0 miles away)
The nearest elementary school and preschool is The Willow School (2.0 miles away)
Show me:
Show me:
School
Location
Miles
Quick Facts
70 Whippany Road
Morristown, NJ 07960
(973) 539-3032
Morristown, NJ 07960
(973) 539-3032
15.2 miles
Gr: 6-12 | 612 students Avg. class size: 14 students Sports: 21 | Extracurrculars: 55 Tuition & acceptance rate listed
1295 Inman Ave
Edison, NJ 08820
(908) 754-1882
Edison, NJ 08820
(908) 754-1882
19.8 miles
Gr: PK-12 | 449 students Avg. class size: 14 students Sports: 11 | Extracurrculars: 23 Tuition & acceptance rate listed
201 Valley Road
Montclair, NJ 07042
(973) 746-9800
Montclair, NJ 07042
(973) 746-9800
27.5 miles
Gr: PK-12 | 1,046 student Avg. class size: 15 students Sports: 21 | Extracurrculars: 5 Tuition listed
131 Martinsville Road
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
(908) 647-6419
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
(908) 647-6419
10.4 miles
Gr: K-12 | 1,129 student Avg. class size: 14 students Sports: 19 Tuition & acceptance rate listed
Mount Saint Mary Academy
All-girls (Catholic)
1645 US-22 W
Watchung, NJ 07069
(908) 757-0108
Watchung, NJ 07069
(908) 757-0108
16.7 miles
Gr: 9-12 | 370 students Avg. class size: 15 students Tuition & acceptance rate listed
Recent Articles
Transferring from Public to Private School Mid-Year: What to Expect
Considering a mid-year transfer from public to private school? Learn what to expect with admissions, academic placement, social adjustment, and financial aid to ensure a smooth transition.
A Guide to Day vs. Boarding School: Which Is Right for Your Family
Discover the key differences between day and boarding schools to determine the best fit for your child. Explore benefits, costs, lifestyle factors, and questions to help guide your family’s decision.
The A to Z of Private Schools 2025
Explore the A to Z of private schools in 2025—from admissions to tuition—offering parents and educators clear insights into today’s options.
