Student Life
Student Life
At West Nottingham Academy, student life goes well beyond the classroom walls, offering both enriching and unforgettable experiences for every student. The vibrant daily and weekend activities, leadership opportunities, and community traditions ensure a well-rounded and dynamic high school journey.
Beyond Academics: Diverse Experiences
Our students balance academics with a wide range of extracurricular activities that ignite their passions. Clubs like Model UN, Robotics, and the Student Government Association allow students to lead initiatives, organize events, and foster meaningful connections with peers. The dedication to leadership and community-building extends to co-curricular activities that enhance their learning, such as service projects, cultural experiences, and nature-based excursions that encourage sustainability and appreciation for the outdoors.
Exploring the Region
With WNA’s unique location near major cities like Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York City, and Washington, D.C., our students immerse themselves in diverse cultural, historical, and artistic experiences. From exploring Independence Hall in Philadelphia to visiting Broadway in New York, and engaging with museums in D.C., every trip brings new perspectives. Closer to home, students hike the scenic trails of Cecil County, nestled between the Chesapeake Bay and the Susquehanna River, blending adventure and relaxation seamlessly.
Boarding Life and Community Spirit
Boarding students experience an additional layer of camaraderie in our four on-campus dormitories. Guided by dedicated dorm parents and supported by returning student leaders known as Prefects, students learn to navigate shared responsibilities, build lifelong friendships, and find their own independence. The dormitories are equipped with cozy lounges, kitchenettes, and essential amenities, ensuring a safe and enjoyable living environment.
Weekend Adventures and Relaxation
The Student Life Team curates weekend programming tailored to students’ interests, from trips to local attractions and cultural sites to relaxing downtime on campus. Whether visiting a museum, taking a state park hike, or simply unwinding in the courtyard with friends, students make lasting memories. Our vibrant campus culture also features student-run events, fostering self-expression, collaboration, and spirited competition through activities like the long-standing Spartan and Athenian Rivalry.
A Welcoming and Supportive and Community
From the moment they arrive, students join advisory groups led by dedicated staff who offer mentorship and guidance. Twice-weekly all-school meetings unite the community, celebrate traditions, and keep students engaged and informed. This nurturing environment helps WNA students grow as leaders, scholars, and compassionate individuals, ready to embrace the world beyond campus.
Athletics and Co-Curricular Excellence
Our athletics program instills integrity, teamwork, and resilience in student-athletes, with opportunities for everyone—from beginners to seasoned players—to develop skills and character. Non-athletic pursuits provide alternative ways for students to thrive, and school spirit flourishes at games, practices, and community events.
All School Meetings
Three times weekly the entire school comes together in one of our indoor or outdoor gathering spaces to meet as a community. Teachers and staff update students on all-school business, listen to guest speakers, learn about on-campus activities, and sign-up for weekend programming. These meetings serve as a time for us all to come together and celebrate WNA’s traditions and move forward together with excellence.