ENGAGING THE MIND | FORMING THE HEART | INSTRUCTING THE WILL. Ambleside is a Christ-centered K-8 school located in McLean, Virginia, that applies the philosophy of British educator, Charlotte Mason.
In partnership with the family, we encourage children to discover and embrace God`s truth, to link knowing with doing and to love learning.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- School Type: Alternative School
- Grades: Kindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 142 students
- Average class size: 15 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-8
Year Founded
1999
Student Body
Total Students
142 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
20%
State avg.: 30%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
13 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
11:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
15 students
List of Courses Offered
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Uniform
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Tuition Notes
Kindergarten: $9,116
Grades 1-5: $11,808
Grades 6-8: $12,100
School Notes
- At Ambleside School, we believe that God creates each child with a natural hunger for knowledge and that the mind is fed by ideas more than by facts and information. These ideas, which inform our conscience and the choices that we make, find their source in God Himself, and are communicated to us through His Word, through people of the past and present, and through His creation.
- Education properly understood is not merely the assimilation of data and technique; it is the mind feeding on ideas given expression in God`s creation, great art, beautiful music, and "living books." Real learning occurs when students engage with novelists, poets, philosophers, scientists, mathematicians, artists, musicians, historians, and explorers; they wonder, asking why and how.
- Our aim is to train students in the habits of learning so they can acquire knowledge for themselves and to fuel their God-given hunger for ideas.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the application deadline for Ambleside School?
The application deadline for Ambleside School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
5 2/8/2021
We love Ambleside because it is a safe place where we know our children are being nurtured and cared for by teachers that love teaching and love Christ. We have also come to believe that the teaching method that Ambleside employs is the most excellent available.The Charlotte Mason teaching methodology, which Ambleside uses, is unlike anything we have seen, and it is superb. Our children are not treated like information receptacles, sitting in desks eight hours a day to be stuffed with as many facts as possible, all towards the great, universal goal of increasing test scores. No, Ambleside is totally different. From the earliest age children at Ambleside are exposed to great and important art, literature, music, and ideas. They are not just taught about these things; they are taught the things themselves, by being fully immersed in them. They grow not simply in their knowledge of facts, information, and formulas, but as full humans, with minds and souls that need to be fed.Beyond the pedagogical method and the curriculum, we also love the Ambleside community. The classes are small and the children spend much time together learning and playing. They are forming great friendships that we hope will be lasting. We know the teachers and administrators personally. There is a vibrant parent volunteer community at the school. Our children are flourishing at Ambleside, not simply as students, but as people. We are very thankful for this school.
5 6/1/2020
Our two daughters (2 years apart) were students at Ambleside through 8th grade, then went on to public HS and are now both at selective universities. The school delivered on its promises: they really are "lifetime learners", joyful, mature, engaged with many subjects, genuine in their faith, and committed to serving. Our youngest has had a more difficult journey, both emotionally and academically. We always felt like we had a real partner in the school though, and through the patient and loving attention of the teachers and staff our son has made great gains in maturity and learning. We came to Ambleside after reading its website, which in our experience accurately describes the school. It's a wonderful school where Christ is modeled and learning is encouraged every day.
5 5/11/2020
Amazing Charlotte Mason philosophy based education. Encouraging environment where a child can really learn and not just regurgitate information. Small class sizes enable teachers to know each student as an individual.
5 5/11/2020
We are so grateful for Ambleside school and the Ambleside community. We knew almost nothing about the Charlotte Mason philosophy when we joined the school but were drawn to the joyful attitude we found in the staff and the kids. We've since discovered how impactful the CM teaching style is and how much our kids have thrived in this environment. We've watched them learn to take control of their own behaviors as they feel supported and encouraged, as well as challenged, in their school relationships. It's a unique place and we're so grateful to have found it. We know it's going to shape our kids learning experiences for the rest of their lives.
5 4/27/2020
Excellent Charlotte Mason school, focusing on love of learning, character and spiritual development. Parent community has been a highlight. Highly recommend.
Endorse Ambleside School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles
Expelled for Smoking Pot: What Parents Need to Know
We explore the consequences of marijuana use in private schools, discussing expulsion policies, legal implications, and impacts on college admissions. This Q&A format article provides insights for parents navigating disciplinary actions and offers advice on prevention and support for students.
U.S. Private Schools: A Guide for International Students
Dive into the nitty-gritty of attending U.S. private schools as an international student. From tackling the admissions maze to conquering the TOEFL, this guide's got you covered. We'll walk you through visa hurdles, financial realities, and even virtual campus tours. Buckle up for an insider's look at making your American education dreams a reality!
Early Childhood Education: A Guide for Parents of 1 and 2 Year Olds
In this article we explore three popular approaches to early childhood education: Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf. It provides parents of toddlers with essential information about each method, helping them make informed decisions about their child's early education.