Lower School
Welcome to the Lower School, also known as the 'wonder years.'
Because a child's disposition toward learning is established by age 12 and stays with them for life, our Lower School program is designed to create an optimal environment for children that supports, encourages, develops, and extends each child's curiosity, enthusiasm, and passion.
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Explore Lower School
Lower School at Far Hills encompasses Pre-K through Grade 4. Learn more about how we support our Lower School students every day.
Our students develop strong foundation skills in reading, writing, science, and math, balanced with excellent programs in world language, visual arts, and music. They build social-emotional and problem-solving skills through engaging student-centered, experiential learning.
The Far Hills Experience
The balance of academic excellence and emotional intelligence—what we call IQ + EQ—guides our curriculum every step along the way to ensure that students are inspired and excited to wonder and discover.
"At Far Hills Country Day School,we believe that the foundation of a meaningful education is not just in the mastery of academics but in fostering a genuine love of learning that carries our students through Lower School and beyond."
Pat Barry, Director of Lower School
Inside the Program
At Far Hills, learning extends beyond the classroom with dynamic programs that enrich each child’s educational journey. Explore some of the unique experiences that make our Lower School truly special.
Students engage in interdisciplinary projects that encourage deep exploration, critical thinking, and creativity. These projects culminate in presentations that showcase their research, problem-solving, and innovation at the end of the school year.
Through programs like our buddy system, where older students mentor younger peers, and classroom responsibilities that promote independence, students build confidence, empathy, and a strong sense of community.
Students develop confidence and public speaking skills by presenting their learning through interactive exhibitions, classroom presentations, and special performances.
Hands-on projects in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math encourage creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration, preparing students for a future driven by innovation.
Learning comes to life beyond the classroom as students explore museums, nature centers, historical sites and more, connecting real-world experiences to their studies.
From exploring the Far Hills nature trail and pond ecosystem to participating in the low elements of our ropes course challenges, students engage in hands-on experiences that foster curiosity, teamwork, and resilience.