Founded in 1911, the school was one of the first college preparatory schools for girls in the United States. The school sits on 175 acres, abutting 425 acres of preserved land. The area is surrounded by forest and residential areas. The Ethel Walker School was originally located in Lakewood, New Jersey before being moved in 1917 to its present location on the former Dodge Estate in Simsbury, Connecticut. The school's founder, Ethel Walker, was interested in creating one of the first girls' college preparatory schools, as an alternative to the finishing schools that were then in vogue for upper-class girls. The school seeks to provide an environment designed for girls to discover and develop their intellectual, artistic, athletic and leadership talents. Teaching girls to lead with "confidence, conviction and courage" is a consistent theme, from the school's mission to its curriculum.
Curriculum
Academics at Walker's, as the school is commonly known, consist of small class sizes and many advanced, skills-based courses. The curriculum is diverse and allows room for innovation by faculty. Many classrooms are set up in a style to encourage conversation and communication. The Ethel Walker School's symbol is the sundial, although for athletics Wally the Wildcat has been adopted as a mascot. The school's motto is Nullas Horas Nisi Aureas which translates to "Nothing But Golden Hours". One hundred percent of Walker's graduates continue to four-year colleges, with many receiving post-graduate degrees.
Arts
The arts are an integral part of the curricular and co-curricular content at the school, with choices including oil painting, drawing, pottery, sculpture, digital photography, theatre, music and dance. Performing arts groups perform regularly both on and off campus.
Athletics
In keeping with Miss Walker's conviction that exercise was essential for success in academics, all Walker's students participate in extracurricular sports, dance, or the arts. The Varsity Soccer, Lacrosse, Volleyball, Basketball and Field Hockey teams have all won their divisions over the past several years, and the school competes in the prestigious Founders League as well as numerous athletic leagues, such as NEPSAC and WNEPPSA. Athletic offerings include multiple levels of lacrosse, volleyball, field hockey, soccer, basketball, softball, golf, tennis, squash, swimming and skiing. Outdoor Adventure, personal fitness, dance and the performing arts are offered to supplement competitive athletics. Ethel Walker is also recognized for its world-class equestrian program, with students competing at both regional and national levels. The equestrian program has been an integral part of the school since its founding. The school's grounds include miles of horse trails, a full cross-country course, a large outdoor arena, indoor arena, spacious turnout, and large barn.
