We offer a variety of options that give students the opportunity to live, learn, and work side-by-side with students and adults from a different culture. We believe these domestic and international trips enrich the Putney experience, encouraging students to develop empathy and appreciation for difference, to see their life from a new perspective, and exposing them to the value of active contribution to global citizenry. Students often return energized around issues of social justice, politics and US relationships abroad.
4 Ways to Explore
Direct Exchanges
Building on our existing program with the Bedales School in Petersfield England, our direct exchanges provide an opportunity for students to travel abroad as part of a Putney group on a trip organized by the school for two to three weeks at a time. In return, we host students from partner schools for an equal amount of time here at Putney. We are currently exploring partnerships with other schools, similar to the Bedales School, to broaden these options. In addition, we are open to working with interested schools identified by students and families.
The Network of Complementary Schools
Putney is part of a consortium of approximately 20 schools throughout the US called The Network of Complementary Schools. Member schools send and receive students on exchanges to experience different learning environments, as well as school and community cultures. Students have an opportunity to choose and potentially attend a partner school for up to two to three weeks. Putney students work with the coordinator of the Study Away program and the Academic Office to find a time that works best for the student and the partner school.
Term Away Partnership
For students looking for a full term of study abroad to improve language skills, or experience longer-term cultural immersion, we will work closely with a study abroad program, such as School Year Abroad or The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE), and the family to create a program that meets both the needs of the student and their Putney program. Through these partnerships, our students have access to a much larger array of options. Our Study Away Coordinator and Academic Office work closely with the program to streamline the application process for our students and to more effectively integrate their abroad experience into their Putney program.
Faculty-Led Trips
Faculty may offer programs from one to three weeks in length. In the past, we have offered trips to India, Peru, Mexico, Kazakhstan, and domestic destinations. These trips are based on faculty designing and proposing a trip and on student interest. While these trips may support language learning, they may also allow opportunities for students to engage in place-based learning and fieldwork in a variety of subject areas, such as the Project Week trip to the US southern border. Trips of this length may be offered during Project Week, winter break, spring break, or summer vacation. Often, these faculty-designed and led trips appeal to students who are reluctant to miss academic time on campus.
Keep Exploring
Modern Languages
Learning a modern language and gaining insight into its culture(s) are important for increased self-awareness, and for increased international understanding. It is an integral part of a Putney education. Putney
Read More
Outdoor Experiences and Stewardship
With our 600 acres nestled in the eastern foothills of the Green Mountains, Putney students spend a lot of time outside. We weave our beautiful natural surroundings into our classrooms
Read More
English for Speakers of Other Languages
At Putney, you will not only gain the language and academic skills to succeed in an American high school, you will become immersed in American culture and form deep, meaningful
Read More