A Friends School

Quakers, members of the Religious Society of Friends, believe that in every person there is “that of God” which acts as an inner guide or teacher, sometimes called the Light within or the inner Light. Friends are guided by testimonies, or guiding principles for conduct, traditionally focusing on peace, nonviolence, equality, simplicity, stewardship, community and integrity.

A basic tenet of Quakerism is that truth is continuously revealed and is accessible to the seeker. At Buckingham Friends School, this belief is reflected in our mission - “to inspire scholarship and spiritual community” - and in our approach to curriculum and teaching. Our teachers emphasize critical thinking skills, guide the development of the whole child, and “nurture a respect for the Light in every person.” Work on individual skills and knowledge is balanced with group learning, where each person’s unique insights are valued and contribute to a collective understanding.

Attending Meeting for Worship is the central experience of a Friends school. It is where each individual can learn to listen, reflect, and ultimately share their unique voice as a contributing community member and where a culture of respect, trust, and advocacy can be built. Once a week students gather in the Meetinghouse for Meeting for Worship, where they sit together in gathered silence in the manner of Friends. Every now and then the silence is broken by a young voice offering a personal message about nature, friendship, happiness, and sometimes even sadness. In this aspect of our school and throughout our program, we encourage students to develop a deepening understanding of themselves as individuals and as members of the world community. We strive to help each of our children to be strong academically and to be individuals who remain true to their principles and sense of self.

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For a Friends school, the testimonies of Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship (S.P.I.C.E.S.) have provided solid footing and clarity in an uncertain, rapidly shifting world. Our Guide to Understanding Quaker Education introduces those testimonies and

the role they play in our purpose as a Friends school and in the life of our community. A review of the testimonies can remind us that even in the darkest days, we can find Light within ourselves, and within each other.