Chadwick School

Legendary photographer Ansel Adams captured this image of a Chadwick teacher and students in 1941.

Growth & Longevity

Chadwick’s success comes from remaining true to our Mission while never standing still. Chadwick has continually adapted to the changing world without losing sight of our purpose: developing curious, compassionate young people who are prepared to lead lives of impact, courageously pursuing both goodness and greatness. When Margaret Chadwick founded the school in 1935, she believed learning should extend beyond the classroom walls. Today, our innovation labs, outdoor education expeditions, global education experiences and ocean research represent the modern expression of that original vision.

Interactive Education

Families appreciate that Chadwick students don’t simply learn about the world; they actively engage with it, led by the most amazing faculty and staff committed to and well-practiced in these ideals. Whether they’re designing prototypes, conducting brand marketing research, leading outdoor expeditions, performing on stage or competing in athletics, students graduate with the confidence and adaptability to thrive wherever life takes them.

Experiential Learning

“Experience is the best of all schools” is a founding idea that continues to shape everything we do. It has guided the school’s growth from a handful of students to a nationally recognized K–12 campus where experiential learning is at the forefront. Our founder couldn’t have imagined robotics labs, artificial intelligence projects or ocean-research travel partnerships to the Galapagos Islands or South Korea, but she absolutely envisioned a school that would continue evolving to prepare students for the future. The tools have changed over the past 90 years, but the philosophy has not.

A Photographic Legend

One of Chadwick’s early photography instructors, Cedric Wright, invited his friend Ansel Adams to help establish the school’s photography program and document campus life. Creativity and artistic excellence have been part of the Chadwick experience from the very beginning.

Serving the Community

Our Community Engagement program connects students weekly with South Bay organizations through environmental stewardship, civic engagement and volunteerism. We’re proud to prepare graduates who continue giving back long after they leave campus.

A Favorite Southbay Cover Photo

The June/July 2025 cover of the paddle-out for Greg Browning (by Bo Bridges) is resonant to us, and absolutely what this community stands for: coming together, even in moments of sadness and loss, to connect with and celebrate the best in each other.

Main image photographed by Xavier Proctor