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Germantown Friends School

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Germantown Friends School

explore our CAMPUS

What's cool about our campus is that it's spread out over seven acres in Philadelphia's historic neighborhood of Germantown. The buildings are an eclectic mix of old and new, a unique look and feel more consistent with a college campus. With three gyms, three auditoriums, a student center, numerous open, green spaces and nine classroom buildings, it's a place worthy of adoration and exploration. The Meetinghouse, at the center of it all, provides a beautiful and spiritual focal point.

1. Main Building 2. Meetinghouse 3. Sharpless 4. Hargroves 5. Wade Science Center 6. Alumni Building 7. Admissions 8. Living Graveyard 9. Dead Graveyard 10. Loeb Performing Arts Center 11. Smith Gym 12. Cary Building 13. Friends Free Library 14. Field House 15. Scattergood Gym

we have deep roots in this place

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Germantown Friends School

The Pillars of A

Quaker Education

At GFS, students and teachers gather in Meeting for Worship once each week. This is a time for shared, silent contemplation. Anyone who feels moved to speak may rise and do so. It is a simple formula, and can be a remarkably powerful experience.In these days of constant connectivity, the ability and opportunity to sit in silence have special value. Meeting for Worship is a cornerstone of the GFS culture that many come to cherish throughout their lives.

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speak the truth

We strive to deal fairly, equally and honestly with everyone. We aim to do as we say, reflecting our beliefs in our actions. even when it is inconvenient or challenging, we stand by our convictions, striving to lead lives of integrity.

Shine Together

We are all blessed with remarkable gifts. We are equally qualified to seek truth and to hear the voice of God. Every person deserves equal respect. For these reasons, we work against prejudice and discrimination and for equality.

stay connected

"Alone we can do little; together we can do so much."* We know there is strength in cooperation and wisdom to be found when many perspectives come together. We believe in the power of community.*
The words of Helen Keller.

keep it simple

In every way we can, we try to minimize the distractions that can draw our attention from the important things in life. This means not becoming overwhelmed by the busyness of daily routine. It means seeking balance. It means embracing simplicity.

care for all

This planet we inhabit, the talents we've been given, the community of which we are a part- all hold remarkable value. We must be responsible, imaginative and proactive in protecting these gifts and caring for the world and people around us. We must exercise good stewardship.

promote peace

We believe each life is precious and unique. We stand against war and violence and work to eliminate their root causes, including ignorance, racism, hatred and oppression. We are committed to creating peace.

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Germantown Friends School

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Woodshop

Lower School Woodshop begins in third grade and offers a highly interactive, hands-on experience with tools and materials. Students develop manual dexterity, confidence in problem-solving, and an understanding of how things fit together. A variety of techniques, such as carving and shaping, joinery, mechanical fastening, and applying finishes, are explored in the program to give each student a broad understanding of the scope of woodworking.

Third Grade
Fourth Grade
Fifth Grade

Third Grade

Fundamentals are stressed during this first year of woodshop. Children will learn to measure, mark and cut wood using a variety hand tools. Shaping and simple joinery techniques will also be learned. A doll sized Quaker meeting bench and simple cars are the primary projects for this year.

Fourth Grade

In the second year in woodshop, expectations change with emphasis on becoming more accurate, more skilled with tools and on reading and following written directions. The Trojan horse will be the primary project tying into the study of Ancient Greece.

Fifth Grade

Fifth graders are expected to become more accurate in their work and are encouraged to refine their projects. Power tools such as the scroll saw, and the drill press will be introduced with great emphasis placed on safety. Designing and making banks using medieval themes will be the project this year.