<p>Among the New England schools, I think it’s safe to say that the smaller the school, the more “nurturing” it’s going to be. </p>
<p>And, to be honest, if that’s what you’re looking for, I’d suggest broadening your search to include some of the not quite so competitive schools. Depending on your child’s interests, you may find one that’s a perfect fit and provides the level of support you’re looking for. Governor’s, Loomis and Brooks would definitely fit into this category, as would St. Andrew’s (in Delaware), Taft, Berkshire, and Tabor - a few of my personal favorites.</p>
<p>As noted, among the schools you’ve named, Groton would probably be the most supportive, with Milton perhaps a distant second. (Groton admits 8th graders, so it’s particularly adapted to providing the support necessary for its younger students.)</p>
<p>Both Exeter and Andover are like mini-college campuses. If your child isn’t ready to take full responsibility for his or her life there, it won’t turn out well. Exeter, in particular, has a well-earned reputation for “sink or swim” - for the kids who want that, and are ready for it, it’s an amazing environment . . . but kids who aren’t ready really don’t belong there.</p>
<p>Lawrenceville is different - and probably somewhat more supportive than one would expect to find at a New England school of comparable size . . . but it’s still a large school with all of the challenges that come with a large school.</p>
<p>And, by the way - it’s not the ratio of advisors to advisees that’s significant . . . it’s what the advisor’s expected role is. Is he or she expected to be “hands on” and meet with the student regularly, or is he/she there for emergencies only? It makes a difference . . . and if you’re really serious about finding a school with an advisor who’s willing to act as part-time parent to your child, you need to come up with a different list.</p>