<p>My son is looking at a couple junior boarding schools (Cardigan and Eaglebrook, but open to suggestions). I am very concerned about the environments being too athletic for him. He tends to the artsier side-- visual arts and some music. Any thoughts on whether these schools might be a fit or if he'd feel like the odd man out?</p>
<p>I recently visited both of these schools as well, and I think both are very heavy on athletics, hockey in particular. However, they both seem like excellent schools.</p>
<p>if you are in the just looking stages, consider adding Fay and Fessenden to your list. Fay is coed, while Fessenden is all boys. Fessenden certainly has a sports side, but also a decent visual arts program. Not sure about their performing arts, but you can easily ask. Fay seems well-rounded as well.</p>
<p>Eaglebrook advocate here; EBS and I think it’s fair to say that all these schools pour hundreds of thousands into their Arts & Musics departments and want these facilities used. Eaglebrook has an incredible Arts department run by a gentlemen who’s been there since my time. When and if you get the chance to tour the school, you can’t but help notice the incredible student art work all around the campus. The dinning hall really has some neat art work. The Music department also has an individual who has also been there since the 70’s, he’s a fire cracker and makes the whole learning experience just so much more enjoyable. Check out the school’s new website where multiple courses are offered in the Visual and Performing Arts Departments. The school has so much more than football, hockey and lacrosse for afternoon sports. I don’t know your son but I seriously doubt that he would feel like an odd man out.</p>
<p>My son is at Cardigan. I read your post to him, and he indicated there would be no “odd man out” situation. There are a lot of athletes at cms, but there are also a lot of actors, musicians and artists, and all of the kids are appreciated and respected for the talents they bring to the school.</p>