Welcome to The Pennfield School
Dear Families,
“If only we could bottle it.” I often hear that phrase when families describe Pennfield. The “it” is the feeling you get the moment you step into our community, something truly special that words can hardly capture.
Each morning begins with Assembly, filled with music, student voices, and stories. This daily gathering sets the tone for a day rooted in joy, kindness, and curiosity. Families often tell me they never imagined a school like Pennfield still existed. It is a place where every child is known, valued, and inspired.
Here, education is about more than academics. It is about nurturing the whole child while challenging minds and building character, creativity, and confidence. Our curriculum is a dynamic blend of academic rigor and hands-on learning that sparks curiosity, critical thinking, and collaboration. With opportunities for outdoor exploration and the arts woven throughout, Pennfield prepares students not only for secondary school, but for life.
I am incredibly proud of our talented faculty, who partner closely with families to support each child’s unique journey. Together, we create a community where students thrive, form lasting friendships, and discover the joy of learning.
I invite you to visit and experience the Pennfield spirit for yourself.
Warm regards,
Paul Amadio
Head of School
“Pennfield is a school where it’s OK to be a child and play; where academic expectations and student performance are high; where values like respect, honesty and compassion matter—and where children and adults smile.”
Our Mission & Core Values
The Pennfield School creates an inclusive community of dedicated learners, where students are given a foundation and appreciation for the joyful pursuit of understanding, while fostering respect for oneself and others as a way of life.
- Everyone is treated with kindness and respect.
- Our curriculum is challenging and balanced, ensuring our graduates’ success in secondary school and higher education.
- We foster a strong partnership between faculty, students, and parents.
- We intentionally create an inclusive culture that is diverse in make-up, accepting of others, and develops a strong sense of social and community responsibility.
- We embrace the uniqueness of every member of our community and provide the individual attention needed to help each student’s talents unfold.
- We encourage academic, artistic, and athletic risks within our safe and supportive environment.
The Pennfield School does not discriminate on the basis of age, gender, race, religious affiliation, non-disqualifying handicap, sexual orientation, family composition, ethnic or national origin, in the administration of its admissions, financial aid, educational policies, hiring or any of its school practices.
Our Community
Pennfield feels different, because it is different. At Pennfield, community is at the heart of everything we do. From our daily all-school assemblies and older and younger students paired together in our Buddy Program, to Family nights and gatherings, our school is a place where students, families, and educators come together with a shared commitment to learning, growth, and mutual respect. The energy on campus is palpable and shaped by the people who fill it—curious students, engaged parents, and passionate teachers who support one another every step of the way. Together, we create an environment where academic challenge is balanced with creativity, joy, and connection. It’s this spirit of togetherness that makes Pennfield feel like home.
Our Campus
Tucked away in the heart of Portsmouth, Rhode Island, The Pennfield School is surrounded by 19 acres of peaceful, open space that once made up Little Slocum Farm. Today, this setting is home to grassy playing fields, a school garden, and plenty of room for children to explore, imagine, and grow. Some of the original homes and outbuildings have been thoughtfully repurposed. At the center of it all is our main school building—a bright, welcoming, timeless space built in 2004 that blends traditional vernacular architecture with modern functionality, with all the features needed for hands-on, joyful learning. Beyond the campus, the Sakonnet Greenway Trail provides even more opportunities for outdoor adventures, imagination, and connection to nature.
Our History
The Pennfield School was founded as The New School in March 1971 by a group of parents united by core values of honesty, compassion, personal responsibility, and a shared belief that school plays a vital role in shaping a child’s moral compass. In 1993, the school adopted the name Pennfield to honor its beloved Assistant Head of School and English teacher, Isabelle Penny. After years of steady growth, the school moved into its current building on a 19-acre property at Little Slocum Farm in Portsmouth in 2004. Throughout its evolution, Pennfield has stayed true to its roots. The spirit of volunteerism, community involvement, and a deep commitment to kindness and respect continue to define the school’s culture. The School’s mission to foster joy, understanding, and respect permeate throughout all aspects of this community.
