Welcome | About Us | Avon Old Farms

Welcome to Avon Old Farms

Nestled within 860 picturesque acres of the Farmington Valley, the Cotswold-inspired village of Avon Old Farms stands as Connecticut's premier boarding school for boys.

Founded in 1927 by Theodate Pope Riddle, a trailblazing female architect, our institution embraces her legacy of shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Mrs. Riddle's pioneering spirit laid the foundation for an educational environment that fosters academic excellence and personal growth, which is embodied in our motto, "Aspirando et Perseverando" — to Aspire and to Persevere. At Avon, students are challenged to pursue knowledge and self-improvement while forging enduring bonds of brotherhood that last a lifetime.

Welcome

As the Head of School, it is both an honor and a privilege to welcome you to Avon Old Farms School, where we honor tradition, and inspire excellence. My wife and I arrived on campus in the fall of 1991. From day one, the energy and enthusiasm of the students and faculty was palpable. I have had the privilege to see Avon through many different lenses and experience first-hand the important layers which make our school unique. 

At the heart of Avon Old Farms School lies a guiding question that shapes our mission and vision: What is best for our boys? This question serves as a compass, driving us to continually provide an educational experience tailored to the unique needs, aspirations, and potential of each student.

Our commitment to the Brotherhood goes beyond camaraderie; it is a bond forged through shared experiences, mutual respect, and a collective dedication to one another's success. Here, every student is embraced as a vital member of our family, ensuring that no one journeys alone.

Scholarship is the cornerstone of our educational philosophy. We challenge our boys to think critically, explore passionately, and strive for academic excellence. Through rigorous curricula and enriching experiences, we cultivate the intellectual curiosity and skills necessary for lifelong learning.

Integrity is the compass by which we navigate our actions and decisions. We instill in our students a deep sense of honor, honesty, and responsibility, empowering them to make principled choices and uphold the highest ethical standards in all endeavors.

Sportsmanship is a reflection of our character on and off the field. We believe in the transformative power of athletics to teach perseverance, teamwork, and resilience. Through spirited competition and mutual respect, our boys learn the value of fair play, dedication, and grace in victory and defeat.

As someone new to the Avon experience, you may be wondering: Why Avon? Avon Old Farms School is expert in educating boys. We understand how boys learn and have designed the academic, athletic, artistic, and residential programs to bring out the best in our students. While our academic programs will challenge the most talented students, it is the work outside the classroom that makes Avon different. We transform boys into good men of strong moral character and they leave Avon prepared to face the challenges of college and beyond. As a parent once said to me,

“Avon is not just about the next four years; it is about the next 40.”

As you explore our website and discover the myriad opportunities that await your son, I invite you to envision the transformative journey that lies ahead. Together, we will nurture the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and changemakers, grounded in the enduring values that define the Avon Old Farms experience.

I look forward to welcoming you!

JIM DETORA P’12

Head of School