Virginia Beach Friends School in Virginia Beach

Posted: March 12, 2026

We enrolled our daughter at Virginia Beach Friends School for 6th grade, drawn in by the promise of small class sizes and a culture built on kindness. Our experience did not reflect those values, and we withdrew her mid-year.
With only six students in her class, we expected close communication from teachers. Instead, we had to initiate all contact ourselves. We eventually learned only after requesting a meeting that the school had been aware for months that the only other girl in the class was making daily threats of physical harm toward our daughter and openly discussing self-harm. We were never contacted about any of it.
That meeting resulted in an action plan that the school never followed through on. In the weeks that followed after we informed them we wouldn't be re-enrolling our daughter was written up for minor infractions, and we received a Q2 report card with a D in PE, again without any prior communication from her teacher.
The pattern felt retaliatory. We ultimately transitioned her to public school to finish the year.
This school promotes kindness as its core value. In our experience, that did not extend to how they treated our daughter or communicated with our family. If you're considering this school, please ask hard questions about how they handle bullying and whether they follow through on commitments to families.

Posted: November 21, 2025

My child attends VBFS and weve had an amazing experience from day one. There is always a positive, uplifting energy throughout the building, and the teachers truly go above and beyond to support every student. The communication is great, the staff is welcoming, and you can genuinely feel that they care about the kids.

The carline is also one of the most efficient and well-run Ive ever seensmooth, organized, and stress-free, which makes drop-off and pick-up so much easier.

The biggest win for me is that my child, who normally doesnt enjoy school at all, absolutely loves it here. Seeing them excited to show up each day means everything. Im so grateful for this school and the wonderful staff that help create such a supportive environment.

Highly recommend!

Posted: October 7, 2025

My children have been at Friends for several years and I have been thrilled with the quality education they have received during their time at school. They have excelled academically while also growing into caring and compassionate humans. I am so grateful we found this wonderful school and think all kids deserve such a great educational environment.

Posted: October 7, 2025

This school does an amazing job of balancing core academics with values driven education! This is a kind community that is welcoming and inclusive with lots of family oriented events and ways to get involved. Students are respectful and teachers are happy! It's the perfect private school option that puts emphasis on building good humans who are also prepared academically!

Posted: June 2, 2023

Our child endured a distressing ordeal at the school, having been subjected to physical violence from another student. Shockingly, the responsible student was not removed from the school even though there were multiple complaints. Moreover, the assigned teacher seemed ill-equipped to to interact effectively with younger children, exhibiting a cold and unwelcoming demeanor. As a result, our child's educational experience suffered significantly. Upon transferring to public school, it became evident that our child had fallen behind in reading, highlighting the shortcomings of the costly education for which we had paid a substantial tuition fee.

Posted: January 10, 2022

Unsupportive, limited and expensive. After over a year, our middle school child suffered bullying was robbed (and also was accused of stealing, and lying), and left the school depressed and in even lower self-esteem than after they attended public school. Big let down. Awful experience, very disappointed. Not for extraordinary kids.

Posted: January 10, 2022

Posted: January 21, 2021

Amazing school and experience. my son is thriving here! the teachers care and are super engaging, and the curriculum is strong! The values they teach are what every child needs to succeed in life. We could not be happier!

Posted: January 21, 2021

Posted: November 6, 2019

The school believes in building a community of learners where the focus is on the whole person not just on test scores or transcripts. Mike and Galen are committed to creating conscientious faculty that knows their students and helps them to know themselves.

Posted: November 6, 2019

The school''s approach to education is not just focusing on academic skills, but also include the development of emotional awareness and inner strength

Posted: November 6, 2019

Friends School strongly believes in allowing students to discover themselves, respect each other, learn healthy communication skills, learn problem solving skills, to speak with integrity, and to care for their community, students lay their own foundations toward well-being.

Posted: November 6, 2019

The school provides a strong positive and nurturing atmosphere for all students.The school's priorities include: caring and accessible teachers, challenging academics, character development, a safe environment, and preparation for the future.

Posted: November 6, 2019

Homework has a clear purpose. It expands upon skills and knowledge the students have learned in the classroom.

Posted: November 6, 2019

Teachers build a solid foundation for current and future academic success. Teachers create an Advanced and challenging curriculum that prepares students for their future. Teachers provide opportunities for students to become "significant" leaders.

Posted: November 6, 2019

The school provides opportunities for their students in classroom and outside of the classroom to be leaders equipped, empowered, and energized to reach their full potential and contribute to a better world.

Posted: May 10, 2019

The head master and assistant head have years of expertise, knowledge and it really shows. The teachers are happy. From admin, teachers and staff they work together as a unit.

Posted: May 10, 2019

I have always been impressed at how effective VBFShas been at respecting and working with differences of all kinds, including learning differences. Again the teachers have an incredible way of empowering every student so their weakness becomes their strength.

Posted: May 10, 2019

Zero bullying policy. Period. From admin to students there is zero tolerance.

Posted: May 10, 2019

The school offers broad curriculum to challenge the academically gifted while motivating those who have learning difficulties. The school encourages problem solving, reflection,critical thinking and honest communication, in addition to high academic standards and innovation.

Posted: May 10, 2019

Friends school combines rigorous academics with a nurturing environment, it's a school where kids find their voice and develop a lifelong love of learning. My child is on the honor roll. The teachers that truly engage, challenge, and uplift their students.

Posted: May 10, 2019

The teachers strive to find ways to reach and engage each student. They understand each student's unique personality. If something is happening in the world, the teachers will find ways to incorporate these happenings into class. The teachers engage with students in thoughtful, and thought-provoking, respectful way and encourages students to be independent thinkers.

Posted: May 10, 2019

The Quaker values are embedded in the education. The Quake values are integrity, stewardship, equality, compassion, and simplicity - and the entire school demonstrates it every day.

Posted: April 17, 2019

My son started at Friends School this year. I cannot say enough about the positive affect that this school has had on my son and our family. I have watched him change from an overwhelmed/anxious kid without friends to a happy kid with new friends who is usually excited to tell me about his day when I pick him up! The small class size and hands on approach has given him so many new learning experiences and an excitement for learning that I was afraid I would never see in him again. This is a great school!

Posted: April 15, 2019

Exceptional staff and teachers that take their work to heart with each child.Friends School has become home.

Posted: April 15, 2019

The school is under new administration and has had a lot of change. There have been some growing pains along the way, but the school as a whole is really strong right now in its leadership. It seems to be well managed, professional yet still personable!

Posted: April 15, 2019

I would rate our experience at the school at the highest level. My children are so happy to go to school everyday and are thriving and curious. I will never regret giving my children an education that goes far beyond just the academic piece, but nurtures the whole child and embraces their individuality while encouraging independent young thinkers and artists alike!

Posted: April 15, 2019

Homework has been a great review for both of my kids. Its allowed us to connect about what they are learning in school, without being overloaded its a fun way to keep my kids on task and effective in holding them accountable for work outside of the classroom.

Posted: April 15, 2019

The school and teachers, from what I have experienced (as well as my children), are effective in their approach to teaching in that they regard each child as an individual and encourage each childs strengths. There is a lot of focus on connecting all of their studies - art, history, science, etc. and how they all affect one another. Its pretty incredible for a school to function this way as a community - very inspiring!

Posted: April 15, 2019

The SPICES....Friends School has always nurtured its values and continues to present them all over the campus and in the classroom. Teachers are constantly weaving in the values of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality and stewardship into their lessons.

Posted: April 15, 2019

Very open dialog between leadership, teachers, parents and students.

Posted: April 15, 2019

School teaches peace as part of it's curriculum.

Posted: April 15, 2019

The entire teaching staff and student population work together to create a dynamic learning environment. The hands on teaching approach far surpasses a tradition educational system.

Posted: April 15, 2019

Teachers are able to spend time with each student. Tailoring the teaching to fit each students needs.

Posted: April 15, 2019

Students are empowered to be their own advocates.

Posted: April 14, 2019

New headmaster is great! Very hands on with students, faculty and parents

Posted: April 14, 2019

Homework is very manageable and reinforces what has already been discussed in class

Posted: April 14, 2019

Amazing teachers care about each student and offer individualized teaching for each child

Posted: April 14, 2019

Strong focus on Quaker values, encourage the students to operate with integrity. They focus a lot of teaching the students about Community.

Posted: April 14, 2019

I love the hands on learning at this school. I have several children at the school of different ages and with different learning styles and abilities and they are all thriving at Friends School!

Posted: April 9, 2019

My daughter has been able to work at her own pace, which in some classes means that she is working ahead.

Posted: April 9, 2019

The school counselor at VBFS is wonderful and helps kids resolve conflicts in a positive manner.

Posted: April 9, 2019

The new head of school has a positive vision for growth and has supported new extra curricular activities. He even is teaching one of the clubs!

Posted: April 9, 2019

VBFS provides a creative learning environment with a warm atmosphere.

Posted: April 9, 2019

I like that a 45 minute workshop block is added to the daily schedule to make sure that kids have time to do work during school hours and can focus on extra curricular activities after school

Posted: April 9, 2019

The teachers at VBFS are the best! And the school counselor, too!

Posted: April 9, 2019

A Quaker education supports growth in integrity, community outreach, respect and equality and stewardship.

Posted: April 8, 2019

The school is moving in new and exciting directions recently, and the leadership has been successful about getting people on board with the changes and helping the community to see the benefits to the school in making them.

Posted: April 8, 2019

They have an office dedicated specifically to meeting the learning needs of every child.

Posted: April 8, 2019

The culture at Friends School is already one that would discourage pushing a child to the "outside" - the culture is inclusive and loving.

Posted: April 8, 2019

My child hasn't had homework yet, unlike some other younger children. She does have topics for us to talk about when she comes home, and we are kept up to date on what is going on in the classroom so we can keep her curiosity piqued at our home as well, but it is much more about integrating learning into every experience than sitting down at a table to memorize letters and numbers.

Posted: April 8, 2019

My child knows her teachers care about her. She is excited to see them, and she is comfortable expressing herself to them. They are able to more fully engage with her based upon this relationship.

Posted: April 8, 2019

We love Friends. We are a second generation Friends family, which should tell you what a lasting, positive impact the school has.

Posted: April 7, 2019

We Love Friends School! It has been an amazing environment for my children to grow.

Posted: April 7, 2019

Posted: April 4, 2019

The teachers at Virginia Beach Friends School are amazing! They get to know each child and cater to their individual learning styles. My upper school child has thrived at Friends School. In her own words "I love my school and I love my teachers".

Posted: March 26, 2019

The administration is responsive and open to input from both parents and students.

Posted: March 26, 2019

Most are amazingly effective. The school seems committed to teacher development as well.

Posted: March 26, 2019

Values are part of the curriculum and culture.

Posted: March 26, 2019

Not too much, but enough to reinforce concepts. The use of online tools enables students to manage deadlines and own their success.

Posted: March 26, 2019

We are a military family with lots of schools and moves. This is the first place my daughter was excited about from day 1.

Posted: March 26, 2019

There is an absolute zero tolerance approach, but also the added benefit of encouraging face to face conflict resolution, which teaches vital life skills not otherwise acquired in a punitive or threatening environment.

Posted: March 26, 2019

The new leadership at this school has a clear vision for the direction of the schools curriculum and overall educational goals, at every level of education.

Posted: March 26, 2019

The small by design structure allows each child to learn and thrive academically.

Posted: March 26, 2019

Homework reinforces classroom skills while introducing new concepts, but is not overwhelming in quantity as well as age appropriate in the amount and nature of assignments.

Posted: March 26, 2019

Teachers allow each child the freedom to learn in his or her own best way, and own pace, encourage curiosity and inquisitiveness.

Posted: March 26, 2019

One of the reasons I could not imagine my childrens educations elsewhere, this school is committed to the education and growth of the WHOLE child, and truly integrates a values based curriculum into its overall educational mission.

Posted: March 26, 2019

I cannot speak highly enough of my experience with the Virginia Beach Friends School. Both of my children HAPPILY go to school every day, and return home with positive stories of their experiences, nearly every day. They are growing academically, socially, and emotionally in positive ways. Because this school is small by design, they are known by their teachers, administrators, and peers in a truly personal way, never just some kid in the second row, and they are thriving. The parental community is supportive, and the faculty and leadership are approachable, accessible, and responsive. I cannot imagine my children receiving an equaled overall experience anywhere else.

Posted: March 26, 2019

From teachers, assistants to head of school, each individual who works with Friends School seems to genuinely care for the students. Every student is important. Mike and Galen have made incredible changes in the last year and understand the value of the school.

Posted: March 26, 2019

My daughter is an honor roll student. There have been courses or projects that challenged her and the teachers always provided different methods of teaching the same concept. Due to the small class size teachers can provide 1 on 1 attention as needed. What may have been a weakness at the beginning of the semester is typically her greatest strength. Teachers are determined to teach the child. Every child learns differently.

Posted: March 26, 2019

Let me share a personal experience. My daughter experienced bullying. It was a moment where we choose to empower her. We wrote an email to the assistant head. It was after hours and we didn't expect to hear back. Not only did she email us back within 15 minutes but arranged a meeting immediately. At the meeting she listened carefully to my daughter with the utmost respect and compassion. She helped us solve the matter very quickly and continued to follow up with us. The matter resolved once the assistant head was involved.

Posted: March 26, 2019

The coursework is very challenging as the students are taught to think critically. Students can also ask for extra credit.

Posted: March 26, 2019

One of the reasons we chose Friends is the integration of the Quaker values of Simplicity, Integrity, Respect, Equality, Community, Peace and Stewardship. The teachers and all staff members model the values. Friends School is a nurturing environment for all students. They are focused on bringing out the very best in students.

Posted: March 26, 2019

The school provides many opportunities for creativity, community, respect for every living thing and values individuality. Beginning in 4th grade to ,my daughter has been encouraged to lead community projects. Friends has provided such a wonderful environment where my child feels appreciated and loves to go to school every day.

Posted: March 26, 2019

The energy is positive from the administration and it is felt throughout the school. At Friends School, children learn to think and analyze problems independently and creatively in an inspiring hands-on environment. The result students of all ages learn to love learning. They learn critical values to prepare them to make empowered decisions throughout their lives.

Posted: March 26, 2019

My daughter has been attending VBFS for 6 years now. It is the best thing to have happened to her. She is very bright but was falling through the cracks in public school in an oversized classroom with quite a few students with behavior problems. She mainly sat quietly as the classroom teacher busily tried to put out fires each day. My daughter had always loved school and I started to see that change. The chaos in her classroom made her sad. We found VBFS and it was exactly what she needed. The small, intimate atmosphere allowed for lots of individual attention and well managed classrooms. It also provided the opportunity to form strong bonds with students and faculty. She has really grown and feels free to be herself in the caring, supportive environment that Virginia Beach Friends School provides. I highly recommend this school. It is truly a blessing.

Posted: March 26, 2019

My grandson is a student at Friends School. I have witnessed amazing growth in his character, his self confidence, and in his leadership skills. The academics are strong and the students are well rounded. I highly recommend Friends School for anyone looking for a school that values each students creativity and unique qualities. The teachers are true mentors and the administration has each families best interest at heart with all decisions.

Posted: March 26, 2019

Each time I visit the school I walk away grateful that my grandson has the opportunity to attend the school. It is a positive place that values who he is and challenges him to explore and grow.

Posted: March 26, 2019

we have not had any experience personally with this need

Posted: March 26, 2019

while it very rarely has happened in the 4 years we have been at VBFS, when it did it was handled beautifully and the end result was friendship.

Posted: March 26, 2019

The new leadership at VBFS is exactly what this gem of a school needed. Mike Barclay and family are a breath of fresh air and we are so excited with what the future holds!

Posted: March 26, 2019

Homework is given when necessary but they also get extra time in school to get any help with assignments. It's not excessive which I appreciate as a parent so when we come home from school we have time to spend as a family.

Posted: March 26, 2019

Teachers at VBFS love the students and the students love the teachers. My son (in 9th grade) has created great relationships with his teachers and they spend the time to truly know the student. He trusts his teachers and cares about them as people.

Posted: March 26, 2019

VBFS allows the student to discover who they are without any apologies. The freedom and acceptance is what makes this school so special. VBFS cultivates amazing people.

Posted: March 26, 2019

VBFS has changed our life. My son was going onto the 6th grade (middle school) and he was a well mannered polite boy that was starting to get lost in the crowd of public school. We came to VBFS to find a place that celebrated each child and allowed them to fully become who they were meant to be. As a single parent working full time I needed some help in raising a solid human and VBFS has been tremendously important part of our lives and happiness. We are now in year 4, my son is in high school and I am thankful every single day for the gift of VBFS. My son loves his school and that is a tall order for a teenager! The kids support each other and raise each other up and that is the biggest gift you can give a child.

Posted: March 26, 2019

We are very proud of being part of Virginia Beach Friends School. Every day, my daughter is looking forward to coming to school. She enjoys her friends, the school, creative activities and all of her teachers. I do, too as a parent. Everybody is professional, caring , and truly want the best for all children. The head of Virginia Beach Friends school Michael Barclays vision for this school with Quaker education is definitely one-of-a-kind educational experience for all children and their parents. My daughter is almost 4 years old. She is enrolled in the best school in Virginia Beach with academic excellence. Thank you Virginia Beach Friends School for helping me raise my daughter in this well recognized academic setting for a lifetime success!

Posted: March 26, 2019

The school administrators are fresh and new to VB Friends. Many improvements have happened this year as a result of the new leadership. The school is growing its experiential learning philosophy by introducing a school greenhouse and a brand new kitchen. The grounds are receiving a facelift with new playground equipment and fencing. Our school leadership has communicated a desire to invest in the teachers and their continuing education. One of the things that I love most about the leadership, is that they know every family. There is a personal connection here that you cant find at many other schools.

Posted: March 26, 2019

There is a learning resource coordinator that is available for a fee to help students that may be struggling. The learning resource coordinator is an incredibly patient woman that connects beautifully with the students.

Posted: March 26, 2019

Teachers and administrators are approachable. If a bullying issue should arise, it would most certainly be addressed. A peaceful environment is a guiding principle for Friends schools.

Posted: March 26, 2019

My child is in first grade and receives one backpack page of homework a night.

Posted: March 26, 2019

Our 1/2 grade teacher is a great communicator. She sends home weekly updates and is quick to answer emails. She monitors each childs progress and will reach out if she notices any struggles/major successes. She genuinely cares about all the children and she wants to ensure they succeed.

Posted: March 26, 2019

Friends schools focus on a set of principles called the S.P.I.C.E.S. The I stands for integrity. The school promotes and encourages a strong sense of integrity.

Posted: March 26, 2019

We have had a positive experience at Friends school. We love all of the physical activity that is provided. My kiddo goes to PE 3 times a week and has dance once a week. The kids are typically out on the playground twice a day. Friends also values the arts. My child has art class, music, and theatre. In a time where many public schools have cut funding to the arts, Friends is encouraging the arts. The education and care your child will receive at Friends is priceless.

Posted: March 26, 2019

The small classroom sizes allow for the teachers to accommodate many different needs and learning styles. The in house special education teacher is also a huge help to our son and his dyslexia.

Posted: March 26, 2019

Like I said the importance of fellowship is spoken about so heavily on daily basis that there is so much comradeship upon the kids. The teachers arent as overwhelmed so they see more and are able to step in when they see something.

Posted: March 26, 2019

I like that they value the importance of family time and dont bog down the students with hours of homework per night.

Posted: March 26, 2019

They take the time to know the students as individuals so they can teach them in an effective way.

Posted: March 26, 2019

Community and fellowship is a undeniable asset in this school. Its value is heavily enforced and spoken about on a daily basis.

Posted: March 26, 2019

Teaching the importance of leading by example at a young age and reinforcing it each and every year.

Posted: March 26, 2019

We are lifers at this school. We have found our home. The past 5 years it has grown and has truly become our family.

Posted: March 20, 2019

In our experience there is no bullying to deal with.

Posted: March 20, 2019

Susan in the Learning Center is amazing. She works with kids who need additional support. And does a great job.

Posted: March 20, 2019

Homework that is assigned promoted learning and is never excessive.

Posted: March 20, 2019

All the teachers know every child at the school. They provide an excellent balance of nurturing and structure.

Posted: March 20, 2019

Everything is based on Quaker values, which basically guides the kids to be good people. Character development is a fundamental basis of a Quaker education.

Posted: March 20, 2019

The new Head of School is enthusiastic and has a great vision for the future of the school.

Posted: March 20, 2019

Our experience at VBFS has been excellent. Friends School values each child for who they are. Small classes allow teachers to make personal connections with students and individualize instruction. All students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities like theater and sports, and no one is ever excluded.

Posted: March 19, 2019

My son is in his 5th year at VBFS and he went from struggling academically and coming home frustrated to now being on the honor roll and feeling like a strong, independent student. I can't say enough about the teachers and administrators at VBFS. They foster accelerated learning with fun academic curriculum and work on the student as a human being, in a caring and loving way.

Posted: March 19, 2019