Founded in 1902, Brunswick School is an independent, college preparatory day school in Greenwich, providing character-based education for boys in prekindergarten through grade 12.
Tom Philip has been head of school at Brunswick for more than two decades. A graduate of Hotchkiss School as well as Bucknell and Wesleyan Universities, Philip is the father of three grown children and worked in finance before finding his calling in education.
Tell us something surprising about your school.
“Brunswick has a Vermont campus — 650 acres of wilderness offering applied classroom and experiential learning for sophomores.”
How did your school cope during the pandemic?
“At Brunswick, we are always practicing for challenges — how to face them when they inevitably come and how to overcome them and grow stronger still in doing so. And to prepare for those challenges, we regularly practice building up our strong character.”
What aspects of running a school are most appealing to you?
“Being a force for good.”
What recent experience at school put a smile on your face?
“Teaching and learning through the pandemic of 2020-21, with students coming to school each morning, eager to learn and to grow.”
What superpower do you bring to school each day?
“Optimism.”
What led you to choose a career in education?
“Inspiring teachers.”
How do you recharge in your free time?
“Time with family and jogging.”
Brunswick School at a glance
- Head of school: Thomas W. Philip
- Number of faculty and staff: 245
- Student enrollment: 1,045 boys
- Annual tuition: $40,000 to $46,200
For more, visit brunswickschool.org.
