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Beyond the Classroom: The Role of Clubs in Prep School Education

Tilton School Club Fair

“Join a club, they said. It’ll be fun, they said.”

At Tilton—they were right.

This year, Tilton has introduced a dedicated club block into the weekly schedule, making space for the growing impact and popularity of student-led clubs on campus. Students have embraced the opportunity and there’s truly something for everyone from Student Government to International Club to a Lego Club.

Club block provides a time where all students are available and have no other requirements or expectations besides clubs. We hope this allows students to be able to relax and enjoy their club to the fullest,” says Director of Academics and Student Growth Connor Compton. By giving students a block of time where their club can meet without having to miss other commitments, it gives them the flexibility to try something new.

Encouraging Students to Try Something New

The intentional inclusion of a club block encourages students to step outside their comfort zones and try new things. The goal is simple: to inspire students to Step In—even when it feels a little uncomfortable—because that’s where real growth begins.

Clubs challenge students to plan, organize, and execute. They are asked to think about what ‘could be possible’ and then given support to make it happen,” says Compton. 

Already this school year, Tilton has hosted a Club Fair to promote all new and returning clubs on campus. Student representatives displayed posters promoting their club and pitched it to prospective members.

“Clubs at Tilton represent a unique space outside of sports and academics where students can be a part of something that doesn’t rely on scholastic aptitude or physical abilities,” says Tilton Student Body Press Secretary Jamie Scott. At Tilton, anyone can start a club at any time. All it takes is at least five members, a faculty representative, and a shared passion. 

By stepping in, reaching out, and accepting the challenge of joining a club, our students show us that they’re not just participating—they’re growing.

Clubs at Tilton

Some clubs at Tilton stand the test of time, returning year after year as essential parts of campus — such as Student Government and the Ambassadors Club.  Others are created to reflect the evolving interests and passions of the current student body, ensuring there’s always something new to explore.

Ambassadors Club

Health and Wellness Club

Black Student Union Club

Athletic Leadership Club

Chess Club

Makerspace 

Rusty’s Club

Student Government

Granite State Challenge

Music Club

International Club

Lego Club

Sports Club

Tilton Outing Club

Table Tennis Club

Philosophy Club

Women’s Interest Club Club

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