The Lower School curriculum offers a wide array of opportunities for learning by doing. Whether exploring the Chesapeake Bay to conduct research, investigating the cycles of nature around campus, or acquiring engineering skills by building and testing rockets, bridges, and circuits, students are constantly challenged to use their imagination and curiosity to design projects.

Mini-mester is a week-long program for Middle School students focusing on interactive learning outside of the typical classroom setting. The Mini-mester courses are designed to fuel students' interest in further exploration. From Mini-Med School to Leadership Lab, these courses offer experiences that invigorate and inspire.  The curriculum is designed by faculty members who oversee the programs.

The Maymester concludes the 10th and 11th grades with opportunities to take a deep dive into learning. Whether students travel abroad, participate in internships, or participate in one-of-a-kind courses, our three-week Maymester is designed to be interdisciplinary and experiential in nature. Students have the opportunity to investigate specific subject areas. Maymester programming includes International Programs, courses designed by Norfolk Academy faculty, and exciting internships through Norfolk Academy's Alumni Career Connections.