The Academy of Notre Dame de Namur is a premier private Catholic girls' school located in Villanova, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1856 by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, the Academy has built a long-standing tradition of academic excellence, spiritual growth, and leadership development for young women in grades 6 through 12.
Rooted in the values of the Catholic faith and the mission of Saint Julie Billiart, the Academy is committed to fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment. The school emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and ethical leadership, preparing students not just for college, but for lives of meaningful impact. With a challenging college-preparatory curriculum, the Academy integrates rigorous academics with a strong focus on character development and service.
The campus combines historic architecture with state-of-the-art facilities, including a modern STEM center, arts studios, and athletic fields. Extracurricular activities are an essential part of student life, offering opportunities in athletics, performing arts, student government, and various academic clubs. These programs encourage students to explore their passions, build confidence, and develop valuable life skills.
One of the defining aspects of the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur is its commitment to all-girls education. Research shows that young women thrive in single-gender learning environments, and the Academy embraces this model to nurture leadership and self-assurance among its students.
Graduates of the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur go on to attend top colleges and universities across the country. More importantly, they leave with a strong sense of purpose and a deep-rooted commitment to service and justice. For families seeking a transformative educational experience grounded in faith and excellence, the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur remains a distinguished choice.