Opportunities to Lead & Grow
Interested in voice lessons, soccer, student government, community service projects, or classical Indian dance?
We have something for everyone at Purnell.
We encourage you to discover and pursue your interests outside the classroom and develop leadership skills that will prepare you for the future.
Clubs & Activities
Athletics

Purnell Athletics Philosophy
Sports have long been considered to be positive for boys and girls. Until Title IX, however, girls have not enjoyed the same access as boys. At Purnell, girls can enjoy both team and lifelong sports. Team sports such as soccer, basketball, and softball provide our girls with the opportunity to work together as a team and travel to compete with other schools. Purnell’s LifeSports program focuses on sports that are all-inclusive and can be enjoyed throughout one’s life. Purnell introduces girls to lifelong sports such as hiking, golf, fly-fishing, and skiing. The older students serve as mentors and coach the younger girls as they develop their leadership skills. Purnell understands that teaching 21st century skills does not end at the schoolhouse door and through intentional design sports can be a positive platform for positive development.
High Class Athletic Facilities
Our athletic facilities include five outdoor tennis courts, two sports fields, the Sessions softball field and outdoor batting cage, a ropes course, and an indoor athletic center. The Moran Athletics Center boasts a 1,000 square foot gymnasium, an aerobics studio, a cardio/weight room, and a dedicated dance studio.
Purnell competes in the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools Athletics Association.
Team Sports | LifeSports |
Soccer Dance Synthesis Basketball Softball | Weights & Cardio Training Horseback Riding (see below) Ropes Course (see below) Pilates Skiing Tennis Yoga Running |
"Purnell has helped me succeed as a student, and as an individual. I love to ride horses, but I've also found an interest in acting. I'm involved in Adlibbers Acting Troupe and Technical Theater. And I'm also a part of Roots and Shoots, a community service group."
Join the Club
How will you enrich your Purnell experience? You’re a click away from taking the next step.

Meet Alexandra
New Jersey/9th Grade
"I joined the soccer team and became the starting goalie. I never thought I'd have this much fun playing soccer or that I'd improve as much as I have at the sport. Purnell has helped to make me more confident in so many ways."