By Nina ’27
Transitioning from the Middle School Campus to the Upper School on Coldwater Canyon is one of the defining moments in a Harvard-Westlake student’s journey. After spending seventh through ninth grade on the beautiful, intimate Bel Air campus where students build close relationships, learn routines, and feel rooted in a familiar environment the shift to a new schedule, new teachers, and a much larger space can feel both exciting and intimidating. Yet the Upper School campus eases this transition by offering spaces that encourage independence, community, and personal growth. From expanded academic opportunities to the energy of cross-grade interactions, the Upper School becomes not just a new campus, but a new stage of life.
Another major part of “leveling up” is stepping into the Upper School’s social traditions—especially the dances. Homecoming becomes one of the first big moments where sophomores feel fully welcomed into the Coldwater community. The entire campus comes alive with spirit days, sports games, and the dance itself, where students from grades 10th to 12th come together in celebration. For many, it’s the first time experiencing a truly high-school-level event: louder music, bigger crowds, and a sense of freedom that feels completely different from anything on the Middle School campus. Throughout the year, other dances and student-planned events help build friendships across grades and give sophomores a chance to feel connected, confident, and part of a much larger community. These moments create memories that define the Upper School experience and make the transition exciting, not just academically, but socially too.
The transition to the Upper School also introduces students to a completely upgraded environment filled with new traditions and exciting spaces that redefine daily life on campus. Sophomores gain a sense of independence with a dedicated cafeteria designed just for them, while the campus itself challenges everyone to explore more–more stairs, more movement, and more opportunities to bump into classmates across grade levels. Students also benefit from things like peer support, 18 affinity groups, a revitalized football field, and upgraded athletic facilities including larger training rooms, locker rooms, and even a refreshed sandwich bar for quick meals between classes. And beyond the campus gates, landing in Studio City means students step into a neighborhood full of incredible food options, coffee shops, and hangout spots that make the transition feel like a genuine step into a bigger world. Together, these new features transform the Upper School into a place where independence, community, and opportunity come together in a totally new way.
