T.J. Ferrick is the Head Coach for the Varsity Boys' Basketball team at The Shipley School, bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for developing student-athletes. With a successful coaching career spanning over a decade, T.J. is dedicated to fostering growth both on and off the court.
Before joining Shipley, T.J. served as an Assistant Coach at Swarthmore College for four years. During his tenure, he played a key role in achieving an impressive 78-11 record. Highlights of his time at Swarthmore include guiding the team to the 2023 Final Four, leading them to a 2019-20 season where they were ranked #1 by D3Hoops from start to finish, and securing the 2023 Centennial Conference Tournament Championship. Under his mentorship, the team also became two-time Centennial Conference regular season Champions.
In addition to his role at Shipley, T.J. is the General Manager of Pro Skills Basketball, where he coaches the 17U team. He also serves as the Director of Camps & Events for City of Basketball Love, further demonstrating his commitment to the sport and player development.
T.J. began his coaching career at his alma mater, Penn Charter, where he was an assistant varsity coach and an English teacher from 2011 to 2019. A 2006 graduate of Penn Charter, T.J. continued his academic and athletic journey at Earlham College, earning a B.A. in Philosophy while playing collegiate basketball.
T.J. Ferrick is enthusiastic about leading Shipley's Varsity Boys' Basketball team, building on the school's tradition of excellence in academics and athletics. His vision and dedication to team spirit are the foundation for the future success of the Gator boys' basketball program.
The Shipley School is proud to celebrate the achievements of our 2025 Alumni Award recipients—three distinguished individuals who embody the values of excellence, leadership, and service in their respective fields.
For over 20 years, Shipley’s partnership with alumna Paige West ’86 and the West Collection has brought world-class contemporary art to the Speer Gallery, inspiring students to think boldly and engage with real-world ideas.
Shipley’s Speer Gallery, led by art teacher Julia Staples, is a vibrant hub for learning and connection, showcasing thought-provoking exhibits that spark conversation and inspire collaboration across subjects like History, Science, and English.
Read about how Shipley changed life for Sissy ffolliott ’70 and why she supports the Centennial Society—ensuring future generations receive the same transformative education and encouragement she experienced over 55 years ago.
Middle School Science Teacher Ace Schwarz recently presented an education-focused project at the prestigious American Astronomical Society (AAS) Conference. Learn how Mx. Schwarz brings NASA research into Shipley’s classrooms, empowering students with authentic data projects and cutting-edge astronomy lessons.
To celebrate Black History Month, Shipley was proud to host Carlotta Walls LaNier, the youngest member of the Little Rock Nine, on Monday, February 3. Carlotta spoke to students and faculty about her story - for the right of every child to learn and grow without discrimination. She also spent time with the Black Student Union.
Congratulations to Aarik ’28 and Rohail ’26 for their creativity and award-winning excellence in the CMU CS Academy Fall 2024 Creative Task Competition, hosted by Carnegie Mellon University’s School of Computer Science.
Shipley’s Finance Club, hosted Tim Buckley, former CEO of Vanguard, for a discussion on career development, leadership, and the power of curiosity. Buckley shared practical advice on building a fulfilling career, the importance of asking thoughtful questions, and how purpose can drive lasting success.
Shipley’s dynamic history curriculum challenges students to think critically, engage deeply with diverse perspectives, and connect the past to today’s world. Explore how innovative electives and passionate educators bring history to life in 11th and 12th grade classrooms.
Shipley’s Middle School history classrooms are alive with creativity, immersive projects, and hands-on learning. From muckraking magazines to trench art, students don’t just study history—they experience it, making meaningful connections to the past and present.
The Shipley School Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Ian L. Craig as the next Head of School, effective July 1, 2025. Mr. Craig brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in independent schools and a strong commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and program innovation.
Over the past five years, Shipley’s Cross Country program has surged forward, blending competitive success with a vibrant culture of personal growth and team spirit. This rise has been powered by an engaged community of runners, dedicated coaches, and a program spanning Lower, Middle, and Upper School.
On display in Shipley's Speer Gallery from January 27 - April 4, 2025, an exhibition of paintings and sculptures addressing the urban landscape of Philadelphia.
Ranked #6 in the nation for U15 squash players, Kate reflects on her journey—from her first lesson with Coach Chris to joining Shipley's varsity squash team. Learn how the Shipley Squash Academy shaped her skills, mindset, and love for the game as she continues to tackle new challenges and reach for new heights.
It's easier than ever to stay connected and in the know about all things Shipley with our new mobile app. From calendars and lunch menus to photo galleries, directories, and ShipleyNet, the app keeps everything you need right at your fingertips. It also brings you content from Shipley’s main social media accounts.
Shipley’s annual Swamp Night is on January 24! Bring your family for food and fun with the entire Shipley community. Wear your favorite Shipley gear and join the Shipley Swamp to cheer on our basketball teams!
The Gators had an awesome fall sports season, most notably The Girls Cross Country team claimed their first-ever FSL Championship and finished second in the PAISAA State Championships! Dagny Shiffler ’25 took first place winning an FSL gold and placed 5th at states
The Shipley School is a private, coeducational day school for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students, located in Bryn Mawr, PA. Through our commitment to educational excellence, we develop within each student a love of learning and a desire for compassionate participation in the world.