A trip to Hulbert Outdoor Center highlights the fall and focuses on helping the class develop communication skills to solve problems and meet challenges as well as to provide the opportunity for individuals to test their own skills. Ninth graders may choose to assist in teaching classes to Lower School students. The class works together to raise funds for a class gift, sponsoring special events for Upper School students. Ninth graders also take leadership roles on athletic teams in all sports. Many students returning to Bement comment on the importance of their ninth grade year for helping them to mature in a small setting free from many of the pressures of larger secondary schools.
Students appreciate the availability of teachers as mentors and friends in a smaller class setting.