As the school year begins its slow journey to the end of the line, parents are picking up the pace to support their child through exam preparation and the process of moving onto a different school for a new chapter in their lives. However, the task of choosing a new school for your child can be daunting as the responsibility of which direction they will take in life falls entirely on your shoulders. This isn’t stated to make it seem off putting, but to help individuals understand the importance of this one decision. There are many things that can be checked such as league tables, school reviews and going into the school on open days to discuss personal questions with teachers. The feel of the school alone can help you identify whether or not it will be a good place for your child to study in. Whether this is your first time making a decision like this or you are just looking to prepare for the future ahead, here are some top tips for choosing a school for your child.
Be prepared
It is highly recommended to give yourself as much time possible when it comes to looking into schools. This is because it can be such a life changing decision and if it can be avoided, should not be something that is rushed. For example, if your child is moving onto secondary school, the best time to start looking is when they are in year 5. This gives you enough time to narrow down your options so when it comes to the time to apply, you have a solid list waiting for you. Taking the time out to attend open days and meet with teachers is also one of the best ways to get a feel for the school and what it has to offer. You can also use this opportunity to talk to the headteacher as they will have the best insight on the school and its ethos. If you attend these open days in advance, you can discuss any changes that may occur by the time it comes to your child attending. When you are there, be sure to ask yourself specific questions such as: Will my child be able to work in this classroom setting? Can I imagine my child playing with these children at break time? What are the parents like? What concerns do I have? Be sure to make a note of your first impression during the visit. Do this with every school you go to, so you have a clear way to compare them.
Do your homework
The main reason children go to school is to grow academically, so it is vital that you are certain your child will be attending an establishment that can cater to their needs. One thing to look at are league tables and test scores. Whilst they may not be an accurate representation or prediction of what your child will achieve, it is a clear way to understand how the school performs overall. Another great tip is to look at ratings and reviews of the school. This will give you an honest and non-biased answer, allowing you to be prepared for any unexpected surprises. If you know anyone that has previously attended the selected school, it is worth discussing with them too.
Go with your gut
After all the research and time put in to looking for the perfect school, you may find that you’re still feeling unsure about what to do. Remember, you know your child better than anyone else does, so statistics and research aren’t the only factors to consider. Go with your gut. Be confident with your decision as you are the biggest expert when it comes to your child.
