Schools
So how do you choose the right school for your child?
Think back to when you were at school, what sort of school did you
go to and was it right for you? You may have left school many years
ago so things may have changed quite a lot since you were going to
school, however it is a good starting point as you will know where
you felt your school helped you and where it did not.
Once you have had a think, sit down with your partner or a friend
and make a checklist then work down the list for each possible
school so you can make the best choice.
Spend time finding out how many schools are in your area, take time
to look at them all properly, schools can differ greatly within an
area so it is important not to rush a decision which could have an
impact on your childs future.
It is important to keep the moving experience a positive one, if
children can sense any stress with regards the move they may also
start to dread the move. It is all about making it fun and
involving them as much as possible.
Visit the School
Visit the schools if you can. Go to a school open day to see what
the school has to offer. If you can make an appointment to tour the
school with a teacher or head teacher who should be able to answer
all of your questions and show you parts of the school.
Talk to your child as they may know other children who attend the
schools on your list. Get them to talk to their friends about the
school with you and you could talk to their parents about how they
find the school and the good and bad points.
Ask about the facilities and after school activities the schools
have to offer. Remember that school is not only a place of learning
but also a place where your child will learn the rudimentary skills
of communication and how to mix with others.
Speak to the local council and ask about league tables and exam
results, this will tell you how well the school performs.
Now make a shortlist of schools and ask to visit them again.
Sometimes a second look help you see things that you may have
missed first time round. Most schools will be happy to do this. Not
only does it show you have your child's well being at heart, but it
also allows you to get to know the staff.
Make notes as you go round and ask lots of questions. Look at how
the teachers and pupils interact if your visit was scheduled at the
end of the day speak to some of the parents who have come to
collect their children. Just explain that you are considering the
school for your child and most people will be happy to give you
their opinion.
Don't forget that it is your child who will be spending most of
their time at school, so take on board their thoughts and comments
and make sure they are happy with the chosen school.
Search for a local school