Relocating to a new area can be an overwhelming experience at any stage of life. Researching and choosing the best new school for our children can be a hugely daunting task and can leave us feeling anxious and guilt-ridden. Turn this minefield into a strategic gameplan by following our step-by-step approach to finding the right school for your little one.
Which School?
Consider which of the schools in the area will best suit your child: will this be state, faith, grammar, independent, preparatory, primary, special needs, mixed or single sex?
Refine your Search
Contact the schools, send for prospectuses or look online at the school’s website to see what will be on offer to your child both educationally as well as for your child’s overall development. How does the school fare in facilities for music, drama, languages and sports?
Look at reports published by OFSTED (the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills) to see how the school performs academically and have a look at the League Tables published in the broadsheets for GCSE and A’Level results. Paid independent advisory services may also be helpful in your search.
Get the Personal Touch
Arrange to visit the schools on your shortlist. First impressions are vital and will tell you if it is a place your child will fit in and be happy. Meet with the school’s Head Teacher and the relevant teaching staff to gain further insight into staff approachability and school ethos. Try to coincide your visit with a pick up time and make an effort to speak to other parents to see what they are like and how their experiences of the school compare with your first impressions.
Trust your Judgement
The most important thing in choosing a new school is to trust your own judgement as you know and understand your child’s needs better than anyone else.
Posted: 9. January 2011 15:27