LIVE 24-SEVEN
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SCHOOL? . . .GO BEYOND THE PUBLISHED PERFORMANCE FIGURES
Whether investigating a nursery, primary school, secondary school or sixth-from college for their child, many people will ask the same question; “Do you choose the school or does the school choose you?” The answer, like most things in life is a bit of both. Whilst you may have to apply to the educational establishment of your choice, remember they have to accept you...
Selecting the right nursery should hopefully ensure your child has structure and the best start with the basic skills in life - reading and writing. Nursery is also an important part of learning how to socialise – which is of equal importance. Some preschools even teach languages; a super head start!
Choosing to send your child to private school is also a considerable investment, both financially and emotionally. It could be considered as one of the most important decisions you can make regarding their future.
Many schools specialise in certain activities. From arts to science and sport, their facilities will reflect this – alongside a top-notch education of course. So, which school plays to the strengths of your child? It’s worth remembering that a child's extracurricular hobbies can really help them stand out; being a winner on the running track or hockey team combined with good grades could make them far more appealing to a school or university that promotes sports strongly.
It’s important to go beyond the published performance figures and look at the school itself and the person at the helm, the Head. Whilst published results are always helpful when assessing the grades achieved, they don't necessarily highlight how fulfilled and happy the pupils are. Open days and 'meet the Head' are great ways of delving deeper into the ethos and
atmosphere. Will your children be happy, fulfilled and excel at a school? That's a big decision to make, so visiting several schools is strongly advised in order to understand the environment.
Ask probing questions. The questions that a parent asks also gives teachers a great insight into what they have planned for their child; the information gathering goes both ways...
One of our editor’s friends sent his daughter from Warwickshire to an international boarding school, miles away, his reasoning being that whilst they had strong academic results, it would give his daughter the chance to meet people from around the world, and to which he added with a smile, “Many of which have influential parents”. His strategy of, “The better the contacts you have in life, the better your chances” has paid off, as his daughter spends her holidays in some fantastic homes around the world - and in great company!
It’s worth noting the application dates of your shortlisted schools and what form the application takes. Your child may be required to sit a test or supply a bespoke piece of work, this will require preparation! Invest time in researching schools and most definitely visit them, choosing the right school is more than just location, location, location… and it goes way beyond the published results!
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LIVE24-SEVEN.COM
EDUCATION WHICH SCHOOL ?
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