Top Tips for Choosing a School for Your Child

There’s lots to consider when choosing a school for your child and you may feel a little overwhelmed. This is perfectly normal, so don’t be too hard on yourself. Take a step back and get yourself organised so that you feel more in control of the situation. An independent preparatory school in Surrey have put together the following tips to help you make a more informed decision.

Consider What You’re Looking For

Start by preparing a list of the things that are important to you in school, based on your own requirements as well as your child’s. For instance, do you need the school to be in walking distance of your home, or perhaps on a suitable bus route? Do you need the school to provide specific extra-curricular activities that suit your child’s interests? Does your child have special educational needs that must be catered to? Do you want your child to attend a single-sex or co-educational school? Once you have a list of requirements, you can begin your research.

Browse the Web

Have a look online at the schools in your chosen area. Browse their websites and decide whether or not the school ticks your boxes. You should also be able to view their latest inspection reports and find out their average exam results. A little research will help you prepare a short-list of schools you’d like to visit.

Attend Open Days

Once you have a few favourites, schedule in a visit to each. This will provide you with an opportunity to meet some of the staff, listen to the head teacher’s talk and take a tour of the facilities. During your visit, pay attention to things like whether or not the school seems safe and clean. Consider whether the children seem happy and well-adjusted, and whether or not your child is likely to fit in. Be sure to ask lots of questions. What’s more, it’s wise to take your youngster along too. This is a scary time for them as well, so making them feel involved will allow them to relax a little. What’s more, you will be able to gauge their reaction to the school and determine on some level whether or not they actually like the idea of attending.

Don’t be afraid to talk to your friends and family and ask for support as you make this important decision.

Thanks for reading xxx