Choosing a school for your kid is a big responsibility and not something that everyone relishes the opportunity to do. Of course, when it comes to carving out your child’s education there are also some exciting parts – knowing you’re helping to put them on the right track for a good future is exciting. Although we have the national curriculum which puts a standard and what should be taught in schools, different schools offer different things so it is well worth doing your research and making sure that you pick the right one for you – and your child. Listen To Your ChildOne important thing is to listen to your child and their needs, especially when they get a little older. For example, there will be plenty of grammar schools in Leicester but there might be one that your child really doesn’t want to go to. There are no rules to say that you can’t research and decide what would be the best choice, but if they’re not happy to go there it is unlikely they’ll engage with opportunities there as much as they could. Instead, tour schools with your child and get them involved in the decision-making process so that you’re both on the same page and as happy as possible.
Do Your ResearchBefore you choose any school make sure you do your own research – go to the school, read the literature but also look up things like grades and reputation online. It is unlikely that everyone will agree when it comes to schools but having a look at what people are saying and how happy previous students have been is a good start and will help you with your decision making process. Speak to The SchoolSpeak to the school, but also ask them about the bad parts too. For example, what would be their policy if your child was bullied or what support do they offer if you were having trouble getting your teenager to go to school? Ask them what extracurricular activities they offer & how your child might get involved in these. It can be awkward to ask questions but at the end of the day, that is the only way you are going to get the answers you need. They’ll be used to this and in fact, will see it as a good thing that you care enough to send your child somewhere well-researched that you are happy with. What Else Do They Offer?When speaking to the school make sure you ask lots of questions and get them to tell you about the whole picture of the school. When do they offer to support your child and help them thrive? Schools all offer the same sorts of lessons but it can be what they offer outside of the classroom that can make all the difference to your child’s education. If you have any handy hints and tips for what to look for when choosing a school I would love to hear them
