How do I know if it’s the right school?

This question has been put to me a lot in recent weeks by a number of parents and it’s made me reflect on how we choose schools for our children and what the ‘right school’ looks like. 

 

Both of my children went to prep schools as I wanted them to have access to a broad and balanced curriculum, as well as the myriad extra-curricular activities on offer. It was clear from a relatively young age where their interests and skills lay and the schools they went to nourished and nurtured these; this then helped me to identify a senior school which would continue to develop those interests whilst also giving them access to a rich curriculum. 

 

So, I shortlisted schools that I felt had the right balance of academics alongside a thriving extra-curricular programme. Just as important to me was the level of pastoral care. So many schools talk about the exceptional pastoral care they offer, but I wanted to see it for myself. So I visited on Open Days, attended talks and spoke to the students. As I knew I wanted my children to go to boarding school, it was vital that the ethos and feel of the boarding house and the family feel was authentic and supportive. 

 

It’s only looking back that I realise how many micro decisions I made, how much I focused my attentions on some areas more than others and how carefully I adjusted plans based on each school I visited. 

 

Picking the right school for your child is complicated, nuanced and involves so many different factors. I always tell parents that the ethos of a school comes from the headteacher and that’s why meeting them and listening to their vision for the school is crucial. Speaking to current students and getting a real feel for what works and what doesn’t is essential. The students I spoke to were open and honest with me (I heard ‘I’ve made friends for life,’ along with ‘themed food nights are never as epic as we hope them to be’) and their happiness and contentment with school shone through. 

 

My background as a teacher and boarding parent were definitely key in helping me to choose a school for my children and I support all of the parents who come to Aster Tuition with my suggestions for a school that will suit the needs, personalities and interests of their child. 

 

So to summarise, here are 8 top tips to finding the right school for your child:

• Identify your child’s key interests and skills

Look into the academic programs offered by the school and determine if they align with your child’s interests and career aspirations.

• Research the curriculum offered at the schools

Consider the availability of extracurricular activities, such as sports teams, clubs, and student organisations. These can be an important part of your child’s overall educational experience.

• Look at the size and location

Consider the size and location of the school. Determine if it’s in a location that suits you and is accessible for your child. Also, think about the size of the school and how it might impact your child’s academic and social experience.

• Tuition and Financial Support

Determine if the school fees are within your budget and if the school offers bursaries or scholarships. It’s important to have a clear understanding of the cost of attendance and how it will impact your family’s finances.

• Student Support Services

Look into the availability of student support services, such as tutoring, academic advising, and mental health services. These can be important resources for your child’s academic and personal success.

• Shortlist Schools

Shortlisting schools when researching them for your child can be a helpful way to narrow down your options and focus on the schools that are the best fit for your child’s needs and goals.

• Visit open days and talks

This will enable you to get an insight into the culture of the school and determine if it aligns with your child’s values and beliefs. Consider the school’s approach to diversity, inclusivity, and social responsibility.

• Talk to current students

This is a great way to get in depth insight into the school. If possible, asking questions directly to students will give you open and honest feedback.