How to choose the perfect school for your child
Finding a school for your child is one of the first big decisions you will make for them, and your choice could have a long-lasting impact on them for the rest of their life. There are many considerations you should take into account when deciding on a school for your child, to ensure that they are pushed to achieve their best academically whilst feeling that they are accepted and a valuable member of the school community. The right school will mould your child into a fully rounded character and leave them with a life-long love for learning. Here are some tips for choosing the perfect school for your child.
Check out the curriculum
The curriculum the school offers is designed to provide students with a breadth of knowledge that is essential base knowledge for progressing to higher education – it will carry them into adulthood. Some schools are a recognised centre of excellence in a certain field, and you may consider sending your child here if they are particularly talented in this area. For example, a child with an affinity for learning musical instruments would benefit from a specialist music school, and one who has a growing interest in and talent for mathematics would thrive at a school specialising in STEM subjects.
Day school or boarding
Your child might feel that there is nothing worse than being away from their family and prefer the defined leisure time of returning home from a day at school. On the other hand, they might thrive from the routine and community atmosphere of a boarding school. There are many reasons why a boarding school might be the best option for your child, for instance, to provide them with some stability if your job requires a lot of moving around. Rugby School has more information about boarding options. On the other hand, your child can still receive a rigorous and enjoyable education at a day school. Choose an option that suits your child’s temperament and your family’s situation.
Find out about the pastoral care
School days are often referred to as the best days of your life; however, for many children this is far from the case. Growing up is hard for everyone and it can be made especially difficult if there is a culture of bullying in a school. Checking out a school’s pastoral care and anti-bullying policy will give you peace of mind that your child will be well looked after and any issues that might arise will be quickly resolved, ensuring that your child has a happy time at school.
Extracurricular activities
Many schools offer additional activities for students to get involved in outside of the academic timetable. From sports teams and field trips to music lessons and debate clubs, find a school that provides a selection of extracurricular activities that your child can get involved with, extending the breadth of their education so that they leave school with a varied skillset and thirst for knowledge.
Category: Local News and Sport
