10/10/2019
It’s that time of year where parents across the country will be looking at school options for 2020. Whether your child will be making their first steps into primary school or they’re making the big step up into secondary, it’s important to make the right decision for you and most importantly your child.
Do your research
Research heavily on all the schools in your area. Check their Ofsted reports, check their exam results and read their website with a fine-tooth comb. Ask local parents what their thoughts are on the school. If you’re new to the area, search for local Facebook groups where you can speak to mums in the area about your worries and concerns. Finally, visit the school on their open days or arrange a tour with the school and take your child along so you can both get a good feel for the school.
Don’t pick a school because all their friends are going
Just because all their friends are going to one school, it doesn’t mean it’s the right one for them. It can understandably be hard for your child to go to a new school on their own but they will make new friends – we promise.
Pay close attention
When you visit for open days, do the kids and staff look happy? I mean really happy, not those fake smiles they put on for guests. If the answer is no then it probably isn’t the right school for your child. Do they have any club’s available for extra curriculum activities? Even if your child doesn’t end up using them, it can be an indication that the teachers aren’t prepared to put in the effort to further educate the children. It’s also advised to have a look at their toilets as these can say a lot about a school!
Speak to your child
Although it’s a big decision to make, speaking to your child and getting their thoughts will help the process as they will be attending the school on a daily basis. If they don’t have a good feel on a school when they visit, don’t push them to go there as you will most likely have problems later down the line.
Whether your child is attending school for the first time or is making the step up onto secondary it’s important that you and your child make the right choice. We hope these tips help you on your decision, if you have any other tips let us know in the comments below.