AM I CHOOSING THE RIGHT SCHOOL FOR OUR CHILD AND FAMILY?

School is a child’s second home; hence schooling is one decision that is not taken lightly by parents. When choosing a school, often a parent cannot identify easily what the school offers from visiting the school. Therefore we would like to provide some features and characteristics, to look for during this sometimes stressful process.

The Children

• The children appear relaxed, happy and respectful.
• There is a sense of intrinsic discipline in the children.
• The children during playtime appear content and busy.
• Children appear engaged and interested in their learning.
• Children demonstrate a happy learning environment, through their engagement.

The Adults/Staff

• Adults in the environment are friendly, helpful and give a sense of professional care.
• The Principal is accessible and shows interest in meeting parents.
• The staff are dressed appropriately and conduct themselves professionally.
• The teacher’s morale appears good.
• Positive comments are heard from all adults in the environment.
• There is a positive presence of parents in the school.
• Education is extended to parents.

The Environment 

• The grounds look inviting and are maintained.
• Classrooms are attractive and appear to be well resourced.
• Classrooms look set-up to meet children’s needs.
• School buildings are conducive to learning: airy, full of light and accessible.
• The reception area is welcoming, clean and tidy.
• There are outdoor activities appropriate for number and age of children.

Administration 

• Communication on notice boards gives is friendly and respectful.
• School brochures are available for new parents.
• Children’s needs are met considering their abilities through special provisions.
• Parents are provided different ways of understanding school rules and philosophy.
• Communication is effectively and respectfully provided according to parent needs.
• There is a sense of community.
• Specific school policies are available to families.
• The school values: student/staff wellbeing, collaboration, parent involvement and continuous learning.

Ultimately a family, when walking around a school environment, should assess how they ‘feel’, as this will give a sense of perceived school ethos. Having many great facilities and not addressing values, discipline and respect will not produce happy children.

“We worry about what a child will become tomorrow,

yet we forget that he is someone today”.

Stacia Tauscher