Here's how to choose the best school for your child

You know the feeling. One minute you’re cuddling a newborn and the next thing you know, it’s time to think about kindy. No one is sure how it happens, but in the blink of an eye, you find yourself wondering: “Which school is best for my child?” If you’re overwhelmed by the options, here are four tips to help you choose the best school for your child.

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A school with similar values

The first thing to consider when choosing a school for your child is your family’s values and preferences. Think about whether you’d like your child to go to a public or independent school, a religious school, or one that’s associated with a certain learning style.

Read more about the schools you’re considering — do they take a child-centred approach and focus on each kid’s needs? Or do you get the sense that it’s more of a ‘traditional’ approach? Try to make some decisions about the educational philosophy that will align seamlessly to the things your family thinks are important.

A school that supports your child’s needs

You know your little one best. If you think they’ll thrive in a small school or love the variety of a larger school, go with your gut. There are lots of other considerations, too. If your child has specific learning needs, you’ll need to do some research into how each school will cater to them. 

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Don’t be afraid to ring the school and ask — generally, schools want to give every student the best possible chance of succeeding. And the best way to get the outcome you’re chasing is to be open about the best way to support your child.

A school whose approach you support

Each school has its own approach to teaching and learning, homework, discipline, and interpersonal relationships. An important thing to remember here is that you’re not just choosing a school for your four-year-old. They’ll likely attend the same school until they’re 12, so be sure that you look into all of the factors that might affect your child throughout primary school.

If you’re keen on nature-based learning, ask the question: “Does the nature based focus extend past the Early Childhood Centre?” If problem solving or resilience are your thing, ask: “What programs do you use to teach social and emotional skills?”

A school that makes kids feel good 

We’ve all had a negative experience with a teacher that made us feel diminished. It hurts. And it’s a feeling that stays with us. For the sake of your child’s self-esteem, choose a school that supports positive communication with students. A school that encourages students to say what they think and stand up for themselves and others. 

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A school with something special

The best school memories are made on special days. Camps, whole-school activities, PJ Day and celebrations foster a sense of community and make school more fun. Have a look at each school’s co-curricular offerings and the ways they bring students and parents together. It’s a small thing that can make a big difference.

Your family’s story

It’s worth spending some time researching schools in your area before you commit. Primary school is about so much more than just learning to read and write. Social-emotional development is a huge part of the picture. Find a school whose focus on resilience building, communication, and confidence is evident in everything they do.

 

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Woodbury Boston Primary School is a progressive independent school nestled in the bush between Denmark and Albany WA. We know that children learn best when they’re happy and having fun. With a strong focus on community, respect, independence and nature-based teaching, our students learn the Western Australian Curriculum and so much more. For more information or to book a personal tour, please ring 9845 1185.

Children, Philosophy & PracticeMartha Barnard-RaeWoodbury Boston Primary School