Making the right decision when you choose a school is extremely important.  It can make the difference between a child being happy or unhappy.

Just simply opting for the school closest to you may not be best option.  That school may not be right for your child.  Consider all your options first and visit schools before deciding.

Begin by finding out just what schools are available within your   area.  All schools have a catchment area, drawing most of their pupils from within a specified radius.  If you have a religious requirement, then you will probably need to be prepared for your children to travel much longer distances each day. 

Do your research. Look up the schools on the internet. Find out as much as possible about the schools – what they are doing, if there are any special activities they undertake, whether they have an active Parent/Teacher Association?  What policies do they have on bullying? How do they deal with children with special needs? Has the school had any bad publicity?  

Arrange to visit each school you are considering.  Make a list of any special questions that you need answering that would be relevant to your child, for example how do they teach dyslexic children? What policies do they have in place for dealing with unruly or problem children? What happens if a problem occurs? 

As you approach the school, look at the buildings and grounds.  Are they clean and tidy? Are there any broken windows? Are signs readable – or are letters missing?  How good is the security?  Are people friendly and approachable?  Look at the entrance areas – are there displays of the children’s work to be seen? Do the children appear happy and content in their classrooms and as they move about the corridors? Do you see any evidence of shouting, of children being made to stand outside a classroom?  Do children seem proud of their school?

Talk to as many staff as possible. Find out what they do and how they teach their subjects.  Observe their relationships with the children – do they appear to get on well with them? 

Ask yourself what impression you are gaining about that school? 

If there are any school open days, fetes or other activities open to the general public; go along and see what is happening. Take your children along and give them the opportunity to ask questions.  Listen carefully to their response.  What do they think of the school? 

Compare your findings on each school and use this to decide which school you prefer.  Once you have decided, make sure you apply in good time for a new school year, as available spaces may be limited.

This content was provided by one of our users, pinewoodlodge