As parents, we’ve already hit the jackpot in Harrogate as we have many great schools in our town. Each comes with their own unique offers and characteristics, just like your child. So how do you make the decision about which school to choose for your little one?
There’s no doubt, it’s a hard decision, so to help you out, here are my five top tips for choosing the school that is right for you and more importantly, for your child.
1. Research
Do your research – blogs and forums like Mumbler are a great way to start finding out about schools in your area. Follow this up by reading the school websites. They should give you an overview of what the school can offer including the most recent national test results and Ofsted report. Try to take a balanced view of test data. It’s normal for results to go up and down over time. When it comes to Ofsted reports, look at the date to see how long ago it was written, is it still relevant? Schools change over time and reports can only tell you so much so I would never rule a school out, or in, based on results and reports alone. A lot of schools are now using social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter etc) which often show what goes on in the school day to day and the activities children get up to. More tellingly will be the interaction with parents and recommendations on Facebook in particular. However, you have got to get inside a school, meet the staff and children and see for yourself. Which leads me to my next tip…
2. Visit
Visit the schools you are interested in. When I was choosing a school for my son, I visited almost every school In Harrogate because I was so worried about getting it wrong. Parents have different ideas about what’s important in a school, so your friend may love a school that you weren’t particularly impressed with. Are you looking for high academic excellence, sports facilities or is health and wellbeing high on your agenda? Perhaps it’s a bit of each. Before and after school care availability and closeness to home are all practicalities but can make a big difference to your decision. It was the process of visiting schools that helped me work out what mattered to me. If you’re anything like me as a parent, sometimes I need to find out what it is I don’t like, to know what it is that I do! I realised that the values of the school were what really mattered to me.
3. Values
Do the values of the school match your own? School’s must publish their ethos and values statement on the website. This is often overlooked but is actually really important to your choice because everything the school does should be built on those values. When you go on a tour, can you see and feel the values in action? Are they talked about on the tour? If not, ask about them. If you don’t get a clear answer or one that satisfies you, it may not be the school for you. Look at the behaviour policy on the website – does it reflect your own parenting values? It’s often the little things that tell you about the values and ethos of a school e.g. what is the first phone call with the school like? How easy is it to get an appointment? Are you welcomed warmly to the school? Are you given the time you need to ask questions?
4. Curriculum
Every school you visit will have its own distinct offer and curriculum, although most schools follow the National Curriculum. This is the minimum that schools must teach but most schools will enhance and enrich the National Curriculum with learning they believe is vital for their pupils. At Coppice Valley, the development of the whole child, expanding horizons and personal wellbeing are a core part of our curriculum. We teach our children to be resilient, perseverant, kind and thoughtful. We learn about mental and physical health. We teach about diversity, equality and how to be a good citizen of the world. We build in key experiences into our curriculum, called “The Coppice 50”, to inspire our pupils and introduce them to a wide range of activities from theatre trips, camp-outs, star-gazing and public speaking to first aid skills and getting involved in local politics. Try to find out if the curriculum of the school meets your expectations as a parent or will suit the needs of your child.
5. Your Child
Will this school be the right place for your child? Perhaps your child is quiet and reserved or outgoing and boisterous? Will the school setting and atmosphere match your child’s personality? For many, outdoor space and a commitment to learning outside is vital. For others, libraries and a strong reading culture is essential for their child. If your child has special needs, does the school have the resources, and outlook towards your child’s needs that you want. What’s the atmosphere like in school? Do the children look happy and engaged in learning? Is there a positive buzz, a warm, friendly feel in the classrooms?
Having done all your research and visits, take some time to reflect. Where can you see your child, and yourself, feeling happy, safe and valued? Choosing your child’s school may seem overwhelming, but try not worry too much. Ultimately, you are the expert on your child and if you’ve done your homework and listen to your gut instincts, you won’t go wrong. Good luck!
Written by Emma Meadus – Head Teacher at Coppice Valley Primary School.
