How to choose a school to suit your child
Canterbury is blessed when it comes to educational options, with countless schools and preschools.
So how do you choose the best one for your child?
The first step is to determine what is important to both you and your child, which will depend on your circumstances and preferences.
One school or centre is unlikely to meet all your requirements, so decide what is non-negotiable, and what you are prepared to compromise on.
Prefer a big or small roll? Christian or secular? Bi-lingual or immersion?
What’s available in your area? What do other parents recommend, bearing in mind different schools suit different children?
What are their hours, services, style of education and care, and costs?
What is their policy on parental involvement, staffing ratios and qualifications, special needs services, and facilities?
How do they communicate with parents, and manage behaviour? Is sport a focus? Or art?
If it is zoned, is there a ballot system for out-of-zone children? If favoured schools are not close by, how easy will it be to get your child there and home again each day? Is it safe to walk or cycle? Is there a bus?
Does it have before or afterschool care? Is there a uniform? Do any of their friends attend?
Visiting is vital, so you can assess the environment first hand.
Are you made to feel welcome? Are both adults and children happy, and kind and respectful of each other? Are the children well supervised both in the classroom and outside?
Are the facilities clean and well maintained? Is the children’s work displayed?
When choosing a high school, think about your child’s abilities and preferences.
Is there a heavy academic focus? A strong arts curriculum? A strong sports programme? A Gateway programme or similar to cater for children who are aiming for a trade-based career?
Once you have narrowed down your options, check out the latest ERO reports which are freely available on the ERO website.
For more information, visit:
● ero.govt.nz/review-reports/
● parents.education.govt.nz/primary-school/your-child-atschool/choosing-a-school/
● school.nz/area/