What should I look for when choosing a senior school?

Choosing a senior school for your child can feel like a big responsibility. And it seems to creep up on us too! One day they just starting primary school as 4-year-olds. Then all of sudden it’s senior school open days and exam season.

There are certain things that you will no doubt think about when choosing a senior school for your child. What are the teachers like? What kind of friends will my child make? Will they receive enough support to progress easily? These are all common questions that could be circling your mind.

However, there are things that can be done to help make this process easier. Here are some top tips for choosing a senior school for your child.

Do your online research well

Every parent wants to feel confident knowing they’ve sent their child to the best school possible. Look at school rankings online and read through reviews from parents who have sent their children to the desired school. Sometimes a candid point of view might be the answer you have been looking for.

For example, you can find a lot of information by running an online search such as best school Leicester.

Be prepared

Take some time a few years before your child is ready for the change to educate yourself on schools in your area. Try and find out the ins and outs of the school, examination systems, classroom layouts to even school meals. Open days are a great way to take a look inside the school and talk to teachers to find out further information.

Understanding how this all is set out will help you when it comes to the big things that happen down the line. For instance, when exams start looming and your child is nervous about them, you will have enough time to get the appropriate help, from hiring a Spanish GCSE tutor to sending them for after school lessons, it all comes together. You can reduce the worry by taking a step back and preparing.

Ask questions

Teachers play a huge role in the progress of a child’s academic development so making sure you’re confident with the teachers in the school is vital. Feel confident in having questions and queries, especially if you are undecided about a school.

Think about set-up

Is a grammar school a good option? What about single-gender school? Girls schools in particularly can offer benefits. There is a strong body of evidence that girls-only schools result in higher-academic achievement, less stigmatisation over subject choice and in many cases, enhanced career progression.

Trust your instinct

Sometimes overthinking can cloud your judgement. Listen to your gut feeling. The school you finally decide on will be the right one for your child. Don’t worry too much and confide in family and friends when needed.

Ultimately you know your child better than anyone, and are best placed to work alongside them to make the right decision.