EDUCATION EDITION
TOP CHOICE The Perse (above) and Stephen Perse Cambridge (left) keep an open dialogue
on a greater role in the decision-making as they get older, their opinion is always important, emphasises Claire Ziwa at The Perse School. The school encourages parents to make the decision about the right school with their children. “It’s about open communication with your child at all stages so they feel that they are part of the process, even when they’re little.” Where taster days are offered, these can give an unbeatable way for children to experience the school and see if it’s both a good pastoral and academic fit, points out David Hewlett. As wonderful as the grounds, trips and clubs might be, what matters is that a school will be right for that individual child. “If the child doesn’t quite fit the mould, then it’s not going to work for them,” he admits. For some, a different and perhaps gentler setting ‘will equate to a happier experience and better learning’. At the end of the process, the schools that appeal should tick all of the obvious boxes. They should inspire confidence in their ability to help your child be happy, make solid friendships and be taught by kind, inspirational teachers who instil values that last a lifetime. That’s the goal of the great schools in the local area, confirms Dr Paddy Wallace. “We want families to send their child here because we are creating in them the beginning of a journey through life.” It’s all about learning to learn – something that, in the right school, will help navigate their way into a successful future.
It’s about open communication with your child at all stages so they feel that they are part of the process
While hearing from the senior academic team is important, insights from other staff members can also be valuable, according to David Hewlett at the Stephen Perse Foundation. “Speaking to the on-site groundsman, the kitchen team or pulling aside a class teacher just to have a one-to- one personal conversation is really telling,” he shares. Their willingness to engage, talk about the routines of the school and how happy they are working there will give you what he describes as ‘that softer side’ – not just how happy the children are, but the family feel and the school’s care for both its employees and pupils. Kimbolton School’s Rosie White highlights three key points for families to focus on. First, the fit – how well does the school’s approach to education align with
your child’s needs and personality? Second, the school’s culture – is it one where your child will thrive, both academically and socially? And finally, support – what is available for students in terms of academic help and pastoral care? Your shortlist “should consist of the schools that best meet these criteria,” she affirms. “Ideally, you should have two or three contenders.” If you feel comfortable with a school, consider booking a further visit where you can physically go into the lessons, suggests Claire Anderson at St Faith’s. Don’t hesitate to engage with the pupils. “They are very open and will say what they’re learning about and show you their books.” One dilemma for parents is how much their child should be involved in the whole process. While children naturally take
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