EDUCAT ION
OUR AREA’S SCHOOLS ARE DOING THEIR BEST TO WOO PROSPECTIVE PARENTS AT THIS TIME OF YEAR – BUT WHERE DO YOU START WHEN IT COMES TO TACKLING OPEN DAYS AND CHOOSING THE RIGHT SCHOOL FOR YOUR CHILD? OPEN DAYS An Educated Choice
WORDS BY NICOLA FOLEY
to feel right for you both,” she counsels. “As a parent, you naturally want to give your child the best possible start in life, and education is an essential part of their development, security, and, of course, their happiness. “Therefore, it’s crucial to do your research before making a decision, and ensure you ask lots of questions,” she continues. “Think about what you would like to know directly from the school. If possible, also try talking to current parents to get their perspectives, too. If your school has open days, whether virtually or in person, be sure to attend, as it’s a great way of getting a better feel for the school and its core values.” Before going to have a look around in person, make a list of priorities,
electing a school can be a bewildering, stressful process. Of all the decisions you make with your child, it’s one of the most
high-stakes – after all, their wellbeing and future success might be in the balance – but with so many considerations to make, where do you start? For Jeanette Ariano, head of admissions and marketing at St Mary’s School, Cambridge, it’s all about preparation and planning. Begin by researching the practical things you need to know – admissions process, subject offering, costs and so on – but don’t neglect to consider the school’s broader culture and values. “Deciding on your child’s school is an important decision, and one that has
SUPPORT NETWORK Stoke College (top) is mostly back to normal with regard to its open days, except for some reduced numbers and the provision of extra masks and hand sanitiser
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