Considerations for choosing a School

Making decisions about care and schooling for your child/ren is not easy. This guide may be useful in helping you to decide what’s best for your child.

YOUR CHILD

Do the children currently at the school look happy and are they playing well?
How does the school assist you and your child in settling into the groups?
What is the staff/ child ratio?
How are the children engaged in their learning?
By what means and how often do parents receive information about their child’s progress?
What type of planned activities are available for the children?

FACILITIES

Are there open spaces and smaller areas for children to develop different skills?
Are the facilities clean, safe, well maintained and cared for?
Are the classes equipped with enough toys, play areas and air-purifiers?

THE SCHOOL

How long has the school been operating?
How does the environment feel-is it safe, secure and warm?
What type of child- centred activities are available?

STAFFING

Do staff appear happy and dedicated to the children in the school?
Do the teaching staff possess qualifications and or have experience?
How often does the school provide ongoing staff training/development?
How do staff prepare for and plan for the children?

GENERAL

When visiting, how were your questions answered?
Did you feel comfortable in the environment?
What documentation is provided for your consideration?
Does the school’s philosophy fit with your ideas on education?