Choosing good schools for your kids may be the most difficult task you'll undertake. If you read Your Child's Education you'll have an idea where to start your research. Depending on where you're moving to, your choices may be limited to a few options. Whether there are five schools to choose from or just one, it's important that the school matches your child's needs and expectations.
Once you've completed the initial research, the next step is to ask around, just as you would if you were choosing a new school in your home country. Ask your new employer or if you're being transferred, your current employer for information and for a contact in the city/town where you'll be stationed. If you're moving on your own, contact the potential school directly and ask for references. With e-mail at our fingertips, this is not only a great source for instant information, you'll also meet other parents.
So now that you've gathered the initial information, it's time to interview the potential new school. The questions listed below should be expected by the school administration and they should take time to respond promptly.
Questions to Ask
Attendance, Atmosphere and Curriculum
- How many students are currently in attendance?
- How many countries, cultures, religions are represented?
- How many students go on to post-secondary education?
- Are parents encouraged to participate in school activities and affairs?
- Are students excited to attend this school?
- Is there an emphasis on education or extra-curricular activities or both?
- What is the school's philosophy?
- What are the school's goals?
- How does the curriculum compare to your child's current educational facility?
- How is the school accredited?
- What are their standards and who ensures they are monitored?
- How long has the principle or head been in this position
- What is he/she's background?
- How does the school choose its staff?
- What is the philosophy of the teaching staff? Do they encourage participation?
- What standards do they have to meet?
- What is their policy towards discipline?
- What is the teacher-student ratio?
- When was the school established?
- What are the facilities like? Are they well maintained?
- Is there a recreational component to the school?
- How many books in their library?
- Do they have proper research facilities such as computer labs, science labs and access to information?
- Do they provide meals?
- Is transportation offered
- What kind of extra-curricular activities are offered? Do they match what your child needs?
- Is there a tutoring program
- Does the school offer a acclimation program or counseling service?
Tuition
- How much is tuition?
- What does tuition include; meals, extra-curricular activities, school uniform, books, etc...?
- How much do the fees increase each year?
- How much will it cost my child as s/he gets older?
