LDP Education www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/education
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
It’s important to find out how much effort a school makes to help pupils settle in. Parents are advised to pay as many visits as possible before making their choice
Decision time for parents I F THERE’S a huge stack of glossies in your living room and none of them have photos of fashion models on the cover, then it sounds like you’re in the middle of choosing a school. It’s a process every parent goes through at least twice and it never seems to get any easier – not least because this decision will impact on your child’s happiness and maybe even their future career. As helpful as glossy prospectuses may be, nothing can replace visiting the schools on your short-list and getting a feel of the atmosphere. With around 40 independent schools in the region, each boasting different facilities and specialities, how do you decide which one is best for your child? Daniel Magill, pastoral head and head of sixth form at St
Open days are the best way of finding out more about a school. Laura Davis reports Mary’s College, in Crosby, recommends arriving prepared. “This move is a very important one for both parents and children, and it is best achieved through careful planning,” he says. “You should think clearly about what you are looking for from the school in terms of coeducational or single-sex provision, academic success, spiritual, cultural and moral support, sports opportunities and extra-curricular activities. “Ideally, you should try to visit the school as many times as possible to see how it feels for you and your child.” A key consideration is the effort a school makes to help its
new pupils settle in. “Remember that, in a secondary school, the pupils move around to the subject bases and this ‘travelling’ can be strange, tiring and even daunting to children who are more used to having all of their lessons in just one or two rooms,” explains Daniel. “It goes without saying, then, that one essential requirement for the newcomers is a structured induction period. Many schools have a guardian or buddy scheme whereby new pupils can readily approach sixth-formers or other older pupils if they need some assistance, or simply want to chat with someone other than a teacher.”
First impressions are important. Parents should arrange a visit to all schools that catch their eye in the local area to get a feel for the atmosphere and attitude of the staff. Talk to as many different people as possible – the teachers, senior staff and current pupils – to ensure you have a complete picture. Consider how the children seem. Are they happy, confident and enthusiastic about their work and experience at the school? Arrange a meeting with the head teacher to discuss whether the school is the right one for your child, and mention any
special concerns you might have. Check how wide the curriculum is. Finally, consider the pastoral care. “Once a school has been selected, pupils and parents must have the confidence to talk to the form teachers and heads of year if there are any worries about how they are settling in,” adds Daniel. “Do not hesitate to contact your new school if you have any concerns, as it is always better to sort things out promptly, rather than let them to grow out of proportion.” ■ FIRST Class’s directory of independent schools, on Pages 57, should help you with your decision. For information on all schools in the region, and for education news, visit www.liverpooldailypost.co.uk/ education lauradavis@dailypost.co.uk