Top Questions to Ask When Enrolling Your Child in School
As both a teacher and the parent of a toddler, I’ve been thinking a lot about what the right school environment will look like for my child. Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions we’ll make, and I know firsthand how much of an impact the right school can have on a child’s learning and growth. As we look ahead to the school years, I’ve found that asking the right questions is key to making an informed choice. Here are some of the questions that guide me through the process:
1. What is the school’s approach to learning and teaching?
Every school has its own educational philosophy, whether it’s more traditional, play-based, or progressive. As a teacher, I’m always interested in how the school balances academic learning with creative, hands-on experiences, and how they accommodate different learning styles. I want my child in a place where they can explore, engage, and develop a love for learning.
2. How do they support individual learning needs?
No two children are the same, and schools need to recognise that. Whether your child excels academically or needs a bit more support, it’s important to know how the school adjusts their teaching. As a teacher, I’m always looking for schools that have programs in place for both gifted students and those who might need additional help to meet benchmarks.
3. What is the class size and student-to-teacher ratio?
Smaller class sizes mean more individual attention, something I’ve seen make a big difference in a student’s success. I like to ask about the average class size and the number of aides or support staff to get a sense of how personalised the learning environment will be.
4. What are the school’s values and culture?
It’s important for me to choose a school that shares our family values. I look for schools that emphasise kindness, inclusion, and respect, and I always ask about their approach to handling behavioural issues and fostering a positive school culture.
5. What extracurricular activities are offered?
Extracurriculars can really enrich a child’s school experience. As a teacher, I know the value of after-school programs in helping children develop social skills, explore their interests, and build confidence. I always ask if the school offers activities that match my child’s budding interests, whether that’s sports, music, or the arts.
6. How does the school communicate with parents?
Communication between school and home is essential, both as a parent and from my experience in education. I want to know how the school keeps me informed about my child’s progress and any important updates—whether through apps, emails, newsletters, or regular meetings.
7. What safety measures are in place?
Safety is a top priority. I always ask about the school’s procedures for student protection, emergencies, visitor protocols, and how they handle issues like bullying. It’s important to feel confident that my child will be in a safe and supportive environment.
8. What is the school’s policy on technology use?
Technology plays a big role in today’s classrooms, so I like to know how it’s being used. I ask about their approach to screen time and how they balance tech-based learning with more traditional methods to make sure my child gets a well-rounded experience.
9. How is student progress assessed?
As a teacher, I know how important it is to track progress in a meaningful way. I like to ask about the types of assessments the school uses, how often they take place, and how that information is communicated to parents. Regular parent-teacher conferences and clear tracking of academic growth are essential for me.
10. What kind of support services are available?
I also like to know about the resources available to support students, from learning support staff to counselors or mental health services. It’s reassuring to know that the school has systems in place to help children through any academic or personal challenges they may face.
We have a lot of conversations with school principals coming up, but I hope to be as prepared as possible by keeping these questions in mind. After all, finding the right school is about creating an environment where our child will feel supported, inspired, and excited to learn.
Raising Ipswich is your trusted guide for family-friendly activities, events, and resources in Ipswich. We provide parents with practical tips on local parks, schools, and fun outings, helping families connect and thrive in the community. Discover the best of Ipswich with Raising Ipswich – your go-to source for everything family life in the area!
Raising Ipswich is your trusted guide for family-friendly activities, events, and resources in Ipswich. We provide parents with practical tips on local parks, schools, and fun outings, helping families connect and thrive in the community. Discover the best of Ipswich with Raising Ipswich – your go-to source for everything family life in the area!
