…The question always seems to be “How do I know a good school?”
A good school aims to help the children learn by addressing the developmental needs of the whole child. Such a school recognizes that efficient learning can only occur when the child is taught a wide range of skills needed to navigate the various stages of the learning process, including grasping information, analysing its implication, exploring its value and applying it. Development of these skills requires the child to feel accepted, protected and respected as well as feel a sense of belonging within the learning environment.
Characteristics of A Good School
A good school has:
- A clear vision and mission statement.
- A clear and well spelt out policy statement and a yearly reviewed curriculum.
- A welcoming and conducive learning environment.
- An experienced, warm and hospitable school head.
- Active parents.
- Qualified, experienced and cultured staff.
- Never closes.
- Partners with the community.
- Nothing to hide.
- A record of Continuous Excellent Academic Achievement.
More often than not, it is difficult to find a “Good School”, but the steps below will make the search easy:
- Make a list of what you expect from a “Good School”
- Find out the Needs of the Child and ensure to seek a school that meets your child’s needs.
- Visit the different schools.
- Bearing the family and child’s needs in mind, ask to know the curriculum being implemented. If possible ask to take a sneak peek into your child’s class learning goals.
- Take a tour around the school and ensure to visit the particular class where your child hopes to be placed.
- Ask to speak with the class teacher/facilitator and the class assistant.
- Ensure to visit key facilities such as the Library, Infirmary.
- During the tour try to engage one or two learners and observe their mannerisms.
- Ask to scan through the school’s policy document.
- Listen to your instinct.
You should not be in a hurry to make a choice. Take your time. I advise you visit the school when activities are on. This will help you make a better judgement as you’ll observe staff-learner relationship, staff-staff relationship and even School Head-Staff relationship.
