5 Ways to Help You Choose the Right High School

Are you wondering how to choose the right school for your child? Choosing and applying for a high school is a daunting process for both parent and child. In this post, we have focused on 5 questions for parents to be asking themselves as they make this big decision. But never forget that your child will have their own questions too. Here are our 5 Ways to Help You Choose the Right High School…

Read our Applying for a High School story here.

5 Questions to Ask when Choosing a High School

1. What Do I Want My Child to Achieve at High School?

All schools are different. They may cover similar curriculums but the heart of each school will differ. Some high schools prioritise academic achievement, some will focus more on behaviour and personal growth. Some will be community focused while others will have a strong caring support network for its pupils. All high schools will have weaknesses and strengths depending on its location, finances and teachers. And it can be difficult to judge these.

So think about what environment your child thrives in. Do they like the learning, academic part of school? Will they need a school with a strong support network? Which lessons do they show the most natural talent in? Ask yourself what does the head teacher seems passionate about? Look on social media and see what the high school is sharing about what they are doing?

Remember you are choosing a high school to fit your child, not forcing your child to fit into the school.

2. What does it feel like to walk around this High School?

Generally high schools run open days for parents and children to attend during Year 5 and 6 (UK). They are a great way to get a glimpse of the school at its best.

The teachers will put on displays in their classrooms so ask yourself, have they been creative? Are you bored or entertained? Are the staff opening, welcoming, boring or stressed?

The head teacher will usually give a talk in the main hall or chapel. Sometimes they can feel repetitive as they will explain the applications process, but it is a good time for you to see and evaluate the person driving the ethos, vibe, energy and direction of the school.

3. How Far Do I Want My Child to Travel?

Not everyone has a high school on their doorstep. It is likely that your child will have to travel further than they have for their primary school. Can they walk there? Can they ride a bike? Will they have to travel by school bus or public transport? What time will they need to leave home in the morning and get back home in the evening? And if they want to do after school activities, will they still be able to get home then?

It’s a good time to research how your child will get to each high school and if that is something that is feasible every day for the next five years. Are there buses regularly? Do they offer a school bus? Will you be their taxi service?

And once you have worked out what your travel options, consider what the financial implications will be. Is there a discounted bus ticket from your local council? Are you eligible for any financial help?

Take a moment with your practical self to ensure that you are not setting your heart on a high school that is unmanageable for the day-to-day travel or unaffordable.

4. How Much does a School's Reputation Matter to Me?

Everyone in your child’s class will also be choosing their high school. There will be lots of different opinions about “good” and “bad” schools. Everyone will know someone who had a bad experience at this school, or a great time at that school.

High schools can keep a reputation within a community for many years even if that school is desperately trying to turn things around. And even the “best” schools can be the wrong fit for your child’s particular needs.

So keep in mind that a school’s reputation within the community is not the only marker of whether you should choose that high school. And decide for yourself how much weight you are going to take reputation into your decision-making process.

5. Who Can I Share My Story With?

If you are choosing a high school for the first time, you can end up with more questions than answers. So, it’s vital that you are able to share your story with somebody. It’s important to get your questions answered, whether that is by talking to someone at the high school, your local council, friends and family. And by also connecting with parents in the same position as yourself. It’s a big decision, a giant milestone but also their next big adventure.

How to Choose the Right High School

For more information on how to apply to a high school, click here.