Questions to ask re choosing school

[weeze]

Hi I know a lot of you northern hemisphere mums have just started school.

We're starting Kindergarten (first year of formal schooling) next January and are trying to decide between 2 schools. We have a talk with the principal of one coming up next week and want some ideas of questions to ask.

Any ideas....

So far I have : bullying, sunprotection (it is Australia!), music, PE, injuries at school, food bans, tuckshop, fundraising, special groups/programmes for advanced/ behind students, homework

Louise in Oz

[Momily]

Ask about philosophy of education -- do they believe kids learn best from hands on activities? Do they allow kids to work at different paces? Do they encourage kids to ask questions and seek the answers?

All those are important to me, but frankly no answer is going to be as important as what I see in the classroom. Look for children who are busy, and appear to be enjoying what they're doing -- disengaged children are a BAD sign, even if the activity that they're disengaged from is one that seems appealing to you. Also, listen to the ways the teachers talk to the children -- do they treat them with respect? Do they really listen to the children's responses? Do they encourage kids to elaborate and use higher order thinking?

Good luck!

[ktog29]

How long do the kids play each day (recess)? How much "free time" do the kids have for centers, etc.? Then I would observe how the principal interacts with the students and teachers (as the principal sets the tone for the school). Does the principal know most of the kids' names? And also see how the teacher interacts with the students. Just watch and see how you feel when you leave.

Good luck!