Factors to consider before enrolling your teenager in a school

Selecting the right school for your teenager is one of the most important decisions you will ever make as a parent. 

A school is more than just a place of learning – it is where your child will grow academically, socially, and emotionally. With the increased cases of bullying in schools, especially amongst teenagers, it is therefore essential to carry out due diligence before enrolling your teenager in a school. 

From the school’s reputation to school culture and quality of teachers, several factors must be considered to ensure your teenager receives the best education possible and in the best environment. 

In this article are factors to consider before enrolling your teenager in a school.

1. The School’s Reputation

What is the reputation of the school you intend to enrol your child in? 

What are people’s comments about the school, the staff, students, academic performance,  etc?

It is very important to make your findings about the reputation of a school before enrolling your teenager there.

READ ALSO: 10 Important topics to discuss with your teenagers

2. The School’s Educational Philosophy

A school’s educational philosophy is its core belief about how students should learn and what education should achieve. It guides teaching methods, curriculum choices, and school culture.

Understanding a school’s educational philosophy gives you insight into the school’s approach to teaching and learning. 

3. The School’s Culture

A school’s culture is the shared values, attitudes, behaviours, and traditions that shape the learning environment and how people interact within the school.

The best way to determine if a school’s culture is a good fit for your teenager is by visiting the school and seeing how students interact with each other and with staff.

You want to ensure that you enrol your child in a school where they would be nurtured in all aspects of life. 

4. School’s Support Systems for Student Well-Being

How does the school support students’ emotional and social well-being? You should add answers to this to the list of important factors. A child’s emotional and social development is as important as academics. 

Ask about counselling services, mentorship programs, and initiatives that promote mental health. 

Schools that prioritize students’ overall well-being create a nurturing environment for students.

5. School’s Approach To Discipline And Values

Every school has a discipline policy and a set of core values. Understanding these policies will help you determine if they align with your parenting style and the values you want to instill in your child.

6. Location And Environment Of The  School

The location and environment of a school are important factors to also consider before enrolling your teenager. 

What is the environment like – Is the environment safe? Is it conducive? Is it hygienic? How far or close is it to your home/office?

These and other questions should be answered before deciding on the choice of school to enrol your teenager. 

7. Teacher-to-Student Ratio

You need to visit a school to know the teacher to student ratio and class sizes before enrolling your child. 

Lower teacher-to-student ratios ensure personalised attention, which can significantly impact your child’s academic performance and emotional well-being. 

You should also check if the class is large enough to provide a conducive learning environment for your ward.

8. Expertise Of Staff

The entire staff of a school, from the teaching staff to the non-teaching staff, play pivotal roles in shaping your child’s learning experience. 

Inquire about their qualifications, experience, and ongoing professional development. Know that a school that invests in its staff is likely to offer high-quality education.

9. Safety And Security Measures

The safety of your child is paramount. Thus, you need to ask about and confirm the safety and security measures in place.

Ask about the school’s security measures, such as CCTV surveillance, transport safety, and emergency protocols. A safe environment is crucial for a child’s well-being.

10. Cost

Education is a significant investment. However, you should not break the bank before you can provide your teenager with quality education.  Before enrolling your child, ask for a detailed breakdown of the fee structure, including tuition, extracurricular activities, transportation, and other hidden costs. 

Ensure the school offers value for your investment.

In all, the investment you make in your teenager’s education today will shape their future success and overall development. So, take your time to research, visit schools, and ask the right questions.