Overview
Selecting a boarding school for your child is a very important decision. Your child is not only going to study but also stay there. It is going to play an important role in shaping your child’s personality and future.
Some features that you should consider while choosing a boarding school for your child are.
Location of the Boarding School
The location and vicinity of the boarding school is crucial because it will influence your child considerably. Also, if you are sending your child away to a school that is in a different state or a country, you might not have the privilege of visiting him/her as much as you want to.
Research about the Schools
Background research is very important since you are practically entrusting your child in their hands. Find out about the curriculum followed in the school, their campus, extra-curricular activities and try to get an idea about the other students and their families if possible. Read reviews about the school and definitely visit the premises and observe carefully.
Child’s opinion about Boarding School
It is crucial that your child is willing to go to the boarding school. Pressuring a child to go to a boarding school could lead to psychological damage and depression. If you child is ready to go to a boarding school, let him participate in the decision-making and discussions about the school. It will help you to understand what your child needs and even get him motivated to go to a boarding school.
Narrow down your list
Make a list of your preferred schools and run them by your child. Seek answers to questions like
Would you prefer single sex or co-ed school?
Do you have religious school in your mind?
Does your child require special interests like arts or football?
Is military school a preference?
“Right” Boarding School
Boarding schools mostly have their syllabuses patterned according to the state board. If you do not want to change the type of school, then there are no special criteria for selection. Check out what extracurricular activities and leisure equipment the school offers, this is important for your child’s development and worth point to focus at. Also, pay attention to how homework is controlled or are there any intensive courses offered in small groups.
Time for a change over
The best time for sending enrolment form is during the start of the year or after the first semester. Nevertheless, you can get your child enrolled in a boarding school at any time of the school year but refrain from sending the application at the end of the year. Every institution has different enrollment dates, and sending in the application at last moment can make you miss the deadline. Missed opportunity can leave you with few options.
Visit Schools
Visiting schools can be tedious, so combine the school interview and visit together. The interview is your only chance to assess if the school is a good fit for your child and fulfils your requirement. After, this institute is going to play a vital role in moulding your child’s future in many ways. Get to know about the teachers and the staff.
Information worth knowing
Boarding school advisory services are often advertised in newspapers. It is always better to collect information about the ownership and background of such consulting services.
Always read the contract thoroughly before signing and entering a long-standing financial commitment. If possible ask a lawyer read through it or ask a lawyer.
Some boarding schools offer fee payment through online applications. Download it and submit it with teacher recommendation form. The change from day school to boarding school is an important step for your child, hence make a well-thought, wise decision.
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