Primary level education is the foundation of a person’s academic learning, with six formative years that lead to the challenges of senior school, therefore the right schooling is vital. Modern education is not entirely focused on academic abilities, with today’s students needing to be environmentally aware, and a new range of social skills are necessary. When a child finishes kindergarten, he or she is ready to absorb the social values that society insists upon, and sadly, this is not emphasised at some institutions.
Sound Moral Values
Modern society demands its citizens have sound moral values, yet many schools do not include morality in their heavy curriculum, citing the large number of subjects needed in today’s complex world. Private primary schools, however, do emphasise good morals, and encourage students to be positive members of society.
School Mission, Vision, and Core Values
All reputable schools will have a website, and this is as good a place to start as any. Look at their vision or mission statement, and this will give you an idea of their educational concept and direction.
Dynamic Learning Environment
A modern curriculum would be delivered in a learner-centred way, with the teacher encouraging the students to have enquiring minds, and using modern technology, equip the young learners for a life entwined with technology.
Individual Talents
All people are different, and the sign of a good learning institution is the ability to recognise the hidden talents of any given student, and bring them to the surface. With the right teachers, and a curriculum that stretches the learner, he or she can strive to achieve their fullest potential.
Making a Positive difference in Society
A school that sees a future will invariably wish their students to provide some positive input into society, and by teaching the correct values, will enable the learner to make a valuable contribution to society as a whole.
Visit the School
This is the most important step, as every school will do their best to project a healthy image, even if the reality is far from that, and a visit gives one the opportunity to talk to those that matter, namely the students. Make a point of meeting some grade 5 or 6 students, and engage them in conversation about something topical. The response will tell you a lot about the school, if they respond in a polite manner, for example, and of course, this is a chance to ask how they feel about their learning. Opinionated learners are a product of a well-balanced curriculum, and by engaging them in dialogue, one can learn a lot about the school.
Talk to Teachers
Ask questions that elicit their objectives for the children, especially the younger grades, and don’t forget to enquire about their general well-being, as this will tell you how the school treats their teachers. It is advisable to take half a day to explore the school, and if possible, this should culminate in a short discussion with the Principal.
Finding the right primary school is essential if one wishes to equip the child for a successful future, and with the right questions, one can discover the ability of a school to unlock the student’s potential, and guide them towards a successful future.