When looking for a private school to enroll your child, it is best to visit different schools and compare your options. Whether you are researching online or vising the schools physically, you need to know the things to evaluate to find the right school for your child. Here are some questions to ask a private school you are considering.

What is the school philosophy?

As a parent, it is good to ensure that the private school you enroll your child in aligns with your educational beliefs and values. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the school's philosophy, often reflected in its vision and mission. You should also find out how it is implemented in practice. Most private schools, such as the Lydian Academy, have their mission statements displayed on their websites. What is most important is how the school translates it into teaching and learning.

What curriculum do you use?

Not all private schools use the same curriculum, you will need to find out what the school’s curriculum is. While some schools are teacher-centered, others are learner-centered. Ideally, you are after a learning approach that supports your child's needs and brings out the best in them. Enquire if the school has a specific curricular policy and how it is integrated into the classroom and different levels of learning. Visiting a class or two can help you see how the teachers implement the curriculum in real-time learning.

What is the teacher-student ratio?

One of the advantages of a private school is that students benefit from a lower student-teacher ratio which enhances their learning. As you may already know, the smaller the class, the better because the teacher can give enough attention to every student in their class. One question to ask is if the teachers offer individualized learning to monitor every child. You might also ask how the teacher tailors instruction to meet the needs of children with special needs. Do not fear to ask any questions when evaluating a private school.

What are the extracurricular activities?

One of the best things about private schools is that they provide a wide range of extracurricular activities. They include sports, science clubs, art programs, lunch clubs, and even community service activities. You should choose a private school with extracurricular activities that your child is enthusiastic about. For instance, if your child is talented in arts, you want a school that supports art activities. You should also enquire if there are any special conditions for a student to qualify and so forth.

How do you integrate technology into the curriculum and classroom?

Today, technology is an essential part of learning, and it continues to penetrate more in education. Consider a private school with tech-based subjects like computer science, graphic design, programming, robotics, etc., because technology is essential for a child's future. Find out how teachers use technology to enhance learning and the kind of technological resources available.

Final thoughts

Do not fear asking any kind of question when evaluating a private school you consider enrolling your child. From discipline to safety policies, knowing more about the school helps you make an informed choice.