5-Step Approach for Selecting the Best School for Your Child
Every year, as admission time approaches, parents hustle to gather feedback about schools in their neighborhood. Choosing a school is a very intense decision for parents. Although there's always the option to change schools later, we aim to make the best choice initially. As the admission season returns, we want to share a 5-step approach for selecting a school for your child. This method includes researching the list of CBSE schools in Gurgaon and ensuring you make a well-informed choice for your child’s education.
Step 1: Decide the Board
Today, there are many educational boards to choose from, like CBSE, ICSE, SSC, IG, and Cambridge. This can be overwhelming. Discuss with your partner and ask these questions:
What’s the curriculum difference?
Which boards are available nearby?
What are the annual fees?
What’s your child’s talent, and does the board focus on it?
How does the new education policy of 2020 impact the boards?
Answering these questions will help you decide on one or two boards. Finalizing two boards is essential at this stage.
Step 2: Time Your Research Well
Most parents research extensively before choosing a school. Start early. In Gurgaon, admissions usually begin between October and December. By September, narrow down your options to 2-3 schools. Begin researching schools a few months in advance. Explore all schools you’ve heard of, even if they’re not nearby. This helps you understand the facilities different schools offer. Talk to kids attending these schools to get varied perspectives. Early research will give you clarity about your preferences.
Step 3: Know Your Priorities
To reduce your list to 2-3 schools, clarify your priorities:
Budget
Be practical about school fees. Besides fees, consider costs for transport, extracurricular activities, and more. Remember, some schools also ask for donations.
Distance
Decide how far you’re willing to let your child travel. If good schools are nearby, consider the time and logistical investment for farther schools.
Board
Choose the board now. Consider the pressure it puts on the child, curriculum, and focus on theory versus application. Clear priorities will help you inch closer to selecting the right school.
Step 4: Personal Visits
Visit the shortlisted schools. Here’s how to make your visits productive:
Take an Appointment: Ensure you meet the necessary personnel.
Take a School Tour: Check facilities like playgrounds, labs, and washrooms.
Take Your Kid Along: See if they like the school environment.
Be Ready with Questions: Prepare a list of questions on your phone.
Check Safety Measures: Look for safety details and the school's surrounding area.
Step 5: Documentation
After visiting, decide on the final school. Prepare documents based on the school’s admission form. You’ll need:
Child’s photo
Parents' photos
Filled admission form
Child’s birth certificate
Parents' identity proof
Child’s Aadhar card (optional for primary school kids)
Check if any documents need gazetted attestation and if the first installment of fees is required.
Questions to Ask During the Visit
During your visit, consider asking these questions:
What grades does the school operate?
What’s the batch size?
What’s the teacher-student ratio?
What’s the fee structure and installment mechanisms?
Are there any hidden costs?
Where are annual events and sports days held?
What extracurricular activities are offered?
Are there dedicated helpers for junior grades?
How is safe pick-up ensured?
What Covid-19 preventive measures are in place?
Is cafeteria service compulsory?
What are the school timings?
Conclusion
Selecting a school is a significant decision, contributing 50% to your child’s growth, with the remaining 50% coming from you. Always stay engaged with your child’s education. Schools complement your parenting, not replace it. Be aware that schools undergo changes in management and faculty, so what seems ideal now might change. Keep checking with the school about future changes and plans. If it no longer aligns with your values, changing schools is always an option.
This 5-step approach and considering the list of CBSE schools in Gurgaon will help you make an informed decision. Remember, your involvement is crucial in shaping your child's personality and future.
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