26 August 2024

Deciding if Your Child Needs a New School for 2025

By Crawford International

Choosing the right school for your child is never simple, and as the end of the year approaches, many parents might be wondering if it’s time to make a change for 2025. School choice is not just about ticking boxes; it’s about finding the best environment for your child's academic, social, and emotional needs.

Education experts from our sister schools, ADvTECH Schools offer guidance on how to determine if your child's current school is the right fit or if a change might be beneficial.

Renie Sutherland, Principal at The Bridge Assisted Learning School Morningside, advises parents to consider several key factors:

• Progress or Regresses: If your child is no longer making progress or is regressing despite the support in place, it may indicate that the current environment is not meeting their needs.
• Emotional Distress: If your child exhibits consistent emotional distress, anxiety, or behavioural issues that seem exacerbated by the school setting, this might be a sign that the environment is not conducive to their well-being.
•  Lack of Adequate Resources: If the school is unable to provide the necessary resources, therapies, or accommodations that your child needs to thrive, it might be time to explore other options.
• Mismatch in Educational Philosophy: If the school’s approach to education and support structures does not align with your child’s learning style or needs, it could be beneficial to seek a school with a more tailored approach.

Sutherland suggests visiting potential schools, speaking to principals, and even having your child assessed by a specialist to ensure the new school can meet their needs.

• Visit Schools: Schedule visits to potential schools to observe the environment, meet the staff, and see how the school operates on a day-to-day basis.
• Speak to the Principal: Have an in-depth conversation with the principal or head of the learning support team. Discuss your child’s specific needs and how the school can meet them.
•  Assessments: Arrange for your child to be assessed by an educational psychologist or a specialist to gain a clear understanding of their needs and the type of environment that would best support their development.
• Talk to Other Parents: Connect with parents who have children with similar challenges to hear their experiences with different schools.

Marion Kohler, Principal at Abbotts JHB South, adds that while some challenges can be overcome with time and support, persistent issues might signal an incompatibility with the school environment. “A school cannot be everything to everybody,” she says.

Kohler also highlights the importance of word-of-mouth recommendations and personal visits to potential schools. “You’ll get a feel for the school’s culture and whether it’s a place where your child could thrive,” she notes.

As you weigh the decision, consider the potential opportunities a new school could offer. However, also keep in mind the benefits of staying put—building deeper relationships and developing resilience can be invaluable.

If you’re thinking about a change for 2025, now is the time to start exploring your options and finding the best fit for your child’s future.