Parents' Guide for Things to Look for on School Tours

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When parents are considering a potential school for their child, open days are invaluable opportunities to gather crucial information. But it can be easy to get swept up in the shiny new classrooms and beautifully worded marketing speech and fall in love with every single school you look at.

Here are some important questions to ask and things to look for.

Questions to Ask

Academic Programs:
- What is the curriculum like?
- Are there advanced courses or special programs in areas such as STEM, arts, or languages?

Teaching Methods:
- How do teachers engage students?
- What kind of instructional strategies are used to meet the diverse learning needs of children?

Class Sizes:
- What is the average class size?
- What’s the specific teacher-to-student ratio for the class your child is moving into?

Extracurricular Activities:
- What clubs, sports, and other activities are offered?
- Do they align with your child’s interests?

Teacher Qualifications:
- What are the qualifications and experience of the teachers?
- Are they trained in the latest educational methods?

Technology Integration:
- How is technology used in the classroom?
- Is there access to modern educational tools?

Support for Special Needs:
- If your child has special needs, what support services are available?
- In Beijing, not every school is suitable for kids with special needs. If you want the best recommendations, get in touch with the Special Education Network and Inclusion Association (SENIA). Their upcoming conference on Nov 15 is a great place to get your questions answered.

Parent Involvement:
- How much parent involvement is expected by this school?
- Are there opportunities for volunteering or attending school events?

Things to Look For

School Facilities: 

Inspect the classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and sports facilities. Are they well-maintained and equipped with the necessary resources?
 

Atmosphere: 

Observe the overall atmosphere of the school. Is it welcoming, positive, and conducive to learning? Do students seem happy and engaged?
 

Student Behavior: 

Notice how students interact with each other and with teachers. Are they respectful and polite?
 

Displays and Projects: 

Look at student work on display. This can give you an idea of the quality of education and the creativity encouraged in the school.
 

Communication: 

Assess how well the school communicates with parents. Are there clear channels of communication, such as newsletters, parent-teacher conferences, and online portals?
 

Diversity: 

Consider the diversity of the student body and staff. A diverse environment can expose your child to different cultures and perspectives.
 

Leadership: 

If possible, meet with the school principal or leadership team. Their vision and leadership style can have a significant impact on the school.
 

Transportation and Location: 

Consider the school’s location and transportation options. Is it convenient for your family?

What’s the number one thing you look for when you tour a school? Let us know in the comment section below.

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