Ten things to look out for

Ten things to look out for when choosing a primary school

1. Do the kids look happy to be there? Is the schoolyard at recess a happy, bustling place and are the classrooms lively and colourful?
2. Are teachers keen to meet parents and involve them in school activities? Are administration staff helpful?
3. Does the school have a good reputation? Is it known to excel in a particular area?
4. Are the buildings and facilities clean and well maintained, and are there resources such as musical instruments, a canteen, computers and a well-stocked library?
5. Does the school have specific policies on bullying, canteen food, sun safety and teacher-parent relationships?
6. Are school rules clearly outlined and enforced?
7. Are there learning support programs in place?
8. How many children are in each class?
9. Does the wider school community (parents, teachers, other staff) seem friendly and welcoming? Does the principal interact with the children?
10. Are there any extra costs, such as for uniforms, textbooks, stationery and excursions?

Remember that it’s your child who will spend seven years at primary school, not you. If the school has the right mix of factors that you think your child will enjoy then they will most likely have a happy, fulfilling and educational time at primary school.