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How should parents go about choosing a secondary school for their child? Lindsey Hughes, Headmistress of Channing School, shares some words of advice.
Lindsey Hughes, Headmistress of Channing School
I’d suggest you begin by thinking about your child’s characteristics; consider whether they thrive in a competitive environment or a more supportive setting. Some children flourish in independent, self-driven environments, while others benefit from a supportive, community-oriented school.
Do they have particular interests or talents which would be suited by a certain school’s specialism? Or would they suit a school where they can dip in and out of everything, follow new interests and try all sorts of activities? Consider whether they would benefit more from a single-sex or co-ed environment. In a girls’ school all the leadership roles are for girls, which sets a precedent for life that there are no bars to achievement from being a woman.
When selecting a school, aligning its ethos, values, and culture with your own is crucial. Ensure they resonate with yours and that you support the school’s aims. Visit schools, talk to teachers and current students, and ask detailed questions about academics, extracurriculars, and the school’s vision.
Narrow your choices down and consult with your child’s current Head. A final plea – please don’t put your child through lots of 11+ exams; consider their wellbeing in the process. It’s important that both you, and they, are calm and confident that there will be a positive outcome – and that wherever the 11+ might take them in the future they will grow into a happy and confident young person.
Book your place on one of our open days now and see if Channing School might be the perfect fit.
