OPEN DAYS at Schools: A Guide for Parents
Introduction
Choosing the right school for your child is a crucial decision and the huge number of private schools in Prague can be overwhelming. You've probably done the research, gone through the school's website, and learned as much as you can about the school's philosophy and curriculum. Now, it's time to attend the Open Day and verify what you've learned.
Typical Things to Consider
When attending an Open Day, some of the key factors you should pay attention to include the school's educational style and philosophy, the student-teacher ratio, and the variety of courses and extracurricular activities offered. Does the school offer language classes, technology courses, sports, and after-school activities? Remember, a well-rounded education includes not only academics but also opportunities for students to explore their interests and talents.
Observe and Interact
Observe closely how students interact with each other and their teachers. If you have the chance to watch a class, pay attention to the students who aren't directly involved with the teacher. Are they engaged and keeping up with class activities? Do they appear relaxed and content?
In Prague, some schools have students guide parents around the campus. Engage with these students and ask them questions. A useful question to ask is, "Who is the most and least popular teacher in school?" The goal isn't to learn the teacher's name, but to follow up with "Why?" This can provide valuable insights into the school's environment. For example, if the least favorite teacher is unpopular because the student you're talking to dislikes the subject, that's normal.
But if it's because the teacher yells and throws pens around when the class is noisy (we've heard this one before), it's worth considering if that's the kind of environment you want for your child. In any case, framing your questions around the school's day-to-day life can be illuminating.
Talk to the Management
Most schools in Prague include a discussion with the management as part of their Open Days. Don't hesitate to ask questions. This decision significantly affects your child's future, so inquire about any concerns or unclear aspects. Whether it's about the school's disciplinary policy or the homework assigned, no question is too trivial. At the end of this article, we list a few questions that might be helpful.
Ensure your family's educational priorities align with the school. And if you're uncertain about your priorities regarding your child's education, consider our online evaluation assessment to help identify what's most important to you and your child.
Evaluate
A few days after the Open Days, perhaps two or three, it's important to take a moment to reflect on the entire experience you've had. Dedicate 10 minutes to this process, evaluating not just the visit itself, but all the experiences and impressions you gained. Consider how the environment made you feel, whether it was welcoming and comfortable, or perhaps it was challenging in a way that excited you. These feelings can give you a strong indication of whether the place would be a good fit for your kid. Giving yourself a few days before this reflection can be beneficial as it allows your initial impressions to settle and potentially evolve.
Conclusion
Attending Open Days at schools provides an invaluable opportunity to understand the environment your child might spend several years in. Don't forget to ask questions, consider important factors, and interact with the students and staff. With this information, you can make a more informed decision about the right school for your child.
And If you are still uncertain, we're here to assist. If you are just beginning your school search, we can save you a great deal of time by directing you to schools that suit your needs. If you're further along and have shortlisted a few schools, we can help you understand your priorities and how each school aligns with them. This will enable you to make educated and confident decisions about your child's future.
10 questions you can ask management of the school
What is the school's educational philosophy?
How is the curriculum structured? Is it traditional, progressive, or a blend?
How does the school accommodate students with different learning styles or abilities?
What is the average class size?
How many kids left after the 5th grade and how many new kids enrolled in the 6th grade last year?
How does the school approach language instruction, particularly for students with different levels of proficiency in English?
How do you approach behavior issues?
What technology resources are available to students and how are they integrated into the curriculum?
What are the qualifications and experience of the teaching faculty? and are there opportunities for professional development for teachers?
How does the school support teacher-student relationships and mentorship?
How does the school incorporate lessons on internet safety and responsible online behavior into the curriculum to ensure that students are equipped with the necessary skills to navigate the digital world securely?
How does the school support the social and emotional well-being of students?
Are there counseling services available for students who may need additional support?
