Researching schools for your children

My name is Sean S Paul and I’m originally from Spain. I’m looking for an international school for my two children, Emily and Peter. I work for an international bank so I’m always up-to-date with the latest trends in the financial markets. Choosing a school for my children is a far more complicated matter! As a single Dad, I’m also looking for love online. I’d like to find someone to share my life with, someone whose lifestyle is compatible with mine.

Types of education

Boarding school, day school, international school, home education… the list goes on. Everyone seems to be an expert on what type of education is best for your child, but each child is different, and each family has different goals. I have researched each option in order to make the right decision for my children’s education.

Boarding school

A boarding school is typically a school where pupils study and live full-time. Some boarding schools offer the option for day students to return to their families at the end of each school day. Live-in pupils will either return home at weekends or during school holidays. Boarding schools are expensive as fees include the board of the child as well as a first class education. For the child, boarding school can be a wonderful enriching experience, promoting confidence and independence. For others, boarding school can be a lonely place and some will suffer home sickness, especially for the first few months.

Day school

A day school is different to a boarding school in that teenage children are educated during the school day and return to their homes in the evening. Many parents will prefer this option as they are able to maintain a more typical family lifestyle.

International school

An International school is a school which promotes international education, in an international environment. This could be by following an international curriculum or a national curriculum different to that of the country the school is in. International schools are usually home to students who are not nationals of the country. Frequently pupils attend international school due to their parent’s careers – taking them to different countries. International schools allow children to become global citizens by providing a rich and comprehensive education. Ensure you undertake plenty of research to find the top IB schools London has to offer. Find out about IB diploma residential London schools.

Home education

As a parent, you have the right to educate your child at home if you feel that is the right environment for your child to learn. There are many different reasons why a parent would choose to home educate their child – concerns about the traditional school environment, religious or moral reasons, children living temporarily aboard. Home schooling is usually carried out by tutors, rather than parents themselves.

How to make your choice

For all parents, this is a difficult choice and one which will greatly affect your children’s future. So, how do you decide which form of education is best for your child?

Points to consider

· Every child is different. What is best for one child may differ greatly to another. Base your decision on the needs and goals of each child.

· Cost is also a consideration. Many boarding schools will charge thousands of pounds per term. Look carefully at your long term finances.

· Research your options by speaking to and visiting different types of schools. Speak to other parents, often schools will be happy to refer you to parents with children at their school for an honest opinion.