Kate reflects on one of the most frequent questions she gets asked - Which school is best for my child? Kate gives her top tips gathered from 20 years of working with kids and their families.
Host: Which School is Best for My Child?
Guest: Solo chat with Kate Broderick
Recorded:February 2021
This is one of the most frequently asked questions that Kate receives and it is a big choice that every parent faces. It is a huge decision for all families, but especially those who have children with additional needs. Whether it is starting school for the first time or considering changing schools, the advice is the same; Have an open mind, do your own research and trust your gut feeling. Australia offers a wide range of schools to choose from – local public schools, Catholic schools and private schools. Some school communities are in the thousands, while others in rural or remote areas, have only a handful of students. Some students will attend boarding school, and others will access the curriculum via remote learning. Where to start? We recommend arranging a meeting with the school, in person if possible. Be open about your child and share information about the support they will likely need. Let the school know what you’re already doing to support your child – you’re looking to find a community that will join your team with enthusiasm and dedication! Families invest a lot in supporting their kids, and in supporting educators to help care for their children. It’s all about good communication and positive relationships! Some families express concerns that their preferred school won’t accept their child if they reveal support needs. In the unlikely event that a school does turn out to be unsupportive, you have effectively established that it is not a safe place for your child, and they should not be on your wish list! That being said, try to remember that most educators are in the industry because they are passionate about teaching children how to learn. Like therapists, they have a duty of care to help every child reach their full potential, and live their best life.
What are the class sizes?
Is there learning support? If so, how is it structured? (in-class, pull-out, small groups?)
How often is support offered? (weekly, 3 times per week?)
Is the teaching face to face or online?
What type of programs are available? (Sounds~Write, MultiLit, MiniLit, Spalding)
Who is running the program? (A teacher, learning support officer or volunteer parents?)
Are there opportunities for 1:1 support?
Schools should be able to answer these questions easily and comfortably. 1 in 10 children in Australia have a learning disability. So even in a small school, there should already be 1 or 2 students receiving support. If a school does not have a clear plan, you do not necessarily need disregard them, but it is an indicator that they may not be as experienced. Many teachers and schools who are new to providing additional support, fully embrace it. They can bring creativity and enthusiasm to establish a positive learning environment for your child. Other questions that may reflect the culture of the school include:
What are lunchtimes like?
Where do the children play?
Are there any activities and are they supported?
What are the school’s policies with regard to pastoral care, friendship support and bullying?
You want to make an informed choice, but remember that it is also a very personal choice. What your child and family needs will be very different to others – even to those of your close friends and relatives, and even to families whose children have the same diagnoses. Every child is unique and every family has a unique set of values influencing the decisions they make for their children. So, try not to be swayed by feedback given by other parents at the park or in car line! Meet teachers in person, book a tour, and take your child for orientation. Final note: Don’t just hope for the best. If the school you visit doesn’t seem to have a nurturing atmosphere, trust your gut. It is okay to start again with the an analysis of the pros and cons of different settings. Make a choice that feels right to for your child and family. To find out more, contact us at SPOT Therapy Hub on spottherapyhub@gmail.com or 02 9389 3322. Also check out our podcasts and blogs on a variety of topics at www.spottherapyhub.com.au
