what to consider when choosing a school

What to Consider When Choosing a School for Grades R and 1

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The foundation phase is integral in building a solid academic foundation and setting your child up for success for the rest of their schooling. Therefore, when choosing a school for Grades R and 1, parents must ensure that the school they choose can build a strong foundation for their child.

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This blog examines what parents should consider when choosing a school for their Grade R or 1 child.

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Why is the foundation phase so important?

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The foundation phase sets the tone for the rest of your child's school experience; thus, choosing a school that will equip your child with the relevant skills they need to succeed is crucial. 

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SPARK Randpark Ridge Principal Karen Bull explains, "Like a building requires a strong foundation to stand, a child needs a strong schooling foundation where crucial skills are developed to learn as they age effectively."

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Choosing a school is not a decision that parents make lightly. Parents go to great lengths and do thorough research when looking for a school to ensure it best fits their child. 

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While parents consider many things, they care a lot about their child's happiness at school. Bull says there are several considerations that parents should make when applying for the foundation phase. These include a good school curriculum with a solid academic foundation, social-emotional learning, and behaviour management.

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Solid Academic Foundation

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"A school with a strong academic foundation consists of personalised learning and scholar support that is aimed at bridging scholars' academic gaps to ensure they acquire the skills in that phase," Bull says.

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SPARK Bedfordview Principal Hayley Tungela adds that the curriculum is one of many crucial things. The teachers also play an integral role in ensuring that Grade R and 1 scholars succeed and thrive throughout their primary school years.

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She explains that the teachers should be able to teach a skill in a manner that supports the scholars who are learning the skill for the first time and be able to stretch the scholars who can already master the particular skill.

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"This gives the scholar a positive reaction and stimulates enthusiasm, boosting their self-esteem, which is fundamental in their schooling life," she says.

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Social and Emotional Learning

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When applying for a school, most parents think about the curriculum, sports, and other activities; however, they overlook the importance of social-emotional skills. Many know these as soft skills. These skills are crucial as they teach children self-management, self-awareness, accountability, decision-making, and empathy for others and help them build better relationships with their peers and adults around them.

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Furthermore, these skills also help kids better handle stressful situations and challenges at and out of school. Therefore, parents need to check whether a school offers these skills when looking for a school for Grades R and 1.

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Tech-Enabled Education

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Technology plays a significant role in education, primarily enhancing education and learning experiences. 

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At SPARK Schools, we offer a blended learning model. Our scholars utilise technology in Grade R. Tungela elaborates that SPARK's programs, including ST Math and Reading Eggs, allow our scholars to learn through discovery. 

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SPARK scholars learn to problem-solve and master skills independently. "The teachers at SPARK provide a positive learning environment, supported through our behaviour management system that focuses on rewarding and highlighting positive behaviour," Tungela says.

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Positive School Culture and Fun Learning Environment

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A positive school environment has a lasting impact on children. For this reason, when looking for a school for young children, parents must consider the overall school culture.

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A positive school culture will help build a child's confidence. The best way to learn about the school culture is by asking other parents.

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The best way to learn about the school culture is by asking other parents who already have children at the school you are applying for. Existing parents are a great source of information, as they have experience with the school.

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Choosing a school that is the right fit for your child is challenging, but with enough research, you can make the best decision. 

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If you want to learn more about our schools, visit our website or join us at our next open days.

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