Relocating to another country is a huge leap. If you’re bringing along your family, then that often means finding a school for your child.
It’s not quite as easy as that to pick out the best Singapore schools to choose from, though. The good thing is, with plenty of world-class options, you should find something that perfectly suits your child. Here are handy tips to expedite your search.
Identify Your Options
Before you get started, think about the schools available to your kid. There are four types of schools in the country. Local ones are a popular choice for many, with curriculums that focus on science and math. A national curriculum school is a good choice, though, if your stay in the country comes with an expiration date. There are also blended schools that feature a curriculum that’s a mix of both the national (home country) and international standards. Your fourth option is international schools, which offer greater flexibility as they allow students to transfer into another educational program or even join midyear.
Consider Its Reputation
Look online for reviews about the school. What kind of reputation does it have? How long has the school been around? If the organization has been providing students education for more than three years or even a decade, that’s a good sign. The longer it’s been around, the better.
Check the Reviews
Don’t forget to go over feedback from other parents. There are online forums that you can check out. If you know someone who sends their kids to the schools that are on your list, reach out to them. Ask about the school, their children’s experience, the teachers, learning environment, and more. The first-hand accounts you’ll get will help you arrive at the right decision for your child.
Look at the Curriculum
Does it put a particular focus on STEM subjects? Do you want that kind of curriculum for your child? What about extracurricular activities? Many extracurricular activities help kids discover something that they are passionate about—to the point that they end up going to college pursuing that dream, passion, or hobby and making it into a career. Keep that in mind when you look for a school.
Know Your Kid
By now, you should already know where your child excels. Is your son good at sports? Does your daughter love to paint? Find a school that’s a perfect match for your child’s interests and skills. Think about the kind of learning environment where your child will thrive? Will s/he be happy there? Will s/he find friends? Will s/he learn more about her favorite subject?
Decide with Your Child
Talk to your kid. Make him or her a part of the selection process and decision-making experience. It’s not just your life, after all. You’re deciding where your child will get an education, and that’s a decision that’s going to affect your child for the rest of his or her life. Asking for the child’s output gives him or her a say on where s/he’ll go.
