Choosing A School In A New Country
Choosing A School In A New Country
There’s a lot more to consider when moving to Australia as a family, and one of the biggest concerns that parents have is regarding what school to send their children to. When your child is happy and excited about their new school, it makes it easier to settle in your new country. So, how do you make the right choice, and what should you look for?
Consider the costs
Opting for a government-subsidised state school can significantly ease your financial burden, which is especially important after the substantial expenses associated with relocation. However, it's crucial to ensure that you reside within the appropriate catchment area for the state school; otherwise, your child might not gain admission.
If budget constraints are not a concern, and you desire a broader range of school options, you can consider enrolling your child in a private school and covering the fees.
For children under the age of five, it's advisable to research daycare options that align with your budget.
Check the area
When considering a state school, make sure you live within the school's catchment area – this is a specific zone around the school that determines eligibility. While it's sometimes possible to enrol your child in a state school outside your catchment, it's a good idea to contact the specific school you're interested in and potentially join a waiting list.
Private schools usually don't have catchment areas, but they use their own criteria for student selection. To understand the admission requirements for a particular private school, it's best to reach out to that school directly.
Do your research
A helpful approach to finding the right school for your child is to conduct research and gather insights from other parents. Explore Facebook groups related to the areas you're considering or have already moved to and seek recommendations for schools. You'll soon discover which schools to steer clear of and which ones are worth visiting.
Take your child on a tour
Visiting a new school in person is an excellent way to determine if it's the right fit for your child. Sometimes, the best way to assess if a school will suit your child is by physically visiting the premises. An in-person visit provides an immediate sense of the environment that you can't quite capture through phone calls or online research.
Decide what’s most important to you
Every child is unique, and what works well for one may not be suitable for another. When conducting your research, focus on finding schools that align with your family's values and can support your child's individual strengths. An academically inclined child may thrive in a different educational environment than a creatively inclined one.
Choosing a school in school when relocating to Australia can seem scary at first, but it won’t take long for your children to feel like they’re home. Do your research, make sure you’re in the right catchment if you’re looking for a state school, and remind yourself that this is probably scarier for you than for your child.
The Experts on Allied Health Jobs Australia
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As our client, you can expect our support even after your visa has been approved. With a 100% success rate, we are deeply committed to your journey to Australia. As a qualified allied health professional, your skills are highly sought after in Australia.
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