Is choosing a Junior School for your child really that different to selecting a Senior School?

Or are there certain considerations that families with younger children should bear in mind – particularly if you want to get the most out of school open days, tours or information sessions?

These are questions that are explored by Chris Toms – Vice Principal and Head of Junior School, in an article in The Age – ‘Discovering the Junior School.”

Before attending an open day or information session, Toms says there are plenty of questions parents can think about asking, such as:

• What are the benefits of private schools versus public schools for junior students?
• What specialist subjects do the students learn?
• How do you cater for students who are below or above the expected level?
• How can I be involved in the school community?
• What pastoral support is offered, and what is your wellbeing curriculum?
• How do you manage issues of bullying and poor behaviour from students?

Toms says that ultimately, the decision depends on which factors are important to your family – and the type of school that will best fit your child’s individual needs and personality.