Essential last-minute advice on choosing a high school
Picking a high school for your child is one of the biggest parenting decisions out there, and with the deadline just days away, here’s what experts want you to consider. Plus, how the best schools in your area are performing.
Education
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Victorian parents are being warned not to fall victim to peer pressure when picking the best high school for their kids.
As the deadline for Victorian secondary school applications fast approaches, experts are recommending parents not be swayed by other adults when it comes to the decision and instead consider what is best for their children.
Father-of-six and parenting expert Dr Justin Coulson, says social networks should be the top priority ahead of academic results and keeping up with the Joneses.
“A lot of parents, particularly in certain neighbourhoods, want their children to be seen going to the right school,” Dr Coulson said.
“It is a common topic of conversation and sometimes you can see the downwards glances that indicate their kids are going to the wrong school.
“Shame and judgment around that is not helpful at all.
“Parents should be satisfied and proud of any school they send their kids to in Victoria.”
When it comes to the debate about academic results and private schools, Dr Coulson says these factors will not guarantee success later in life and should not be at the top of the list.
“Most people are thinking about grades and academic excellence sporting or drama programs, but resoundingly in research and experience we find that kids tend to thrive when they have strong positive relationships with peers and they struggle when they feel lonely and isolated,” he said.
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Victorian Association of State Secondary Principals president Sue Bell said “it’s critical to not be swayed by other parents”.
“Don’t discount schools on someone else’s perception because it can be different to yours”.
She recommended choosing a school close to home for the community benefits and urged parents to pound the pavement and do their own research by attending open days.
Coburg Mum, Debbie Wood, 44, said she was nervous at first when deciding which school her son Toby, 12 should attend.
She has inspected three nearby schools and said proximity as well as school resources were factors in her decision.
Interestingly, she disagreed with the idea of sending children to a school based on current friendships.
“I see it as a chance for my son to meet new people rather than hanging with his current cohort,” she says.
Applications for enrolling a student in year 7 close May 17, and for the first time Victorian school zone maps can be accessed online at: findmyschool.vic.gov.au
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