Is your son or daughter looking for a new school for their sixth form study? If so, there are many things to consider and lots of ways you can help. They will have to settle into a new environment with new teachers and new teaching styles at a pivotal time in their education, making it that much more important to choose wisely. Read on for some tips from a sixth form college in London. 

First of all, you need to ensure that your child is moving to a new sixth form or college for the right reasons, not because their friends are going or because they ‘fancy a change’. There has to be a legitimate reason that is going to benefit them in some way. The school needs to offer the right combination of a level subjects for your child, or other qualifications that are better suited to them. What’s more, it needs to be conveniently located and tick all of the boxes; don’t let your child settle! 

Go To Open Days

Once you are sure your child is changing schools for the right reasons, be sure to go along to the open days with them; knowing that you are supporting them will help in ways you can’t imagine. You will also be able to ask the staff lots of questions and gain a deeper understanding of the culture at the school. Whilst you’re at the school, try and get a good feel for it. Is it clean? Is it safe? Are people friendly? Your child might not be a baby anymore but it is still important that you ensure their general wellbeing is taken care of. Think about whether or not your child will be happy at the school. 

Do Your Research

As well as open days, you also need to do plenty of research. Browse the schools’ websites and download their prospectuses; that way you can prepare a few questions when you go for a visit. Have a look at testimonials and inspection reports so that you are sure the school is actually worth attending. You should also look at some of the typical university destinations for past students, as well as their exam results. Essentially, you need to get a good idea of how well students typically perform at the school and what they end up doing after their a levels.  

Plan Ahead

Start your research as early as possible. You need to be aware of all of the appropriate applications dates so that you don’t miss them. Don’t be afraid to speak to your child’s current teachers for some support or advice should you need it.