The 5 Characteristics of the Best Elementary Schools
We all want our children to go to the best elementary schools and we all want them to have the best education. But what makes some better than others, and what are the common similarities between the best schools? We have created a list of the top 5 characteristics of the best local schools to make your decision on where to send your child that much easier.
1. OFSTED Report: The best primaries have the best OFSTED ratings. Of course they do! This may seem obvious, but it is a good starting point for measuring the variable quality of schools. OFSTED rates schools from 1 (Outstanding) to 4 (Needs Improvement), with the best primary schools obviously being at the top of this scale.
2. Teaching – the best schools have the best teachers. This is actually a bit self-fulfilling, because the best elementary teachers are attracted to the best elementary schools, which in turn makes the schools better. You may know of local schools that have good or bad reputations, and this reputation tends to stay, mainly for this reason. In addition, teachers in the best primary schools are less likely to leave their posts, as the chances of them finding a better job are slim. So if you find a school near you with a lot of long-serving teachers, the school is probably a good one.
3. Facilities: The best elementary schools have the best facilities. When we look at local school facilities, there are many different things we can consider, and not all of them are important to everyone. Think of sports facilities, catering facilities and buildings. In general, these are the three most important considerations that people think about when looking for a school. The best primary schools always have the best facilities to work in.
4. Location and transportation: Location is a big factor in your decision, but the best elementary schools often have the best transportation links. It doesn’t do much good to choose a school that doesn’t have a bus stop within a 2-mile radius if you’re going to need to use a bus to get there. Rural primary schools will not always have good transport links, but this does not mean that they are not good schools. Local roads and transportation are not your fault. In urban areas, however, the best students and the best teachers will be attracted to schools with the best transport links. So if you are looking for primary schools in urban areas, remember that the best ones will have the best transportation.
5. After School Care: Last on our list, the best schools will usually have the best clubs. If you need to care for your child after the 3-3:30 closing hours of most elementary schools, you will want to consider before and after care. These are usually held in schools, a local nursery/play center, or not at all. The best elementary schools run their own after-school and breakfast clubs, giving you confidence that your child will be in the best possible hands.
All parents looking to send their child to school for the first time should consider the relative qualities of different educational establishments and how they relate to their own circumstances and the needs of their child. All schools are different, but the best elementary schools have a few things in common. Be sure to consider these things to make the best decision for your child.