5 Key Enablers to Selecting the Right School

Shannon Pipes, Principal, OWIS, Riyadh

Saudi Arabia has an impactful 2030 vision committed to providing international education opportunities for students. As a Founding Principal and educator, I support this vision and believe that there are some critical enablers parents should consider to ensure quality and impactful education.

1. School Culture and Values

Culture and values are an intricate part of a school that gives you a clear indication of the school environment. Culture and values that are well established by the school leadership and fostered by all stakeholders at the school lead to the development of a  love for learning among students and fosters the desire in them to go to school everyday. School culture plays a vital role in shaping your child’s educational experience and is crucial for their overall development. A school that cultivates admirable culture and values offers transparent and consistent communication with parents and assists them in frequent follow-up feedback with teachers and monitoring of their child’s progress.

2)Qualified Educators and Leaders

Evaluating the quality of teaching starts by choosing a school that has strong leadership to motivate and drive the school forward. Educators play a significant role in setting the tone for how students view learning and their own potential. Visionary leaders and expert educators empower the learning environment with a strong educational culture that ensures the long-term growth of your child. School leaders should have high expectations for teachers that align with your vision for your child’s future. Be sure to ask about teacher qualifications; ideally, a majority of the teaching staff should have both BA and MA degrees. By getting a clear understanding of the school’s goals from the admissions team, you can be more confident in choosing a quality institution for your child’s education.

3)Rigorous Curriculum and Extracurricular Activities Offered

As an educator I can assure you that a well-balanced education is what matters the most. A school with a well-established curriculum that follows a holistic approach to education with a focus on both academics as well as social/emotional development, physical, and mental well-being is the right choice for your child. Such schools ensure quality and impactful education by nurturing students in developing their skills and talents. Schools should also provide valuable social, emotional and physical development through different extra curricular activities to help students explore their interests and talents.

4) A Child’s Needs and Interests

Every child learns differently. Some children thrive in a traditional classroom setting, while others prefer a more hands-on approach. Consider your child’s learning style when choosing a school. By choosing a school that embraces your child’s uniqueness, you can help them reach their full potential. Schools that value diversity and inclusion are more likely to accommodate your child's particular requirements. Selecting a school with established programs including English as an Additional Language (EAL) is crucial. Similarly, if your child wants to learn innovative and cutting-edge subjects like design and technology at school, select one that provides the same.

 5) Focus On Safety and Well-Being of Students and Staff

Safety is an important prerequisite when you choose a school for your child. A school that emphasizes clear safety policies helps promote the well-being of students. Frequent theme assemblies, hands-on workshops for students and family events to raise awareness on issues such as healthy living, teaching safe technology and internet usage, and more are a common feature at such schools. Schools can nurture a conducive environment that protects each children's security by focusing on these important areas. Choosing such a school helps ensure the safety and well-being of your child where they spend most of their time.