Choosing the Right School: 5 Key Factors Parents Should Consider for Their Children

With private schools expected to increase from 2.55 lakh to 3.35 lakh between 2014 and 2023, selecting the right school can be a challenge. Increasing the number of private schools has not necessarily improved learning outcomes. Article 26 of the United Nations Charter of Human Rights gives parents the right to choose their children’s education. Although private schools often outperform public schools, not all provide the necessary facilities and quality. Parents should consider factors beyond proximity and reputation to ensure a positive educational experience for their children.

Here are the key factors that parents should consider for their children, as shared by Husien Dohadwalla, CEO of Crimson Schools: Choosing the right school is a fundamental decision for parents that shapes their children’s future.

1. Strong leadership and pan-India presence

Effective school leadership is crucial to a positive educational experience. Schools led by talented leaders offer high standards and adaptive learning environments. A pan-India presence helps standardize educational quality across schools through unified management and infrastructure, ensuring consistent student outcomes. This widespread presence also increases brand awareness and attracts more resources.

2. Innovation in learning facilitated by the right infrastructure

As highlighted in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, modern education should focus on collaboration, communication, problem solving and digital literacy skills. Schools must have infrastructures that support these skills, including flexible classrooms and integrated technology such as interactive whiteboards and high-speed internet.

Schools with adaptive learning spaces and technology integration often feature greater student engagement and problem-solving skills. STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) laboratories further promote innovation and the practical application of knowledge.

3. Real-world learning experiences with comprehensive professional guidance

Incorporating real-world experiences into education, known as case-based learning, refines content knowledge and helps develop life skills such as decision-making, dealing with stress, and thinking for oneself. Masterclasses, expert talks, internships and practical skills like financial literacy and entrepreneurship enrich students’ experiences and prepare them for real-world challenges.

Extensive professional counseling complements these efforts, especially given the wide gap between the 5,000 certified professional counselors in India and the 1.4 million students who complete their education every year.

4. Safety, well-being and inclusion of students

Prioritize schools that focus on mental health and inclusion. The World Health Organization advocates for Comprehensive School Mental Health Programs (SMHP) that integrate mental health support throughout the school life. Inclusive education promotes a sense of belonging and reduces isolation, while Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programs teach empathy and emotional regulation.

5. Strategic collaborations for holistic development

A balanced combination of sports, co-curricular and co-curricular activities enhances students’ physical and mental abilities. Schools with specialized sports programs and specialized training in activities such as basketball, cricket and chess help students develop resilience and skills such as critical thinking – together they have a positive, long-term impact on students’ social, emotional, physical and cognitive learning. students.

Determining the right school is among the life-changing decisions for parents. This is why an extensively evaluated decision is significant, especially in light of issues such as child autonomy, student-centeredness, and child safety.

Additionally, the ripple effect of school selection impacts nation-building as quality education prepares tomorrow’s leaders and global citizens. Parents, as important players in the educational ecosystem, decide not only the future of their children, but also the country.