15 Top Tips for Choosing the Perfect School for Your Child

Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. The right choice shapes your child’s education, friendships, and future opportunities. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. To help, here are our top tips to guide you through this critical decision.

 

Academic Excellence and Accreditations

1) Academic results are often a key factor in decision-making. Ask schools how their results compare to others in the area. Do they provide a full breakdown of their performance?

 

2) Accreditations are a hallmark of quality and compliance with international standards. Investigate which accreditations each school has and how these compare with others. A school with robust accreditations demonstrates its commitment to delivering exceptional education. In 2024, Network International School was the first school in Myanmar to be accredited by BSO (British Schools Overseas). Learn more >

 

3) A school’s success is often reflected in its alumni. Ask about university placements, scholarships, and career pathways of former students. A strong track record is a promising indicator of a school’s quality.

 

Financial Considerations

4) School fees can vary significantly. Ask whether tuition covers everything or if you’ll face additional bills for extracurricular activities, uniforms, or technology later in the year. Transparency about fees can prevent financial surprises.

 

5) Is the school a not-for-profit foundation? Not-for-profit schools are able to reinvest their fees into improving facilities, teacher training, and student programmes.

 

6) A smooth and transparent admissions process reflects a well-organised school. Ask about entry requirements, timelines, and how the school supports new families during the transition. Learn more about our admissions process >

 

Quality of Teaching and Resources

7) Small class sizes and fully-qualified teachers lead to better educational outcomes. Ask about the staff-to-student ratio and whether all teachers are fully certified. A school that prioritises quality teaching can make a world of difference in your child’s learning journey. Discover Network International School's teaching team > 

 

8) From state-of-the-art science labs to swimming pools, facilities can make a significant difference to a child’s experience. Consider whether the school offers the resources needed to nurture your child’s talents.

 

9) Class size impacts the level of personalised attention your child will receive. Smaller class sizes are often associated with better academic and social outcomes, so ask for specifics.

 

Enrichment and Extracurricular Opportunities

10) Extracurricular activities play a vital role in a child’s development. Explore the range of clubs, sports, and enrichment programmes on offer. Better still, find out if they are included in the fees. A broad, accessible programme indicates the school’s investment in holistic education.

 

11) Partnerships between schools and parents create a supportive environment for children. Ask whether the school involves parents through events, workshops, or regular updates on your child’s progress. Examples of this include our regular parent coffee mornings on a wide range of topics. Read Deputy Head of Secondary Teacher Sophie's recent article on Supporting Your Child in Developing Effective Learning Routines here >

 

Wellbeing and Support

12) A supportive environment is crucial for a child’s development. Investigate the school’s pastoral care programmes and approach to fostering emotional resilience.

 

13) In today’s interconnected world, diversity is an asset. Look for schools that promote inclusivity and celebrate cultural diversity, helping your child grow as a global citizen. 

 

Mission and Philosophy

14) A school with a long history often has deep-rooted values and a strong reputation. For example, Network International School, established in 1996, is the oldest British international school in Yangon, combining decades of experience with innovative teaching and learning. 

 

15) Each school has its own approach to education. Some focus heavily on academics, while others emphasise creativity, emotional intelligence, or inquiry-based learning. Make sure the school’s philosophy aligns with your child’s needs and your family values.

 

Choosing the right school is about more than just rankings or facilities; it’s about finding a place where your child will feel supported, challenged, and inspired. By asking these questions, you can make a well-informed choice and ensure a bright future for your child.

 

Contact our friendly team to start the conversation about whether Network International School might be the perfect fit for your family!