There are many hard decisions that we make in our lives, but as parents, there is but one choice that we are all faced with, which is harder to make than others. That is selecting the right school for your children. And if you are torn, we understand you completely, the choice has become ever so crucial in our day and age. There are many things to look out for, and the decision can quickly become an overwhelming one. That’s why we’re here to offer a helping hand.
International schools such as DLTS, offer unique opportunities for our students to soar, providing them with the perfect blueprint for their future successes. The benefits are definite, there is no doubt about that, but the hard part lies in choosing the school in the first place.
Here, we will help walk you through the decision-making process, and hopefully, help you construct a better idea of what to look out for before making that ever so important decision.
Understanding the curriculum options
First of all, you must think of the curriculum as the backbone of your children’s educational journey. Their education, for the most part, can influenced by whichever curriculum the school employs.
The truth is, that there are many different curriculums employed worldwide for early years and secondary education. Here at DLTS, we have taken an approach that encourages the love for learning.
A play-based approach to education for our early years students, and an encompassing approach, inclusive of STEM and the arts for our middle school students through the lens of an American curriculum give ample opportunity for our students to explore, and develop a deep affection for their passions.
Whether it may be a passion for all things robotics, or a musical virtuoso, DLTS brings those passions to fruition.
Just as important as academics, is the environment that fosters learning among our students, pushing our young minds to strive and continue to seek knowledge.
Where education comes to life
Academics aside, another important aspect of your decision lies within the learning environment. Classrooms at DLTS are inclusive, allowing teachers and teaching assistants to provide personalised attention and support to every student equally.
This is especially critical for our youngest learners, who may require closer attention and support. We are a family here at DLTS, and we remain committed to ensuring that all of our students thrive.
Another important factor in your decision is the quality of the teaching staff. It is no surprise why this decision is vital. Be sure to inquire about the teacher’s qualifications. As someone who sees your children five days out of the week, they are responsible for creating a dynamic learning environment, inspiring students to learn and excel.
So at DLTS, we make this aspect easy for you, our motto of “Choose Excellence” and our commitment to providing quality education shines in this area. Rest assured that our teaching staff, including our teachers and teaching assistants, are specifically chosen because we are certain of their capabilities to not only bring out the most of our students but to also act as a mentor, and be present as someone your children can trust and look up to.
Beyond academics
Here is where your choice really matters, modern education is more multifaceted than ever. In choosing the perfect school for your children, be sure to look out for facilities that not only support the academic side of things but also personal growth.
Whether it may be science laboratories, IT centres, sports facilities or spaces for music and the arts, all of these aspects join up to create an all-encompassing experience at school.
This leads perfectly to extracurricular activities. As a parent, we must also give our children room to develop an interest in their hobbies as well. Not only is this the perfect opportunity for them to develop real interests outside the classroom, but extracurricular activities also play a crucial role in igniting that sense of passion from within.
Lotto, in grade 3, competed in tennis tournaments all across the country, bringing home the U8 singles and doubles trophy on four different occasions. Lotto is a testament to the dedication and effort in and out of the classroom, inspiring many in the DLTS family to seek out extracurricular activities in the pursuit of success and to chase their dreams.
The environment
Another thing to consider as parents choosing the perfect school is the school culture and community. A positive and inclusive environment where students feel welcome and safe is essential for their learning experience.
Be sure to look out for parent involvement opportunities as it indicates a strong commitment to building an educational community. Keep an eye out for open communication channels between the school and parents as well, as this partnership helps create a supportive environment for students.
Keeping open communication is what we prioritise here at DLTS, keeping parents in the loop and pushing for their involvement in school activities is just as important as everything else. We continue to strive to be more than just a school, instead, we are a family that opens our doors as a second home to all our students.
Choosing the right school ultimately requires careful consideration of many different factors, whether it may be curriculum, teaching quality, extracurriculars, school environment, and many other factors. It’s not an easy decision to make, and we here at DLTS are more than happy to help you make that decision because we see the magnitude of the decision through the same lens as you do.
Remember, the right school isn’t just one that promotes learning above all, but it’s a school that nurtures your child’s talents, helping them seek a sense of confidence in preparation for the successes of tomorrow, which is exactly what we do at DLTS. Choose excellence and join the growing DLTS family!