Looking for the right secondary school? This is how you do it

The transition from primary to secondary school is an important but exciting step. For your child as well as for you as a parent. In this blog, we would like to take you into the world of secondary schools. And we'll give you a few tips on how you, as a parent, can approach the open days with your child.

The open days of the secondary schools are in full swing. Exciting! For primary school students, a period full of new adventures is dawning. But there is also a great unknown world waiting for them, the high school. Because there are certainly big differences between group 8 and the seventh grade. Feelings of excitement and a lot of nerves stumble over each other. And as a parent, you share those emotions. That's why starting to visit open days on time isn't even such a bad plan, right?

In this blog, we would like to take you into the world of secondary schools. And we'll give you a few tips on how you, as a parent, can approach the open days with your child. Because choosing the right secondary school is not easy. a decision. Sometimes that involves a little more than you think. We'll tell you what to expect and what to look out for.

Prepared for the road.

Of course, we all know the proverb. “a good start is half the work”. And it's no different when it comes to visiting open days. Good preparation is the key to a successful open day, but where to start? The choice is huge! How about compiling a list of secondary schools you want to attend? You and your child can do this based on various things, such as distance from home, the range of courses, the way of teaching, or certain facilities that a secondary school offers.

And what is your child looking for? What things are important to him or her? What are the interests? For example, what gives your child energy? And is your child practical and technical? Or rather helpful, sporty or creative?

In addition, research the schools online, talk to other parents, or read the school guides. By making these preparations together, you can approach the open day with a clear plan of action. It gives you an idea of what you want to know and discover. Also, don't forget to visit several open days, only then can you really compare.

Looking for all open days? You can find this via the Open Day Planner!

The first open day.

Is it the first open day? Then there are sometimes nodding knees, screeching nerves and severe jitters. After all, it means the first step towards the great unknown, secondary school. Your child will spend a large part of his or her time there. And that together with new teachers, new classmates and a new way of learning. Don't worry. Often the new ones know teachers can deal with their nerves and jitters.

Despite all the excitement, an open day offers the opportunity to get a good taste of the atmosphere. You can take a look around the classrooms, the library and the sports facilities together. It's also an excellent opportunity to ask questions. And not just to new teachers, but also to current students. Because not all teachers are strict. And you don't get it right away either mountains with homework. Sometimes it can be quite exciting. But did you know that asking questions often helps with those screeching nerves? Win-win!

Furthermore, as a parent, you get a much better idea of how the school deals with agreements and rules, with freedom and responsibilities. And how does secondary school keep in touch with you? By email or letters? Or the well-known Magister app? Such an open day can give you a better idea of that. It's good to be involved in what's happening at school. After all, you have much less insight into this at secondary school than at primary school.

Extra back support.

Support. Not every child will need it. But some children find the transition to secondary school a big challenge and need a helping hand. That's totally ok! Inquire about the options such as homework guidance, extra guidance from the mentor or tutoring. The right support can really make a world of difference!

Stress of choice! Or not?

After visiting such an open day, it's time for one of the most fun, but also one of the most important things: looking back on the day together and taking stock. What appealed to your child the most? And where did you see your child's eyes light up completely? Was that in the chemistry classroom or on the big sports field? Together, make a list of what you saw, such as the pros, cons, the atmosphere and any extras that the school offers. Do this for every secondary school you attend. It will help you make the right choice later.

Did you visit all the secondary schools you wanted to visit? Beautiful! Then it's time to gather the lists and put them side by side. Which school would your child want to go to? And which school do you think is appropriate? Ultimately, it's about finding a place where your child feels at home, can be themselves and grow. Don't forget to take your time. The best choice is the one you support together.