So, your child is starting school or moving to high school. There’s a lot to think about, right? As the 2025 academic year approaches, many parents are faced with the significant decision of selecting the right high school for their child.
The transition to high school marks a pivotal stage in a child’s academic journey, influencing not just educational outcomes, but also personal development.
Here are essential considerations parents should keep in mind, as shared by local educators:
Academic curriculum and quality of education
One of the foremost considerations is the curriculum offered by the school. In 2025, it is crucial to evaluate whether the school follows the Eswatini national curriculum or offers international programmes such as the IEB, AS/A-Levels and Cambridge curricula.
Parents should assess how the curriculum aligns with their child’s career aspirations and learning style. Educators recommend visiting schools to observe the teaching methods and class sizes. Smaller class sizes often lead to more personalised attention and learning opportunities, which can greatly benefit pupils during their formative years.
Research on school reputation and performance
The reputation of a school often reflects its academic standards, extracurricular offerings and learners’ success rates.
Researching a school’s performance in national examinations and its track record in producing graduates who proceed to higher education can provide insights into its quality. Parents can ask feedback from current and former learners and their families.
Location and accessibility
The location of the school can significantly impact a child’s daily routine. Consideration of travel time, the safety of transport routes and the accessibility of the school facilities are essential aspects for parents to weigh.
In areas, where access to quality education may be limited, parents might need to explore whether boarding options are available or if transportation services can facilitate daily commutes.
Cost and financial considerations
While seeking the best education for their child, parents must be mindful of the financial implications. Tuition fees, uniforms, textbooks and additional costs associated with extracurricular activities are all things parents should be mindful of.
These days, many schools are transparent about their fee structures.
Enquire about sibling discounts or payment plans that may ease the financial burden while ensuring a high-quality education for your child.
Values and school culture
In our country, where community ties and cultural values are vital to life, the values promoted by a school can greatly influence your child’s development.
It is essential to find a school whose mission and vision align with your family’s values and beliefs.
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