By Yinka Ogunde
Welcome to series 4.
Some time ago, during our tour of schools serving very poor communities, we got to a particular school. I would reckon it to be one of the worst we visited in terms of the physical structure. Located near a canal, structure done with corrugated iron sheets, don’t talk about the state of tables and chairs.
We met the pupils, happy, well-spoken, vibrant, intelligent. We looked at the young man who set the place up to help that poor community and we knew why. Despite the very poor environment, despite the lack of facilities…, his personality and skill made all the difference.
That is why as a parent looking for a good school, your focus must not be on the facilities alone. You must try to see much more.
The physical structure is good but now with “ schools beyond borders” we know that the physical structure is not the only thing you must look at. Online learning has given a clue to that.
You must ask the right questions?
Ask about the Teachers
Housemasters/mistresses if your child will be in the boarding house.
A visit( if possible at this time) may help you to get a feel of the place.
Do your research online
Ask from other parents who have children there( you may need to be careful about biases)
Ask about Pastoral care
Even ask odd questions that can help test their response to things For example
“What will happen if we are unable to pay the fees for a term?
I wish you all the best in your search