Selecting A High School for Your Child
No one knows more about your child than you, therefore it is important that you choose the school that helps him/her to excel and develop his/her full potential. Jamaica has numerous school types with various programme offerings at the secondary level.
Children sitting the Primary Exit Profile (PEP) are given seven (7) school choices on the PEP registration form. The first 5 choices will be from any school of choice across the island. The 6th and 7th choices must be made from the cluster list of schools on the form. Parents should read the form carefully, then complete and submit it to their child’s school before the deadline given. Here are a few things to consider when you are choosing a high school for your child:
- Your Child and Family
- Learning styles, special needs, and talents and abilities.
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- Support from family members and friends
- Budget and financial support
- School location from home and/or work and travel costs
Try to understand what your child’s interests and abilities are before selecting a school for him/her to attend.
- School Programmes and Community
- Subject offerings, infrastructure and services
- Community type (rural, urban or sub-urban)
- Safety and security
Find out the programmes and subjects offered at the school. If your child is more skill oriented then a school that offers a wide range of technical subjects may be the most suitable for him/her. If the school is a private or independent one, make sure it is registered with the MoEYI, and abide by all the rules stated in the Education Act and Code of Regulations.
Many parents tend to choose schools based on the influence of other parents, their perceptions, or what they have heard from the mass media. Choose a school that is best suited for him/her. Remember, a child can do well at any school, if parents get involved in his/her education and encourage him/her along the way.
