Finding the right school, a perfect fit for your child, is the most critical decision you make as a parent. Over the last few years, Gurugram has gradually developed into a center of education and research and seen a massive surge in the population of schools offering good amenities as well as the best CBSE curriculum. Here’s a complete checklist for choosing one from the best schools in Gurugram, according to your child’s needs and your dreams:
Your Priorities
Every parent has a specific requirement in terms of education. Begin with assessing what’s essential for you:
- Academic Performance: Is the school well-known for strong academic outcomes?
- Extracurricular Activities: What are the extracurricular activities offered by the school (sports, music, art, drama)?
- Location: Is the school easily mapped or accessible?
- Affordability: Are you sure that you can afford the fee structure without compromising the quality?
This makes it easier for you to narrow down your choices from the many schools in Gurugram with fee structure different from one another based on your priorities.
School’s Curriculum
Curriculum is the heart of your child’s education. CBSE is one of the most preferred boards amongst Gurugram schools due to its balanced academic structure and recognition in India. However, few schools do offer alternative curricula like IB or ICSE. Look for schools that:
- focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing facts
- prepare students for competitive exams such as IIT-JEE, NEET, if relevant, and
- have skills-based programs that inculcate critical thinking and problem-solving in children.
Infrastructure and Facilities
Education is not limited to the classroom anymore. That’s why fully accredited top CBSE schools in Gurugram don’t compromise on world-class infrastructure and facilities, enabling holistic development and overall growth of their students. Here’s what to check:
- Air-conditioned libraries and classrooms.
- Equipped with computer and science labs with latest tools.
- Sports facilities for physical development.
- Creative spaces like music rooms, art studios, and dance halls.
Visit the campus and get a feel of the environment your child will be in when they are a part of it.
School’s Philosophy
A school’s purpose says a lot about it – what it stands for, how it educates, its goals, etc. Academic success is a must, but the good schools in Gurugram prioritize building character, instilling values and creating global citizens as well. While doing your research, ask these questions:
- Does the school foster a sense of curiosity and innovation?
- What is their approach to bullying and discipline?
- They take mental health and emotional wellness seriously?
Admission process
Knowing the school admission process in Gurugram saves you a lot of hassle. Most of the schools in Gurugram follow a structured admission process which generally covers:
- Completing application forms.
- End of the year interaction sessions or interviews for parents and students.
- University pre-admission tests, if applicable.
Stay on top of deadlines and updated about what documents to submit, so that you don’t get stressed out right before you need to apply.
Speak to Other Parents
Another best way to judge a school’s performance – ask parents whose children are currently studying there. The insights they can provide are as follows:
- How the teacher interacts with and supports students.
- Quality of teaching methodologies and extra-curricular activities.
- General satisfaction with the school’s environment and policies.
Safety and Security Measures
In the case of your child, safety is a non-negotiable factor. Make sure the school offers:
- 24/7 CCTV surveillance.
- Well-trained staff for the event of an emergency.
- Strong policies for managing health incidents.
Consider the Commute
Traveling a long distance daily can be exhausting for your child, impacting their overall well-being. While exploring schools in Gurgaon with fee structures that fit your budget, consider those that offer efficient transport services and are located close to your home or workplace.
Open Houses and Orientation Sessions
Many schools hold open houses or orientation sessions targeting prospective parents. This is a great opportunity to:
- Engage with the faculty and leadership team
- Know how the school teaches.
- Find responses to specific issues you have.
Trust Your Instincts
Once you have done all your research and considered the positives and negatives, listen to your gut. A school in Gurugram might check all the boxes on paper, but if it just doesn’t feel like the right place for your child, it’s all right to continue your ‘right school search’ journey.
Conclusion
Although a plethora of good schools in Gurugram are present, Gitanjali International School is the perfect amalgamation of skill-based development and academic excellence. It has world-class infrastructure, prioritizes safety, and adopts a child-centric approach where your child can truly shine. The hunt for an ideal school is a process, and this checklist will come handy and useful as you navigate your decision making. Remember that the right school for your child is the one that serves their needs and challenges them to grow.