How to Choose a School That Will Become Your Child’s Second Home

Do you know that moment when you suddenly look at your child, who seems like only yesterday was learning to tie his shoelaces, and you realize: that’s it, he’s a high school student. He’s about to make his first truly adult decision that could determine his future, his admission to university, and maybe even his career. And here you are, surrounded by a pile of advertising brochures, reading reviews on the Internet, and your head is spinning with questions. A state gymnasium with in-depth study of mathematics? A prestigious private lyceum? What to choose?

What do you really want… and your child

Before running to the open days, you need to have the most important conversation – at home. And here lies the main pitfall. Psychologists say that parents and teenagers often speak different languages ​​about school.

To avoid future conflicts and find a school that suits everyone, we offer a simple but effective exercise. Take a sheet of paper and divide it into two columns. In the first column, write down your immediate requirements, in the other – what the student dreams of.

Look at these two lists. At first glance, they may seem completely different. But in fact, they are closely related. When a child feels safe, when he is respected, he himself begins to think about his future and what subjects he needs to “pull up” for admission.

The modern world requires not only knowledge (hard skills), but also the so-called soft skills or “4Ks”: creativity, critical thinking, communication and teamwork. And it is these skills that develop in an atmosphere of trust, cooperation and creative freedom.

Public school vs. Private education. Debunking 5 main myths

Now you are faced with a global question: public institution or private education? There are many stereotypes around private schools that often prevent you from making an informed decision. Let’s break down the most popular ones.

Myth 1. Private school is only for the rich

Fact. It’s not about the price, it’s about the value you get. The main advantage of a private school is the individual approach that cannot be implemented in a class of 35 students. In small classes with up to 15 children, a student cannot “sit on the back bench”.

Myth 2. In public schools, “old-school” teachers are stronger

Fact. Private schools are often more attractive employers, which allows them to attract highly qualified and, importantly, motivated teachers. These are often young, energetic professionals who have modern methods, use gamification and interactive approaches to make learning interesting.

Myth 3. Why pay for school if you can simply hire tutors in key subjects?

Fact. High-quality private education is an “all-inclusive” system. In one place, a child receives not only lessons, but also help with homework, quality food, a variety of clubs and sections.

Myth 4. Private school does not prepare for the challenges of real life

Fact. Quite the opposite. Real life today is not the ability to survive in a toxic environment, but the ability to cooperate, negotiate, creatively solve problems and manage one’s emotions. Private schools, paying great attention to psychological safety, teaching conflict management and mediation, prepare for this modern world.

Myth 5. Private school does not give a 100% guarantee of admission to university

Fact. No institution can give such a guarantee. But a private school significantly increases the chances, because it offers comprehensive support. This is not only preparation for NMT, but also assistance in choosing a profile and future profession, developing a student’s portfolio through project activities, preparing for international exams

Your first big decision is the beginning of a great journey

Choosing a lyceum is truly a great responsibility. But it is not a sentence or a lottery. It is a process that, with the right approach, can become an incredibly valuable experience for the whole family. It is a chance to get to know your child better, hear their dreams and fears, and choose a path together.

The main thing, remember: you are not looking for the “ideal” school from an advertising brochure. You are looking for the right school for your unique child. A place where they will be supported, inspired, and helped to spread their wings.

You can learn more and make an appointment on our website or by phone. We are waiting for you!