“Where are they going to school?”
If you’re a parent, this question might be all-too familiar. Especially for those with daughters, places in girls’ schools are competitively sought out and it can seem overwhelming, but there are ways you can work through the decision-making process.
Diana Vernon, Principal of Methodist Ladies’ College, says it is important to have an eye on the future, even if it’s hard to picture your daughter in 10 years’ time.
“As a parent, you will know your daughter’s interests. Find out whether the school you have in mind will be able to support her in developing these, as well as provide opportunities to explore further experiences you might not have considered yet,” she says.
“What she could do in the years ahead that might engage and inspire her? If your child likes music, what is on offer to progress her passion? If she has an aptitude for languages, a program like French Immersion may be of benefit.
“You have to remember that school is a journey,” Diana explains. “It might be hard to imagine your daughter as a student in Year 11 or 12 if she is currently eight years old. Parents should always look at the long term, not just think that they can review schooling once their child is in Year 9.”
Visiting schools on an open morning is one of the best ways to be able to get an idea as to the values of the school, view the facilities and ask individual questions.
“You can do all the due diligence around researching online, but without visiting a school you won’t get that intuitive feeling, where you will be able to say to yourself, ‘I can see my daughter being happy and thriving here’.”
At MLC, prospective families can hear from the Principal and take a student-led tour of the school, which provides an opportunity to learn about life at MLC through a student lens. If you are looking at a school when your daughter is a little older, she is a vital part of the decision-making process.
“Prospective students love being able to ask questions of their student guides and hear about their experiences first-hand,” Diana says.
“I enjoy meeting families and discussing what they are looking for in a school. A common question I’m asked is about MLC uniquely being a large school; I like to help them see that it means more opportunity and pathways for their daughters to choose from and to pursue, and how our students form friendships across multiple groups. There is truly something for everyone.”
