Picking a school is one of the most vital decisions a parent has to make because it sets the stage for a lifetime of learning. With diverse parental priorities and a shift in educational goals and expectations, it is crucial to understand what makes a good institution.
School education has transformed immensely over the past few years, with a significant shift from the conventional to the modern. Often, the plethora of choices can overwhelm parents, but, in the end, it’s all about selecting a nurturing, encouraging environment that prioritizes holistic education. While there’s no magic formula to help you pick the best school, it goes without saying that the right institution will not only focus on academic excellence but also overall development. So, consider the factors below before you make your final choice.
1. Diverse Curriculum Options
A one-size-fits-all curriculum is outdated. It’s best to pick an institution that lets you choose from various curriculums to suit your child’s needs and interests. This flexibility ensures every child follows a path that aligns with their educational goals.
2. Seamless Academic Journey From Playgroup to Grade 12
Research says switching schools can affect kids negatively, impacting their academic performance and social interactions while also requiring them to adjust to unfamiliar surroundings. (1) There may also be a discontinuity in learning environments between the old and new schools, making it difficult to catch up on coursework. (2) Consider a school that eliminates the stress and anxiety of transitioning at various stages and ensures each educational phase matches the developmental needs of growing children.
3. Self-Regulated Learning To Encourage A Sense Of Responsibility
Self-regulated learning encourages kids to take charge of their intellectual journey and develop a sense of responsibility. Choose an institution that provides tools to help students set goals, monitor their progress, and reflect on their understanding while preparing them for the challenges of higher education and beyond.
4. Inclusive Environment And Spaces For Equal Opportunity
Diversity and inclusion must be the pillars of a school’s principles. Pick an esteemed institution that creates an environment where every student feels valued and included, regardless of background or abilities. That way, their individual needs are acknowledged, ensuring they receive equal opportunities to thrive.
5. Dynamic Educators For Self-Discovery And Growth
The right school believes that outstanding teachers make an outstanding school, so pick one where teaching goes beyond textbooks to cultivate confident communicators who don’t shy away from but thrive in today’s world. With a team of highly experienced and skilled teachers who are well-versed in current educational trends and adopt a multi-disciplinary approach to teaching, the students’ experience becomes engaging and comprehensive.
6. Tech-Powered Learning For Limitless Ambitions
In this digital age, schools should leverage state-of-the-art EdTech platforms and encourage students to shoot for the stars. Exclusive reading programs, student support tools, and instructional support platforms enhance the experience and provide students and teachers with the resources to grow, learn, and understand.
These are the primary features a parent or guardian must take into account while choosing a school for their child. And if a school has all these features AND more, then the decision should be as easy as pie! Yes, we’re talking about Oakridge International School. In addition to the aforesaid characteristics, it has numerous other features that benefit students in the long run. But before we get into that, let’s learn about the legacy of this institution.
Oakridge International School: Shaping Young Minds To Be The Leaders Of Tomorrow
From the sprawling grounds of Bengaluru to McMaster’s University Canada, from the lush greenery of Bachupally to the Institute of Technology in California, many aspiring students like Abhishek and Ridah have stepped out of the campuses of Oakridge and into esteemed universities with only praise for the former. It comes as no surprise that Oakridge has opened several avenues for its pupils to achieve groundbreaking success since day one. After all, these are just a couple of stories picked from a sea of achievers. Oakridge’s influence and holistic education traverse far beyond to help students spread their wings and soar. So, what makes Oakridge special? Let’s find out!
1. STEAM EducationFor Sharp Minds
Oakridge’s collaboration with MIT for STEAM education exposes students to innovations and methodologies in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Students get unique opportunities to engage with STEAM concepts through hands-on projects and experiences to foster a better idea of how the world works.
2. Nurturing Young Minds With the UNICEF Social Impact Program
The commitment to introducing aspiring children to global citizenship at Oakridge is real. Their UNICEF Social Impact program encourages students to get involved in social service, community development, and CAS activities. It helps nurture empathy, responsibility, and values that go beyond the classroom while imbibing leadership qualities, communication skills, and learning that lasts a lifetime.
3. Acknowledging Diversity Via Intra And Inter-School Collaborations
Oakridge promotes a global outlook through programs like JMUN, PMUN, SMUN, TEDoakridge talks, and student exchange programs. These initiatives inspire cultural awareness and skills in diplomacy and public speaking. Students are encouraged to engage with both local and global contexts right from the start. This international mindedness is strengthened further through education that cultivates cultural awareness and collaboration skills. Many former Oakridgers have attested that such programs helped them come out of their shells and participate in public discussions more actively.
4. A Journey Across Cultures With Tours
The international school offers numerous cultural context tours, including summer camps, field trips, nature walks, grandparent days, culinary days—you name it! These activities help broaden the students’ minds and provide them with multiple learning opportunities, which in turn foster a better understanding of different cultures and environments.
5. The Stepping Stone To Incredible Future Opportunities
While academics is one of the most significant responsibilities of an educational institution, what sets it apart from the rest is its impact on a child’s future. Oakridge International School takes several measures—including dedicated career counselors and annual university fairs—to give students ample opportunities to choose their future paths. Almost every student gets an average of two placement offers, and, to date, over 2500 Oakridgers have been placed in top universities.
6. Multilingual Proficiency For Global Citizenship
Language and acquisition development is a huge asset in today’s globalized world. Oakridge offers numerous language programs to hone the student’s skills. This not only enhances cognitive abilities but also opens doors to worldwide opportunities while shaping young minds and preparing them for a bright future.
The right school for your child should follow principles and methodologies that set it a notch apart from the rest and help them learn, grow, and think outside the box. Oakridge International School comes up to scratch and offers a unique, holistic education that prepares students for success.
So, what are you waiting for? Discover the incredible educational journey at Oakridge. Admissions for the 2024-25 academic year are now open. Visit the website to learn more and take the first step toward your child’s bright future.
References
- Moving Schools: Antecedents, Impact on Students and Interventions
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/258123993_Moving_Schools_Antecedents_Impact_on_Students_and_Interventions - Switching Schools: Reconsidering the Relationship Between School Mobility and High School Dropout
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4279956/
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