Impact of changing schools

[SuperSpud]

I'm considering changing primary schools, does anyone know of any research/information regarding the impact of this on children's performance?

I'm not sure our current school is meeting our needs but I don't want to make things worse. I've stuck with our school for 7 years, but perhaps our kids deserve better?

[scarletlilybug]

Any background to this?

In my experience, once you find the right school for your child, the impact on their performance (and happiness) is significant and positive.

[sunnydelight]

scarlet is totally right - find the right school and things slot into place. The school all my kids now go to in Oz is DS1's 4th high school for lots of different reasons, and DS2's third primary. The difference in both performance and happiness for both of them is quite simply incredible.

Over the years I have learnt to have the confidence in myself as a parent to make changes when things aren't working for my kids. I don't have the kind of kids who will thrive wherever so I feel it is my responsibility to do the best I can for them.

[Drusilla]

You could try asking on Forces Sweethearts - lots of people on there whose children have had multiple school changes!

[SuperSpud]

Thanks guys. I'm really torn because I'm also a Governor and am not normally one to run away. But I know I have to put my kids first. Cannot move anyone for a couple of months, so will see if I can effect any changes from my role as a Governor in that time period. If not it will be a sinking ship in my view!

[slummymummy36]

Forces wife here and my 2 kids have had between them 8 schools. They are now ages 8 and 11.

My eldest moved OK at infant school (reception to end of year 2) But once she was 7 that changed. Her reaction to changing schools in year 3 was pretty scary BUT it was more to do with it being yet ANOTHER move than probably just the one move. She started bedwetting, crying constantly and talking of never bothering to make friends again. She was also an absolute expert (but very bored) in pre-historic man and the stoneage as she had done this very thorough project at EVERY school she attended. Sadly this meant she also had gaps in stuff she had missed in other subjects. Just before her 8th birthay we put her in boarding school and WOW it suited her!! Never looked back.

Youngest - moved 4 times in 4 years. Never had any issues. Settled in fine everywhere. Adapted to different routines an totally different schools. Thrived on the new girl status. Luckily didnt over repeat any topics or subjects. She asked to board at the same school as her sister and has just joined - but I reckon if she had been our eldest, boarding would never have become an option or requirement for us because she had no issues.

To move children ONCE - IMO, prolly will have little impact. I appreciate its easy for me to sit here and say that, but I really dont think it needs to be an issue for MOST children. There are some children that dont mix well or are very very shy or lack self confience and then I do think they may have a harder time of resettling. Educationally - I really dont think 1 move will make a hue difference with regards to repeated topics or a missed section fo work. With a bit of effort with the new school you can work out if there are any gaps!

It does depend on the child. Few forces families choose the boarding route and yet they move every 2 years or so. Most kids cope well.

My biggest advice is if you are going to move them - do it 100% positively. Dont dwell on leaving old friends, talk about new friends, the nice park next to the new school, the fact you'll be able to walk/drive to school, they have a nice climbing frame in the playround etc etc. Think about what makes your kids tick - and take it positive to them on that level. You will quake in your boots for them on their first day and maybe shed a tear on their last day (if you dont hate the place) but dont let them see this.

Good luck with whatever you decide!! Sorry for waffling but hope it helps someone!!

[mummyrex]

Move. You won't effect any changes as a Governor, well, not on your own and certainly not in a time scale that would benefit your children (assuming you are 'right' about what needs changing).

If you have identified a school that would suit your children better than move them as soon as possible. Most schools manage introducing children very well.

[Mumseywumsy]

Superspud - could you please tell me how you got on? I'm in similar situ. right now. School Governor, 2 girls at prep' school. Aware of changes and background scene. They are happy and settled. Appear to be doing o.k. I have stepped down from Board. How did you get on did you stay or go?? Please, please let me know!

[2BoysTooLoud]

As a governor you need to be 'a critical friend' to the school! Did that work/ improve things Superspud?

[CaptainNancy]

Changing schools does have a big effect on children, but unless you are continuously changing I think it would be fine- if things aren't good where they are changing may be the lesser of two evils.