Can someone talk me through changing schools?

[kid]

I have made the decision to move my DC to another primary school. There is space for DS but I need to check for DD.

Am I right in thinking I just go and view the school, accept the place and then send them there?
Is it really that simple or am I missing something?!

How do I make the move easier for my DC? They have both attended their school since nursery but sadly, things have got so bad, I feel there is no option but to move them.

[primarymum]

Yes, it really is that simple! If a school has space they have to accept an application. So find out if they have vacancies in the years you need, visit the school, fill out an application form and off you go! It is considered a curtesy to speak to your Head first, we always ask whether a prospective parent has told the "old" Head that they are intending to leave, but that is up to you!

[kid]

I have already spoken to the Head and I have given it about 3 weeks to see an improvement to the current situation. I wasn't expecting miracles but I was hoping for some improvement.

I didn't ever plan on ever moving their school, but both classes are a huge concern and I don't feel happy to leave them in there.
Its going to be difficult because I work in their school and I am certain it will not send a good message to the other parents when they see me pulling my kids out.
But, I have to put my own kids first.

Thanks for your reply. I did think that was all there was to moving them, but it seems almost too easy!

[primarymum]

Oh dear, doesn't sound too good, poor you!
I hope everything works out OK for both you and your children.

[heavealot]

Hmmm, whats it going to be like for you when you have removed kids and you are still working there?

[kid]

Its going to be really hard on me as they have always been there. But, its for the right reasons to move them.
The Head knows of my intentions and said she understands. I don't know what the parents will think as I haven't spoken to any of them. I am worried about it, but not enough to stop me from moving them.

My DD is exciting about moving schools, my DS is unsure. One minute he is fine, the next he is refusing to move!

[PanicMode]

I moved my DS for the start of term this year - DD got a reception place and he went to the top of the list for a space as a sibling - luckily a place came up which allowed him to start at the beginning of Y1.

He's settled well, although he is finding it a bit difficult to find friends who don't gravitate towards their reception friends the second they go into the playground - but he's doing extremely well academically (a big reason for moving him from his other school - the bright ones "teach themselves" according to the head ).

To help him settle, I have organised a couple of playdates and the teachers have made an effort to buddy him up with people before break times - and it all seems to be paying off. It was definitely the right decision for him/us - good luck - it sounds as though you have a more difficult choice, given you work at their current school.

[kid]

DD is in Year 6, I was reluctant to move her as its so late in primary school but she needs support that she isn't getting. She is quite shy but so tiny and cute I am sure she will be fussed over.

DS needs to move because his class is so naughty. I mean really naughty, you would have to see it to believe it! DS is very confident and very able at school, he will soon settle in but isn't happy about having to move away from me.

I do feel it is the best thing for us all, but, I am concerned how it looks to others.

[kid]

Still thinking this over and my thoughts haven't changed.

Do I need to let the LA know that DD is in a different school? I mean, will it effect her secondary school transfer? We haven't moved house and I applied online so I will still get the information. I seem to remember having to put down her primary school when I did the application.