Chosen the wrong school

[ClaireRed]

My little girlie just finishing reception, she enjoys school, has a little group of friends and seems to be learning well. We aren't from our area and after some research chose a local school we can walk to. However over the year ive realised the school is just quite basic, they dont offer additional experiences like the two other local schools. Just comparing them the other ones seem to have more visitors in, trips out and learning activities for the kids, things on socially for the kids and the parents. I was quite annoyed there is no end of year event compared to the other schools who are both putting on fundays with bouncy castles etc for the kids. Im really regretting choosing the school as I feel my daughter is missing out on a lot of these nice experiences. I don't know if its funding or whether the other schools just put in more effort. I'm really considering moving her as she's just starting off in the current school but my DH is reluctant as she is happy and settled. Anyone been in a similar situation? Think better to move now for a better school experience?

I wouldn't move a happy, settled child because another school has a bouncy castle one day a year or better trips. Just take her out on the weekend.

Perhaps the school she's at are using their time and resources to help her settle and learn?

Things like a Funday will be organised by a parents association of some kind. Why not start something at her school and next year have your own bouncy castle funday?

While it’s nice to have those things, a lack of it doesn’t mean it’s not a good school

we have summmer fairs etc but it’s entirely organised by the pta (i.e. parents). If you don’t have a lot of parents happy to put in an effort it doesn’t happen

I think it’s fine to wander over to the school reception and ask about the things you want to see and see what their view is.
but ultimately all schools are under massive pressure and if your child is happy and settled and progressing I wouldn’t move

At my daughter's primary things like fun days (with bouncy castles etc) and extra experiences (like a local theatre group coming in for a performance/workshop) were funded or put on by the PTA (ie - volunteer parents).
Does the school have a PTA?
If yes - join.
If no - set one up.

As said above - PTA, join or set one up. Be prepared to put your time in for these things you want...

Agreed.

Thanks for the replies, the PTA never occurred to me, yes they have one and seem to organise bake sales etc, I didn't join as id just my baby when she joined the school but maybe next year. I think some of things im talking about our definitely the school though, like having visitors in and organising special days on holidays. I just can't shake the feeling we've made the wrong decision

She’s happy, learning, thriving, you can walk her there, that’s worth so so much.

Our school has some of the stuff you mention missing out on, it’s mostly suggested or facilitated by the parents. They’re having free weekly language lessons from a contact of a school parent, they’ve had a music workshop arranged in a similar way, a visiting athlete etc. It doesn’t just happen.

DH thought the PTA was missing a trick with something so instead of complaining he’s got involved and helps at events. I had an idea recently so have offered to sort it. We had a small baby when DD started reception last year. If it’s important then get stuck in and see what you can do to help.

I'm on the PTA. Thing like visitors in, like the circus skills day we're having in July are also organised and paid for us, not the school. We don't just do bake sales! We don't advertise that though, most people wouldn't know that's a PTA event.

That's one day a year. And there's a Saturday summer fair but never heard of a bouncy castle for the end of term.

Those are very minor things compared to being at what sounds like a nice school where she's happy with friends and walking distance so the school's in your community. Doesn't sound like tje wrong decision at all.

I'd echo everything that has been previously said. We have an active PTA which organises fundraising events across the year e.g. summer fair, discos and movie nights for the children, quiz nights for the parents etc.All the events raise money for the school so that they can spend it on enriching the curriculum and booking things for the children from outside visitors, playground equipment etc.

Get involved in your PTA. Go to the next meeting and see how you can lend a hand. You don't have to commit to a massive job on the committee but if you can help in any way it will be hugely appreciated and beneficial for the children.