How to Talk to Your Child About Choosing the Right School

From primary to secondary, elementary school to middle school, choosing the right school for your child is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. It’s one that will shape the rest of your child’s life.

While you may have a list of top international or private schools nearby, make sure to include your child in the discussion, helping them feel involved in the decision and giving you valuable insight.

Here’s how to make that conversation count.

Start with Their Passions

Every child is different. Some light up in science labs. Others come alive on stage or the football pitch.

You’ll already know what your child loves, but make sure you’re keeping that in mind when choosing a school. Do they play an instrument? Make sure their new school has opportunities for them to get involved with Strings or Band. Do they love football? Ensure their school has a team they can join that suits their level.

Speak with your child to see if their passions align with the school’s offering in the areas of a STEM or STEAM programme and both arts and sports.

The best schools will cater to a student’s individuality. Watching how a school’s teachers and staff interact with your child during a school visit can be very helpful. It can also help you see if the school offers personalised learning.

Explore Options Together

Whether you're looking at British international schools, boarding schools, or bilingual options, make the search a joint venture. Look through school websites, videos, and social media together—or have them bookmarked for when your child gets home from school.

Encourage questions. Have them imagine themselves there and talk through their level of excitement and any other emotions it inspires. You're not just choosing a school—you’re choosing a community.

Take a School Tour (and Ask the Right Questions)

A school tour is the perfect opportunity to get an idea of how a campus feels. Ask your child how they felt during the visit. Could they see themselves there?

Were the teachers welcoming? What about the teaching and learning? Did the classrooms feel inspiring? Don’t forget to ask about pastoral care, student wellbeing, and how the school supports academic progress and emotional growth.

Check out our article on what to look for during a school tour for expert tips.

Focus on Fit, Not Just Rankings

It’s tempting to focus on league tables—but what really matters is whether the school fits your child’s needs. Does it offer a balance of academic excellence, extracurricular opportunities, and a nurturing environment? It’s a delicate balance.

For example, at Nord Anglia Education, people recognise our schools for their high standards and great university destinations. But crucially, they also create an environment where students love to learn.

Make It a Two-Way Conversation

Nerves are natural—a new school might be the biggest change your child has experienced in their life. So, choosing a new one isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about helping your child feel seen, heard, and supported.

Keep the tone positive and open. Reassure them that it’s okay to feel nervous or unsure. Remind them that you’re in this together—and that the right school will help them flourish socially, emotionally, and academically.

At Nord Anglia Education, we know that every child is unique. That’s why our family of schools around the world is committed to helping students discover what they love—and who they want to become.

Ready to find the perfect fit? Come visit our campus, meet our teachers, and experience the inspiring learning environment at BVIS Hanoi.