Education lays the foundation for a child’s future, which is why choosing the right school is essential. While public schools are highly accessible, they vary in quality, depending on where you live. If you are considering other options for your child, AFS may be the right fit. Private schools offer flexibility that public institutions can’t compete with. In fact, here are 12 ways your child can benefit from education at an independent school.
1. Positive Peer Experiences
Unlike public schools, private establishments can screen admissions. This careful selection allows schools to choose students with the most focus and ambition. As a result, the peer environment is more favorable compared to public institutions.
This type of environment can create a more nurturing and supportive learning atmosphere. Bullying and other negative peer interactions can take a toll on children’s studies; having a cohesive and positive social group, on the other hand, can promote academic success.
2. Spiritual Values-Based Learning
Private Independent schools are also an avenue for parents who wish for their children to have an education based on spiritual or religious values. Public schools are barred from promoting one belief system over another or studying religion in anything but secular terms. AFS provides an education infused with Quaker values, which derives from the Religious Society of Friends.
3. Focused Education
Similarly, most public education systems impart general knowledge on a wide array of topics. However, if you want your children to deeply develop additional skills and interests, such as performing arts, visual arts, or engineering, you may be better served at a private school.
Rather than confining these interests to one class, private schools that specialize in a particular topic incorporate it into every aspect of the curriculum. This is especially useful for kids who really want to a pre-professional experience in future career paths. Students at AFS gain advantages and opportunities in the fields of medicine, business, and law through the Center for Experiential Learning. The award-winning theatre and athletics program are also a draw for many families.
4. Smaller Class Sizes
Because private institutions can limit the number of students they accept, they’re also able to keep class sizes small. Setting the classes up in this manner provides more resources for each child, including more one-on-one time with instructors. Studies show that smaller class sizes produce better academic outcomes, giving private school attendees an edge over their public school peers.
5. College Prep
One of the many advantages of high school every child should have is a college-preparatory program. As students approach higher learning, they should have reliable study habits, understand college expectations, executive functioning skills, and know-how to access resources and help such as tutoring. Unfortunately, many of these skills are not developed in schools where college attendance expectations are low. Abington Friends School has a strong college-preparatory academic program firmly. 100% of our graduates find their right-fit colleges and from there they transform the world with powerful ideas and fearless voices.
6. Variety of Classes
Public schools often have to offer several classes of the same subject to accommodate their large populations; at private schools, administrators have more resources to allocate for student interests. Their greater control over curriculum also allows them to offer study outside general education. For example, they can offer coding, engineering, architecture, and other specialized topics.
7. Well Rounded Personal Development
Education shouldn’t be solely about memorization and test scores — an authentic education with a steady teacher and student relationships helps develop the whole child. Sadly, public schools often don’t have the resources to instill values and social skills, but this is an area where private schools excel. AFS fosters the growth of children into informed change-makers with a bold vision who lead authentic lives of accomplishment.
8. Tailored Education
The smaller class sizes are a benefit to students and they can also help teachers excel. With a smaller group, instructors can tailor lessons to children’s abilities and even explore subjects the group expresses interest in. This kind of attention boosts feelings of community and helps students feel as though their voices are being heard. Additionally, teachers can pick up on personal or academic issues children are struggling with since they have more time and energy to devote to each class member.
9. Close Teacher-Student Relationship
More one-on-one time means stronger bonds between teachers and students, providing children with authority figures they can confide in, rely on, and look up to. These nurturing relationships allow students to discuss issues outside of academia, seek advice on their future, and grow into caring, thoughtful adults. The trust established in these connections also enables instructors to intervene if they see signs of trouble. AFS dedicated an issue of their school magazine to the entire subject!
10. More Opportunities for Students To Develop a Love of Learning
Not everyone is built for high-level academia, but everyone can love learning. Some institutions are too focused on test prep and funding to ignite passion in their students. Without the stress of competing for funding, private schools can nurture critical thinking and intellectual curiosity.
11. Greater Parent Involvement
Independent, private schools promote greater parental involvement. Private institutions are often designed to include parents in education through programs and events such as these:
- Home and School committees
- All School BBQ and other celebrations
- Parent breakfasts and coffee hours
- conferences up to three – four times per year
This open line of communication helps teachers and parents feel comfortable approaching a challenge when issues arise; they can also feel confident that said issues will be addressed at home in coordination with support in class and at school.
12. Unique Extracurricular Activities
To authentically promote health, wellness, and academics, schools need to provide learning opportunities beyond the school walls. While many public schools strive to offer clubs, sports, and volunteer work to their attendees, the variety and quality of these programs may vary by location and community enthusiasm. If a student has a particular interest and it is not currently offered they are encouraged to start something new! There are over 50 clubs, sports, and other academic programs at AFS.
Are you looking for a school where your child can flourish? Then you should consider Abington Friends School. Established in the Quaker tradition, our education system strives to support students in all realms of development with a robust community behind them. We believe that with a strong spiritual compass and a solid understanding of their peers and place in the world, our students can find profound success. For more information, reach out to us at 215-886-4350 or go online.