Should You Choose A Small Or Large School For Your Child?
I am often asked this question by Thai parents who are searching for a school in Canada. As is human nature, some parents want the short answer without having to put too much thought or time into choosing. That is why to go to a ‘specialist’ like me to help them decide. Most are game for a short discussion, but in the end, they often want me to tell them “…small” or “large.”
Unfortunately, the right answer is often “neither”. I say neither because without factoring in their child’s personality, strengths, weakness, character, ambitions, level of independence, etc. I cannot really make a proper suggestion with the level of certainty that parents demand and expect. Some personality types are more suited for larger schools, while others will flourish in smaller, more intimate group settings.
But let’s start with a look at the pros can cons of a larger and smaller schools to give you a better idea of what you should consider is best for your child.
Larger schools will be able to offer more extracurricular activities, team sports, clubs and academic programs, as well as advanced placement or IB courses.
Usually, larger schools will have more funding and resources. This can result in better and larger facilities, more advanced technology, and more specialized teachers for unique electives like culinary arts, mechanics, robotics, etc.
Large schools will be able to provide more excursions or field trips outside of the school premises. With more students in school, there is more chance that a sufficient number of students will participate in these programs, making them feasible, and more affordable, then field trips or overseas exchange program offer at smaller schools.
Networking opportunities, although not as important as in college or university, can still play a role in high school. Certainly, larger schools will usually have more international students from a larger selection of countries, giving students more deep and wider cultural exchange program. The student might be going to study in Canada to learn English and get a western education, but they would get more from their experience if they met students from 30 other countries, instead of only Canadians. Also, with more students in school, your child will have more opportunities to find and make friends, given the larger selection of students. Please visit https://gostudycanada.net/bodwell-high-school/
However, larger schools mean more competition for team sports, scholarships, top academic placement, and leadership roles, all leading to a higher level of stress for students. It will be a lot easier to be the top student in a pool of 300 than in a pool of 3,000.
With more students to look after per teacher, your child will have a lower access to teachers, or put another way, teachers will have less time per child to spend with. This is not going to be a problem for those top-performing students who also have greater levels of support at home, but for those less fortunate ones, this less personalized education may make it more challenging for the student to reach their full potential or get the extra care they need. Larger schools’ environment will mean a less personal environment and could create a learning disadvantage, or peer group acceptance, than found in a smaller school.
Smaller schools will provide a more closed knit community. Smaller high schools often foster a strong sense of community and belonging. Students may develop deeper connections with their peers and teachers, creating a supportive environment for learning and growth.
With fewer students per class, teachers in smaller schools can provide more personalized attention and support to each student. This can lead to better academic outcomes and a greater sense of academic confidence.
Smaller class and school population will often result in an increase of student engagement. With less students in the class, meaning less competition, students may feel more encouraged to participate in class discussions, extracurricular activities, and leadership opportunities. This active engagement can enhance their overall educational experience.
Smaller schools allow for stronger relationships to form between students, teachers, and administrators. This can result in greater accountability, mentorship, and collaboration among school community members.
The downside of a smaller school is the flip side of the benefits of a large school. Smaller schools will likely not be able to offer the same amount of course electives or advanced placement courses, be it AP or IB., as would a larger school. They may not be able to offer as many specialized courses or extracurricular activities. This could impact students’ ability to pursue specific academic interests or prepare for college-level coursework.
With fewer students, this will likely mean less social diversity. Students may have less exposure to diverse perspectives, cultures, and experiences. This could potentially limit their understanding of the world outside of their immediate community.
In a smaller school, students may have fewer social opportunities due to the limited size of the student body. This could lead to feelings of isolation or cliquish behavior among peers.
Oh! And let’s not forget about the parents’ preferences. Smaller schools will have a different level of bureaucracy than a larger one. Is easy access to teachers and administrators important to you as a parent? Do you like being recognized as Junior’s parent when you walk into the school, or do you care if you get the blank stare and the standard “Hello? How can I help you?”
Ultimately, the decision of whether to send your child to a larger or smaller high school depends on their individual needs, preferences, and goals. When making this decision, it’s essential to consider factors such as academic offerings, extracurricular opportunities, class sizes, and overall school culture. Both have pros and cons, but the answer lies in which one will best suit your child, no one else’s. Make sure you take into consideration your child’s preferences and needs. And make sure you know your own preference and style. Regardless if you choose smaller or large, if it is the best match for your child, their chances of being successful and having a great learning experience will be greatly enhanced.
Rene is a Canadian education consulting and student recruiter based out of Bangkok with over 20 years of experience in the S.E. Asian market. He can be reached at info@gostudycanada.net and followed at GoStudyCanada (FB & IG)
