7 questions about starting primary school
1.What essential items does my child need?
A school rucksack with a pencil case, slippers and a gym bag. Trainers are not compulsory. An art smock is also recommended. When choosing a school rucksack, ensure that it does not exceed ten per cent of the child's body weight. A good rucksack should fit snugly against the back and have wide, padded straps.
2.Do parents have a say in which class their child is placed?
No. Almost all local authorities have their own allocation criteria (gender, age, place of residence or journey to school, nationality). Attempts by parents to influence the decision are not well received by headteachers. However, no one can object to a polite enquiry. You should, however, think carefully about your reasoning. A statement such as «it will be easier for our child to settle in if they are with their best friend» is unlikely to be sufficient.
3.When and how will I receive information about starting primary school?
The allocation letters are sent by post, usually in late May or early June, before the start of the new school year. This letter also sets out the official open day and details of other events.
4. How much red tape will we have to deal with?
It's quite a lot. The first few weeks leading up to the autumn half-term are packed with various events, invitations to parents’ evenings and information sessions. Your child will also receive invitations to school events and sports days, as well as numerous other information sheets that need to be filled in and signed. In addition, there is a parents’ book in which teachers note down important dates – and also check whether the child has handed in the post. All tests must also be signed. So the motto is: always keep a pen to hand!
5.My child is starting Year 1 this summer and has been allocated a place at an after-school club. How can I help them prepare for this?
Starting primary school is a big change for both parents and children. To avoid overwhelming the little ones, parents are advised to gradually increase the amount of time their child spends at the after-school club in the afternoons. Educators recommend that, where possible, children should be picked up in the early afternoon during the first few weeks. Working parents should plan ahead: perhaps a grandmother, a friend or a godmother could take over the drop-off and/or pick-up? Plus: parents whose children have morning or afternoon care should check whether the service actually starts on the first day of school.
6. Can parents complain about poor grades?
Your child will receive their first school report in Year 1. However, traditional grades are not introduced until Year 2. Grades are no longer calculated using a calculator; instead, they are based on a holistic assessment by experts. Nevertheless, school report grades frequently cause friction between parents and teachers, with some even consulting a solicitor. Whilst it is possible to appeal against a school report, appeals are very rarely upheld.
7.What if I really can't stand the new teacher?
For parents, the transition to primary school means one thing above all else: having less say in certain matters. This might include the clothes their child wants to wear, the choice of playmates, or even the teacher. It may well be that she strikes you as an overly strict governess, but you'd be better off keeping that to yourself. Because, as a rule, children starting school adore their teacher. Whatever she says is done, and exactly as she says it. You can still have a say, though. Interest, involvement and support from parents are necessary and welcome at school. It is important that parents and teachers work well together. So show an interest in what your child is currently experiencing and learning, and what they are getting on with. And remember: parents know their child better than teachers, but teachers understand more about learning than parents.
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This article is taken from our special issue «Schöne Schulzeit», which is aimed specifically at parents whose children are about to start primary school. You canreorderthe magazinehere, or take a look at thecontents first.