This parent shares with us her thoughts on Pat's Schoolhouse...
Tell us about the child/children you have attending the school?
Jennessa belonged to the first batch of students to join the school when it opened 4 years ago. Time flies, this year is her last year in Pat’s. I still remember when she was first admitted, she was one of the few full-day students. She was given lots of care and love from teachers, which I believe helped her to settle in fairly quickly. Now, I am looking forward to her upcoming graduation performance in November.
My son Jasper joined Pat’s Schoolhouse in August 2012. Before he started school, he refused to speak a single word and that worried me. I told the teachers my concerns, and thankfully, he started speaking only after two months attending the school. He is now progressing well at Pat’s.
What were the most important factors for you in selecting a school?
The cleanliness of the school, and the quality of the teachers are the two most important factors for me.
I believe a clean environment will help reduce the possibility of children falling ill, and also impart the value of personal hygiene to young kids.
Teachers with experience in early childhood is very important, too. This will help assure parents that their children are being nurtured the proper way as they grow.
How has the school lived up to your expectations?
I am satisfied with the services provided by the school, especially from Ms Michelle, Jennessa’s K1 and K2 English teacher. During the second teacher-parents conference at K1, I was informed that Jennessa was quite weak in her English when it comes to reading and spelling. Ms Michelle assured me that she would spend more time with her, and monitor her progress. No enrichment classes were suggested at that time as she believed we should give Jennessa more time to learn, and not to push her too hard. My daughter’s English improved, and she didn’t lose her interest in the subject – well done, Ms Michelle!
What does your child/children like most about attending this school?
They enjoy going school everyday. They love their teachers and friends, the curriculums such as Fastrack, Chinese speech and drama, music and dance. Of course, Jasper and Jennessa are always thrilled about going for excursions – like a theater show of Rapunzel, and a visit to the vegetable farm.
What sort of curriculum does this school offer?
Apart from the academic curriculum, the teachers plan other activities such as excursions to make learning fun. Full-time students get to participate the extra curriculum such as Fastrack, Chinese speech and drama, music and dance, I-math. Recently, Jasper has also participated in a new activity called “Young Gymnast”.
What do you value most about the school?
I can trust my children with them. The school is as sensitive to parents’ concerns, as the requirements of the Ministry of Education.
What has your experience of the school bus service been like (if used)?
Jasper and Jennessa don’t use the school bus service.
Are you satisfied with the level of communication you receive from the school and how they engage parents?
Teachers keep parents informed on all matters through various channels, including a communication book, text messages, and emails. They also started a new communication portal called “LittleLives”, which shows the child’s attendance, photo albums/video clips (with teachers’ observations/comments), and school events – basically a one-stop site for parents to monitor their children’s progress at anytime, anywhere. I am happy with this introduction.
How much homework is expected of your child/children?
They don’t have much homework. I also prefer they learn through games and activities. They should enjoy their childhood!
This post is sponsored by Pat’s Schoolhouse.
