Choosing an elementary school has never been an easy task. Parents traditionally compare academic results, location, class size, sports facilities, and cost, and these factors remain significant. Class size is a particular concern: the Department of Basic Education reported in 2026 that 43,677 additional classrooms are needed nationwide to address overcrowding.
This is compounded by the rapidly changing educational landscape: artificial intelligence has infiltrated schools in ways few parents could have foreseen just a few years ago; children are increasingly facing mental health issues, while teachers are already overwhelmed by large classes and simply do not have enough time to give each child individual attention. At the same time, today's children are growing up in a world where technology develops rapidly, information is instantly accessible, and many professions they might choose in the future do not yet exist. Consequently, the questions parents ask when choosing a school must also change.
Caroline Miller, Director of Centennial Schools Sandton - Preparatory School, states: 'Elementary education is much more than just helping children learn to read, write, and count. These early years shape how students approach challenges, begin to believe in themselves and work with others, and develop a lifelong connection to learning.'
Seven Questions to Check When Choosing an Elementary School
Below are seven questions that should be added to the checklist when selecting an elementary school.
Does the school teach children to think critically?
In a world where facts are available in seconds, critical thinking is gaining increasing value. One must look for a school that encourages students to ask questions, explore ideas, solve problems, and explain their thought processes, rather than just memorizing information. Curiosity should be actively cultivated, not viewed as a mere trait.
How does the school see my child as an individual?
Not all children learn the same way. Instead of asking how the school supports struggling students, parents should ask how it identifies and develops each child's strengths, interests, and learning style from the outset. This includes personalized learning and flexible teaching methods that help every student progress at their own pace. Miller notes: 'That is why we implemented a model of two qualified teachers in each elementary school center (classroom) — to ensure the complete satisfaction of each child's academic, emotional, and developmental needs.'
How is technology used in daily learning?
Technology should enhance learning, not merely replace books with screens. Parents should find out if students are learning to use digital tools responsibly and creatively through research, design, and collaboration. This increasingly includes helping students understand how to use AI thoughtfully and ethically. Miller adds: 'Since technology is becoming part of daily life, schools have a responsibility to help students become capable creators and critical thinkers, not just skilled users.'
What happens when my child faces difficulties?
Every child encounters obstacles. Instead of focusing only on extra support, one should ask how the school helps its students develop resilience. Does it encourage reflection and perseverance? Do mistakes turn into opportunities for improvement, or are they something children learn to avoid? Growth mindset often begins with understanding that progress is rarely achieved perfectly the first time.
Is emotional development valued alongside academic achievement?
The ability to regulate emotions, communicate effectively, collaborate, and build healthy relationships is fundamental to success both inside and outside the educational center. Parents should ask how schools intentionally develop emotional intelligence, rather than assuming it develops naturally over time.
Is the learning connected to the real world?
Even young children benefit from understanding why their learning matters. Look for a school where students solve authentic problems, work on meaningful projects, and make connections between classroom learning and everyday life. This experience helps children develop a sense of purpose from an early age.
Will my child feel like they truly belong here?
Academic success is important, but so are feelings of recognition, value, and connection. Parents should consider whether the school creates an environment where students feel safe to express their opinions, ask questions, build friendships, and discover their strengths. A strong sense of belonging often becomes the foundation for engagement and future success.
Miller concludes: 'The best elementary education doesn't just prepare students for primary school. It helps them develop confidence, curiosity, resilience, and adaptability—qualities they will rely on throughout life. These qualities are ultimately as important as everything they learn from a textbook.'