How to Evaluate Private Boarding Schools In Zimbabwe: A Guide for Parents 📚

When looking for private boarding schools, especially those operating from residential houses and not well-built facilities, it's essential to be cautious and vigilant. Here are some key points to consider to ensure your child's safety and quality education:

1. Verify Registration and Accreditation:
   Don't just rely on verbal assurances that the school is a registered center with a high pass rate. Always ask for official documentation to verify the school's credentials.
   
2. Check for Commercialization:
   Many schools operate out of residential houses. Ensure that the facility is commercialized and appropriate for educational purposes. There should be proper documentation for this as well.
   
3. Seek Multiple Opinions:
   Speak to at least two other people besides the first person you meet. This will help you get a more accurate picture of the school's operations and avoid being misled by inconsistent information.
   
4. Inspect Construction Claims:
   If the school claims they are building new facilities, ask for the exact location and details. Be wary if they seem hesitant or provide vague answers.
   
5. Insist on Seeing Dormitories:
   Do not be swayed by excuses like “we can't show the dormitories because they are being fumigated.” Insist on seeing where your child will sleep before making any payments.
   
6. Assess Security Measures:
   If there is no security at the entrance, it’s a red flag. Schools with inadequate security put children at risk.
   
7. Evaluate Teacher-Student Ratios:
   While the teacher-pupil ratio is important, it’s more crucial to ask how many subjects each teacher handles. A teacher managing too many subjects might not provide quality education.
   
8. Check Administrative Involvement:
   If the owner of the school is the one answering all your questions instead of a headmaster or administrator, consider it a warning sign.
   
9. Uniform Availability:
   Insist on seeing the uniforms before paying for them. Avoid schools that require payment upfront and then fail to deliver the uniforms timely.
   
10. Beware of Overcrowded Classes:
    Be cautious if the school claims to be full but still offers you a spot. Visit the classrooms to see if they are genuinely accommodating the number of students they claim.

Conclusion

Children in these schools often suffer from poor conditions and may end up participating in undesirable activities. As a parent, you might be tempted by the low fees and the prestige of a boarding school, but it’s crucial to prioritize your child's well-being and education.

While not all private boarding schools in Zimbabwe are problematic, many operate as money-making schemes. There’s nothing wrong with sending your child to a mission or government school, or a properly established private school.

By following these guidelines, you can make a more informed decision and ensure a better educational environment for your child.

What are some of the best private boarding schools in Zimbabwe? Please share your reviews in the comments below.