If you are looking at education options for your child, either Rockingham schools or closer to where you live, you might be considering independent schools. For those with the funds to afford an independent or private school, these are schools that are neither funded nor governed by the government. They set their own curriculum, raise their own money, and a board governs the school. For a long time registering your child in one of the Rockingham independent schools was something for the very wealthy. Today that is no longer the case, while it does take funds, it is not a class thing.

The big attraction of such a choice is that many have higher academic standards, better student care, and the smaller classes. All things that set up a school to be very successful and in demand. But not every school is going to suit your child's needs so you will need to look closer at the options. If your child is quiet and shy, they will need a school with good pastoral care that will encourage them to express themselves and to take part in activities. If you have a child with ADHD, you need a school that encourages learning by doing with less teacher-led classes and more child-led ones.

Take a look at the Rockingham schools that you can get to. There is no point in making your child travel to and from school for long periods, just to get to the 'perfect' school. Remember that many independent schools have waiting lists so you need to decide on the ones you like early and get your child onto that very young. Look at their websites and do a visit to the ones you narrow it down to.

When possible involve your child. If they are older and you are thinking of moving them from one school to one of the Rockingham independent schools or something close to you, have them look at leaflets and websites with you. Get their opinion and input, it is, after all, them who will be going there. Be prepared that most have some kind of admissions process that will involve an interview and the child doing an exam.