Are your kids finding school far too easy?

[Guest DebbieLo]

Hi

I was wondering if any one else has the same problem as me, we have been here for 6 weeks and my children aged 14 and 10, school years here 9 and 4/5 are finding school far too easy. They went to a comprehensive school in England and were both doing really well, in top sets. The high school kids here mess about throwing things, teachers allow them too listen to I pods and don't seem to give out any discipline .

 

We could move them to another school but its out of the area zone and a train journey away. We are even considering moving back to England so they get a better education.

 

Does anyone else have the same problem?

 

Debbie

[Diane]

Have you looked at private schools? I have found that generally they do quite a good job of looking after kids at either end of the spectrum and are less tolerant of disruptive behaviour. It doesn't necessarily mean paying out large sums of money either - many schools offer scholarships or partial scholarships. Definitely worth considering for your older child. For the younger one though, bear in mind that here in Australia, primary schools are not about huge academic achievement - it's more about building confidence, trying out lots of things, learning to socialise with a wide mix of people, etc etc

[coolerking]

Hi

I was wondering if any one else has the same problem as me, we have been here for 6 weeks and my children aged 14 and 10, school years here 9 and 4/5 are finding school far too easy. They went to a comprehensive school in England and were both doing really well, in top sets. The high school kids here mess about throwing things, teachers allow them too listen to I pods and don't seem to give out any discipline .

 

We could move them to another school but its out of the area zone and a train journey away. We are even considering moving back to England so they get a better education.

 

Does anyone else have the same problem?

 

Debbie

 

Hi Debbie,

would it be possible to move into another area? Obviously, this is not something you would do lightly, but just ask for areas that people have found schooling to be good.

 

Hope it works out,

Cooler

[Guest R175]

Hi Debbie

 

We have only been here 7 weeks too...

 

My girls are only young BUT have said school is easy, my eldest was working at a level of 2 years above in UK and the littlest 1 year above her actual year...then again they only started going full time 2 days ago...lol

 

We asked about them pushing them as they were both fairly advanced and it is just as important for them to get a good education than it is for us to get a good life, that is why we live 45mins away from wife's work

 

We are going to give them a few weeks and then see how it goes. It may well be doing what Diane says for us and looking for private...which is a real shame as the school and teachers, and to be honest the kids also are really nice and pleasant.

 

I hope you sort it out and look forward to your response...to threaten going back to UK their school must of been excellent...lol (you can probably tell we aren't think that way...lol)

[Rachiegarlo]

No not at the moment because she has three days left of her school life. Swotvac begins next week then final exams in the next few weeks. All my kids have been educated in the Aus system and it gets tougher the higher up they go. Believe me lying half asleep on the living room floor supporting the 2-3000 word essay writer at 2 am is not easy. High school becomes more serious in year 10 and then its all on in yr 11. By their last yr they are expected to hit the ground running. Deadlines have to be met or else they get 0 marks unless a doctor's cert is produced.

 

I came here as a bright 10 year old , fresh out of an excellent Suffolk Middle school and yes in some things I was way ahead, but in others I wasn't. The Aussie kids caught up and some surpassed me. Aussie kids are no slower than any other kids in the world, they are going through their education system and the expected amount will fill the uni places for engineers, doctors, teachers, lawyers etc.

 

Being slightly ahead for a while can be a good thing as school work can be completed quickly leaving time for them to expand other interests while they still have the time. My youngest used to fill her days with dance, sport, music, scouts etc and slowly this has been whittled away so that in this her final year she works one shift to give herself some funds and has one dance lesson......the rest of her time has been taken up with the demands of year 12.

 

I would say, don't worry, look at how this years yr 12s do at your school and then think about moving if you are not happy. Yr 9 here is after all only 2nd year high school when they encourage the kids to try a little bit of everything and the slash and burn of subject choices begins in yr 10.

[minty]

If you go back will you be able to garentee you get them back into the same school?

 

If not you could end up with the same problems back in the UK.

[Guest dalton]

Hi god im so with you onm that one our kids are same ages & we have the same issues our oldest hates school & same as you she was in top set its killing us watching the pain shes going through hmm UK not looking so bad after all??????????????????????

[Guest Adelaide_bound]

hmm UK not looking so bad after all??????????????????????

 

If you had *any* idea of the truth of schools in the UK you would run so fast away - one of the major reasons for our move is schooling - I'm a teacher, most of my hubby's family are teachers and between us we have all taught in a massive range of schools in this country. I wouldn't have put my kids in any but one of them, and that was a private school that we a) could never ever afford and b) the only way we could have afforded it was for me to work there (even then it would be a struggle depending on how many children we had) and I'm not sure I could tie myself to somewhere for the sake of the kids if it turned out to not be a workplace I wanted to stay in (and that's if there was a job there in the first place/I could get a job there lol).

 

I will never ever put my children through school in the UK - the education system here I think not only robs them of their childhood, it just focuses totally on the wrong things imho and is basically treating children like statistics on a balance sheet, not children to be educated. If your child is just missing out on a level 4, or a C grade they will get time and help. If they are high flyers or not academically 'average' then bad luck basically.

 

If you think schooling is too easy I would say either try and get them in a private school in Oz (which can be a lot more cost effective than in the UK), or supplement their school work with home study if you think they may struggle academically later on. (Or, if you think they can cope with the ramp up later, just let them be children for the time being)

[Guest loopylisa]

Just my opinion from someone who has been educated in the Australian school system and then the UK system from 15-post graduate Uni Level. School in oz was always too easy for me it got to the point in primary school I would be finishing my work in less than half the time it was 'supposed' to take and the teachers would order me to help the other kids in the class(Im owed alot of money in back pay from the aussie government lol). Anyway it got so bad that by the last year of primary school I was teaching myself english in the corridor using the dictionary because I had worked my way through the entire primary curriculum and the teacher didnt know what to do with me.It got a bit better at high school but with english assignments like analysing disney films I was quickly turned off and began loosing interest in school and my grades dropped because quite frankly I couldn't be bothered to attend or listen anymore. The Australian school system never did anything for me as a high flyer. We then moved back to the UK and OMG it was a struggle. I was placed into top sets and it was SO HARD but I LOVED IT because it pushed me. That is what I was I'm smart and academic its what I thrive on and its what I love and if your children are anything like me then regardless of this let them be children stuff they will want to be pushed. I hated school esp primary so much in oz because it just made me feel alone and isolated because I was much further ahead of my peers. This refusal to stream in the aussie school system is rediculous. In a few years I want children and I'm extremely anxious about hearing the system does not to have appeared to changed in 10-15 years. Education is supposed to help you meet your fullest potential and I was really let down by my early schooling in Australia. Its all ironed out in the wash now and I have a masters degree but in my heart of hearts believe thats due to moving back to the UK and I feel I would not have achieved what I have in public aussie schools. My opinion is private school if you can afford it, finding a school which will agree to skip your child a grade and tutoring.

[Diane]

Look for schools that offer the SHIP programme as well (Students of High Intellectual Potential) - there are a few state ones around. Glenunga High springs to mind immediately but there's several.

[Guest Guest5035]

Hi

I was wondering if any one else has the same problem as me, we have been here for 6 weeks and my children aged 14 and 10, school years here 9 and 4/5 are finding school far too easy. They went to a comprehensive school in England and were both doing really well, in top sets. The high school kids here mess about throwing things, teachers allow them too listen to I pods and don't seem to give out any discipline .

 

We could move them to another school but its out of the area zone and a train journey away. We are even considering moving back to England so they get a better education.

 

Does anyone else have the same problem?

 

Debbie

 

They'll be right, if a kid wants to learn they'll learn, re discipline, its not upto teachers its the parents, have a word with the principal and get them moved to other/better classes. The kids here just take it as it comes, yours will be cool soon, believe me.

 

Stevo

[jim and adel]

If you're not happy with the school, definitely move to another. Boggles the mind this idea of 'let them be kids' and 'they'll be right'. Do what you think is appropriate for your kids, and if they're bored and not being stretched, or other kids aren't being managed by the teachers, then the schooling isn't working, simple as that. It's beguiling to think that the Aussie system is well designed, ramps up as kids get older and is it's all part of a well organised plan, but from what I've seen the education system here is simply very inconsistent; when it's good it can be very good, but when it's bad it's dreadful.

 

Jim

[Guest Peachie]

Hi Debbie

 

What school are your kids in?

 

I have to admit that I am with adelaide_bound on this altthough my kids were in great school in uk the education is different here (not better or worse just different) my daughter has gained confidence here althought she is about average (both here and uk) for her age I feel there is more for her here longer term she is into rowing at school and loves it, my youngest is the top of everything and has just moved schools so will be assessed for ship he does conplain that the work is too easy but then I encourage him to improve his presentation ect wih excess time and reads ect at a far higher level at home I am considering things like kumon, music lessons and a chess club to push him a bit but at his age (7) I'm happy he is settled and making new friends

 

returning to the Uk because the school your kids are in is not idea is a bit reactive It would be cheaper to educate them privately or move to a better school if your kids bright then consider ship or a private (part schol) if they get into ship then getting into a state school that offers it (if your school doesn't) won't be a problem as an out of area application

[Rachiegarlo]

The scholarship applications are open for the private schools now I think. The scholarship exams occur in February ish of next year for the following year. Also some of the Christian and catholic schools have very affordable fees. St Aloysius College in the city is becoming well thought of... again.... and don't forget things like the Maths and science school at Flinders for yr 10s-12s and Adelaide University College and Eyensbury, both private but provide uni entrance style education and the fees are not as high as for the mainstream privates. AUC does yrs 11 and 12, Eyensbury is yr 10-12. Also Annesley will be opening its girls only yr 10- 12 uni entrance prep college in 2013.

[Guest Guest5035]

If you're not happy with the school, definitely move to another. Boggles the mind this idea of 'let them be kids' and 'they'll be right'. Do what you think is appropriate for your kids, and if they're bored and not being stretched, or other kids aren't being managed by the teachers, then the schooling isn't working, simple as that. It's beguiling to think that the Aussie system is well designed, ramps up as kids get older and is it's all part of a well organised plan, but from what I've seen the education system here is simply very inconsistent; when it's good it can be very good, but when it's bad it's dreadful.

 

Jim

 

you worry too much, kids will be kids, in the end it works out believe me, been there done that twice, last time 4 years ago, if you move house or school, then it gets expensive and when will it be the right school.

 

stevo

[snifter]

Hi

I was wondering if any one else has the same problem as me, we have been here for 6 weeks and my children aged 14 and 10, school years here 9 and 4/5 are finding school far too easy. They went to a comprehensive school in England and were both doing really well, in top sets. The high school kids here mess about throwing things, teachers allow them too listen to I pods and don't seem to give out any discipline .

 

We could move them to another school but its out of the area zone and a train journey away. We are even considering moving back to England so they get a better education.

 

Does anyone else have the same problem?

 

Debbie

 

I am honestly surprised you are considering a move back to the UK before considering a move to a different area with a better school elsewhere in Adelaide. I'd try a move in Adelaide first and do your homework, check out some schools, read reports, parent feedback etc and if need be, move to the area if its zoned, so you can get your kids in. You won't consider a train ride for them for a school but will consider a move back to the UK? Hubby used to catch the train 30 minutes to his stop for senior school each day and then walk the rest. He did this the entire way through senior school. You went through so much to get out there, why give up at the first hurdle before exploring all your options and doing all the legwork needed to see if there is a better alternative. I also consider what example that sets your kids in terms of quitting on the biggest move of your life without seeing if there is something to be done for them in Adelaide, without really giving things a chance. Its only been 6 weeks and one school in the settling in period, mid school year. So, you may have got the wrong school for your kids. It happens but I am sure you can find a better one out there in Adelaide. If you really can't find a decent school after looking, then if you feel moving back to the UK is what you all want, then perhaps go. I don't know, I have mixed feelings about this sort of thing after such a short time frame.

 

I've never been educated in Aus but our son will be. My hubby is an Aussie and we've talked about how the schooling system varies and how the approach between the countries will probably jar for me till I adjust to it. But that in the final few years the work really does get harder and the kids do knuckle down is how it works it seems. But I have no concerns in my son being educated over there and we plan to do our utmost to ensure that he goes to decent schools and if need be, we'll move into a specific area if it means we get our son into the right senior school. There are some great ones about, its worth doing your homework and looking round. Honestly, my husband, his brother, his cousins, friends, none of them are morons without an education. All of them are smart, well adjust adults, most with degrees and for many of them, great well paying jobs (earning far more in Aus than the UK is paying currently also). Even his other brother, still at highschool is working really hard atm, doing great with his music and was in Canberra taking part in a musical event recently with the school. He is being pushed in a good way by his school and is thriving and rising to the challenge.

 

Also consider if your children are actually a bit ahead because of the timescale of the school year. I know for our son, although he is much younger, the time we plan to move, he'll end up doing 6 terms of his school year in total as he'll do an entire year of it in the UK, then because of the age cut off point he'll have to do 2 more terms of the same before the summer hols. So he may be a bit bored or doing the same thing for a while but I figure its not a bad thing as it gives us time to assess if the school we place him in is the right one for him, how he is doing and if need be we can then look to placing him elsewhere.

 

I personally find the education system in the UK almost too easy these days. Its set up so kids almost can't fail, at least that is how it seems to me.

[Guest Django]

education is different here (not better or worse just different)

 

The words 'nail' and 'head' spring to mind. Its much the same as life in general here. Its not better than the UK, its not worse its just different. I for one am very pleased with the standard of schooling our children are receiving. Niamh is way ahead of where Jack was at her age in the UK so they must be doing something right.

[Guest guest1255]

the school my son goes to picked up that he was suffering from auditory processing syndrome...and have been fantastic.....the uk school never noticed. they school here have supported him 100% and have been fantastic....also the high school he is going to offer support for kids who suffer from this...so they are really good in some ways. xx

[jim and adel]

you worry too much, kids will be kids, in the end it works out believe me, been there done that twice, last time 4 years ago, if you move house or school, then it gets expensive and when will it be the right school.

 

stevo

 

You think I worry too much, I think you're far too patronising. Just shows how people see things differently.

 

Jim

[Guest Peachie]

The right school is where your child feels happy and settled and is progressing well Yes it is worth moving to better area ect and visiting seveal schools just to get a taste of what is there and looking at the other kids watching them interact with teachers gives an idea on how your child will fit in

 

I have toured 6 primarys and 4 high schools in the hope of giving my kids a good education at a school where they feel happy and valued after all we moved here to kids the best life possible and it was time well spent as happy kids make family life so much easier and more enjoyable

 

if you local school suits your childs needs then lucky you a train ride sounds an easy fix I cycled with my kids 6km (each way for me!) there and back and on the days I worked they went to OSHC till their Dad could get them in the car my kids would have loved a train ride!!! but little one got nippy on his bike in a very short space of time and was the scurge of many a walker, jogger and other cyclist though linear park for almost 2 years now we have moved to a better area and the local school is good so now just a 10 min walk and oldest gets bus of a train to high school

[True Blue Aussie]

I read an interesting article from The Australian yesterday while waiting for a plane. I tried to put in the web address after googling it, but didn't work. If you are interested, google, 'John Carroll, Fear Spreads as Society of Spoilt Brats Runs Riot', and it should come up.

 

Some interesting comments re UK schools, and schools in general.

[Diane]

Incidentally, anyone with children currently in Year 6 who is thinking of private high school might like to have a look here:

http://www.acer.edu.au/tests/acep quite a few of the SA private schools are on the scheme (if they're not listed, it is also worth a call to the school to check as sometimes they leave names off the list!) and it gives you a few extra options...

[snifter]

I read an interesting article from The Australian yesterday while waiting for a plane. I tried to put in the web address after googling it, but didn't work. If you are interested, google, 'John Carroll, Fear Spreads as Society of Spoilt Brats Runs Riot', and it should come up.

 

Some interesting comments re UK schools, and schools in general.

 

 

Here is the link to the article if anyone wishes to read it

 

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/opinion/fear-spreads-as-society-of-spoilt-brats-runs-riot/story-e6frg6zo-1226173445455

[True Blue Aussie]

Thanks Snifter. i figured someone else might be able to do that.

[minkyme29]

the school my son goes to picked up that he was suffering from auditory processing syndrome...and have been fantastic.....the uk school never noticed. they school here have supported him 100% and have been fantastic....also the high school he is going to offer support for kids who suffer from this...so they are really good in some ways. xx

 

My daughter has CAPD (Central Auditory Processing Disorder) too, although it was initially thought that she simply had hearing difficulties and we got her fitted with grommets to correct that and then sought a private CAPD test which came out positive. She is receiving some assistance at HC R-12 school, is this where your son goes? If not I'd be interested to know which school please? My daughter is in yr 4 and is struggling with her spelling in particular, she's a bright girl but has a very creative artistic mind and CAPD so gets easily frustrated with the focus on academic subjects alone.