Choosing a School: A Guide for Parents

Parramatta Marist Westmead students
Parramatta Marist High School, Westmead

Choosing a school is a big moment. Right up there with choosing a pram, a first pet or agreeing to sign your child up for weekend sport for the next decade.

It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, but take a breath. This guide is here to make the process feel lighter, clearer and a lot less daunting, so you can feel confident you’re asking the right questions and find a school that truly fits your child for any grade.

Step 1: Source reputable information

The internet has opinions, lots of them. It can be easy to get lost in the scroll, so start with people you trust. Chat to friends, family and other parents about their experiences. Then jump onto school websites and social media to get a feel for their values, learning style and community. You’ll quickly start to see what feels like a match.

Step 2: Identify your must-haves

Every family is different, so be clear on what matters most to you. Maybe location and travel time are non-negotiable. Maybe affordability, fees and uniforms matter most. You might also be looking for a school that aligns with your family’s values or faith. Don’t forget to ask about eligibility requirements or waiting lists - schools are always happy to help.

Step 3: Look beyond the classroom

The best schools don’t just teach, they nurture. Alongside academic learning, look for schools that support wellbeing, character and confidence. Consider extracurricular activities, how schools approach wellbeing and safety and how schools communicate with families. A strong school culture makes all the difference.

Step 4: Consider your child’s abilities and interests

Your child’s interests, abilities and needs should be at the heart of your decision. Think about how your child learns best and whether they have any additional learning, language or physical needs. Consider their interests too! Whether that’s sport, languages, science, music or the arts and how the school supports these passions.

St Joseph's Primary Kingswood students in science class
St Joseph's Primary School, Kingswood.

Step 5: Look long-term

It’s worth imagining your child five or ten years down the track. Does the school offer the opportunities, resources and experienced staff to support their growth over time? Looking at alumni stories, student achievements and the school’s track record can give you insight into the kind of young people the school helps shape.

Step 6: Attend an Open Day or plan a school visit

Nothing beats seeing a school in action, and attending an Open Day is one of the best ways to experience what makes a school unique. Explore learning spaces, meet students, teachers and school leaders and gain a sense of the school’s culture and community. It’s also a valuable chance to ask questions about learning and wellbeing support, co-curricular opportunities and how success is nurtured and celebrated beyond academic results.

Most importantly, trust your instincts. When a school feels right for your child and your family, you’ll know.

Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) offers 80 primary and secondary schools across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains. With high-quality learning programs, state-of-the-art facilities, a wide range of extracurricular opportunities and a strong focus on wellbeing and belonging, CSPD schools empower every child to thrive and strive for greatness.

Click here to find and register for an Open Day near you

Written By

Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au

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10 Feb 2026
From Facebook
We began our school year gathered in faith and unity at our Beginning School Mass 🙏✝️, coming together as our Holy Family community to place the year ahead in God’s hands. It was a special celebration as we commissioned our Year 6 leaders, praying that they be guided by courage, wisdom and compassion as they lead our school 🌟. We also warmly welcomed our new staff and students, who we are so grateful to have join our Holy Family community 🤝💙. A heartfelt thank you to the families who joined us in this beautiful celebration — your presence made it even more special. May this year be filled with faith, growth, service and many blessings as we walk together in His light 📖✨.

07 Feb 2026
From Facebook
How special is this 💙✨ Last week, the Sydney Morning Herald featured our very own Arielle and her mum in a thoughtful piece exploring one of the biggest questions families face: When is the right time to start Kindergarten? Their story captures the heart of what school beginnings are really about, which is readiness, confidence, relationships, and trusting each child’s journey. We’re so proud to see our Holy Family community reflected so beautifully in this conversation and to watch Arielle take her brave first steps into big school life 🥹🎒 Because here, we know that starting school isn’t just about age, it’s about feeling safe, known and ready to grow 🌱💛