Find out a bit more about the school - what their philosophies are, what their strengths are etc and use that as a guide. Like some schools will advertise the fact that they have smaller class sizes, so if thats the case then you could comment on that (something like how she always does better in a smaller group) and write about how you feel that this new school will fulfil your expectation of an excellent education for her. I guess you could write about how important it is that she is in an engaging learning environment with a strong focus on academic excelence.
I dont know.. sounds like they want you to write a resume type thing.
Hun, how does your DD feel about it? If she wants to move too, then perhaps you can ask her to explain it and put that in the letter. I think it would carry a lot of weight coming from her. You can also put some words around it too, things like her not being motivated or challenged etc.
I am sure you will do a great job. You are a very talented letter writer.
Whenever we have had kids apply to schools out of their zones area the reasons need to be fairly strong so target something in the curriculum that the school she is currently going to doesn't offer. For eg... if they offer Cantonese then state that she wants to continue with that and xyz doesn't offer it, or if they have a great music program. Just re-read your OP and saw that its VCE so definitely detail something about certain subjects she wants to take that the new school specialise in - even if she changes her mind later on when she gets in Teenagers do that! Good luck lovely!
As Karina said you need to focus on what they can provide that your current school can't. If she is good at some sports which they are big on put that, if they offer a language she wants to do etc.
Another thing they look at it ease of getting to the new school, transport availabilty etc. Also how will it fit her social needs better?
What can she bring to the school? Has she been chosen for debating teams? sports teams? any awards?
I will chat to some high school teacher friends and see what they advise since I am only coming from a primary perspective.
Firstly, make sure you get the outside area request form/procedure from the school (usually the admin office can give you/fax you a copy).
Secondly, I can only go by what our school has done in the past.
Karina is correct, we were looking for a resume recommending your child be added to the school population. Things that were looked on favourably:
- High academic performance
- Leadership skills
- Sporting ability
- Any compassionate reasons (eg other siblings attending the same school, safety etc)
- Outside interests eg swimming, dancing etc
- letters from Principals and other teachers recommending the child to the school
- letters from outside interests eg coaches, dance instructors.
I know that this sounds a lot but if the school has limited numbers you are competing to get into the school.
Last edited by Caramello; October 6th, 2008 at 05:12 PM.
: ETA
Thank you so much for you advice, which I took on board and she was called in for an interview!!!
It looks like she will be starting there next year and OMG this place has sooooo many more subject choices for VCE, DD is getting all inspired and I feel sooo much better! YAY!!!
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Teenagers do that! Good luck lovely!
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