Choosing a School Beyond Academics: What Parents Often Overlook
I have taken on many roles within the education industry, including teacher, principal, speaker, trainer, entrepreneur, parent, and observer. Sitting in these different perspectives has shown me the gaps that often go unnoticed by parents who are searching for the best school for their child in Malaysia.
If you are here, you are likely searching for these answers too.
A large part of my perspective is shaped by serving over 10 schools through extracurricular activities in Malaysia. Working closely with school teams has given me insight into how internal structures, leadership, payment terms, and communication styles affect daily decision-making. These factors directly influence teacher wellbeing, classroom culture, and the level of care extended to students.
And it always shows.
I strongly believe that “the way you do anything is the way you do everything.” This applies to schools as well.
The Importance of School Management and Leadership
If there is one key factor behind a good school, it is the management team.
When parents visit a school, one of the most important questions to ask is: Who is the principal?
A principal does not necessarily need to come from a traditional education background. One of the best-run schools I have encountered was led by someone without formal education training, yet every aspect of the school was thoughtfully managed, from staff wellbeing to student support. That school was located in Australia, not Malaysia, but the principle remains the same.
Strong school leadership sets the tone for how teachers are supported and how students are cared for.
School Communication with Parents
Education is a service industry, and communication plays a significant role in the parent experience.
The way parents are spoken to during enquiries and school visits matters. While the admissions or sales team may only be the first point of contact, they often reflect the school’s overall culture. These are also the people parents will communicate with when concerns or challenges arise.
Clear, respectful, and timely communication is a strong indicator of a well-run school.
Teacher Wellbeing and School Culture
One of the most telling signs of a good school is its teachers.
Observe whether teachers appear calm and engaged. Do they smile naturally? Do they interact warmly with students?
If the opportunity arises, speak briefly to a teacher. A simple question such as, “Are you enjoying working here?” can reveal a lot. While responses may be polite, body language often tells the real story.
Teacher wellbeing is crucial. When teachers feel supported, respected, and professionally valued, children benefit directly. A positive school culture starts with how teachers are treated behind the scenes.
Student Wellbeing, Discipline, and Bullying Policies
Parents should ask specific questions about student wellbeing.
How does the school handle discipline? What is their approach to bullying? Is there open communication between teachers and students? Can the school share real examples of how they have supported children through behavioural or emotional challenges?
Good schools are transparent. They are willing to explain their processes and share how they have helped students grow.
It is also important to ask about counselling support. How accessible is the school counsellor? How many counsellors are available? What systems are in place to regularly monitor student wellbeing?
Student wellbeing should be an ongoing practice, not just a statement on a website.
Creativity and Learning in Early Childhood Education
When visiting a school, take time to look at student work, especially in early childhood and primary settings.
If every artwork looks identical, with the same colours, shapes, and layout, this can be a warning sign. Perfect work often reflects adult intervention rather than authentic learning.
Learning should be expressive, exploratory, and sometimes messy.
Strong school leaders and teachers are able to explain why creative work looks the way it does, what skills the child is developing, and which milestones have been achieved. The focus should be on the learning process, not just the final display.
Trusting Your Parental Intuition
Choosing the right school in Malaysia is not just a practical decision.
If something does not feel right, take time to pause. Do not rush the process. Speak to other parents, ask questions outside the school gates, and gather multiple perspectives.
Spending time researching and observing is far easier than dealing with the stress of transferring a child later on.
Parental intuition exists for a reason, and it should not be ignored.
Supporting Your Child Beyond School
While choosing the right school is important, it is equally crucial to recognise that children need support beyond the classroom.
Miss Teaspoon was created to fill that gap.
Our Weekend Girls Club focuses on social emotional development, communication skills, confidence building, and meaningful connection. It offers a supportive out-of-school environment for primary and secondary school girls, especially during the tween years when identity, emotions, and self-esteem begin to take shape.
If you are looking for a nurturing programme in Malaysia that complements your child’s schooling, the Weekend Girls Club is where growth continues with intention, care, and heart.
👉 Explore Miss Teaspoon’s Weekend Girls Club and how we support girls beyond the classroom.
