I'd like to preface my review by mentioning that I was a prospective parent of this school for a 5 year old. However, I decided against sending my child to this school after experiencing the assessment process and the subsequent discussions I had with the school.
Firstly, the website for this school is non-existent. Going to their page has a static message talking about an upgrade (First red flag).
After mailing their admissions team, I received details on their curriculum, fee structure and an invitation to tour the school. I must admit, I was initially impressed by the school tour. The person conducting the tour was very knowledgeable and answered all my questions patiently.
I then decided to take the next step and paid 1000 bucks to start the application process. I was surprised when they mentioned that the assessment for a 5 year old (entering first grade) is a 2 hour process which consists of a written test, oral interview with a teacher followed by another interview with the principal (Sounded more elaborate than a job interview!!!).
I was skeptical but decided to proceed. I was even more surprised when we were told that the parents are not allowed to be with the kid during this 2 hour process. I initially imagined that the 2 hour was a upper ceiling number that will probably not happen. But no, they actually took him in more a little more than 2 hours!!!!
We waited for about 5 days for the results. When they eventually contacted us, the results were pretty demoralizing. I was told the kid did not know alphabets, he could not read, count and answer any of their questions (I know for a fact that he can do all of those things) and hence they cannot take him in Grade 1.
When I asked if I can see the results of the assessment, I was told that those details are confidential and cannot be disclosed. This confused and frustrated me. What possible reason could there be to keep a child's assessment confidential from his own parents???
Also, the manner in which the teachers spoke was very corporate and businesslike. While this was ok by me, I am pretty sure a 5 year old would be intimidated by this approach. I decided then and there that this is not an environment I want my child to be in.
Advise to the school:
1. You might be focused on academic excellence. However, you need to bring up a child in a comfortable and assuring environment that puts the child at ease.
2. For god's sake, include the parent during assessment. You are not trying to assess a kid's current knowledge, not his ability to handle a pressure of an unknown environment.
3. Be transparent in your assessment results. How do you expect a parent to take your assessment results at word without showing us the evidence that led you to your conclusion.
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