School Matters Part 1

Just like other parents, I yearn to have my only child study in the best possible school there is. During my time, there are only two schools you may choose from. St Joseph's School and Columban College. Nowadays, there are several school in Olongapo and Subic Area to choose from. Let me give you a bit of information  about some of the schools around Subic Bay and Olongapo. Some based from my own experience, some from feedback of my co-parents and others done thru research. Hope this might help you in deciding the best school for your child. 

 

High School Campus

St Joseph's College 

Formerly St Joseph's School, my Alma Mater, has been around for such a long time. A Catholic School with long line of tradition. 

Major points:  If you want to bring up your child with solid Catholic value, this is the school for you.  The proximity of the school is also advantage as it is in the heart of the city and accessible to public transportation. School is very secure with gates well guarded (Ate Fely has been with the school during my time) and parents are required to wear their ID before they can even enter the premises. NO ID NO ENTRY rule is strictly enforce. Tuition fee is reasonably priced.

Minus points : Traditional way of teaching (subjective). Teacher -student ratio is 1:40 which may mean, child won't have that much attention from teacher. Though some of my parents argue that being in a big school helps the kids deal with different types of people. 

Olongapo Wesley School

An ecumenical  institution where most Christian family send their kids to. They have recently open a branch in Barrio Barretto.

Major Points : Learning Bible verses are part of the kids daily routine. Elementary Program is one of the best in the city- (again,Subjective). Shorten classes as they are only half-day until Grade 3. Promixity is excellent as it is located in one of the major roads of Olongapo. Tuition Fee - lowest among private schools.

Minus points : School is a bit run-down and needs facility upgrade. Teacher - Student ratio is 1:40. 

 

 

  Subic Montessori

One of the newer schools located inside SBMA with branches in Olongapo and Bataan but I can only give input on their Main Campus which is inside SBMA.

Major Points :  Adheres to Montessori style of learning even their grading system wherein grades are not numeric. English language is strictly used inside campus. I visited their campus once and was surprise that even security personnel speak English. There is a low teacher-student ratio, nice and inviting facilities and secure location.

Minus Points :  Tuition fee is in the high end compared to other private schools in the area. 

Fun Preschool Activites in FIRST SCHOOL

FIRST SCHOOL OF SBFZ

The school started as a technical/vocation school but instead found success in their preschool education. Eventually they have stop offering technical courses and just focuse on preschool,elementary and high school education.    

Major Points : School is very accommodating and  find  their faculty members and admin sincere in their  vision - the school being child centered .They are the first to offer toddler classes where kids between 2- 3 years old can learn and play. Low teacher-student ratio. One of the highlight of the school is teachers provide parents of their weekly lesson and homework plan.This gives student and parents an overall view on what the week is going to be. Advance reading can be done and even homework since they are transparent with their schedule. English is the medium of instruction as it is not surprising to see other nationalities  (mostly Koreans) enrolling in this school. Very good location as it is near the SBMA gate.

Minus Points : Though the main building is secured, the campus is in a compound set-up sharing with other school near the area. Tuition fee is mid-range. Tuition fee is in the mid-range.