Open days are upon us and schools across the country have been spruced up and are ready to welcome new applicants. These tips will help you to narrow down your choices and find The One.
Prepare yourself
You should always start researching your local options two years before you need to apply. Do your first Open Days in Year 5 to prepare for the important transition into secondary school. You can narrow your choices and then go back to the Open Days when your child is ready to apply.
Visits to schools are a good way to get to know the staff and the head, who is likely the most influential person on the culture and ethos of the school.
Ask yourself the following important questions: Could I imagine my child playing in this playground? What do I think about the other parents in this playground? Does this school remind me of my old one and is that the reason I like it or am concerned about it? Note down what you think about the school during your visit. It’s helpful to take notes on the schools you visit so you can compare them later.
Do your (digital) homework
School Guide displays the Department for Education and Ofsted official performance data and provides a summary star rating for each school. Even data geeks know that statistics are only half the story. The A* school may not be right for your child. School Guide offers Parent Reviews to get feedback from the experts, and a School Noticeboard where schools can upload photos and news to bring more light to raw data.
Take a language lesson
How a school presents itself and how it sells itself can tell you if the school is right for your child and you. Look at each school’s website to see the words and pictures they use to describe their school experience. Simple sentences can convey so much. This can be done by looking through local magazines, which often feature Open Day ads and specials during the autumn term. For Websites for schools, contact FSE Design
Is there a bus stop nearby?
Don’t overlook the practicalities of your child’s life at school when you find the perfect school for you, both in terms of atmosphere and results. Does the school have a bus service from your neighbourhood? Is parking difficult if you plan to drive? Are there other parents that you can share your school run with? It’s also a good idea for you to check if there are any clubs or activities available before or after the school day. When you visit the school ask what extracurricular activities are available.