Making the Most of School Open Days: How to Make an Informed Choices about Your Child’s Future Education
Selecting the best school for your child is a crucial decision that requires careful consideration. Open days provide a unique opportunity to experience the school environment firsthand, engage with staff and pupils, and get a sense of the school’s culture. This guide outlines key factors to observe during a school open day and essential questions to ask to help you make an informed choice.
Assessing the Atmosphere
From the moment you step into the school, take note of the overall atmosphere. A welcoming and friendly environment often reflects a strong, positive school culture. Observe how staff and pupils interact not only with visitors but also amongst themselves. Do the pupils appear engaged and happy? A genuine sense of warmth and community can be a strong indicator of a supportive learning environment.
Exploring the Facilities
Assess the learning environment and try to envisage your child in that space. Look beyond the surface and evaluate the school’s facilities in terms of your child. Consider classroom environments, displays of pupil work, and educational resources such as books, charts, and learning aids. Visit key areas such as science labs, art studios, music rooms, sports fields, and libraries. Ask how frequently pupils use these spaces and how they contribute to their learning experience.
Understanding the Curriculum and Educational Approach
A school’s curriculum plays a vital role in shaping your child’s education. Find out whether the school offers a well-balanced programme that includes academics, arts, sports, and extracurricular activities. Understanding how the school approaches teaching and learning can help determine if it aligns with your child’s needs and interests.
Engaging with Staff, Pupils, and Parents
Use the open day as an opportunity to talk to a variety of people, including the headteacher, teachers, support staff, pupils, and even current parents. Hearing multiple perspectives can help you build a well-rounded understanding of the school. Do the staff speak with passion and enthusiasm? Are pupils polite and confident? Do their experiences align with the school’s stated values and priorities?
Key Questions to Ask
General Questions
- How do the school’s values influence daily life for pupils?
- How do teachers engage and excite pupils about their learning?
- How to the teachers make the learning relevant to pupils?
- What extracurricular activities are available, and how are they integrated into pupil life?
- How is technology used to support teaching and learning?
- How does the school track and assess pupil progress?
- How do pupils’ academic results compare to national averages?
- How does the school promote inclusivity and celebrate diversity?
- What measures are in place to ensure pupil safety and well-being?
- How does the school communicate with parents about pupil progress and key events?
- How do teachers differentiate the learning for pupils’ different learning styles or needs?
- What initiatives does the school have to build a strong sense of community among pupils and families?
- What support systems are in place to help pupils manage both academic and personal challenges?
Questions for Pupils
- What do you enjoy most about your school day?
- What do you do doing break times?
- How would you describe the headteacher?
- Which subjects do you like best, and why? Which are the most challenging?
- What extracurricular activities would you recommend?
- Are there any school traditions or events that you particularly enjoy?
Final Thoughts
Attending a school open day is a valuable step in the decision-making process. By carefully observing the environment, engaging with staff and pupils, and asking the right questions, you can gain a clearer understanding of whether the school is the right fit for your child. Use guides such as Muddy Stilettos and The Schools Guide to read reviews of school, trust your instincts and gather as much information as possible to make a well-informed choice about your child’s educational future.
Visit Holmwood House School
We are a leading independent school in Colchester for children aged 6 months to 16 years. At Holmwood House, we spark curiosity and ignite wonder in each and every child, allowing them to develop individuality, confidence and tenacity to reach their true potential. Discover more at one of our open events or by booking a tour. Our upcoming events are:
Friday 28 March at 9.30am – Whole School Open Day
Thursday 6 March at 5.30pm – Year 7 Entry Experience Evening
Friday 7 March at 10.30am – Little Steps Toddler Group
For more information please visit https://www.holmwood.house/admissions/visit-us/
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