Finding a school for your child is like buying a home. You might even know as soon as you walk in. You’ll get a feel straightaway for whether the school, the teachers and the opportunities are a good fit for your child’s strengths, talents and aspirations.
Keep an open mind
Plan to visit at least two or three schools, and if you have time, put one or two on the list you’re not sure about. There’s no substitute for going to see a school on a working day. For example, you may think you want a small school, but then visit a large school with small class sizes and relaxing classroom environments and be completely won over.
An open invitation to look around
Look out for details of Open Days on school websites. Open days are an informal opportunity to visit the school without signing up for anything other than a good look around. Hear the Head give an address and enjoy a tour with existing pupils. You can usually just turn up on the day, but it’s always best to let the school know in advance you’re planning to attend.