Attending open days has a multitude of reasons as to why they are so important. Having a good selection of independent schools in your area also makes the choices varied and gives you a rounded opinion on the best school for your child. Private school open days, along with public school events, meetings and opportunities to visit schools, will be very useful to you in searching for the right school.

Here are more reasons parents should attend school open days and what to take away from them.

School open days help you visualise where your child would be learning.

Attending a school open day is an excellent way to get a good sense of the environment where your child will learn new skills and develop on a personal level. School is where your child will spend the vast majority of their younger years, so it will be high on your priority list to see where your child is actually going. You’ll be able to visualise them in a learning environment where they will enjoy their time at school and see the most value.

It helps you narrow down a choice.

If you aren’t sure where to take your child, an open day can change that. You can explore a school for yourself in your own way, and it can help you make a better decision when you have all the knowledge. It’s a bit like choosing the right house – taking in what the place has to offer, local amenities, other opportunities and ensuring your child is safe and happy in their new surroundings.

It gives you the time to ask plenty of questions.

An open day is the perfect time to chat with members of staff and teachers about how a day in the life of a student could go. It’s also the best time to bring up any questions you have, such as if you want to know how many students are in a classroom or how a typical day is structured. 

Talking to staff face-to-face gives you more answers and support than you might expect over the phone or trusting what their website says. You are gaining personal insight into the school’s practices and how they treat each student, which will be a lot more beneficial for you to help you choose the best school for your child.

Questions to ask when attending school open days

Attending a school open day is a great opportunity for parents to gather information and get a feel for the school’s environment and culture. Here are some questions parents can consider asking during a school open day:

1. Academics:

  • What is the school’s teaching philosophy or approach to education?
  • How does the school support students with varying learning styles and abilities?
  • What is the curriculum like? Is it flexible or standardized?
  • How are students assessed and graded?
  • Are there any special programs or extracurricular activities related to academics?

2. Teachers and Staff:

  • What qualifications and experience do the teachers have?
  • What is the student-teacher ratio?
  • How does the school support teacher professional development?

3. Student Support:

  • What resources are available for students needing extra academic help or special needs?
  • How does the school address bullying and promote a safe and inclusive environment?
  • What counselling services are available for students?
join clubs outside of school

4. Extracurricular Activities:

  • What extracurricular activities, clubs, and sports does the school offer?
  • How are these activities integrated into the students’ schedules?
  • Are there opportunities for students to pursue their interests outside of the classroom?

5. Facilities:

  • Can we tour the classrooms, library, gymnasium, and other facilities?
  • Are there computer labs or technology resources available to students?
  • How is technology integrated into the learning process?

6. Community and Culture:

  • What is the school’s approach to building a positive and inclusive school culture?
  • How does the school involve parents in the educational process?
  • Are there opportunities for parent-teacher conferences or involvement in school activities?

7. Homework and Workload:

  • What is the school’s policy regarding homework and student workload?
  • How does the school balance academics and students’ well-being?

8. Safety and Security:

  • How does the school ensure the safety and security of its students?
  • Are there any emergency procedures in place?

9. College and Career Preparation:

  • How does the school prepare students for college or future careers?
  • What percentage of graduates go on to higher education?

10. Admissions and Tuition:

  • What is the admissions process, including application deadlines and requirements?
  • What is the tuition fee structure, and are there any financial aid or scholarship opportunities?

11. School’s Future Plans:

  • Are there any upcoming changes or developments in the school’s curriculum or facilities?
  • What are the school’s long-term goals and vision?

12. Parental Involvement:

  • How can parents get involved in the school community and support their child’s education?
  • Is there a parent-teacher association (PTA) or similar organization?

These questions can help parents gather valuable information and insights to make an informed decision about whether the school is the right fit for their child. It’s also a good idea to take notes during the open day and follow up with any additional questions you may have after the event.

Don’t dismiss the benefits of an open day, as you may be surprised with what you learn when you experience a school’s facilities for real. Book an open day today to get started.